Hey you,

It's me, of course. But I am sure you already knew that. I know you think that the world is perfect already, and it pretty well is. But here's somethings you should know...

About Mom,

She is always right. Don't even bother thinking otherwise. She knows a lot more than you think you do. But of course you aren't like one of those angsty teenagers that rebels against her, which you and her will be thankful for in the future. She is your biggest ally and friend in this world and you need her. Hug her every day and enjoy the time spent with her. Remember, she is always in your corner.

About Babci,

She won't be around much longer, and I know you have been saying that since she first got sick back in December 2009. She really won't be. And she really loves you, her dah-ling. She knows you're growing up and she knows she won't be here forever but make sure she knows you love her. Hug her every day, help out however you can. Answer the quadruple daily question of "how was your day". And thank you for not giving Mom any grief about Babci. It really does mean a lot to her that you don't.

About guys,

This one, just don't date until you're in college. You can thank me later. Don't fall for that band geek that will only break your heart. Listen to your mom (and everyone else) about him. I will advise you to not give him a second chance as he won't deserve it. But if you do, it's okay. Because guess what? You will survive. You'll one day look back and be able to not show feeling when you talk about him. You will become a stronger, more independent, faithful young adult because of it. Also, when you get to college, you will take a night chemistry lab and find someone way better, I promise.

About tastes in music,

Well thankfully you're close to growing out of the Katy Perry phase, and I know you're probably reading this in horror/shock that I would even say such a thing however it is true. You will always appreciate her as an artist and belt out her songs whenever they come on the radio. You will still love country music and remain faithful to it always (like Tim McGraw, Eric Church, Jake Owen etc), however it's quite alright to branch out and listen to other music if you so choose. Just no hardcore rap or heavy metal okay? okay.

About movies and books,

Fifty Shades of Grey. That is all. You will fall into that pit of book & movie franchise whether you like it or not and it's totally worth it. Don't let go of the magic of Harry Potter, as you are currently admin-ning several Harry Potter Pages while in High school. In college that will slow down, but you will still tear up when you watch your favorite characters die in Battle. The Tolkien series also becomes more prominent in your life and that is a very good thing. Bilbo always will be ready for an adventure. Read often, and don't let anyone tells you that it isn't cool, you really don't need that negativity in your life.

About family and friends,

You know that saying that blood is thicker than water? Well in some instances it is true, but for your family it isn't always the case. And that is just fine. You will find out who your true friends (and family) are during this time and let me tell you, it really can sting but once you find that out. You won't regret it. Be yourself, as cheesy as that sounds, and people will either love you or not. Which is totally okay. Like I said before, you will know who your true family is by the end of the year.

About school,

Study hard, and continue making those fantastic grades. Don't let Steven beat you to valedictorian, earn that "A" in Colwell's physics class. And speak up when the teachers play favorites, especially in a history class. (You probably already know what I mean). Enjoy culinary while you still can, it's a fun class and the people in it will go off in different directions but you will always still remember them as family. The instructors will always be there in case you need them after high school is over and that in and of itself is a blessing. Also, since you're taking the time to apply to schools, I wouldn't bother with any of them right this minute. Go to the local state college. Get your AA degree, make you and your mother happy. You'll be thankful when you got into the rival school you swore back in high school you would never go to. (I can hear Mom chiming in- "Never say never, that only manifests itself"). You're going to want to change your major when you get into university, and that is OKAY, everyone does it. But just so you know, plants are the direction you decide to head. Lettuce turnip the beet!! (Bad plant puns).

And one more tidbit from Babci,

"Get an education, without it people are awfully stupid."

About the future,

Do not dwell in the past, and don't over analyze the future. Live in the present, one day at a time. Be friendly, but not too friendly. Be gracious and humble (and kind). Have hope. You will learn this one very well as you come into the young adult years. Keep Ben close, he's a great friend and he will need you at some point when he begins his career, and his family (and him) will thank you for it later on. Remember to keep your options open when it comes to meeting new friends and forming relationships, nothing is set in stone. But once you find the right friends you just click with (and relationships), don't ever let them go.

Well, I think this encompasses just about everything. Keep succeeding and dreaming kid. You have your whole future ahead of you. I'll be here, cheering you on. As will your friends and family. If you can dream it, you can do it. Always. And GO GATORS ;)

Much love,

Your 22-year-old self.