garagegym107

If only I could have known then what I know now.

I’d start by telling myself at a very early age, it’s ok to be a Tom boy.  It’s ok to prefer pants over dresses.  No everyone seeks to be a girly girl.  Mud pies and Hot Wheels with my little brother were some of the best childhood memories.  So was jumping the ramp even after my dad told me not to.  And yes, it hurts just as bad when a little girl hits the bar as it does a boy.

As a gangly teenager, I’d tell myself that being popular isn’t really better, it’s just different and maybe even a little harder than blending in.

As a young mother, I’d tell myself it doesn’t matter how young or old you are, being a mom is the best and hardest job you’ll ever have so do the best you can and forgive yourself the rest.

As a young woman, I’d tell myself to love everything about yourself, cherish who you are and what you are becoming.  Don’t allow another human being to bring you down or steal your self-worth or self-confidence because they are on some type of power trip.  Your instincts are right.

I’d tell myself to go ahead and make some mistakes, take a risk, jump head first. Be who you are. Your quirks are yours and there is no one else like you.

I’d tell myself to love my body for all it’s capable of, care for it, nurture it, feed it good, clean, nutritious foods, and it’s ok to have a cupcake from time to time.

I’d tell  myself it’s a whole lot easier to take care of yourself than to let yourself go and then regroup and get fit later on.

I’d tell myself to be happy, embrace change for in change is growth.

I’d tell myself to nurture true friendships, because no matter who the love of your life is, you will need your girlfriends to nurture and to nurture you.  When the lines of time appear on your faces, laughter is indeed the best medicine.