Rooted in Stafford: The Ramos Family's Life of Dance, Soccer, and Community Connections

Mar 28

In a bustling neighborhood where children play freely outdoors until dusk, the Ramos family has created a life centered around community, athletics, and family traditions. Stephanie and Fernando Ramos, Stafford County natives with deep roots in the area, have built a home where their three children can thrive in a supportive environment surrounded by friends and extended family.

A Chance Encounter Changes Everything

Stephanie and Fernando's love story began with a twist of fate that could have been pulled straight from a romantic comedy. "I was going on a blind date with his friend," Stephanie recalls with a laugh, "but as soon as I saw him, the rest was history." That unexpected meeting set the stage for what would become a family of five with strong ties to the Stafford community.

Today, their household buzzes with the energy of their three children: 10-year-old Kensie, 9-year-old Brecken, and 7-year-old Zoe. Completing the family is PopTart, their one-year-old turtle who brings a unique touch to their already dynamic home life.

Careers Dedicated to Movement and Education

Both Stephanie and Fernando have built careers that reflect their values and passions. Stephanie, a Liberty University graduate with a BS in Business Management, balances her full-time position as an Analyst at TK Elevator with her part-time role teaching dance at The Dance Spot—a studio with special significance in her life.

"My best friend, Amy, and her mom, Miss Susie– who is like a second mom to me– own the studio,” Stephanie shares. “I grew up dancing there as well, with our other bestie, Lauren, and now I teach there with my best friends– all three of us even had homemade costumes growing up from Lauren’s mom and now she makes a handful of the special costumes for my girls,” she continues, highlighting how the dance studio represents both her past and present, where she now watches her daughters follow in her graceful footsteps.

Fernando, known affectionately as "Nando" or "Fern" to friends and family, graduated from Radford University with a BS in Exercise, Sport, & Health Education. His professional life is dedicated to developing young athletes and promoting physical education. He teaches health and physical education at Mountain View High School while also working at Stafford Soccer Club, creating a perfect environment for their son Brecken to develop his soccer skills.

"Brecken plays soccer at Stafford Soccer Club, the soccer club his dad works for," Stephanie notes, demonstrating how the family's activities and careers have become beautifully intertwined.

A Legacy of Local Education

Both Stephanie and Fernando are products of the Stafford County Public School system, with Stephanie graduating from Colonial Forge High School and Fernando from North Stafford High School. This shared educational background has influenced their decision to raise their children in the same community.

"We've lived in Stafford most of our lives," Stephanie explains. "We have deep roots with both of our families living in Stafford as well. We know the kids will get a good education at the Stafford Co. Public Schools." This confidence in local education and proximity to family has cemented their commitment to the area.

“There’s no way we could make it all happen without our parents,” Stephanie adds. “Both sets live just 15 minutes away, and there’s no way we could juggle it all without them– our kids are very lucky to be so close to their grandparents and have the opportunity to form such close relationships with them.”

A Neighborhood Dream Come True

Perhaps most remarkable about the Ramos family's story is how they've cultivated community within their household and throughout their entire neighborhood. In a move many might dream of but few accomplish, the family built their home on the same street as longtime friends.

"We really love where we live! We have an amazing street," Stephanie enthuses. "We built houses on the same street with our lifelong friends-- not sure what could beat that! The kids are having the time of their lives, it's impossible to be bored on our street."

The result is a childhood environment that feels increasingly rare in today's digital age—one where children play freely outdoors, forming bonds that will likely last a lifetime.

"They would never come inside if we didn't force them to and even beg us to have their dinner outside most nights (when it's warm and sometimes even when it's cold)," Stephanie shares. “There’s always a neighbor ready and willing to be a back-up to scoop the kids from school, church, or sports,” Stephanie added, “even just someone to let you borrow a cup of milk. We have block parties and just a great community where you know everyone has your back if you need anything!"

Finding Balance Through Family Activities

While careers and education create the foundation of the Ramos family's life, their children's activities keep the calendar full and the family car in constant motion. Both daughters, Kensie and Zoe, dance at The Dance Spot, continuing the tradition Stephanie began years ago. While his sisters dance, Brecken channels his energy into soccer matches at Stafford Soccer Club under the watchful eye of his father.

When they're not rushing between dance competitions and soccer games, the family prioritizes travel and creating memories together. "When we aren't at soccer games or dance competitions, we love to vacation with our family and friends!" Stephanie says. "Our next vacation is always on the books."

Their travel destinations reflect both heritage and happiness. Portugal holds special significance as Fernando's extended family still lives there, while Sandbridge, Virginia, provides opportunities to connect with Stephanie's sister. They return to favorites like Atlantis in the Bahamas and “Disney World” for pure family fun because “who doesn't love Mickey everything?"

Enjoying Stafford's Growth

As longtime residents, the Ramoses have witnessed Stafford County's evolution firsthand, appreciating the area's development while maintaining their connection to its community-oriented spirit.

"Right now, the area is booming!" Stephanie observes. "It's wonderful to have an amazing dance studio and soccer club right down the street. We also have quick access to grocery stores and restaurants at a moment's notice."

The family has cultivated favorite spots throughout the region. "In Fredericksburg, we love Fahrenheit 132 for a nice dinner out, walking around downtown, or stopping into Blue Cow Ice Cream for dessert," Stephanie shares. Closer to home, she adds, "In Stafford, The Icing is our go-to bakery, their Pink Champagne cake/cupcakes are to die for."

A Legacy of Connection

What makes the Ramos family story particularly compelling is how they've managed to blend old and new—honoring their deep roots in Stafford while creating fresh traditions with their children.

In a world that often seems increasingly disconnected, the Ramos family has created a life that celebrates togetherness—proving that sometimes, the most meaningful adventures happen right in your own neighborhood.

Mallory Hardgrove

Mallory is a former teacher and coach turned freelancer, deciding to pivot her career when her husband's military career took their family to Italy. She has since begun a career in digital marketing where she enjoys blogging, writing copy, and designing new, creative ads to catch the attention of client’s respective audiences.

Since returning to the States and settling down in Stafford, she's added a few other projects to her plate, including her new role as the content coordinator for Stafford Living and Neighbors of Chancellorsville. As a former sports editor of her college newspaper and high school yearbook editor-in-chief, she's enjoying being "back in the saddle" of local journalism.

When she’s not working, she can be found controlling the chaos of her #girlmom and #armyspouse life, playing referee, mediator, and short-order cook; planning her next European adventure and reminiscing about her #ladolcevita life; reading the next novel on her TBR list; or cuddling with her 90-pound furbaby, Murray.