Dear 21-year-old Kristin,

Enjoy the fact that you haven't worked out in 2 years and are a size 4, despite eating french fries for dinner and Doritos for lunch.  See how that works out for you in another year.

2007

Don't worry about that boy you think is perfect.  Yes, he's cute.  But it'll end after 7 months.  Admit it: you know there's no chemistry there.  Some things are more important than "super cute".  Also, please stop being so shallow.

And don't ever spend $40 on a set of shampoo and conditioner again.  You can't afford it.  

Appreciate real friends.  They are few and far between.  It took a few years of college before you made a real one.

Please stop eating so many boxes of Nerds.  I know they're your favorite food.  Grow up.  

You're about to embark on your education classes. Only 3 more semesters to go! Enjoy it while it lasts.  Real teaching is great, but not nearly as fun as student-teaching.  Too bad you didn't get paid for that gig.  You'd never been poorer, but you'd also never been happier to be a teacher.  Making it a real job will take away the novelty.

Don't worry about not being engaged at college graduation.  I know all those other people are.  I know.  But seriously, build a bridge and get over it.  You're going to meet someone amazing and be better for it.  Then he will move you to Alaska.

Speaking of…those PA Education Standards you spent 2 years memorizing?  Forget them.  You'll never get to teach in Pennsylvania.  (You should probably take an Alaska History class if you have a chance though…)

And speaking of boys…just wait it out.  I know that everyone seems like they have it figured out, but you don't believe in that high school sweetheart stuff anyway.  Your parents met at a bar and they've been married for decades and had kids on purpose.  You'll meet your husband at a bar too.  Give it a year or so.

Don't order that college class ring.  You'll wear it twice.

Get the drinking out of your system now. By 22 1/2, hangovers start to last all day.  You'll never drink vodka/cranberry or rum/coke again.

7 years from now, you'll have had 4 years of teaching experience in 2 different states at 2 different grade levels.  Please stop trying to find a job in Pennsylvania.

I know you think your 20s are going to last forever.  They won't.

And I know you swore off military guys after what's-his-face.  We'll see how that works out for you.

Lastly, don't be afraid to leave home.  Traveling is the best thing you can spend your money on.  I'm glad you splurged on a Caribbean vacation after college.  There's more traveling in your future, for sure.  Don't be afraid of it.

Sincerely,
28-year-old Kristin