Tonight I closed the chapter on five years of serving as a City Councilwoman. These years have taught me so much about government, about people, and about myself. I learned how long things really take, how many pieces have to fall into place to make progress, and how important it is to keep your peace through it all. Serving in my twenties, as someone who wasn’t from this area and as a young woman stepping into public office, came with its fair share of criticism and disrespect. But through it all, becoming a mother and learning to protect my peace taught me the power of grace, confidence, and boundaries. Public service will test you in every way, yet it also reminds you that how people treat you often says far more about them than it ever does about you. I also want to extend the biggest gratitude to my fellow councilmembers who served alongside me these five years. We have grown to be family and have laughed, cried, shouted, cursed, and sat in silence together more times than I can count. I couldn’t have asked for a better crew. Each one brought something unique to the table, and working together has been both educational and inspiring. I hope to stay connected with them for years to come. To those who showed support, thank you. To those who didn’t, thank you too, because you helped me grow stronger. Cheers, Sheffield. Thank you for the chance to serve. Please wish your next council all the best, and if you can’t respect those who were elected, I expect to see your name on the ballot next time. 💛 Dress: @katherineparkerdesigns Shoes: @coach Tripp’s fit: @littleenglishclothing from @shopthelane.co LTKBaby LTKFindsUnder100 LTKMidsize