What is the most rewarding part of being a mom?

Watching him push through those obstacles, stay determined, and ultimately earn his BA has been one of the greatest gifts of my life. That degree represents so much more than education—it represents resilience, strength, and everything we’ve overcome together. The most rewarding part of being a mom, to me, is knowing that I helped create a safe foundation where my child could grow, persevere, and become who he was meant to be.

What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you?

The biggest lesson motherhood taught me is resilience—and the strength I never knew I had. In 2016, I made the difficult decision to leave an abusive marriage and move my son and me into a safe place. It wasn’t easy, but it was necessary. Motherhood taught me that even in the hardest moments, choosing courage over fear can change everything. It showed me that protecting, supporting, and believing in my child—and myself—can lead to a future stronger and brighter than I once thought possible.

What would you do with $20,000?

$6,000 – Emergency savings + pay off high-interest debt $3,000 – Move to Bigger Home Deposit, moving costs, furnishings $7,500 – Retirement Investing $2,000 Career growth + health $1,500 Trip/meaningful time with my son to celebrate how far we’ve come