Author Note:

"Oh, Maya!"  - Wags Over Worries is a children’s book written and Illustrated 100% by humans.  This series is about an endearing, playful, and super anxious dog named Maya and her fun family adventures.  Inspired by true events, the first book in the Wags Over Worries series shares the story of Maya’s adoption and how she met her family. All six books in the series are told from the four-legged, tail-wagging perspective of Maya Grace herself.  She is a silver Labrador retriever characterized by her playful, loving, gentle, and energetic personality. She is also super anxious and worries.... a lot!

As a dad, coach, professional, pet owner of two dogs, and lifelong student of human behavior, I am no stranger to the world of worries. Our family lives an active lifestyle with packed schedules and a seemingly endless to-do list. Worries stack up if we don’t tap into our support system and exercise mindfulness. When they do, our trusted community gives us the energy to overcome those anxious moments and enhance our well-being. One of the best ways to help kiddos work through overwhelming moments and big feelings is to meet them where they are. Children want to be heard and understood.  Through consistent support, empathetic communication, and lots of patience, kiddos can thrive by learning, growing,  and being the best version of themselves more often.

 "Oh, Maya!" was written to educate and entertain kiddos coping with worry, Anxiety Disorders, and ADHD and to help them be their very best selves. These educational stories equip children with helpful tools like mindfulness, self-awareness, and self-regulation. Growth is limitless when equipped with love, compassion, curiosity, and courage. 

Our family’s wish is for Maya’s adventures to bring you and your family joy as you learn, grow, and laugh together. We could all use a little less worries and more wags. 

A little about me: My default is to organize and clean when I get anxious. What about you?