thoughts for my high school daughter

I dropped my daughter off today for her first day of high school. Of course, this leaves me with lots of conflicting emotions: excitement, because I remember how thrilled I was at her age. Sorrow, because dude--hello, this means I'm getting older (haha).

So many things are going to happen for her in the four years she's in high school. And there are lessons that only living life can teach. But here are a few thoughts I'd like to share with her that I think may help, things I've learned throughout the years:

--There's absolutely nothing wrong with being a strong woman. Some people are going to be intimidated by your intelligence, your big heart, your intensity, and will not be strong enough for you. They are unworthy of the precious gift of your love and affection. Never, ever settle for less than the absolute best. You are a Stapleton: we are worth the effort. Enough said.

--Holding on to girlfriends through thick and thin will get you through more rough patches than you can ever know. They will laugh with you when you get picked up by weirdos, or sit on the phone with you for hours as you sob your way through a broken heart. Your girlfriends will know your secrets and not judge you. They will be your lifeline. Don't ever let them go.

--The only constant thing about life is it's always in flux. Maintaining the ability to roll with the punches, to grasp those opportunities when they arise is the only way to survive. Nothing will stay the same; you just have to accept that and be prepared as best as you can. Some things, however, you can never prepare for. But just remember that as cliche as it sounds, the sun will keep rising, and each day is a new chance to start fresh.

--Appreciate the value of the good things in life--good food, good music, good moments. Those will be all the sweeter and more valuable because you will experience more dark times as you gets older. But if you keep holding on to the good around you, you will never sink under. As horrible as things get sometimes, there is always something worthwhile to focus on. Keep that hope, that positivity alive as best as you can.

Shelby, you've been a true blessing in my life. I didn't plan on being a single mom, but I wouldn't trade one second with you for all the money in the world. You've made my life so rich, so beautiful just by being you, and I thank you for teaching me every day what it means to be a mom, a woman, and a friend.

Love,

Mom