Dear Younger Me,

I know you must be living that second-grade dream, going to school every day, playing boys vs. girls at recess, passing notes to your best friend, and smiling at that cute boy in your class. You are probably struggling between learning multiplication correctly and trying to read "Because of Winn Dixie" in the same day, but it's a good book so you will be fine!

Always be grateful for what you have, and the loved ones that surround you. You may take the little things for granted and not think about how lucky you are to have a mom and a dad like them. They will be your rock, your biggest fan, your worst enemy, and your best friend. It may seem odd now when they won't let you eat those cookies, but it will be okay. That day will come where you cry your eyes out because you have to move to college and can't bear to think of not having them around you. That will be a HUGE blessing and a terrible feeling.

Some of your best friends now may be your best friends for life, or just until they hit puberty. It's true, some people will care enough to stick around, while others will simply grow in a different direction. You will have your interests and they will have theirs, but that doesn't make them lesser people. So always be respectable and love those around you. Always surround yourself with good people, because nobody wants terrible friends! Your friends are the family that you get to choose, so pick good ones!

No matter what happens, things will fall into place and you will do amazing things. You will constantly surprise yourself, and those around you. Never let anyone tell you that you can't do something, because you definitely can. You are strong, beautiful and awesome, so let other people be themselves; you be you!

So make the most of being young. Keep laughing. Make all the memories you can. Be confident and classy. Never steer away from your goals. Stay positive. Always have fun.

Love,

Older Me