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

Watching my daughters grow into strong, self-aware young girls who know who they are, and feel safe to use their voices is probably the biggest reward of my journey in motherhood. A huge part of that reward comes from everything we’ve overcome to get here. Not a day goes by that I don’t look at my girls and the life we’ve built without recognizing what it took to create it. Knowing they get to grow up in a safe, stable, loving home because of my actions, is the most rewarding part, by far.

What is the biggest lesson motherhood has taught you?

Motherhood has taught me that being a good parent isn’t about a perfect life. It’s about choosing safety and fighting for theirs, so they learn it’s okay to do the same. It’s who you are when things are hard.. Showing up, doing what’s right, loving them through their struggles, and letting them love you through yours. It’s not about hiding emotions, but normalizing them. I’ve learned that perfection isn’t in the fairytale - it’s in the love you create in the storm.

What would you do with $20,000?

$20,000 would be such a blessing for my family. We’ve spent the past year navigating the court system to secure protection. We now have permanent protection orders for me and my youngest daughters, and temporary protections for my oldest, but we still have a long road ahead. I would use a portion of these funds to officially launch and establish a nonprofit and podcast to help women in similar situations, and the rest to pay down debt, ease daily stress, and prepare for what’s ahead.