Dear Maya, as you approach your 10th birthday, I'm reminded of the bittersweet moments of watching you grow. I feel a lot of nostalgia as I navigate the challenges of your emerging independence and emotions.

Dear Maya, walk with me and listen to a few conclusions I came to after running and taking a class. Remember, not every time will our emotions and feelings make sense. Every dream doesn't need to be transcribed but it doesn't hurt to tap in with yourself and listen.

Dear Maya, you got this.

Dear Maya, one year, my grandma was staying at a rehabilitation facility around Christmas time and I went to visit her. I lucked out - that very day an Elvis impersonator was singing in the cafeteria for all the residents.

Grandma sat in a wheel chair watching Elvis with stars in her eyes. For a moment I saw her pain fade into happiness. It felt like heaven was shining a spotlight on both of my grandparents as they danced and enjoyed the music together.

I knew I wouldn't get that moment back. I sat there knowing it was going to be a memory I would keep in my pocket forever.

I hope you have many moments like this with your grandparents.

A short and sweet reminder to be kind to yourself. If we pause for a moment before we attack ourselves maybe we can create a better environment for ourselves to grow.

It feels selfish at first and there will be growing pains but it's important to check in with yourself. Reprioritize yourself. <3

Self-discovery is the key to growth—embracing who you are and who you can become. Add a dash of imagination and a pinch of ambition to fuel your journey. And remember, it’s alright to start fresh and reinvent yourself.

When it comes to assessing progress and growth focus on people's actions rather than their words. Critiques can be difficult, but we have to find the willingness to listen and learn to grow WITH the ones around us.

We all face challenges in life, but it's how we respond that truly matters. I've been so inspired by the resilience, courage, and emotional openness of YOU. I'm so lucky I get to be your Annie.

Dear Maya, I find no joy in being "right" when trying to help loved ones. Often the conversation leads to a stalemate rather than productive change.

I do recognize transformation is a gradual process and I do believe we all have the willingness to grow - sometimes we just need to find our 'why'.

BE FREE, you don't need permission to do what is best for you.