Every day I look at my children and wonder how they went from tiny little babies, completely dependent on me, to these lanky, beautiful young girls who can climb trees and read and have their own strong opinions. I miss the days they were curled up on my shoulder, sound asleep, but I also look forward to the days to come.

I’ve been thinking a lot lately about all the things I want to teach them as they get older. Things like wash your makeup off every night and clean out the lint trap each time you use the dryer. But also bigger things like take the job that will make you happy even if it doesn’t make you rich, and marry someone who both makes you laugh and holds you when you cry.

I don’t claim to be wise or to know everything–far from it in fact. But in my three-plus decades of life, I have learned a little.

Drive the speed limit. The wanna-be race car drivers who cut you off will inevitably end up at stuck at the same light as those who are trying not to die on their way to the grocery store anyway.

Don’t obsess over celebrities. Just because they are famous, doesn’t mean they are better than you, or that their opinions are facts.

Don’t obsess over the cool kids at school. Just because they are popular, doesn’t mean they are better than you, or that their opinions are facts.

Always carry a hair tie, lip balm, and water bottle with you wherever you go.

It’s good to plan for the future, but not at the expense of forgetting to live in the present.

Go over your bank and credit card statements to check for fraudulent charges, mistakes, and to have a better idea of where your money is going.

Read. A lot.

Practice gratitude. Even when it doesn’t seem like it, you have a lot to be grateful for.

When you see something online that you don’t agree with, remember that you don’t have to comment. Scroll past. Or better yet, get off the computer or phone entirely. But if you do comment, always be kind.

Moisturize and wear sunscreen.

Roast your vegetables. They taste much better that way.

When you’re scared, pray. When you’re happy, pray.

Get a rewards credit card, use it for as much of your spending as possible, and–here’s the important part–pay the entire balance off every month. You build your credit and earn cash back or airline miles at the same time.

Don’t vote blindly based on which side the politician is on. They will say whatever they need to say to get elected, so do your research. Actions speak louder than words.

Spend a little more to buy a nice mattress. It will make a big difference.

Don’t let someone’s cruel words bring you down. Bullies want you to crumble. Ignore them and you win.

Drink lots of water and take vitamins.

Don’t waste your money on expensive purses or clothes or the latest-whatever. Instead, go travel. You’ll experience new things and make lasting memories.

Do good. Pick up trash, volunteer, donate, smile at everyone you walk by.

Put down your phone and go outside, visit with friends, clean your room, do your homework, or do any one of a million other things that are a better use of your time.

Always remember that you are loved deeply.

Those are just a small fraction of the things I hope to impart on my children as they grow. What are some that you wish to share with yours?