What is the most rewarding part of being a mom?

The most rewarding part of being a mom is knowing my kids get a version of me that is fully present, full of life, and filled with joy. I lost my own mom right before becoming pregnant with my first, and that loss shaped how I show up for them. After also surviving a life-threatening pregnancy with placenta accreta spectrum, I don’t take a single moment for granted. The little things like laughing together, bedtime routines, and even the chaos mean everything to me. Life happens on a Tuesday.

What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you?

Motherhood has taught me that life is both fragile and incredibly resilient. Between losing my mom, experiencing miscarriage, and facing placenta accreta spectrum resulting in a hysterectomy at 27, I’ve learned that so much is out of our control. What I can control is how I show up, and that's with love, presence, and joy. It’s taught me to let go of perfection and focus on what truly matters: being there for my kids in a real and meaningful way.

What would you do with $20,000?

I would use the money to create security and breathing room for my family. It would go toward savings for my kids and easing everyday financial stress, allowing me to be more present and intentional with them. More than anything, it would support the life my husband and I are working hard to build for our children. Time is the most precious commodity, and I'd use this money to allow me any opportunity to be present with them to make as many memories together as we can.