International Women’s Day is not just another day on the calendar, it’s a heartfelt celebration of the strength, resilience, and love that women bring into our lives. As the co-founder of LinkUnite, I have seen our movement grow from the heart, fueled by genuine passion and belief in one another. Today, I want to share my personal gratitude for the remarkable women who have inspired and shaped my journey.
Family: My Foundation and Inspiration
There are few relationships as transformative as those with the women in our family. My daughter Molly, my firstborn, inspires me every minute of every day. With college around the corner, her transition into a new chapter fills me with both pride and bittersweet nostalgia. Alongside her, my mom has been my steadfast guide. She taught me to stand up for myself, speak my mind, and never accept less than I deserve - even if that meant moving a player piano on her own to make a point.
My sister-in-laws Janeen and Missy, along with my nieces Jan, Julia, and Rach (stuck with us), have been there for me through every high and low. Even though I was younger than Molly when Janeen entered my life, her presence feels like it has spanned forever. I couldn't do life without my many therapy hikes with Miss. And to my great niece Charlotte, though you’ve only been with us a few months, your arrival has brightened our lives just as your mother once did.
Friends and Chosen Family: The Women Who Stand With Me
My journey would not be the same without the unwavering support of my extended women’s family. I cherish the friendships that have been constants in my life—the ones that have come and gone yet remain forever in my heart. To Camilla, Bec, Lisa, Erin, Lin, Sarah, Cath, Pricilla, and Kay, thank you for all the special moments we have celebrated and will continue to share.
Then there is Amanda, more than just a business partner or friend, she is truly a sister. Amanda’s encouragement and unwavering belief in me have played a huge role in my success, and I cannot imagine my life without her. To the countless women in our LinkUnite Tribe - Penny, Tracy, Debbie, Lee-Ann, Suz, Sonia, Gayla, Holly, Amie, Cari, Ash, Grayson and many more who check in on me and my kids, your friendship means the world to me.
Celebrating the Next Generation
I am equally inspired by the young women on the rise, those who, like Molly, are stepping into new phases of life with courage and grace. To all the young ladies turning into strong, confident women - Emma, Lizzy, Liv, Nat, Ella, Em, Ads, Sedona, Car, Mia and others - know that I am always here cheering you on. I cannot wait to see what adventures and achievements await you.
A special shout-out goes to my best friend Pricilla. Our monthly lunch dates are a cherished tradition, a time to reconnect, share our journeys, and celebrate the incredible work you do as a devoted mother. Your healing journey and unwavering strength inspire me more than words can say. You inspired this blog post at our lunch Thursday!
A Heartfelt Thank You
To every woman who has touched my life, whether you have been a constant presence or a fleeting moment, I want you to know that I am rooting for you. I have always believed in speaking up, standing up for what I believe in, and staying loyal to the people who matter most, especially my kids. None of us are perfect, but if we strive to be a little better each day and embrace the best version of ourselves, then we are all winners. I can truly say this version of myself is my favorite thus far!
Happy International Women’s Day. Today, I celebrate each of you and the extraordinary impact you have on the world. Let’s continue to support, uplift, and inspire one another - today and every day.
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