The Cherokee Rose And The Thistle

Both of our families have a rich heritage that we love.

Adam's Cherokee heritage comes from his father's grandmother. Over the years, hes studied their culture and his family's part in the Cherokee nation. His hometown of Muscle Shoals celebrates its local Indian heritage and the Trail of Tears. Adam attended the Indian festivals for years growing up. This year we heard some great storytelling and music. We didn't get to dance though...maybe next year. Adam is deeply proud of his Cherokee heritage.

Stephanie's Scottish heritage comes from both parents. My mother's family is Henderson of the Henderson clan. My father's family has been traced back to 3 immigrant brothers to America and the town of Kelso, Scotland. I grew up watching the Highland Games at Stone Mountain, listening to bagpipe bands and watching the sheep dogs work. I haven't been brave enough to eat haggis though. My Scottish origin has been something very beautiful to me all my life.

So, this design of the Cherokee rose and the thistle seemed to fit us nicely.

Pictures of us

Our first motorcycle date to Montevallo

Spring Park

Honda Superbike Race: photo taken by the Hooters girls

Ride on the Natchez Trace

Steph's birthday this year

Riverwalk Tuscaloosa

Our engagement story

We spent the weekend in Muscle Shoals visiting Adam's family. Adam's family has a Cherokee heritage so we went to the Indian festival in Spring Park that Saturday. Later that night, attended the festival's closing torch lighting ceremony and music/water show. After the show was over we sat by the lake and talked til most everyone else was gone. And while we talked, Adam pulled the ring out of his pocket and asked me to marry him. I was so surprised that I forgot to say yes. All I could do was smile and laugh. Finally I said yes and put on my ring. He gave me an Alexandrite. This picture (right) was taken shortly before he popped the question.

This picture was taken shortly after. We went to dinner to enjoy our news privately for a while. And the rest of the evening was spent telling our families and falling asleep in front of the tv.

In looking back, I think of those moments in the park and in the restaurant and telling family...I don't think either of us would have chosen a hot air balloon or a scoreboard or a champagne glass. It was simple and real and for us unforgettable.