When I was a kid, I remember my mum in her painter’s smock, heading to the studio to work on her art. She said, “Nobody’s going to make you happy but yourself, so you better go and do it.” That stayed with me. When Eli was born, I chose to stay home for a while, and I’m grateful I could… but parts of me felt paused. Michael’s life shifted, but not in the seismic way mine did. That season of life was filled with joy but also wasn’t easy. When the kids started school, I came back to myself. I’m positive it was my mother’s voice ringing in my ear that helped me along the way. And I can’t help but wonder how many women never get that nudge…how many talents go unseen because no one told them they’re allowed to want pursue their passion. Thanks mum for the push and the space to be me.