I usually speak on the hard truths of our community, but today, I have to take a moment to celebrate a massive milestone for my "last baby."

I am beyond proud to share that my 16-year-old is not only graduating high school early, but she has already started her college journey! She is pursuing her passion in Arts and Business, carrying over a lifetime of Honor Roll achievements into this next chapter.

She works hard every single day, and I make sure she knows she is supported every step of the way. I’m not the kind of parent who assumes "she knows I love her"—I tell her every day. I show her. I protect her, I care for her well-being, and I prioritize her emotional state above all else.

In a world that often tries to label or limit our children, she is proving that hard work and a mother's love are an unstoppable force. Please join me in celebrating this amazing young woman and the bright future she is building for herself!