–note to self

 Dear 16-year-old Hillary,

There are some things I want to tell you, because you’re about to experience things you never thought you would, and I want you to be ready for them. Life is about to throw some pretty large obstacles directly at your face. It’s going to seem overwhelming at times, but just take it one day at a time and you’ll be okay.

You’re going to get your heart shattered into a million pieces, and you’re going to break a heart or two of your own, but I promise you that prince charming is on his way. Every time you wipe away a tear, take solace knowing that you are thisclose to finding the man of your dreams.

Take lots of pictures, and cherish every single second you have with your friends right now. I know you think that your group is inseperable, and that you will always be close. While that is a sweet notion, it’s also horribly naive. Life is going to change everything. Whether they live down the street, or 2,000 miles away, your friendships will never be as great as they are right now. Don’t worry, you won’t forget them, and you’ll think of them often, but it will never be the same.

When you go to college, take it seriously. Strive to find your calling in life, but listen to your instinct when it tells you that you need to make a change. You have things all planned out in your head, but be open to change. I promise you’re not going to end up where you think you are. There are going to be times when you’ll be so confused about what you want to do, and you’re going to feel unbelivably defeated, but don’t try to take any shortcuts. Each and every disappointment is absolutely essential in helping you to find what you really want to do with your life, and you are going to find the job of your dreams much sooner than you think.

February 24th, 2007, is going to be the biggest day of your life. I don’t want to say too much, because I want you to experience the raw emotion yourself, but just know that a little girl named Madison Jolynne is going to change your entire world.

Have faith in yourself. Your judgement is good, and there are very few things you’ll regret. There will still be things you’ll dwell on, but that’s just in your nature, and you’ll rise above it.

A few more things:

– Avoid red meat while you’re pregnant, it will make life so much easier.

– Don’t be too hard on your little sister, she is going to be your closest friend in a few years.

– Change the radio station whenever What Might Have Been by Little Texas comes on. It makes you cry every time.

More than anything else, just keep your head held high. Everything happens for a reason, even if you can’t see it at the time.

Good luck.

— Your 23-year-old self