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

It’s the way he looks to me for peace, comfort and giggles!! Watching him learn the world around him and grow, becoming his own person is incredible. As he figures out life, I’m right there with him to learn alongside him. He inspires me to be a better version of myself, to make him proud of me and leave the world better. His magical curiosity makes me look at things differently and see the beauty in the smallest of things-just him holding my hand, patting my cheek-moments of little joy.

What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you?

To slow down and enjoy every moment. Life doesn’t have to be perfect and your house doesn’t have to be spotless. Take those extra minutes and read a book to your child. Play a little longer, snuggle a tad too long. This is the littlest they will ever be again and once I heard that, everything changed. Your time with your child is precious and I fought so hard to have this life, that everything else can wait and I will enjoy all of the moments I have with Michael now.

What would you do with $20,000?

I would take our family on a vacation to the beach because that is our happy place. I would bring my siblings, nephew and mom, so we could all be together. We lost my dad last year and his dream was for us all to get a beach house together. My son loves the water (a trait from his grandpa) and we could play in the sand and have bonfires, all together, just as my dad dreamt of it. Sun-kissed cheeks, sandy toes and all of the love of being together!