Things I Want My Daughter To Know

My firstborn left me. We dropped her off at college a week ago, helped set up her dorm room, and then I proceeded to burst out crying once I was safely hidden inside the car. I’ve done my job so well that she’ll never need me, right?

I hope I failed just a tiny bit… I’d really like her to still need me just a little. I have so many feelings that it’s hard to put them into words. I’m at once overjoyed that my amazing daughter will be living on her own and be making her own way in the world, and at the same time I am reaching out to grab hold of the little blond girl in the striped dress hugging her doll to her. When they say it goes by fast, they ain’t kidding.

So while I will be shedding a lot of tears in the next few weeks, they will be a mix of sad tears that I didn’t stop and enjoy more when she was young… and tears of pride at the beautiful person she has become.

As any good mother, I left her with a letter imparting my final words of wisdom. While I won’t share the private stuff, I thought I would share the advice part.

1. Life is not meant to be easy. Or neat and tidy. It’s messy and frustrating and not fair. Always stick up for yourself, but know when it’s time to move on.
2. When you are feeling blue… grab a Starbucks and walk around Target. Don’t question it… it’s guaranteed to make you feel better.
3. You can always text your mom.
4. When your friends are letting you down, remember that you have two sisters at home who will be your BFF’s for the rest of your life. That’s pretty awesome!
5. Sleep is NOT over-rated. Things always look better in the morning.
6. You CAN do it!
7. There is always someone worse off than you. Find them and offer to help. It is guaranteed to make you feel better.
8. Baking relieves stress… but you already know that.
9. Step out of your comfort zone every now and then. You won’t regret it.
10. If it doesn’t feel right… don’t do it.
11. Trust your instincts.
12. College is so much more than classes and grades.
13. Show up for class and sit in the front. Let the Professor know who you are. It could make all the difference.
14. Click “Save” every few minutes. Trust me on this one.
15. Everyone you meet is a connection. The person sitting next to you in class might have the power to offer you a kick-ass job someday.
16. If you aren’t feeling well, go to the health center - that’s why we pay for it.
17. If you are stressed or anxious or depressed… call mom. Immediately.
18. Don’t forget to eat… preferably some fruit and veggies every now and then.
19. Find someone to play tennis with.
20. Make sure you have your pepper spray with you.
21. It’s okay to say no.
22. One great friend is worth more than a dozen so-so friends. That will be true for your entire life.
23. I trust you.
24. I love you.
25. As long as your Dad and I are alive, you always have a home to come back to.