Dear Jake and Taylor

Yesterday, as I was driving to Columbia, I started thinking about the things we say to and try to teach our children over the course of their lives.  I wonder how much they actually retain?

With the idea that there are so many distractions in this world, I’m going to write a few of them down.  It makes me feel better as a mom.  Please add to the list in your comments.

Dear Jake and Taylor:

If there is an RSVP on an invitation, be kind enough to respond.
Be kind to, and listen to the elderly.  They have much to share.
Write thank you notes.
Remember birthdays.
Say please and thank you.
Read.  Read.  Read.
Listen to music whenever possible.
Don’t let the bed bugs bite.
Say, “I love you,” as often as possible.
Don’t say it unless you mean it.
Honor your commitments.
Be a good sport.
Use coasters!
The toilet paper goes OVER not under.
Adopt your pets from the local shelter.
I will always love you. 
You always have a home with me.
You are never alone.
Travel.
When you do travel, send a postcard to yourself.
Love deeply.
Spend a lot of time laughing.
Carve pumpkins.
Spend time with your family.
Get to know your cousins.
Share the wealth.
When you move to a new town, the first thing to find is a good butcher.  (Grandma Rosie’s advice)
Be kind to others. 
Be kind to yourself.
Don’t judge a person on race, color or creed. 
Stand up for your beliefs.
Call your mother.

xxx