The most rewarding part of being a mom is watching my daughters become more than I ever was. My oldest now works as a special education para while earning her degree, after years of struggling in school. My youngest is graduating high school with her associate’s and heading to Tarleton State University. Through hard work, perseverance, and values I instilled, they’ve learned to chase their goals, push through challenges, and build lives they love.

The biggest lesson motherhood has taught me is to always lead with love, patience, and understanding. I’ve learned that when I respond with compassion instead of reacting in frustration, my children open up instead of shutting down. Explaining the “why” builds trust and respect. This approach has shaped not only my parenting but also my teaching and relationships. When you lead with empathy and honesty, people respond with respect, and stronger, more meaningful connections grow.

After years of raising my daughters as a single mom, I’ve finally met the love of my life, and we’re blending our families into one. As my children grow and I enter this new chapter, I would use the $20,000 to help create a meaningful, intimate wedding centered on love and unity. With our children by our sides, we would celebrate the joining of two families into one. Any remaining funds would go toward the college tuition I continue to provide for my daughters.