“You’re worth more than the skin you’re in.” That’s what I’d tell myself at 18. At the time, I was so consumed by outside influences and lies that I felt I needed to look a certain way to be worthy of genuine love. How superficial!
If I had it to do over, I’d have laughed off most of the comments and drowned out the rest. And I’d’ve put my foot down stronger to resist changes I didn’t want to make, but felt I had no choice to stop.
I’d tell myself I’m a writer, and it wasn’t a stupid decision to pursue; I’d let myself know that through that, I get to spend a few minutes with thousands of readers every day, sharing good Virginia news. And lastly, I’d tell myself: I’m so glad you’re here (and I’m so glad you are, too).
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P.S. Our parent company kindly gives us time to spend with loved ones during the holidays, so we’ll be on a lighter newsletter schedule. You’ll see us in your inbox tomorrow and again on Dec. 30. We’ll be back to our regular schedule on Jan. 5.
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Welcome to our weekly advice column, courtesy of Grace: She’s the big sister who shares her own mistakes so you can avoid making them, the coworker who builds you up to ask for the raise you deserve, and the friend who is always happy to listen.
We all need someone like Grace in our corner. Submit your own questions here.
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Dear Grace,
As an 18-year-old who is getting out of high school, what is some advice you would give to me, that would put me 5 steps ahead? I don’t have a lot of older people in my life, and I’m nervous about this big change and being “officially an adult.” What would you tell your younger self that might help me?
— Excited, Nervous & Timid from Texas
Dear Timid from Texas,
Ask The Readers is your regular chance to grab the mic and give advice to other readers in our community. Each piece of advice we share comes from a different thoughtful reader. Keep an eye out for more juicy questions and answers!
It’s completely normal to feel a bit nervous stepping into the “officially adult” world! It’s a big change, and everyone navigates it differently. Here’s what women from across the country had to say to help put you five steps ahead…
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Going to Dollar Tree. That’s my favorite local Christmas tradition. When Colton was younger, he wanted to give gifts, but didn’t understand the concept of money, which my husband and I didn’t have a lot of.
So, we did what any logical parents would do: We took him to Dollar Tree and let him go wild (at the time, everything was still $1). He went through the list and picked the most eclectic things. A pack of styrofoam cups for his high school-age aunt. A four-pack of one-ply toilet paper for his pawpaw. A football for his great-grandpa.
Everyone had such a blast opening their random $1 item, we decided to do it again the next year. And the next. Now, it’s something we look forward to—and this year, Colton’s going in with a plan. It’s clever, it’s funny, it’s diabolical, and I’m so here for it.
You know mine. Now, I’d love to know yours: What’s your favorite Virginia Christmas tradition? Write to me at amie@couriernewsroom.com to let me know.
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We’re sharing a quick roundup of neat things to do over the next few days. Have an event you’d like to see featured? 💌 Send it my way!
Wednesday, Dec. 24 at 3 p.m. (Buchanan)
Venture to Buchanan to experience the “Town that Glows with LOVE.” The theme of the Christmas Eve Luminary Display draws on the town’s history, when a flood raged through the area in 1985. People sent water jugs to the community—and the folks there have never forgotten. Learn more about how they’re still saying “thank you” 40 years later here.
Friday, Dec. 26 at 11:30 a.m. (Jamestown)
Enjoy Christmas tidings at the recreated Church in James Fort. David Gardner, a nationally recognized Scottish fiddle performer, will dazzle audiences with traditional tunes from 18th-century Scottish composers. For more information on performances, as well as additional dates and times, click here.
Saturday, Dec. 27 at 5 p.m. (Big Stone Gap)
Venture to the Festival of Trees at Southwest Virginia Museum State Park for the final “night viewing” opportunity of the year. There, each tree features volunteer decorations representing families, churches, schools, businesses, and civic groups local to the area. Click here to check additional dates, times, and admission charges.
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Thanks for reading. This newsletter was written by Amie Knowles, with content from Galvanize Together. It was edited by Paula Solis. Amie is a lifelong Virginia resident and mom to a fantastic 7-year-old who loves monster trucks.
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