Mother, partner, sister, daughter, friend. I'm passionate about helping others. I struggle with self doubt and I fear It will win and keep me from becoming the full version of myself. My worst day was the day the father to my oldest 4 children, my boyfriend of 10 years, passed away unexpectedly. It's an ongoing struggle to balance work, running a business and being able to enjoy time with my school age children. I realized I live with anxiety years ago, but I reaffirm myself regularly. My self-awareness is what enables me to push through my self doubt most of the time. I used to live by the old story that I'm not good enough. The new story I'm living by is that everything meant for me will find its way to me. I'd tell a 12 year old me that she is beautiful just the way she is! I'd tell her to BE her authentic self, to keep singing, keep dancing and to keep being herself! I wish there were more genuine connections in the world, more compassion for fellow humans and more mindful time alone & with others. I'm most excited about my NOW, my present! I started United Paths, a mental health clinic with 2 other powerful women of color to help destigmatize and normalize conversations around mental health. I'm excited about the freedom to be home with my kids and growing family - we are expecting baby #7! I feel most alive watching my kids enjoy themselves, being innocent in their elements. Innocence is a gift that unfortunately gets stolen from us, far too often unexpectedly and traumatically. So, watching my kids hold onto their innocence and be their authentic selves makes me really really happy. I believe happiness comes from gratitude. A strong romantic relationship comes from honesty, communication, humor, lots of sex, and of course the serenity prayer. I wish women loved themselves the way they want others to love them. In 10 years I hope to be somewhere fulfilling my passion - grateful for all I have. I'm proud of my perseverance. I love making new friends and enjoying quality time with my family. I value authenticity, integrity and love. I am Yvelande and I am magical.