Congratulations to Emily Carrigan and Gail Daniel!! Emily’s nomination was chosen as the winner of the “Who Inspires You to Be the Best That You Can Be?” $1000 Giveaway. I’m so excited to send Emily and Gail their $500 Visa gift cards!!

A mother’s love for her children shows itself every day, most of the time in the smallest things that nobody ever sees, but then there are moments when it is on display for everyone to see with perfect clarity. This was one of those times. When Emily needed her mother most, she was there to give herself away, not expecting anything in return. Gail deserves to be honored for that, and that’s what this whole giveaway thing is all about 🙂 It’s about encouraging people to think of the people who have sacrificed and inspired them, be thankful for them, and honor them. So, today, we honor Gail for showing her daughter that no matter how difficult and confusing life can get, her mom would be there walking with her every step of the way.

I just want to say thank you to everyone who submitted a nomination. The stories we read were powerful and all of you blessed me and my family more than we could ever express!

Here is Emily’s nomination ❤

“Two years ago, I had a newborn, a two year old, and a husband whose alcoholism I could no longer ignore. I loved my children more than anything in the world, and I knew what I had to do. No one in my family had ever been divorced. I was terrified, ashamed, and I worried so much that I was physically sick for months. How would I give my children the care they needed and deserved? How would I take care of the house? I would I pay the bills? Through it all, my mother was by my side supporting me and lifting me up. She drove four hours every weekend to be with me, propping me up in a time I could barely breathe. She paid for my lawyer. She loved on my children. And she never once made me feel guilty for any of this. Her time, money, and love were freely and selflessly given to me and my children. Through this horrible experience, my mom has shown me what true love really is. Love is taking action, stepping in, sacrificing, and giving while expecting nothing in return. Love is knowing that family is everything and serving others is where we find true joy. I am so grateful to my mother for showing me so much love and kindness during my darkest hour and for inspiring me to love others in return. Her love has made me the best I can be: strong, giving, tender, and kind.”