Words of advice....

Dear Pops,

Having just read an article in the times where the author wrote a letter of advice to her daughter from beyond the grave, I thought I would do something similar for you.

Firstly, I am hoping that this will not be coming from beyond the grave and will be given to you when you are a little older. But things don't always go as planned (count that as piece of advice number one!) so, although rather morbid, if this is coming from beyond the grave I want you to know simply that, I love you with every part of myself, I have since the day that you were born and will until the end of time.

Secondly, at the moment I am 29 years old and although wise beyond my years (Daddy will find this funny, take no notice of him!) I still have a lot to learn and experience myself. So I guess this is my advice so far....

2.  (Remember the piece of advice number 1 earlier, well I wrote it, it's true so I'm counting it!)

Sorry number 2. Travel. Explore the world. There is so much to see and experience don't miss out on that. Some of my most cherished memories are in the places I have travelled to with your Daddy and I'm sure he will agree.

Daddy and I have been to some amazing places and I am sure we will take you to some too. But when you are old enough, do it, see the world.

3. Be happy, be positive.

If you want to be happy, always try and look to the bright side. This has served your Daddy and I very well over the years.  Look for the good in your life and don't dwell on the bad. Just look for the light my Darling and eventually you will find it. I know this as you were that light for your Daddy and I.

Basically pops, choose to be happy, appreciate the life and love you have.

4. Don't have regrets.

I have made my fair share of mistakes but I do not regret anything for every decision I have made, good or bad have taken me to the beautiful life I have now. Embrace the decisions you have made, good or bad and learn from them.

5. Don't smoke.

It's disgusting and stupid.

6. Always remember we are here for you.

Daddy and I will always be there when you need us. Just like your grandparents have always been there for Daddy and I. Nothing heals the heart like being around those who love you unconditionally.

7. Don't be scared of moths.

They are harmless. I am terrified of them. In my mind they are horrifying unpredictable flying demons! In reality they are dopey, dull butterflies. They do however make annoying holes in your clothes so buy those ball things for your wardrobe (ask Daddy).

There are, I am sure a million pieces of advice I should and probably will give you over the years (whether you want to hear them or not) but for today I leave you with those.

Granted they may not be the greatest pearls of wisdom passed from one generation to the next, but they will I am sure, help a little along the way.

Basically pops, appreciate life, cherish your family, live it up and steer clear of moths.

All my love, always.

Mummy x