"Does motherhood decrease happiness?" (15 year reflection, Pt. 1)

In 2010, I was quoted in Forbes Woman in response to the question: Does motherhood decrease happiness? At the time, I was parenting three young daughters while launching/running my business; beginning of a journey I now understand as "legacy-building". Today, those same three daughters reflect the very heart of that legacy and are still my biggest reason "why".

My eldest, who was just eleven then, is now a graduate student who completed her undergraduate studies early and with honors. My middle daughter, then six and full of commentary and questions, is now a multi-talented musician exploring the healing power of plants through community herbalism and leading her own wellness workshops. And the youngest, who was only five at the time, has grown into a dynamic food and farming entrepreneur, leading both a baking business and a growing passion for agriculture. Watching them step into their own callings and experiencing that they still "want me" has shaped not only how I "mother" and how I move, but also how I lead.

That same spirit of legacy also lives on through Evelyn's Vanity, a wellness product line I launched to honor my grandmother’s grace, rooted wisdom, and self-care priorities. What began as a personal offering has evolved into a business and a life-style brand that supports healing, beauty, and intention one handcrafted product at a time.​

I founded Safe Space Strategies to help others move from scattered to strategic, from overwhelmed to organized with clarity, care, and capacity in mind. ​Whether I'm guiding justice-rooted efforts, supporting regional movements, or helping leaders bring their programs to life, I strive to meet the moment and make the work feel possible.