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

Witnessing my son’s capacity to love. He makes me a better person every day with a smile. His outlook on life is so positive and unburdened that I am almost ashamed when I am negative. We moved him away from everything he’s ever known and not a single complaint. Instead he’s proud to show me the language he’s learned, the friends he’s made. If it rains, he puddle jumps. If there’s dishes he makes bubbles. If I’m tired he assures me in his sweet voice that snuggles will help. I’m so blessed.

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

His classmate pushed him down on the playground and hit him. Before I could step in, Theo got up and said “I know you didn’t mean to hurt me. Let’s be friends instead. I’ll show you how to pick flowers.” I was floored when the two of them brought me a dandelion bouquet. Afterwards Theo said to me”See mama? He’s not bad. He just needs my help to be good.” I try to remember that when I’m upset with people. Adults need help too!

What would you do with $20,000?

We would buy time. Theo has moved around since he was born because we can’t afford to stay anywhere for more than a year or two. I’d like to give him a home. A place to plant his fruit trees. To raise chickens like our neighbor. I’d like to give him a haven, somewhere he can always be himself away from the terrors of this world. A place where he AND his friends are allowed to maintain their innocence and just…be kids. I don’t want him to have to grow up fast like I did. I want him to have time.