What is the most rewarding part of being a mom?

I almost lost the ability to be in the lives of my children due to really unfortunate circumstances and poor choices in my youth. I had to fight very hard to have the privilege of being their mother. As a result the little things I take the most joy in like tucking them in at night and teaching them through example how to overcome anything and always be their own biggest cheerleader in life! I also really enjoy the laughs. It’s the one sound that is unforgettable and provides joy!!

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

As simple as it sounds my boys were playing together on the beach in San Diego around 2 and 6 years of age. It was the first time I was able to afford to take them anywhere. My eldest son looked at me while making sand castles and said “I love my family” . Seeing that it is just the 3 of us I melted. I was enough and I will never forget that moment. I knew then we’d be okay no matter what life threw at us. I felt so confident knowing my children were happy with just me.

What would you do with $20,000?

My biggest stress In life is knowing that I have to financially support them by myself and not feeling like I have left them anything to change the cycle. I would use as down payment on a home. Something to leave my children and know they will always have a roof over their head. I didn’t have that growing up and I want them to be secure and always have a home to call their own and come home to when life gets tough. Providing stability would be everything to my little tribe of 3!