As you've likely noticed, this isn't Eric and Ina's first marriages. Both have previous marriages, and they've experienced the highs and lows that come with wedded life. While their marital journeys differ, they share a profound bond: family.

Family has been the cornerstone of their lives, and now, as they unite, family will become even more central.

Eric's family includes two adult children. His eldest, a high school graduate, works in education, fast food, and retail. His younger child, also a high school graduate, balances work, college and college football.

Eric has two siblings. His older brother, a member of Alpha Phi Alpha, and his Eastern Star wife reside in Houston. Their two adult sons are employed, and the elder is soon to be a father. This will be the first grandchild for Eric's brother and sister-in-law. Eric's younger sister works in pharmaceuticals in their hometown of Detroit and is a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta. We consider her the family historian.

Eric's father hailed from a large family of thirteen siblings. Only one aunt and one uncle remain. His mother had three siblings, with one uncle still living at 87 years old.

Ina's family is even more extensive. She has two brothers—one in Colorado, the other in Florida—and a sister in Sacramento. Ina’s two adult biological children, that have families of their own. Her son has a child, while her daughter has five, including two sets of twins.

Ina's dedication to fostering children spans over 30 years. She has adopted seven, most of whom are independent adults or have transitioned from the family. Others remain cherished members.

Inspired by Ina, Eric renewed his foster parent certification. He and his late wife fostered children while living in Maryland.

Last Thanksgiving, Ina received emergency placement requests for four children, two of whom shared the Donaldson surname ( no accidents). Three were reunited with their parents, while the fourth remains in their care. Shortly after, they welcomed three more foster siblings: a one-, two-, and four-year-old. They hope to adopt all three.

Currently, there are a total of  over 20 family members in Sacramento and many more living elsewhere. Last year, Eric, Ina,  his children and the youngest twins visited Eric's family during the Donaldson family reunion. It is their hope that Eric can attend a reunion with Ina's family in the future.