Maya's Okay Birthday

Maya found herself having a birthday during a difficult moment. She had a very little party (Covid) with her San Rafael friends, but on the actual day, we were in a new town with our stuff still traveling across the country on a truck. We hadn't been able to ship anything to the new house because our address wasn't active yet. We couldn't bake a cake because we don't have the ingredients, or the pan, or the knife, or...anything.The whole thing was less than ideal. Maya was a good sport and we had a pretty fun day.

Maya gets a tea drink at our favorite tea house.

Dexter approves of his.

The siblings.

The faces of Maya.

We get this look a lot.

For dinner we went to Ruth Chris Steakhouse in Albuquerque because the kids have loved going there in the past. 

We were excited. Maya informed us after the meal that she had decided to no longer eat meat from mammals (she still will eat poultry and fish). Okay.

Maya at 14 Years

Here are the current stats:

Height: 5'3"

A lot happened this year all under the veil of pandemic. Maya has become a much more grown up creature. She is suddenly completely self sufficient, wanting to make her own food, taking care of her own homework, showering without being told. And she's finally growing!! She's definitely mid-growth spurt and can actually buy women's clothing. 

Maya graduated from 8th grade doing very well in all her classes. She starts high school next year at Santa Fe Prep. She's become very interested in drawing, especially on her phone (which seems difficult). She was able to be in school for most of the year which was an achievement on its own. She's managed to stay connected with a close group of friends including Maya, Sophia P., Lexi, Hope, Sofia and Arianna. She really got close to those in her school cohort and enjoyed making some new friends. 

The year was also overshadowed by the move. She handled the moving process well and we hope she will be happy in Santa Fe. She's still a very kind sister and daughter. She doesn't seem that eager to grow up and likes to still be silly and have fun. She's found ways to really make this year a good one. We are very proud of her. 

Favorite book: Lord of the Flies

Favorite movie: Trial of the Chicago 7

Favorite food: Dim Sum