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

Seeing the world through my daughter‘s eyes. I can’t count how many times she has said things from her point of view that has brought me so much humility and grace to myself, her and others. The innocence in her statements and her curiosity makes you take a step back and slow down and enjoy life.

What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you?

It’s ok to be imperfect (aka I call myself a hot mess) and it’s ok to give myself grace. This has been the hardest one for me to practice. I don’t know how NOT to be busy because that’s how my childhood was. Go. Go. Go. Messy house but exhausted? Rest and clean up another day. Let them be kids. Let there be messes. And show them it’s ok to rest too. They take in more by what they see not what they hear.

What would you do with $20,000?

I would use some of it to pay down some debt I have been working hard on since my divorce. I’m full time law enforcement & I work an off duty security job on my days off for extra money. I also do a side bridal/ event makeup business for my hobby & a little extra cash to help pay babysitters. And then I’d take my daughter to Disney. She’s 5, super girly, loves all the dresses/ makeup/ heels and wants to meet all the princesses. I think it would be a memory and trip she’d never forget together.