What is the most rewarding part of being a mom?

I think the most rewarding part of motherhood is seeing your child stand on their own and problem solve a task by themselves. Whether its seeing them accomplish something physical like learning to ride a bike without training wheels or watching them regulate their own emotions after a disappointment; there is something so beautiful about seeing them apply the skills you have taught them into their own lives. Its a bit bittersweet when they don't need your help anymore, but the joy is unmatched.

What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you?

Motherhood has taught me to not get so bogged down in the current struggle and lose sight of the big picture. Raising children to be good humans will have its challenging chapters, but if you get tunnel vision on the problems at hand you miss out on the fun of motherhood. And it is an insane amount of fun!

What would you do with $20,000?

I begin my courses at HPU's Workman School of Dental Medicine this August. My intention is to become a general dentist and provide equitable care to underserved populations in my community. I would use the $20,000 for my child care costs and tuition while in school. My youngest, Abigail, will be in a full day daycare program for one year until she begins Kindergarten in the fall of 2027 and my son, Scott, will need to be in an after school program until I am out of class each day.