20 Things I Want My Daughters to Know

I can't begin to describe the absolute, undying, ever-growing love I have for my two girls. If you'd told me a mere 5 years ago where I'd be today with the family we now have, I'm not sure I would've believed you. There is nothing in this world I won't do for my family. I have discovered new hidden depths in myself over the last two years. I have incredible patience these days. I now know that I am quite capable of living on only 4-5 hours of sleep for consecutive months and still be able to function fully and with happiness (although I am also aware I could certainly reach whole new levels of happiness on more sleep. LOL). I won't hesitate to use my hand or shirt to wipe a runny nose if there are no tissues handy. I love taking my girls out to explore the world and all it has to offer in the way of fun. I get to relive my childhood by seeing the wonder, excitement and happiness on their faces when they discover knew things or find something they love and adore and don't want to let go of. There are too many things to list here, but suffice it to say, my girls have changed my life for the better. I love them more than life itself and I hope they will always know and never doubt that. Since Harper just turned 3 months old today and Riley is growing so fast and becoming so independent , I've put together a list of things I want them to know and always remember.

1) I will always love you. No matter what. There may be moments of disappointment, hurt or anger, but there will NEVER be a single moment of your life in which my love is ever taken away. If I am not with you in body, I will always be there for you in spirit and in your heart.

2) Enjoy the innocence of your childhood and the freedom it gives you to be whatever you want to be. Don't grow up too fast because there WILL come many, many days when you wish you were a kid again. Trust me.

3) Never be ashamed of who you are. Be true to yourself and be confident no matter what others say and do. Be smart because smart never goes out of style, it stays with you as you grow and it will lead you down the most successful paths. You’re one-of-a-kind and that’s what makes you beautiful.

 

4) Pick your friends wisely and your best friends with extra-special care. True friends are invaluable, trusting and loyal. They stick by your side through thick and thin, good times and bad, for better or for worse. Some will come and go, but your best and truest friends will always be with you. If you lose touch, never be afraid to reach out and find each other no matter how many years have passed. 

5) Get dirty. I promise not to fuss…. too much. Not only does getting dirty help your immunity, it's a great way to get creative. (And we all know how much I love creativity.) 

6) Challenge yourself. Be it a game of football with the boys or reading a book over 1000 pages. Be it running a race or getting back on the bike after you've fallen for the zillionth time. Life is so much more fun when you try new things and master one particular thing. It builds pride and confidence and people will be inspired by you.

7) Have faith. Whether it's spiritual or not. Always know that you are not alone. When times are the hardest, you will need faith to keep going when you want to give up.

8) Explore and see the world. Experience new cultures, religions, people and places. Open your heart and mind to others no matter how different they may seem. See the possibilities and go after them with your eyes wide open.

9) Choose your role models carefully. Just because someone is popular, famous or cool, it doesn't make them perfect. Be YOU and you'll be much happier in life.

10) Read something every day. It exercises your brain, expands your knowledge and vocabulary and lets you escape into other worlds for a little while.

11) Makeup doesn't make you a more likable person even while it makes you feel more beautiful. Less is more. Really. Let people see you not a bunch of fake coloring.

12) Clothes make a statement. Be careful or what it says about you. Short skirts or shorts and halter tops are great for cheerleading and a day at the beach…. not for your high school year book photo or a trip to the grocery store.

13) Since you’re growing up in the technological age of iPad, iPod, iPhone, and texting, I have to address the horrendous lack of writing skills being used by today’s youth. It may be cool online but not so much in your thesis.

14) Don't let pop culture define you. I don’t know why, but today we let pop culture manipulate our youth and it’s killing them emotionally, spiritually, and intellectually. From the early on fascination with princesses, to the ‘need’ for a boyfriend and big boobs, popularity, teen moms, reality TV and all the other garbage being thrown in your face – be confident to go against the grain.

15) Be healthy. Physically, emotionally, spiritually and mentally. Don't give in to what society deems appropriate. Listen to your body and what it tells you. Exercise your mind, body and soul daily and it will guarantee to make a huge impact on your quality of life, health and happiness.

16) Be a sister. Be a friend. Be a protector of those that can't protect themselves.

 

17) Always love with all of your heart. If you hold back, you'll never know what you might be missing.

18) Never hold a grudge beyond reason and pick your battles. Life goes on no matter what. Cherish the good and move on. Holding a grudge brings nothing but bitterness, anger, hurt and unhappiness to both parties involved.

19) Never be afraid to laugh at yourself. It's humbling. It inspires and motivates. Not to mention, it's always better to have others laugh with you, not at you.

20) Where ever you are in life, whatever you chose to do… you can come home. We will be here - always.