Make Sure People “Show Up” For You

Dear girls,

One day, I was scheduled to catch an Amtrak train from one state to another. However, a derailment of another train prevented my train from taking me to my final destination. Instead, I had to get off the train in a city that was two hours from my final destination.

When I made my husband (your uncle) aware that he would have to drive a few hours to pick me up, he said three words (“I’ll be there”) followed by three more words (“I love you”).

Please make sure that people in your lives “show up” for you. That means – when you need them, they need to be there.

I love you.

Auntie

My Names and Legacies

Dear sweet girls,

I am often asked this question: To what do you attribute your personal and professional success in this male-dominated culture? 

I often answer that I was named for my two grandmothers. When you are named for two remarkable women, failure is not really an option.

I love both of my grandmothers – your great-grandmothers – dearly. You have an amazing maternal grandmother. May her love for you guide you throughout your lives.

You are loved beyond measure.

Your Favorite Auntie

Be Sure Your Significant Other Values You

Dear girls,

When you become an adult, I hope you find a partner who will love you unconditionally.

Your uncle and I had to attend an event. Because I had to arrive early, we drove to the event separately. The event was awesome, and your uncle and I left together. As your uncle and I were driving home – in separate vehicles – I realized that I needed some gas. I pulled into a gas station – without telling your uncle. What did he do? He pulled into the gas station behind me, got out of his vehicle and pumped my gas.

Real men take care of their women – without having to be asked. Never forget this…

I love you for life.

Your Auntie