You are in for so much joy. I'm not trying to tell you that trouble won't come; you're too old for me to think you'll believe in false assurances. But, sweet sister, the journey is about to begin.

In four weeks, you will officially be in high school. Your experience will differ much from mine, but not just because you will learn at home with a fantastic teacher and even better mom. I firmly believe, however, that you will encounter many of the same things I did. After all, high school girls are high school girls regardless of how they do school.

So even though you could fight through anything on your own, here's what I want you to know before your first day as a high schooler.

Learn as much as you can. I can hear your groan from here. I know you would rather cartwheel and dance than read, but you like to learn more than you would admit. Learn how to read for information and read for pleasure. Learn to listen with the intent to understand instead of to reply. Learn all the little facts about places I know your heart longs to travel to. Learn whatever your heart desires.

Drama is not worth it. You have probably heard that a hundred times, but my guess is that you haven't really had to live it. For some unknown reason, 14-18 year-olds seem to need drama to thrive. But you don't. I promise. Love your friends and neighbors even when they're not so lovable, but don't get caught in the crossfire. More importantly, don't be the first to engage.

Your mom is on your side. I still wish I could remember this one every moment of every day. When she tells you to change, it's because she knows that in an hour you'll be cold/hot/uncomfortable/angry because of your wardrobe choice. When she asks a million seemingly irrelevant questions, remember that each one is a reminder of how much she loves you. She is fighting for you, not against you.

If he doesn't reply, he doesn't deserve your attention. After five texts spaced exactly 90 minutes apart, take a break. Your heart needs your protection, dear one. He will show his interest if it's there. If not, eat some ice cream and text a friend. Good ones always reply.

Set boundaries. Every person you come in contact with is different, so each one will play a different part in your story. Take cues from how they treat you and adjust accordingly. Do your best to learn when to draw the line with your tendency to give freely. Keep on loving, but keep safe distances, too.

Soak it all in. Minutes, hours, and days fly by. Live in them. They become precious sooner then you think.

Stay His. The Creator is so enthralled by you, sister. You are loved by Him, and He desires your attention. Keep meeting with people who love Jesus. Keep reading His Word and caring for His people. He deserves your heart.

I wish I could prepare you for everything, but life doesn't work like that. However, I can promise to always be a text or call away. After all, I was in your shoes not too long ago.

All my love,

Shelby