Ten Things to Tell my Sister

I recently sent my littlest sister (at prep school) a long list of things that I recommended she learn BEFORE college. These are things that I wish I had known or at least picked up on quickly; it would have made my life a whole heck of a lot easier.

As I do not have the exact piece of notepaper in front of me now, I will recall what I can:

1.) Learn to love doing laundry. Nothing is better than a fresh, crisp bed of clean sheets to slip into at the end of a long day.

2.) Carefully choose your friends. This does not mean that you are rude to others, but be cautious as to whom you choose to share your heart.

3.) Throw aside reason now and again. Otherwise, you will forget what it is like to laugh at all things ridiculous.

4.) Believe in your dreams. Ackowledge when someone tries to crush them, then pick yourself up and keep going!

5.) Drink tea when you are anxious. A good cup of tea and a quiet seat under a tree or in a window will allow your mind to release the stress and rejuvenate.

6.) Stand up for yourself when it comes to boys. Do not be fearful of doing the wrong thing. Do what you know is right and trust that if they care enough about sticking around, they will respect your morals.

7.) Find your comfortable style and go for it! Vermont girls may need a couple dress rehearsals, but we can be very chic, au naturale : )

8.) Read about things that upon first impression, you are not certain you have much use for...you may find a nugget of pertinent information or a new passion or hobby!

9.) Love your family. Stay connected, even when it feels like a chore. This will pay off.

10.) Be you- everyone is more beautiful and vibrant when they allow themselves to be free.