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

Before my daughter Poppy was born, I lost my husband very unexpectedly and then my mum a few months later. All of the support that I thought I would have disappeared before she even arrived and I have had to completely reframe what I thought motherhood and family would look like. The most rewarding part for me is the confidence and strength I get from being able to overcome the loss and show up as my best self for my daughter—singing, smiling and cuddling—through and despite the grief.

What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you?

Motherhood has taught me that I am so much stronger than I ever thought I was. If someone had told me that I would find myself in this situation, I would have said I would never be able to handle it. But I’m doing it, even though it's not always easy or pretty. I've learned that it is not only ok, but absolutely necessary to ask for help (which has never been my strength!) Some days are impossible for me emotionally, so I've had to park my ego, admit I'm struggling, and ask for what I need.

What would you do with $20,000?

I would use the money towards giving Poppy the best possible education so that the door is open for her to be—and do—whatever she chooses. I don't want her to be confined in any way when pursuing her dreams. Oh, and lots of gymnastics classes! I was a gymnast—still am—and I'm already working on her straddle sit, pike sit, grip and stuck landings. She's only 5 months, but I want her to be ready!