It’s that time of the year again. School supplies are out and beach towels returning to their respective places in closets. That means summer is coming to a close and school is beginning. That doesn't really mean anything to me, other than the fact that my little brother, Stone, is starting his freshman year of high school.

This letter is to you and all our your peers as you start your high school career.

Don't be nervous. You'll figure your schedule out. The teachers are there to help you. Can't find your class? Ask an upperclassman. They're likely to be willing to help. If not, don't sweat it. Its nothing personal.

Try not to make any enemies out of your teachers. They will play a major part in your success. It's so much easier to have good relationships with your teachers. They really do have your best interest in mind and they're not out to get you.

Your friends will change. Your freshman year will change every single one of you. Most of you won't finish the year with the friends that you clung to on your first day. You'll make new ones. Everyone shows their true colors in high school. Don’t forget how you were raised.

Don't skip the things like homecoming or prom because you think you're too cool. Just go. You'll wish you had.

Take your classes seriously. Do your homework. It helps if you bomb a test. However, don't overload yourself with too many AP courses when the time comes for those.

Enjoy it. It flies by. You won't believe me until you find yourself walking across a stage graduating with the people you've known for years. It'll be over before you know it.

Stone, you may drive crazy and make me want to duct tape you to a wall more often than not, but you're still my not-so-little little brother. I've watched you grow up and turn into a slightly less annoying teenager and now you're a high schooler. Your high school career is important, believe it or not. Keep your grades up and stay out of trouble. Try not to stress Momma out too much. Remember, I'm only a text, call or 40-minute drive away.