Strong women; may we know them, may we be them, may we raise them.

Growing up, you’re exposed to certain things and don’t immediately realize how they affect you, whether it's positively or negatively. The past few weeks there has been so much to celebrate for the women in my family and I couldn’t help but look back and think about how fortunate I am to have had strength modeled for me by women by whole life. We continue to support and lift each other up, something that I know, especially amongst women, is hard to come by.

My mom is, without a doubt, the hardest working person I know. I think she somehow bargained for more hours in the day than the rest of us. I remember being young and saving dinner for her since she'd be home late, or my dad driving us to pick her up from night class, while she was getting her Masters. In her 'spare' time she helped my grandparents run their bar, all while raising 3 young kids. I don't recall her missing a single play, basketball game, or not being there when I needed homework help.

On top of her actual job, she keeps a beautiful home, cooks and bakes with the best of them and is always the first to volunteer her time or energy to help someone else, while still managing to get her own stuff done.

As we grew older, we needed her less in the day to day, but I was still in awe of her career and dedication to whatever she was working on. She has constantly been an inspiration to me in terms of hard work, kindness, style and generosity. As someone who has worked at least one job since they were 14, I know my work ethic is from her. Last week I celebrated a new role within my company, one that has me (honestly) so excited to show up at work daily.

After 30 years of hard work in education, my mom was honored as the Patriot of the Year at her school, which she earned no doubt. She is also celebrating her (semi) retirement,

Four years ago, as a new mom, my sister Erin decided to leave her management job in banking to make a total career change and become a nurse. This was after she saw my grandmother suffer through cancer and was inspired to help others. This week, after years of hard work, she passed her boards and is officially an RN. Now with of 2 kids of her own, I know my our mom set the tone for her hard work and determination to chase her dream.

My cousin Teressa was just featured in The Hollywood Reported for the opening of her second boutique location. She turned a trip to France into an apprenticeship, becoming a sponge while working with a French hat-maker and was inspired to pursue this passion. That turned into a successful NYC boutique, which just opened another location in Malibu. The article mention of her celebrity clients and showcases her one-of-a-kind pieces.

https://www.hollywoodreporter.com/news/new-york-hatmaker-teressa-foglia-sets-up-shop-malibu-1218587?fbclid=IwAR3AhcA6TH-J8HI1rGH3AJ1a3tIR6Lo0DIlAy8NJJ5D0brUYQYIWkTIj5ls

On top of that, my cousin Maria just joined 6 other family members with being honored as a sports Hall of Famer. Her college called her the ‘spearhead’ of her team and a key factor in their success. It's such an honor to know that even years after graduation, your hard work and presence are honored.

Last, but certainly not least, my sister Amy announced her pregnancy, growing this crazy family that I love by one more ??

To all the ladies, keep it up. Keep hustling, keep fighting and know that on a daily basis you have the opportunity to inspire others to do the same. -js