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

The sound of their laughs. Their innocent smiles. Their happiness. When I hear my kids tell me they love me, there is no better feeling in the world. I wanted to give my children a safe home, a loving home, and to make sure they always felt seen and heard. My husband and I have provided that to our children. The most rewarding part is being able to teach my children to always fight for their goals in life, to be able to teach them how to channel their emotions, to be authentic. They are capable.

What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you?

The biggest lesson I have been taught is that I am just an adult child with severe trauma, that has the capability to provide a better life experience for my children. I am sober 7 years, my mother passed away in my arms from suicide in 2014. Motherhood instilled a strength in me that I cannot describe in words. The POWER of having children that rely on me has taught me that no matter what I'm going through, they still need me. So I push, no matter what. They deserve the best version of me.

What would you do with $20,000?

Due to my severe depression with the recent suicide of my beloved brother, and the toll it has taken on my marriage and the stress that my kids and husband have felt, I would pay for my entire family to go on a vacation together where we can just relax, and bond with one another without any financial worries. My family is spread out in 4 different states, this loss of my brother is indescribable. We need to be together and I want to surprise them with this gift.