A reflection on the people who gave me strong roots.
The family we hope to grow for our children guides us forward.
The majestic oak tree stands as an enduring symbol of resilience, strength, beauty, and legacy.
From a tiny acorn grows a mighty tree. Its roots run deep, weathering seasons of change while providing shelter and stability for generations.
The oak reflects the life my parents built for me.
It also mirrors the family my husband and I are building for our children.
What began as a small seed of love grew into a strong foundation rooted in faith, family, perseverance, and values. That growth supports relationships during trials and strengthens shared goals. Together, they weather challenges and celebrate small victories with renewed commitment.
The journey is rarely straight, yet every branch remains connected to its roots. As branches twist and bend, they reach light while keeping faith and family intact. Over time, the tree grows taller, its network supporting generations through care, patience, and shared memories.
The Roots My Parents Gave Me
I am filled with immense gratitude for my parents and the extraordinary love they have given me.
They led by example.
Through hardship, dedication, determination, resilience, ambition, and a passion for helping others, they demonstrated the values.
That shaped my life.
They gave me strong roots grounded in principle.
They gave me wings that allowed me to move through life with confidence, freedom, and joy.
Mom: The Magic in Everyday Life
Indeed, one of the greatest gifts in my life is having a mother who is loving, supportive, joyful, and fun.
You have brought laughter into our home.
You have also brought magic into ordinary moments.
You made losing teeth enchanting with handwritten notes from a tooth fairy you created named Abithica.
You tucked glitter, surprises, and sweet notes into our suitcases when we traveled.
You made picnics and beach days feel special.
Moreover, Broadway adventures became more fun, and rainy afternoons invited music, games, and dancing.
Additionally, we carry those memories with family everywhere.
You have always had a way of making people feel loved, welcomed, valued, and important.
You taught us to find joy in the little things.
Additionally, we remain curious and grateful, and keep an open heart and mind.
When I was sick, you did everything imaginable for me and never gave up. Additionally, your kindness, gentle encouragement, and unwavering belief in me helped carry me through.
Additionally, have faith, and with ease and grace everything will work out the way it is divinely meant to. Miracles happen.
Dad: Love in the Details
Your love revealed itself in countless thoughtful ways. Moreover, through tireless work, dedication, and commitment to your word, you taught us responsibility, perseverance, and integrity.
Your attention to detail made birthdays, holidays, milestones, and family adventures feel extraordinary. Additionally, you anticipated needs, carefully planned experiences, and created memories that will last a lifetime.
You always walked on the outside of the sidewalk.
Additionally, you opened the doors.
Moreover, you cut the crusts from my peanut butter and jelly sandwiches.
When I was sick, you bought me a sun lamp to help with my healing.
Finally, those gestures may have seemed small, but they spoke volumes.
Be kind. Additionally, you never know what someone is going through.
The Family We Are Growing
The love and devotion my parents modeled helped me understand what matters most.
Moreover, he quite literally swept me off my feet while teaching me to two-step in a quaint Austin concert hall.
His calm, steady presence is balanced by curiosity, creativity, humor, faith, and a willingness to embrace new experiences. Additionally, he is devoted to our family, a man of his word, and someone whose strength is matched by kindness.
Together, we are trying to grow our own family tree.
It has the same kind of deep roots.
The Legacy We Hope to Leave
Our hope is to build a family legacy.
In addition, strength, compassion, and love will help us move through struggle.
Security, encouragement, wonder, adventure, and spontaneous joy will be woven into everyday life.
Most importantly, we want our home to be filled with unconditional love.
Additionally, we seek open hearts, open minds, laughter, and the freedom to dream boldly.
We want our children to know they will always have a place to come home to.
Additionally, our door will be open—not only to them, but to friends, future families, and anyone who needs love.
Moreover, it will be a safe place to land for anyone who needs love or support.
Strong roots do not keep us from growing. Moreover, they give us the security to reach toward the light.