Dear Younger Me,

I have some things to say and I’d really appreciate it if you would listen and not act like a know-it-all teenager.

“Tight rolling” your pant legs really was not a good look for you… or anyone else for that matter. You are in for a hell of a ride. Just enjoy it! There will be hard times. Just know you get through it. You also meet some incredible people in the mean time and travel to many countries. Don’t be afraid to be yourself, the right people will love you for being exactly that. In retrospect, you are shockingly rad! Keep on keepin’ on! Stay a child as long as you can. Life is not a race. Make mud pies, it’s fun. Life is a lesson. Seek out your teachers, ask questions, have fun. Keep being awesome. Don’t be embarrassed to do karaoke, you’ll miss out on lots of fun times with friends. Plus, you’re not as bad a singer as you think you are. Well, maybe you are, but who cares. You will have a blast!

Invent the Snuggie. It’s a robe, worn backwards, made out of fleece. It’ll be a hit one day. Surprisingly, you CAN run 26.2 miles. I know, crazy right?! You will throw up in front of the brass faculty during your first, second and third Jury Recitals in college. Make sure you have a trash can next to the music stand! Don’t get talked into a perm in junior high. Bad idea! Don’t eat that burrito! Beer funnels in college will seem like a good idea at the time, but not the next day. The Powerball numbers for 4/12/2013 are 3,4,13,29,38 PB# 21.

Spend as much time as possible with your family, all of them! You will miss them tremendously when they are gone. Invent Facebook. It’s easier to stay in shape than to get back in shape. Put down the chips! Do not, under any circumstance, watch “Marley and Me”. It will break your heart! Buy Apple Inc, at $3.47/share and invest in Google.

When I look back at you, I can sum up your life so far in 5 words: I’m REALLY proud of you. Enjoy it all!

Sincerely,

The Older You