As someone who loved all things plants, trees, flowers, the word that keeps coming to mind when I think of what Debbie has done for my life is "roots". The word itself has many origins and definitions and as an attorney, I refuse to touch the biological definition. Instead, I want to talk about the roots of life Debbie has helped provide for me.

I started going to Debbie's Daycare as an infant. Obviously I was not fully conscious of every seed she was planting to help me to grow into who I would become, but I do remember growing up with her son Chris as one of my protectors and lunchtime buddies.
As I continued to grow, Debbie did her best to trim my thorns. I was a feisty, bossy kid (shocking to those who know me, I know) and frequently pushed buttons. Instead of rejecting my personality, she taught me how to be a good person while still being strong.
Reflecting on my growth, one of the most important roots Debbie helped plant and nourish was my excitement for learning--my love for reading. I would not have gotten through my schooling without that love, and my career would not mean nearly as much as it does without her support.
After Debbie retired from doing daycare, she worked supporting victims of domestic violence. This has lit even more of a fire in my belly to advocate for victims in my capacity, and I am so blessed to have an angel guiding me as that part of my career begins to blossom.
I love you, Debbie. Thank you for helping me blossom into the person I am. These words will never be enough, but I hope to live a life you would be so proud of.