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

The most rewarding part of being a mom is the way my heart continues to heal and grow in ways I never expected. Knowing I’m helping shape my daughters world is both humbling and inspiring. Being a mom also means continuously learning and growing right alongside her sometimes, and I think there’s such a raw, beautiful vulnerability in that. For me, being a mom is a constant reminder of how much love can change you.

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

One memory I will never forget is when I took my daughter on a random journey “searching” for the northern lights. We drove 3.5 hours just to find the most perfect spot away from the city/highway lights, and sat on the back of my car, waiting for the show to begin. As she saw the bright colors appear above us, she said “look mommy, the sky is dancing!” and began dancing along with them. That night felt straight out of a Disney movie, I couldn’t help but shed some tears of joy.

What would you do with $20,000?

I plan to build more stability for my family, while also being able to bring to life one of my dreams. Not only am I a full time college student and currently work as a Substance Abuse Counselor, but I am also a single mother and DV survivor. There have been numerous times where I didn’t know how I was going to make ends meet, but I continue to make the most of what I’m blessed with. One of my dreams is to open a self-defense and martial arts space in my community for trauma survivors.