time off/ low carbs

Ok i hope this isnt a stupid question, but i really wanted to know the answer to this…Ive noticed that even though i do get nice steady gains during peroids of working out, when i am off for a lil while, for example do to personal reasons…i had to take off for a bout a month…well anyway, i noticed that i am a whole lot fuller, my muscle feel a lot more harder, and i look thicker, especially my arms…now is that just because they have had time to relax and recoup? Also i know carbs are needed, but for me when i am on a low carb diet i feel fuller then when i am taking in carbs, any reason for that…well any thoughts…take care