I come alive by giving back, seeing my children smile and hearing them laugh, standing up for things I believe in, achieving a goal, being there for those who need me, spending quality time with my husband, and indulging in "me moments," whether it's a vacation or just a night out with friends.

I come alive by giving back, seeing my children smile and hearing them laugh, standing up for things I believe in, achieving a goal, being there for those who need me, spending quality time with my husband, and indulging in "me moments," whether it's a vacation or just a night out with friends.

My children are my greatest gifts and my greatest inspirations. That my husband is the most honest, kind, hard-working, and genuine person, and I honestly don't know how I could ever live without him. That my parents love me and I love and appreciate them. That I hate doing taxes. That my biggest pet peeve is inconsiderate people. That I love laughing, traveling, volunteering, and my friends. That my favorite smell is chocolate chip cookies baking in the oven. That I am blessed.

In order to handle emotional pain I cry. I vent. I zone out in front of the TV to escape. Then, after I allow myself to feel it and be human, I try my best to put things in perspective and start moving forward again. I consciously focus on my blessings and remember what has gotten me through my past struggles: my faith and the belief that everything happens for a reason.

If I actively practice gratitude, I am able to keep myself grounded in the high times and lift myself up in the low times.

My routine is really based around my kids, and I try not to hold myself to a schedule, because it is always changing. What has been the most influential thing to help me keep my center is to set priorities and stick to them.

I'd tell the planet to actively and consciously practice gratitude. To never give up hope. To believe in themselves and be true to who they are. To be kind. To share. To protect our planet for future generations.