Dear Teenage Eloise

Dear Teenage Eloise,

I know that by the time you get around to reading this, you'll probably be rolling your eyes at me because I'll wail at how cute you were when you were two and where did the time go and why did you have to grow up. I'm going to take the opportunity to apologise for that now! I'm afraid you're always going to be my Little Star, no matter how big and cool you get. Sorry.

You're a lucky kid really, because you're surrounded by people who love you. You've got incredible parents and grandparents, and a multitude of extended family who will look after you and do anything to keep you safe. Me included. But I thought I'd take the time to sit and write you a letter to read when you're a teenager, because things may happen or you may face situations that we can't protect you from. And let's face it, everyone needs a few life lessons. So get comfy kiddo, because Aunty BopBop is going to give you a bit of advice.

First of all, your mum is always right. I've known her since I was five and she's never once been wrong (and yes, it annoys me too. I feel ya, kid.)

You're a clever little girl, always have been. Your education is so, so important. Don't waste it.

You could be the kindest soul in the world and there will still be a handful of people who won't like you. Don't waste your energy worrying about those people. You can't please everybody.

On that note, being kind and honest and generous is a lot more valuable than being pretty or popular, or thin.

For the love of God, don't let anyone tell you or lead you to believe that you must be settled down and married by the time you're 25. You'll probably have to go through your fair share of frogs first. And that's okay. And when one of the frogs turns out to be just that, there is no better cure than ice cream and your friends. Trust me.

Or maybe you won't have to or be inclined to go through the frogs and you'll just want to travel the world, or build a career first. Or maybe you'll meet the love of your life at 18. I don't know, and as long as you're happy, I don't care. Just know that there is no right or wrong way of doing things.

I've discussed it at length with your dad, and we have decided no dating until you're 40. Sorry, kid.

Please stay crazy. You're a little nutter, running around wiggling your tongue to make funny noises. Or feeding me juice in a tiny plastic wine glass and pretending it's a shot (not that you knew what that meant at the time.) Don't change, you're hilarious.

Even at two years old, I know that you can do anything that you set your mind to, and you amaze me a little bit more every time that I see you. Don't be afraid to dream big. Don't let anyone limit your ambition. Don't let anyone tell you that you can't do something or you're not good enough. Don't let anyone talk to you as if you are inferior or incapable. Because you deserve the world, Eloise Grace, and you are capable of anything.

I love you so much Little Star, and I will always be there for you.

Love,
Aunty BopBop xo