Hey there, my dear.
It seems fitting to take a moment to share some life lessons with you. While you’re not here yet, I think of you often, and I want this collection of thoughts to guide you through your journey, whenever it begins.
Explore Literature:
Start with A Tree Grows In Brooklyn. It’s a classic for a reason.
Self-Love:
Treat yourself to solo outings. Discover what makes you happy and invest in those moments.
Embrace Uniqueness:
Find something special that belongs solely to you.
Be Courageous:
Don’t be afraid to take risks.
Physical Connection:
Holding hands can be more intimate than you realize.
Share Your Joys:
Don’t keep great books or music to yourself; share them with others.
Try New Things:
Attend a concert of a band you’ve never heard of. You might be pleasantly surprised.
Love Freely:
Fall in love often, but protect your heart. It’s okay to be a beautiful contradiction.
Comfort Matters:
Make sure you find a bra that fits well.
Avoid Obsession:
Don’t drive past his house; it won’t help.
Self-Discovery:
Identify something about yourself that you truly adore.
Road Trips:
Whenever in doubt, a long drive can work wonders.
Helpful Tips:
When at the store, flip the barcode on cards to make scanning easier. Your great-aunt taught me this!
Friendships Matter:
Be wary of those who lack close female friendships.
Celebrate Firsts:
Embrace and appreciate every new experience.
Milestones:
Recognize and celebrate your achievements, even if they differ from your peers’.
Trust Wisely:
Find something—and someone—worth trusting.
Learn to Decline:
Knowing how to say “no” is essential.
Pet Preferences:
Cats are not for you.
Express Yourself:
A lipstick that speaks your truth is a must.
Nap Well:
Figure out your ideal napping setup.
Your Story:
Only you can narrate your life, so do it with flair.
Body Image:
You are always thinner than you imagine.
Unlikely Encounters:
You’ll run into him again.
Written Connections:
Write letters to those you hold dear; they matter.
Patience is Key:
Remember, Grandma May taught me that.
Travel Companions:
Find a friend who makes traveling enjoyable.
Embrace Scars:
Your scars tell a story of resilience.
Communication Cautions:
A second text is rarely a good idea.
Grooming:
Take the necessary time to dry your hair completely.
Health Matters:
Trust a female gynecologist with your care.
Solitude is Strength:
Learn how to enjoy your own company.
Travel Tips:
When abroad, know key phrases like, “Where’s the bathroom?” and “That’s too expensive.”
Friendship Evolution:
Some friendships are meant to fade; accept it.
Love’s Complexity:
Love is messy and beautiful; pursue it wholeheartedly.
Summer Camps:
Send your future kids to camp; it’s a rite of passage.
Body Mechanics:
Bend with your knees when lifting.
Flowers for Yourself:
Buy tulips and put a penny in the vase; they’ll stay upright longer.
Comfort Films:
Have a go-to movie to help you fall asleep.
Maintenance Matters:
Take care of your body and your car.
Preparedness:
Always have an exit plan and a place to retreat for moments of distress.
Cherish Connections:
Savor the joy in others’ voices.
Collect Moments:
Gather stories and friendships, and do it together when possible.
More on Driving:
Seriously, don’t drive past his house.
Hair Growth:
Bangs will always grow out.
Footwear:
Remember, shoes will fit when you need them.
Alcohol Awareness:
Gin can lead to trouble.
Music Mastery:
Learn the lyrics to at least one great song—might I suggest “Thunder Road” by Bruce Springsteen?
Packing Tips:
Always pack extra medication for your trips.
Appreciate Intentions:
Recognize that well-meaning gestures may not always come across as intended.
Family Recipes:
Learn how to whip up my grandmother’s kugel; it tastes even better the next day.
Social Skills:
Talk to strangers; you never know who you might meet.
Graciousness:
Practice saying “Thank you” to accept compliments gracefully.
TV Recommendations:
Watch Friday Night Lights; it’s a gem.
Listen Actively:
Pay attention when others describe you; it may reveal something new.
Support System:
Have a friend who can give you tough love when needed.
Emergency Friend:
Keep a no-questions-asked friend on speed dial for when you need help.
Be Yourself:
Never apologize for who you are; only for how you treat others.
Find Your Strengths:
Discover what you excel at.
Trust Your Instincts:
When in doubt, hold back.
Someone is Thinking of You:
There’s always someone who misses you.
Familiar Handwriting:
Know how to recognize your best friend’s handwriting.
Discreet Driving:
If you must drive by his house, do it quietly—lights off, windows up, and radio silent.
And for heaven’s sake, duck down!
With all my love,
Mom