Dear Maomao,

I hope you 're doing well

How are you

With the coming of the rainy season, the hydrangeas dotted around the palace gardens have come into full bloom, spreading vibrant colors throughout the Imperial City. The bushes in the Jade Pavilion 's inner courtyard have come in pink this year instead of blue. The young princess is delighted.

It 's all thanks to

In the last few days, the first fireflies are starting to appear too. They rise from the bushes at dusk and flit around the flowers like tiny stars. I can see them as I write this in the gardens, just outside my window.

This time of year used to remind me of chasing fireflies in the garden with my mother. We 'd clasp our hands together around them to try to hold the light in, keep the little stars to ourselves for a while. Those times are one of my fondest memories in a difficult youth.

Now, though, when I see the fireflies, all I can think about is you.