650694-vOosten

16 with uniforms and rules, making new friends, and switching schools three times were challenging transitions for you. I witnessed your struggles, and I admire your resilience throughout it all. I hope these experiences, though difficult, will someday be remembered fondly as moments of growth and transformation. To my eldest child, thank you for being the sunshine of my life. Your infectious smile and happy-go-lucky attitude bring me immense joy every day. Your smile lights up my world, and your dance moves are contagious. Your ambition and determination are truly inspirational. Whether you choose to become a prime minister, astronaut, CEO, climate scientist, football player, or all of the above, you will undoubtedly make our world a better place. Your dedication to helping others is a source of great pride and inspiration. You always strive to do what’s best for others, and your caring nature shines through in everything you do. Moving to a new country was a big adjustment for you as well, and I am deeply grateful for your willingness to move countries and you have gone through it all with flair. Throughout my PhD, you have given me reason to pause and cherish the moments together. Without you, I might have kept working tirelessly without taking a moment to appreciate my biggest joy of life: you. Above all, there is one person to whom I owe everything: my husband. He was the first to believe in my ideas when no one else did. Every endeavor I undertake begins with him. From the ideas I pursue to the grants I apply for and the papers I write, he is my sounding board and confidant. I discuss everything with him first, and I reflect on my adventures with him when they are done. My husband supports me no matter what, scrutinizes my ideas with care, and encourages me to explore my research more thoroughly. He made tremendous sacrifices, especially by moving with me to a new country for my work, but also by supporting me through all of it. His commitment and dedication, driven by love, have been immense. While it wasn’t always easy for him, he made it happen. He is not only my best friend in life but also the best father to our children. I look forward to spending the rest of my life with him.

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