What is the most rewarding part of being a mom?

The most rewarding aspect of being a mom is getting to watch your childrens personalities develop and how they grow into their own unique selves. From the very beginning you see what makes them laugh, cry as well as the little traits that make each of them so different and special. It’s fulfilling to see the world through their eyes, watching them learn, grow, problem solve and discover.

What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you?

The biggest lesson motherhood has taught me is that as much as I try to protect my boys, there will be some things out of my control. I can’t control when they get sick, or how their day goes at school. I am learning to understand that being a mom isn’t about having total control or being able to prevent every problem, however it is about being present, supportive, their constant support and safe place through all of life’s hurdles.

What would you do with $20,000?

This award would be about more than the money to me, one thing I’d love to do is help provide stability, support and meaningful experiences for others. Helping my older sister with her IVF journey would be one of the most meaningful parts of that. I want nothing more than for her dreams to finally come true and experience the joys of motherhood like I have. As a nurse that works long hours and a lot of overtime this would also help support my kids by allowing me more quality time with them.