Dear Daughters

Having four daughters, I can't help but worry sometimes about how things will be for them as they grow up. I think about situations/phases that I went through when I was growing up and it got me wondering just what I'd say to my younger self, how different things could have been if the future me could have had a few words in my ear.

The more my brain mulled these thoughts over, I realised that really it would be the same advice that I'd like to offer my own children now. So I'm writing an open letter to my girls in the hopes that one day they will read it and maybe appreciate the words that I've wrote.

Dear Daughters

Watching you grow up is a joy and a pleasure, no matter how worried you can make me at times, I know that ultimately that is all part of being your mum.

As you go through life there will be situations that may upset, might get you down but I'm hoping my words of wisdom might offer some guidance, I mean I'm quite sure whatever it is you're struggling with  I've been there and got the t-shirt. So here goes.

Keep smiling, this may seem cheesy but honestly it is amazing what a smile can do for both yourself and for others around you. Even in a bad day try and find something to make you smile, your smiles have always brightened my day.

Never settle, whatever you dream of doing, never stop striving for that because dreams can come true, you are all testament of that as you were and are my dream made reality.

Don't be scared to be you, who wants to follow the crowd anyway!! There isn't anything wrong with being unique, having your own style, forming your own opinions. That's what makes you you. If people truly like you then how you dress and what you say shouldn't come into it.

Which leads me onto…

Always be honest, ok the truth may hurt sometimes but overall it is better than lying and that lie being found out. Honesty really is the best policy.

Make mistakes, honestly I can tell you to do things a certain way and what I don't want you to do (just remember dad said no tattoos!) but unless you decide things for yourself you will never learn, however if you choose to do things my way all the better.

Be spontaneous, some of my best days and nights have been last minute, unplanned. Saying yes can sometimes be the best thing.

Above all else, remember life is for living. Life will throw you a few curve balls, not everything will happen how you want it to but I would hate for you to regret anything. Make memories worth remembering just don't forget me while you're out there living.

I hope as you read this that you won't really need my advice, that the world has been kind to you. You've always been clever, bright, just know I'm always here for you no matter what.

Love mum.

xxxx