I know, I almost did jazz hands

An acquaintance on Facebook saw the above picture and posted a funny comment.  This picture was taken during the summer of 1989 when I was 17.  You can see hints of snarky Jude but her signature look and optimism were definitely distinct.  She had more self confidence at 17 than I do now.  Perhaps it was her limited view and responsibilities but she makes me smile every time--the spunk she had and the fact that she truly thought she was all that and a bag of chips.

If I were to sit down with her now, I would have a few things to tell her.  By no means would I want to change the course of the future because I truly believe that things happen for a reason.  So..let's start with the superficial:

1.  (To avoid mix up--big mommy Jude is calling her Molly, for obvious reasons.)  Molly, I know that you feel like you have a ton of money.  The job at CVS that pays you $4.50 an hour which equates to about $60-$80 a week makes you feel rich but you have no responsibilities.  And you spend your money on stupid accessories from The Limited and The Express.  While I applaud that you have no credit cards, you also don't know what it's going to be like to go to an ATM, ask for $20 and you don't have enough for that withdrawal.  You should save more...
2.  You have been driving for several months and not once have you filled the gas tank.  Don't put that on your mother every time.  AND, it only costs $1.20 a gallon..rather than buy that ridiculous hat..do you really want me to finish that statement, Mol?  While you will have a couple of car accidents in the future that will not be your fault, your speeding tickets will be.  And when you see that the officer is a woman, don't try to act like she is your new best friend.  You know better than that.
3.  Your face make-up is a smidge too heavy.  For Christ sakes--you are only 17.  Moisturizer (kudos on the sunscreen) is enough..just a little eye make-up too.  You wear those freakin' huge glasses anyway..Later in life you will discover false eyelashes..not for now, but believe you me..awesome (I know, I almost did jazz hands).
4.  I know you are a product of the 1980's..but shiny fabrics and sequins, not the way to go for the prom.  It will take you several years to understand the subtly of of basic black.
5.  You have never exercised because you are thin and don't think that you have to.  Your metabolism is going to slow way down at 30..but keep in mind that it is truly amazing to push yourself physically.  You do know that when you have kids that UPS doesn't deliver them, right?  It takes energy.
6.  With exercise, comes food.  Remember it is a pleasure to eat and to appreciate the work that goes into the preparation.  Also you have a virgin liver..oh my.
7.  You work hard but you have never known a true academic or work related deadline..pace yourself.
8.  And lastly, you do not need to leave the college or university with a boyfriend (I know where you are going..but it's a surprise).  Really, really..it will all work out.  (And he is a very good catch!!)  One last thing..hickeys are not cool.  No one bought the story that you burned your neck with your curling iron.  Look how short your hair is..

Enjoy the next 22 years..really, remember to enjoy...but I would toss the specs.  No one in 2012 remembers Sally Jessy Raphael.