What is the most rewarding part of being a mom?

It’s watching your child become their own person. From the first time they express a thought that surprises you, to the moment they show kindness when no one is watching, you realize you’re not just raising a child—you’re witnessing a human being unfold. There’s something deeply fulfilling about seeing pieces of yourself, mixed with their own unique spirit, come together in a way you could never have fully predicted.

What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you?

When I adopted my daughter at 16, it wasn’t the beginning of a typical parenting story. It came in the middle of grief, after she lost her dad to COVID. There was no slow build into motherhood with her—no years of scraped knees and bedtime stories leading up to it. Instead, I stepped into her life at one of her most painful, vulnerable moments. And what I learned quickly is that motherhood isn’t about having all the answers or a perfect plan—it’s about being a steady presence.

What would you do with $20,000?

With $20,000, I’d invest in my kids’ future and present—setting aside savings for their education, supporting activities they love, and creating stability at home. I’d also use a portion for meaningful experiences together, building memories that last. Every dollar would help give them opportunity, security, and the confidence to chase their dreams.