What is the most rewarding part of being a mom?

The most rewarding part is witnessing my daughters’ lives unfold. After pushing through postpartum depression, a month in “hospital jail” away from my family while pregnant with baby number two, and an emergency C-section, I now get to soak in every giggle, cuddle, and “Mommy!” moment. Reading stories, singing nursery rhymes, and celebrating the small wins fills me with purpose. Knowing I’m their safe place and watching them grow secure and loved makes every sacrifice worth it.

What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you?

Motherhood has taught me that real love means sacrifice. I learned this through postpartum depression after Charlotte, then spending a month in the hospital at 28 weeks with Evelyn, watching my toddler cry for me on the baby monitor while I kept her sister safe. Quitting my 10-year career to be home with two under two tightened our budget and came with a new set of sacrifices, but it brought the deepest joy. Being fully present is the greatest gift I can give them.

What would you do with $20,000?

I would first create a small emergency fund to ease the pressure of our tighter budget. Then I’d make the most of this season with backyard play upgrades and set money aside for Charlotte and Evelyn’s future. Any extra would go toward simple family memory-making activities because the time I get to spend with my girls is priceless, and I want to make those moments sweeter with less worry about the cost.