For me the most rewarding part of being a mom is being the person my kids turn to, whether they are celebrating something joyful or navigating something hard. I'm so grateful I get to show up for them every single day, to share the lessons life has taught me, and guide them as they grow in to the people they are meant to become. Seeing the unconditional love in their eyes, and hearing "I love you mama", makes it all worthwhile...the laughter, the tears, the joy and the pain.

I believe the biggest lesson that motherhood has taught me is that I don't have to be perfect because nothing in life truly ever is. It has taught me to accept life on life's terms and to be at peace with being beautifully, imperfectly human. I've learned not to sweat the small stuff, because when you do, you miss the moments that truly matter. Motherhood is messy, emotional and deeply humbling, but it is truly the greatest gift I have ever been given.

If I had $20k, I'd use it intentionally. I'd put a portion towards financial stability, paying down some debt & investing some in my kids' college funds, that foundation is important for our future. I'd also set some aside for experiences for my kids, those create core memories that really matter, whether summer camps or family outings. Additionally, I would make a donation to Boston Children's Hospital, where my son is a cardiac patient. For me it would be spending it where it makes an impact.