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

Seeing my daughter light up when she learns something new, having the privilege of tucking her into bed every night after our “girl talk” time, and being her safe space when she’s sad or hurt, simply means everything to me.

What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you?

Motherhood has taught me that I can persevere through more than I could have ever imagined. Focusing on the silver lining as much as I can, and counting my blessings has gotten me through so many challenges. My husband has been commuting for the last several years for his work (professor in academia) and it has been tough for me running it all, while also working. As a mom, and caretaker, you just manage to do it all, because life gives you complexity, and you just find a way to figure it out.

What would you do with $20,000?

The last few years of our lives have been filled with endless challenges, including the loss of so many close loved ones. I say this with gratitude for all we have and without taking for granted how many are suffering in this world around us. We had severe water damage to our home post hurricane in 2024 and it’s been a real journey ever since. Should I be selected, I would pay off part of our significant looming debt for a new roof/ remediation which insurance did not reimburse us for.