More advice for my daughter

• Do not forget that everyone has their story. Take time to listen to others, even when you are bursting to talk
• Smile at everyone, even someone who may not be your favorite person
• Always call if you are going to be late
• Never cancel a date at the last minute - unless it is a true emergency: this includes, death (yours or others), having a tire blow out, your car dying on the way  - you get the picture
• Manners count - make sure yours are good ones
• Include all the kids in the game - even those you don't know - you might make a new friend
• Brush your teeth AND your tongue.  No one likes halitosis
• Exercise is worth it
• Grow things - vegetables, flowers, herbs on a window sill - green and growing things are good for the soul
• Friends will come and go in this life, but your brothers are your brothers forever, and they love you
• A piece of chocolate won't kill you, just don't over do it
• You are never too old to kiss your parents goodnight
• Go lightly on criticism and heavy on the praise
• Take time to be quiet sometimes - your private thoughts are worth having
• There is nothing you cannot tell Daddy or me, always feel free to talk