Today I am thankful for my children. Here is a list of things they should know and remember.
1. Give generously.
2. Remember that just because everyone is doing it, it doesn't necessarily make it right.
3. Acting dumb is never cute.
4. Take lots of pictures.
5. Say "I love you" to the important people in your life every day.
6. Don't be afraid to try.
7. Be kind.
8. Master the art of saying, "I'm sorry."
9. Make exercise a daily habit.
10. Listen for answers when you pray.
11. Make your bed everyday.
12. Take good care of your skin.
13. Be beautiful inside and out.
14. Stop and admire the sunset.
15. Take walks with the ones you love.
16. Always write thank you notes. People love to be acknowledged.
17. Start your day with prayer.
18. End your day with prayer.
19. Be a good listener.
20. When you speak to others, look them in their eyes. Try to notice their eye color.
21. Never text while driving.
22. Smile.
23. Hold the door for others.
24. Simply tell people "thank you" when they give you compliments.
25. Don't talk on your cell phone when you are in the bathroom.
26. Plant a garden and watch it grow.
27. Crunch fall leaves.
28. Forgive others.
29. Learn to be calm.
30. Carry on.
31. Be wise with your money.
32. Always pay tithing.
33. Save money.
34. Go to church on Sunday.
35. Have faith.
36. Stop and watch a sunrise.
37. Give thanks.
38. Learn how to play the piano.
39. Play hymns.
40. Call your mom and dad.
41. Keep a journal.
42. Go to bed early. Get up early.
43. Things always go on sale. Never pay full price.
44. Do your research when buying expensive items. Check the reviews.
45. Fill your gas tank when it goes below half full.
46. Celebrate the true meaning of Christmas.
47. Remember that Santa Claus is a reminder of what it means to give.
48. Easter is more than hidden Easter eggs.
49. Brush your teeth twice a day.
50. Visit the dentist twice a year for a check-up and cleaning.
51. Schedule a yearly physical.
52. Work hard.
53. Wear sunscreen every day.
54. Be healthy. Live a healthy lifestyle.
55. Stand up for your sisters.
56. Think before you speak.
57. Fold laundry as you take it out of the dryer.
58. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables.
59. Go to college. Finish.
60. Listen to uplifting music.
61. Christmas music is okay to listen to all year long.
62. Get married in the temple.
63. Never settle.
64. Celebrate the milestones.
65. Insist on happiness.
66. Never carry a balance on a credit card.
67. Take a risk.
68. Travel the world. Learn about different cultures.
69. Make lists.
70. Sometimes it is okay to ignore your list.
71. Joy in the feeling of rocking a sleeping baby.
72. Resist evil.
73. Stay pure.
74. If you are at a party and people are drinking, never be afraid to call your parents to come and pick you up.
75. Trust in the Lord with all your heart, might, mind, and strength.
76. Make well-balanced meals.
77. Hold the door for others.
78. Vote.
79. Marry a return missionary.
80. Be grateful. If you haven't got all the things you want. Be grateful for the things you don't have that you don't want!
81. CTR-Choose the Right.
82. CTR-Current Temple Recommend.
83. Recycle
84. Learn how to fail. Pick yourself up and keep on going.
85. Talk to grownups.
86. Stand up for yourself.
87. Learn to say "No" when you are feeling overwhelmed.
88. Don't carry a grudge.
89. Most people aren't thinking what you think they are thinking.
90. Have integrity.
91. Never date a boy whose pants hang low.
92. Be a good friend.
93. Life isn't fair. Be merciful.
94. Learn to value and respect boys.
95. Read.
96. Be optimistic. Look at the cup as being half full.
97. Lift others up.
98. You know you are in love when you can't fall asleep because you know reality is finally far better than your dreams. Dr. Seuss
99. Money can't buy happiness.
100. Treat others with respect.
101. Dream big.
102. Be responsible.
103. Mistakes can open the door to exciting new possibilities.
104. Exercise can be fun.
105. Be creative.
106. Use your imagination.
107. Never walk alone at night.
108. Be prepared.
109. Read the Book of Mormon every day.
110. Eat cookie dough.
111. Apologize when you mess up, especially to your children.
112. Don't whine.
113. Give hugs.
114. Be joyful.
115. Believe in Jesus Christ.
116. Have faith.
117. Answers to prayers do come. They just might not be what you are expecting or when you want them.
118. Kiss your sweetheart in front of your children.
119. Give hugs.
120. Above all else, family is the most important.
My list began to flourish as I found myself thinking about ideas throughout the day. If you have any other ideas you think would be good to add, let me know.
