Here are 30 more things I want my kids to know about life.
1. Watch Out of Africa. Yes, it's quiet and slow. I know. Just watch.
2. You never know what goes on behind closed doors. Don't be envious of mirages.
3. Rowing harder doesn't help if it's in the wrong direction.
4. The only way to get through tough sh*t it is to go through it.
6. I'd rather you flunk a test than be an a**hole.
7. Sometimes I speak figuratively, not literally.
8. One of the best things you can do for yourself is learn how to figure out what's really bothering you. It is never about socks on the floor.
9. You can change your mind.
10. Its better to be happy than save face.
11. Don't wait for "if this, than that." Timing is never perfect.
12. If you still have breath, it's not too late.
13. Keep a dozen non-specific birthday cards on hand.
14. Hand write thank-you notes and send them in the mail. Do NOT email a thank you.
15. Every three years, throw out your entire underwear drawer and start over.
16. Take care to save that which is precious and treasured
17. Get rid of the rest. Peace of mind is tough to find when surrounded by crap.
18. White boxers are never a wise choice (Ben).
19. Nude bras are almost always the wise choice (Emily).
21. Don't ask questions that you don't want the answers to.
22. Wear a seat belt. In the back too. Always, every seat.
23. When people show you who they are, believe them.
24. I lied to you when you were little. They did have the light up, plaid, jeweled sneakers in your size (Emily) and I am the one who threw out the "Kids Beatles" CD you adored (Ben). Kids singing Beatles songs is not the Beatles. I could not take it anymore.
25. Listen to "Hallelujah" by Jeff Buckley.
26. Listen to "I Will Wait" by Mumford and Sons.
27. You both raise my hands and paint my spirit gold.
28. Run at least one race of 10 miles or more. It doesn't matter how fast, just finish. Trust me.
29. "Sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me." Wrong.
30. Your words do wield power. You can apologize for, but never take back, what you say. Choose your words carefully.
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