Dear childhood me,

I hope you're enjoying playing with your polly-pockets right now, and probably overflowing the bathroom sink from making a "pool" for them all to swim in. Right now, you are in the easiest part of your life, so don't take it for granted. I know that growing up seems so far away at this point, but the time will fly by you faster than you think. I know when you play pretend you always like to be a person who is older, but really, don't be too excited to grow up, because you'll be sitting right where I am reminiscing on how fast everything has flown by.

I know right now they seem like they're out to get you, but mom and dad love you more than you will ever know, and you will realize that you love them more than anything in this world. You were always so eager to up and leave them, but once you finally do, you'll miss them more than you ever thought was possible. All the fights, petty remarks, lies, sneaking around seem smart right now, but you have no idea how cool they actually are, and how understanding they can be. Sometimes I know you think she's your worst enemy, but mom is really your best friend.

You'll realize that when she is diagnosed with breast cancer and the possibility of her being gone forever hits you like a brick. But, she's a badass and the hardest fighter in the world so she'll kick cancers booty and be here by your side for a long long time, so don't worry - just appreciate her even more.

Also, you will realize that boys suck. They are the absolute worst. You are going to fall in love with someone for a long time and eventually move on and go your separate ways. You'll move one, and eventually find someone else who you give every part of yourself to and fall in love with all over again, and he will break your heart (be prepared for this one). Although you will be hurt and confused as to what you did wrong, you didn't do anything. Sometimes people don't realize what they have, but always remember you are a strong girl with a big heart, and you don't need to rely on anyone else for your happiness.

He may seem like a butt-head right now, but you'll learn that the little shadow that follows you around all the time, annoys the living crap out of you, and the person you blame so you don't get in trouble is one of the best friends you'll ever have. Your little brother loves you more than he'll ever admit (he's not very good at expressing his feelings).

The minute someone hurts you he will be there to threaten to come beat him up. He will be there when things at home get too stressful and you're the only two people you can rely on. He'll be there by your side just like he always has been. I know you don't appreciate him right now, but you will; and you won't want anyone else making fun of you constantly and being there for you for anything.

So, childhood me, you have a lot of things to look forward to. There will be hardships and victories. You will question what you want to do with your life, who you really are, where you belong. But, always remember that you have an amazing journey ahead of you and you will accomplish and do things you never thought you would or could. You'll be the first in your family to go to college. You'll join a sorority (CRAZY I KNOW), and meet the women that have helped shape you into who you will be when writing this letter. You will succeed and be the best version of you possible, I have faith in you.

Enjoy all the easiness of your childhood now, because growing up does come too fast. I know you're ready to, but just wait. You have a pretty great life, if I do say so myself.

Sincerely,

Me