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

Simply being their mama is the biggest reward. When my husband and I struggled with fertility and loss, it was crushing. Then my first daughter was born and the overwhelming feeling of love made it worth it. Now experiencing it twice (with the help of IVF) has been my biggest blessing. My daughters teach me how to be a kinder, gentler, more patient, and a more understanding person. Watching them grow into themselves and becoming an individual daily is the most rewarding.

What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you?

I think I’m still learning this lesson and it can change daily. Motherhood is hard and some days are really tough. I’ve had to learn to be patient and understand especially when you don’t always understand what is making your child unhappy or hurt. I am learning to meet my girls where they are and not where I want them to be. A big lesson has been not to compare them to any other child and encourage them to be 100% themselves.

What would you do with $20,000?

First, I would make sure that I have money saved for future homeschooling curriculum, supplies, and small field trips/experiences. Second, I would get an outdoor play system and create a yard that will grow with the girls. It would be a dream to give them a covered space outside even if the weather isn’t ideal. If there was money left over I would help with the debt we have from IVF from our second girl.