Connect What is the most rewarding part of being a mom?

The most consistently rewarding part is hearing from others how kind my children are. As parents, we fall on our faces time and again to fulfill the needs of our children, but teaching (and modeling) kindness is truly something I can say that I did correctly. My older son is passionate about equality and human rights, and he shows empathy in a way that is sincere and helpful. My younger son has additional needs and limited communication abilities, but he radiates joy and warmth to all.

What is one memory of your kids that you will never forget?

Every summer, we spend a week in Northern MI with family & friends. It is our happy place. My older son unplugs from devices & spends each day fishing & swimming. My younger son plays in the sand, helps boaters hook to the docks, & truly relaxes. Each evening, we prepare dinners together, then some stay up late to play games or night fish. There are no frills, lines, sources of pressure – only nature & laughter – & nothing makes me happier than the memories my boys continue to make every year.

What would you do with $20,000?

Between my older son preparing to enter college in the fall and a recent hit-and-run accident that totaled my vehicle, $20K would go a long way in easing some of the stress that 2025 has brought into our lives. Also, my younger son is a huge fan of Peppa Pig, and it would be incredible to take him to the Peppa Pig amusement park in Florida.