I spent this past weekend knee-deep in something I’ve been putting off for way too long—sorting through bins of old memories that have been piling up in our garage. What I thought would be a simple exercise in organizing turned into something far more meaningful than I expected.

At first glance, they were just plastic bins. Just stuff, right? But as I opened each one, I was hit with this unexpected flood of emotions. Every letter, every photo—it was like time-traveling to different chapters of my life. And wow, did it take me on a ride.

Rediscovering Love, One Note at a Time

One of the sweetest surprises? Finding old handwritten notes from my husband. These weren’t always grand, romantic letters; they were quick, heartfelt reminders scribbled on scraps of paper. I did discover thoughtful emails I printed out when I was in my late teens from him. Interested that I KNEW that he was the one so early in my life. So much so, I printed them out! Also, I discovered so. many. cards! A lot of the memories were a throwback to when we were younger, juggling busy schedules but always finding small ways to show we cared. Seeing those notes again reminded me that it’s not the big, sweeping gestures that define a relationship—it’s those little moments of thoughtfulness that stick with you.

My Grandmother’s Wisdom, Kept in Ink

Then, there were letters from my grandmother. She had this way of putting life’s hardest lessons into words that were somehow both comforting and wise. Sitting there, reading her words, I could almost hear her voice again. It made me realize just how much of her wisdom I still carry with me. Those letters were like little time capsules filled with love, encouragement, and all the things she tried to teach me over the years. In some ways, it made me sad in that moment because it reminded me of how much I missed her. But then I was overcome with the feeling that she was right there with me. As I read the messages she wrote in all of these cards I felt like she was talking to me. 

Old Friends, Forever Present

I also came across letters from my dear friend, Allison, who has been by my side through so many of life’s ups and downs. She’s still a big part of my world today, and reading her words from years ago was a beautiful reminder of how lucky I am to have such a constant, loving presence in my life. A card wishing me a Happy 23rd birthday! Another one that asked me to be in her wedding. It’s not about looking back with nostalgia; it’s about appreciating how far we’ve come together and knowing that some friendships are truly built to last.

A World of Memories: My Career in a Box

Mixed in with the letters were souvenirs from my career—maps from Paris, ticket stubs from competitions around the globe, medals, newspapers I was featured in, and event programs. It struck me that so much of my journey as an athlete was wrapped up in those bins. Each keepsake was a reminder of the places I’ve been, the challenges I faced, and the incredible people I met along the way. It was a bittersweet reminder of how much I’ve experienced, but also how quickly time has flown. My entire career, in pieces of paper and trinkets, told the story of a life spent chasing dreams and pushing boundaries.

A Lost Art in a Digital World

As I read through these handwritten letters, I couldn’t help but think about how much we’ve lost in this digital age. Today, we send a quick text or dash off an email, but there’s something so deeply personal about seeing someone’s handwriting—their unique way of shaping each letter, the smudges and scribbles that tell their own story. These letters were more than just words on paper; they were pieces of the people who wrote them. There’s a kind of magic in holding a note that someone took the time to sit down and write, fold, and seal, knowing it would carry a part of them to you. It’s an art that’s slowly fading, and I feel a responsibility to preserve it, to remind my kids that there’s value in taking the time to put pen to paper.

Lessons for My Kids: Love, Gratitude, and Connection

As I sorted through all these memories, one thought kept crossing my mind: What will my kids think of all this someday? When they find these letters, ticket stubs, and notes, I hope they’ll see the value of deep connections, the power of gratitude, and the importance of cherishing loved ones through every stage of life. I want them to understand that even in a world dominated by texts and emails, there’s something irreplaceable about holding a piece of someone’s heart in your hands. I hope these letters show them that relationships take nurturing, that it’s the little acts of kindness that matter, and that there’s always space for love and gratitude, no matter how busy life gets.

Wrapping Up, But Not Letting Go

In the end, going through those bins wasn’t just about decluttering our garage. It was a journey through my life, filled with love, loss, laughter, and everything in between. I even told John that night, “If going through all those bins taught me anything- it’s that I was so completely loved in my life. And, I feel so grateful for that.” As I packed things back up, I realized I’m not just holding onto stuff—I’m holding onto the moments, the places, and the people who have shaped me. And for that, I’m incredibly grateful.