A couple of days ago, one of the youngest nieces turned 11. She got a spiffy new haircut, and off to school she went. Where a bunch of kids then proceeded to ridicule and bully her. I hate that. Not just because she's one of my nieces, but because no one deserves to be treated like that. I went through that crap at her age, too, but at least social media and cyber bullying didn't exist then. Sophie is an incredibly cool kid: she's smart, athletic, an excellent cook, and very creative. She designed a working mermaid tail that she can wear swimming. And one of the many things I love about her is her uniqueness. Unfortunately, that makes her a target for the other kids. I sat down and wrote her a letter last night telling her all the things I value about her and that, even though it seems an eternity away, things will get better and that I went through many of the same things she is going through. I also offered to be there if she needs to talk.

Not looking for advice or anything like that. Just needed to vent.