What Legacy Means to Me as a Mom, Leader, and Woman

Spoiler: It’s not about perfection—it’s about presence.

Liam and me headed on our adventure, but first we had to support a local biz!

Legacy used to feel… far away. Like something we talk about in retirement speeches and obituaries. But as I sit in the messy, beautiful middle of motherhood, leadership, and womanhood, I realize this truth:

Legacy isn’t about later. It’s about now.

It’s about the way I show up for my people. The lessons I leave behind in small, ordinary moments. The way I love, model, and nurture what matters.

The Robertson Fab Four at brunch in Montgomery, AL on Father's Day.

This June, as we celebrate Father’s Day, I’m reminded that I’m not building this legacy alone. I watch my husband model strength and softness, integrity and intentionality, as a father—and I see the imprint he’s leaving on our boys.

And to honor that, my oldest son and I are taking what we call a “Legacy Trip” to Chicago—just the two of us. Dedicated time to talk, reflect, explore, and pour into one another without the noise of everyday life. It’s a trip rooted in presence, storytelling, and bonding—the ingredients of any great legacy.

So as we step into the second half of the year, I’m asking myself: What am I modeling?

And here are the three places I’m paying closest attention:

Emory showing his brother, Liam, som love after his return from his 'legacy trip!'

1. How I Love and Lead My Children

My sons are watching everything—how I respond to stress, how I prioritize joy, and how I carry myself through change.

Legacy here isn’t about having all the answers. It’s about modeling emotional honesty. It’s about affirming them, showing up, and creating memories that tell them they are seen, loved, and worthy.

🌀 Lesson: Legacy is in the car ride convos, the belly laughs, the prayers before bed. That’s the stuff that sticks.

2. How I Nurture My Purpose (Even When It’s Hard)

There are seasons when I feel like I’m soaring—and others when I feel like I’m holding things together with a hope, a prayer and a little blind faith. But no matter what the season looks like, I keep showing up.

I chase purpose even when clarity is blurry. I write when no one’s reading. I give when no one receives. I invest in myself, because I know every stretch is shaping the story I’ll one day pass down.

🌀 Lesson: Legacy is in how you carry the dream—not just how you deliver it.

Liam hitting 'em with the 'bless 'em' and me giving my universal Geriatric millennial peace sign ;).

3. How I Show Up for My People

It’s not about being everywhere for everyone—it’s about being present for the people who matter most.

Legacy lives in:

• The texts that check in “just because”

• The family traditions we make up as we go

• The quiet ways we love others out loud

I want to be remembered not for what I accomplished, but for how I made people feel—seen, supported, and celebrated.

🌀 Lesson: Legacy is your ripple. Be intentional with every drop.

So here’s your reminder:

You don’t have to be rich to leave something valuable.

You don’t have to be famous to be unforgettable.

You just have to love deeply. Live intentionally. And keep showing up.

💛 And if you’re looking for more ways to live, parent, or “mommy” with joy—check me out on my new segment, The Joy Momma, airing every first Monday of the month starting July 7 on WREG’s Live @9. Our first episode? “Making Memories & Moments”—because that’s how legacies are made.

👣 Legacy Trip with Liam:

In June, I took my eldest son Liam on a Legacy Trip to Chicago – a one-on-one journey to create memories, deepen our bond, and pour into his growth. Every child needs intentional time with you to feel seen, loved, and guided. Ready to plan yours? Start designing your own Legacy Trip today.

UPDATE - see the first episode, The Joy Mama’s guide to making memories with your children: Legacy trips and family bonding, here and below are the lists as promised...

🧺 Top List: Picnic Basket Must-Haves for Moms (Outdoor Concert Edition)

✅ Frozen bottled water Stay hydrated in this Memphis heat; frozen bottles double as ice packs.

✅ Fruit kabobs or chilled fruit cups Easy, refreshing, and mess-free for kids and moms.

✅ Turkey wraps or sliders Minimal mess, easy to hold and eat while seated on a blanket.

✅ Veggie chips or pretzels Crunchy snacks that don’t melt in the heat.

✅ Cheese options  (string cheese for kids; mini brie or Babybel for adults)

✅ Charcuterie box for mom and dad Crackers, cheese, salami, nuts, olives—your treat while kids play.

✅ Glow sticks or bubbles For post-sunset fun or keeping littles entertained.

✅ Cooling towels & bug spray wipes Non-negotiables for southern summer nights.

✅ Bluetooth speaker or portable fan Music for atmosphere or a breeze to stay cool.

✅ Large waterproof picnic blanket Keeps everyone comfy and dry.

🌟 Top 3 Things to Do Before Summer Ends to Make Memories & Moments

1. Plan a Family Finale Experience Whether it’s an outdoor concert picnic, a family getaway, a splash park day, or movie night under the stars—end summer with a memory that says: We lived fully.

2. Create a Summer Photo Journal with Your Kids Let them pick their favorite photos from the summer, print them, and write a caption or memory together for each.

3. Have a One-on-One Date with Each Child Coffee shop chats, library adventures, or walks at sunset—time focused solely on them builds their confidence and your bond.

#LegacyInMotion #JoyMomma #WundherWoman #OwnTheMoment #ParentingWithPurpose