01/04/2026
Aspen Taylor and Annsley Marie, my sweet IJM beauties: This year, you both led with class, heart, and just the right amount of sass. You’ve proven that staying true to who you are is the most powerful kind of beauty.
AT, you set the bar with your heart. Your love and kindness should be the world’s standard. I’ve been blessed to call you family since you were a tiny tot, and it’s truly a gift to share this journey called life with you. Now, I’m thinking, USA Volleyball Team 2032 — Brisbane, Australia? I feel that’s a fair request 🤣
AMV, my fighter with the most beautiful dimple smile; your level of grit is unreal. You are fearless, relentless, and you WORK. I admire you more than you’ll ever know. Thank you for never letting “no” change your mind on a dream, and for inspiring everyone watching, especially me. Okay, hear me out - maybe it’s time we retire our twin fringe skirts and go big and get new ones, what’do ya say? 🤪
Honestly, I could write a book on each of them. They’ve heard “no,” they’ve heard “yes,” they’ve had wins, and they’ve had setbacks, but they never let any of it steal their purpose. They’ve kept going with perseverance, anchored in their message and their desire to make a real impact.
So please don’t fear the “no.” It’s part of the journey, part of the growth, part of the story, and it’s what makes the victory so much more worth it!
