My dearest Kylie Rose,

You’ve officially hit sixteen years of sass! I remember the night you were born, eagerly awaiting your arrival, excited to meet my first niece. At such a young age I knew that my best friend was being born into this world. Over the past sixteen years I have had the privilege to watch you grow from a baby girl into a loving, intelligent and independent young woman. I’m so proud of you. May your coming years be filled with joy and wonder, loving family and trustworthy and loyal friends. I love you, bug.

Sixteen wisdoms for you on your sixteenth birthday

Be nice to your mom – She may get on your case sometimes, but she does it because she loves you. Your mom is the best and you will always need her more than you think. She is always going to welcome you home with open arms after those tough times. Never take Saturday date nights with her for granted. She is, and always will be, your biggest fan and greatest friend.

Always be yourself – You are beautiful and competent. Embrace your quirkiness and sarcasm (you’re a pro). Everyone has their own unique place in this world, don’t change who you are to meet others expectations of who they think you should be.

Don’t sweat the small stuff – If it won’t matter five minutes, months or years from now than let it go. Don’t hold onto the negative energy. Good vibes only.

Finish what you started – When you make the decision to start something, please finish it. Even if it is harder than you think, or the outcome may not be what you initially anticipated, always follow through. When you put in the effort, the reward is there. Believe in yourself. You got this.

Keep a small circle – A handful of true, loyal friends are more important than a bunch of mediocre ones. You will have friends that come and go, don’t take it personally. The right people will love you for all you are and those are special bonds. Cherish them.

Be strong – Speak up for yourself. Do not let other people tell you who you are or what you should be. You set the precedent for how people treat you.

Pump the breaks on trying to grow up – I know the idea of freedom is exciting but trust me adulthood is not everything it’s cracked up to be. Truly enjoy your teenage years, they are the years that help shape you into an adult.

Step out of your comfort zone – Try something new. The experiences that place you out of your comfort zone are always the most rewarding and have the most lasting impact on your life. You will always learn something new about yourself.

Take care of yourself – Mental and physical health are both important. Be mindful but don’t obsess. Take good care of your body, but please don’t exhaust yourself trying to be “perfect.” You are beautiful inside and out.

Stop comparing yourself – Other people’s lives will look more appealing. Easier. Prettier. More exciting. Do not compare your life or situation to theirs. You have a specific purpose and your journey is yours for the keeping. It may not always be sunshine and butterflies but you never know what battles other people are fighting behind closed doors.

Swallow your pride – Never be too proud to ask for help. Sometimes it’s important to figure things out on your own, I get it (especially with our stubborn natures). However, people will help you and when they do, be appreciative and thank them.

Just breathe – Life can get overwhelming, take a breath and count to three. It’ll be okay. You are stronger than you know.

Be genuine – Say what you mean and mean what you say. Be honest with yourself and with others.

Choose kindness – If you are having a bad day or the world is being hard on you, do something nice for someone else (a kind word, a smile or small caring act). I promise it will make you feel better.

Follow your intuition – It is always right, don’t fight it.

Enjoy your journey – It is going to be a magical one.

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“For beautiful eyes, look for the good in others; for beautiful lips, speak only words of kindness; and for poise, walk with the knowledge that you are never alone.”