What is the most rewarding part of being a mom?

It’s hard to pinpoint because it’s not just one thing. For me I suppose it’s having a deeply rooted connection to another human being that I get to help shape and watch come into their own. It is knowing I am my children’s safest place, the person they trust and run to for comfort and kisses. It is a love that is so unique and hard to describe. Of course, being a mother is not always easy! Some days I am frustrated and exhausted but the little smiles and “I love you’s” are worth every moment.

What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you?

I have learned that not everything is within my control. This took me a while to accept, but in the end I figured out that the best I can do is help guide my kids so they can confidently figure out who they want to be. Patience is another big one, and boy do my kids push me to my limit sometimes. I have to remind myself that I have had a lifetime to learn how to cope with “big feelings” while kids are still trying to figure it all out.

What would you do with $20,000?

I would LOVE to take my children to Disney. I have some of my best memories as a child there! With whatever money remains, it would go into my 3 kid’s college funds; I don’t want finances to stand in the way of achieving their dreams as young adults.