theculturecurl

I knew Rock a Room was going to challenge me.

Public speaking is HARD for me. And let’s be honest… sometimes even one-on-one speaking is hard for me. 😂 Putting myself out there, being vulnerable, getting uncomfortable… no thanks. I’d much rather stay in my safe little bubble.

But I went for a reason.

I wanted to prove to myself that I can still do hard things. And more importantly, if I’m going to ask my team to dream bigger, get uncomfortable, push themselves and GROW—I better be willing to lead the way.

I’m a huge believer in practicing what you preach.

And I truly cannot put into words what this experience gave me.

Jason Everett, THANK YOU. The way you can spot the smallest habits in someone—the things we don’t even realize we’re doing—and coach us through them in real time is mind-blowing. You pushed me, challenged me and helped me see a stronger version of myself.

I’m coming home stronger in so many ways. More confident. More willing to be uncomfortable. And definitely not done growing.

To all of my new friends who went through this experience with me—WE DID IT!! And I have a feeling we’re just getting started. ❤️

And a special shoutout to my girl Janine. Thank you for always being my cheerleader. I’m so happy we got to experience this together. You, my friend, are a BADASS, and I am so freaking proud of you.

I went to Rock a Room wanting to become a better speaker.

I came home realizing it was about so much more than that.

Literally one of the best experiences EVER.

You never graduate from growth.

Happy 20th birthday to my baby Owen and happy 24th anniversary to my forever boyfriend Zach!!!

My babies!!!

Four years ago, I cried the whole drive home after dropping my son off at Hanover College. As a mom, it felt impossible to leave a piece of my heart there. And now somehow, full circle… Ayden leaves a piece of his heart at Hanover too. ❤️

He absolutely loved his college experience — from the friendships he built, to the incredible professors who poured into him, to the fraternity brothers who became family. Hanover was truly the perfect place for our boy, and watching him grow over these last four years has been such a gift.

We had the best time celebrating him this weekend and soaking in every moment of this huge milestone. Watching him walk across that stage was one of the proudest moments of our lives.

Next stop… Yale University 🎓

We couldn’t be prouder of you, Ayden. Keep chasing your dreams and exploring the world. Your next adventure is just beginning. ❤️

Happy Mother’s Day to my Momma and Mother-in-law. They both have helped me become the mother I am today. Love you mom and Susie!! Thank you Ayden and Owen for making me your mom! I love you boys more than you’ll ever know. I’m so proud of you both. ❤️

Today we say goodbye to our sweetest little girl, Lulu. 🤍
She was with us for 15 beautiful years.

She was always so happy when we came home, her little tiptoes following us around the house. She loved her walks, chasing bunnies, running as fast as she could in the backyard—and playing in the snow.

She was so, so good. This doesn’t feel real.

Thank you for being our ferocious little guard dog and a best friend to everyone you met. We will forever miss you, sweet girl.

I hope you’re up in heaven playing with your cousin Ramona.

Love you forever, baby.