What is the most rewarding part of being a mom?

The best part of being a mom is watching my kids "become". I get to see the real them: joy, frustration, humor, confusion—the glimmers that most people miss. I notice the quiet choices they make behind the scenes, their God-given strengths, and their opportunities to grow. I get to guide and train them as they navigate this crazy world. And I love seeing pieces of their dad and me in them—the best parts of us.

What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you?

Motherhood is convicting. When I see my kids make choices that make me cringe, I have to ask myself, "Do they see me doing that? How can I model a better way?" I know that what they watch me do will teach them more than anything they hear me say. That’s why I work hard to show them we can do hard things—whether it’s putting in effort, breaking habits, or trying something new. We’re never stuck where we are. We always have the opportunity to change.

What would you do with $20,000?

I’m torn between remodeling so each kid can have their own room or traveling together to see new places. Right now the boys share and the girls share. They do great as roommates, but long term it would be nice for each of them to have their own space. We also love experiences, traveling, and making memories. We’d have to talk as a family and decide what makes the most sense for the near future!