Dear Me...

Dear Sixteen Year Old Lizzy,

Me at 16.

I know that 21 seems too far away. You'll finally be able to drink without bribing the guy at White Star or calling your friend with "connections." But trust me, it'll be here before you know it. 16 feels like yesterday. You may think you know everything now, but girl, you've got it all wrong. You think you can pass classes without doing homework, you can eat anything without getting fatter than you already are, that mommy and daddy's money will carry you forever, that you could get a job if you tried, that it doesn't matter who you hang out with, that you're above the law...

Before you yell at mom and dad for reminding you of the right things, remember they may actually be right. I'm not ready to fully commit to this yet, but I will tell you, they've never been wrong. In the last six years I've done a lot of growing up. I've learned a few things that I'd like to share with you. If you're not too stubborn to listen, these things will save you a lot of pain, heartache, money, and time. I know your attention span is running out, so here it goes...


Take the swiss rolls out of your backpack.

I know it's where you hide them. They are soooooo yummy. I know you feel fat now, but would you believe me if I told you you would gain 100 pounds in the next 3 years? It's true... You may love them now, but do you love fat rolls? At 21 you will be fighting the hardest battle of your life to get all the weight off. 

Wear sunscreen.
When you are 18 you will get a burn that will forever alter your skin. You couldn't sleep for a month and had blisters on every inch of your skin. You will sleep in a recliner for three weeks. For your sake, I hope you take this advice seriously... Hate to break it to you honey, you'll never tan well.

Nothing good happens after midnight.
This is true. true. true. Everything that goes on after midnight is bad. Ditch the drinks, the cigs, and the boys. It's just not worth your time.

Don't quit tennis.
You are a STAR. You have potential, drive, and a bright future. You wouldn't believe me if I told you I hadn't picked up Wally (our favorite racquet) in over a year.

Wear your seatbelt.
This is one of the lesser laws you've broken but one of the most important. If it's a law, there is a good reason for it. 

Call your grandmothers.
They aren't doing well and they are lonely. They may be the sweetest ladies in the world and you could use a little more of that in your life. 

People die before their time.
The boy that gives you your first Michigan kiss will die in two years. This will turn your life upside down. So appreciate and nurture the relationships you have now, because you never know how long you have them. 

You can always call your sister.
I know she seems old and she makes fun of the clothes you wear, but she is so smart. She will help you more than you ever know. She is a phone call away and is one of the best resources you have. 

Don't hang on to people who aren't adding value to your life.
This may be the hardest of them for you... The people you're hanging out with don't deserve your loyalty. They would drop you in a heart beat. Stay true to your church friends and when you move away, don't forget to call. You know the ones that aren't good for you...

Be careful what you post on the internet.
After all, this is the first picture that comes up when you google your name....

Mission trips will change your life.
Giving back to people is important. Remember to think about yourself AFTER you think about others. God gives you amazing opportunities now, take them!

Do your homework.
I'm saving this one for last... because it is the most important. You think you can get by without doing your homework but you can't. You will spend three years making up for these mistakes. If I could go back and change one thing, this would be it. 

Life goes by fast. You will never be younger than you are today, and "older" will be here before you know it. Everything you do has it's consequences and you will pay for them. Live the lifestyle that is best for you... Your older self will thank you.

Love, E