the number one lesson i want to teach my daughter

Be secure. I am 34 years old and have just come to the conclusion that a lot of the trials, troubles and tribulations I have experienced in my short lifetime are due to me being insecure.

I see it everywhere I look - men, women, close friends, family members - insecurity is not prejudice. It attacks all walks of life and stumps people's growth potential as a human being.

I want our little girl to know that she most definitely is special. That she does not need to lower her standards for everyone. That her power to say yes or no is hers alone and not up for anyone else to dictate. That she is ALWAYS beautiful - inside and out. I want her to know that she doesn't have to be the best and that doing her best is what counts. That winning isn't everything because the experience - her experience - is what counts and matters. That the feeling of jealousy is evil and having her own thoughts, plans and individuality will make her own person and that is so important in life. She is original and should be proud of that. Always. Be a leader, never a follower my dear - you are going to go places!

I just want her to know that she is loved, she has the power to love herself, she is a brave female and if she does her best, no one can fault her for that.

I want her life to be easier than mine. Throughout my 20's (especially) I made my life much harder than it needs to be. Today life is easy because I focus on what's important, what matters. I want to teach her these skills early so she can enjoy the peace of mind I'm starting to enjoy - without waiting until her 30's to enjoy it.

Here's to you beautiful baby girl ... Cheers to a life of security, happiness, originality, strength, health and gratitude. I already know you will be your best and you are already loved. Can't wait to meet you!