Episode Transcript
[00:00:01] Speaker A: Welcome to Life Reviewed, a podcast by Hope House Colorado, where we invite you into conversation with teenage moms and the people who champion them. These stories of struggle, overcoming and perspective shifts will challenge you to review life as you've known it. One story, one person, one conversation at a time.
[00:00:20] Speaker B: Oh, I thought I knew the kind of life that I would need.
[00:00:28] Speaker A: Hi. Welcome back to another episode of Life Reviewed. My name. My name is Desiree, and I work as a residential advisor here in the residential program here at Hope House. I've worked here for a little over a year now. Before this, I had worked about eight years at a tech company doing technical support.
Got laid off kind of shortly after 2022.
Kind of tried my hand at sales, phone sales, specifically for about a year. Kind of found that that job really wasn't for me.
And I was blessed one day when my mom messaged me and said, hey, I just toured Hope House. You should apply to work here. I think this would be a really good opportunity for you. So she sent me the link. I checked it out, and I just thought, what an amazing place. So I put in an application.
When I came in, I did the interview, which is always a little unnerving because you have six or seven managers kind of hanging out and asking you different questions during the interview. So I was super nervous. Got through the interview, called my mom almost in tears, and I was like, mom, I don't know if I got it or not. I'm kind of worried. She was like, you just interviewed? Relax. You don't know. A few days later, I got a call from Brittany, my manager, and they offered me the job, so. And that's when I started here at Hope House. And after the year that I've been working here, it's by far been my favorite job I've ever had. I feel so blessed that I get to work here.
And here with me today is Makai, who is very near and dear to my heart. She was a resident, and she actually moved in shortly after I started here. So probably a month or two after I started. Hi, Makai.
[00:02:20] Speaker B: Hi.
As you guys know, my name is Makai. I'm one of the teen mothers at Hope House. I am 21, and I have a son named Lucas, and he is two years old, and I am a nursing assistant.
I believe I joined Hope house in 2022, and I was still pregnant with my son, and I gave birth to my son at the age of 18. And then that's when I officially became a teen mom.
And I think it, to be honest, it changed my life. Completely just. It gave me independency. I've been with Hope House for now almost two years, going on three, and I can truly say that a lot of things have changed over time. I am now living in my own apartment for the first time. I have my own vehicle.
In the beginning of Hope House, I was living in the residence. Home was just me and my son. I wanted some type of independency. I was living with my mother for the last two years after I gave birth to my son, and I was ready to become independent, and I didn't know where to start. I was introduced by Hope House from my best friend. After giving birth, she would bring constantly gifts for me, and she would keep telling me about Hope House and what they're about and how they can help me, because I had no clue what I was doing. I was in a relationship, but I was a single parent in that relationship during. During the whole time of me being pregnant and carrying my son. So once I toured Hope house, I just broke down in tears with my mother, because it felt like a life changing decision for me and my family, and it kind of gave me hope that things were going to turn in the better, and I wouldn't be by myself by becoming a parent.
And that's when I decided to apply for the residence, because I was told that they had a place where they have mothers who are trying to figure out what they want to do in life, but they're struggling to get up on their feet. And once I applied, I had to do the exact same thing that Des did. Had to sit around a bunch of managers nerve wracking questions, asking me about how I would handle situations if I came with conflicts. And I answered them as best as I could. And I think a day later, that's when they told me I can move in. And it was June 14 when I moved into the house.
[00:04:34] Speaker A: And, yep, I remember the day. I specifically remember the day you moved in, because, you know, your. Your mom was helping you move stuff in. I could tell she was emotional because there was. There was tears in her eyes. And I just remember looking at your mom and just saying, like. Like, without even saying it, I was like, we got her. We got them, you know? And I remember that night, there was a self care class going on, if you remember that. And I really wanted you. I really wanted you to go, because I was like, you know, moving is stressful, regardless, but obviously, coming into a program where, you know, there's all these expectations and things like that, like, it's nerve wracking so I remember just in my head, I was like, she has to go to that class, you know. And so I told you, cause they didn't have any early learning spots available. So I was like, I'll watch Lucas for you. So you go over and, my goodness, was he upset that you left him? And I was pulling out all the stops, you know, I was like holding him, singing to him. When you went outside and we walked around finally and I was about to text you, I was about to say, okay, mikhail, maybe you need to come back, because he's just not calming down.
But finally, and I don't know what happened, but he fell asleep on my chest and I did not dare move while he was asleep.
I ended up being able to lay him down and he finally was able to calm down and he slept for the rest of the time. But I just, like yesterday, I remember when you and Lucas moved in and I remember that day, and I just remember you were going through your orientation and I was told by our lead Ra at the time, she was like, hey, how would you feel about being Makai's Ra?
And I was like, yes, because I was so ready. I hadn't been able to do it yet because I'm kind of getting out of my orientation phase. And so I remember first case management, you and I did, you know, we sat down and I told you, I was like, hey, like, you know what, I'm new to this too, so we're going to learn together. But whatever your goals are, I want to help you achieve those, you know? And it's interesting because, you know, we have different residents that come in who have different things. Like for example, you had, you know, your high school diploma and stuff. So you had already finished high school, but you didn't have your license yet. And you didn't know necessarily what, like the next steps were like financially when.
[00:07:04] Speaker B: It came down to it.
[00:07:05] Speaker A: So I just remember, like teaching you how to drive.
[00:07:08] Speaker B: Oh, that was a roller coaster.
[00:07:11] Speaker A: Yeah. Yep.
It's always interesting when you're teaching anybody how to drive, but I just remember, you know, you and I would get out on the road and, you know, you were so nervous, you did a great job. But I just remember how nervous you were driving around.
[00:07:25] Speaker B: I was already ready to go home. I said, I think I'm just gonna take the bus for the rest of my life. I can't do this. I don't know how people do this all the time, but I remember while we were practicing my driving, it was the time when I did try to take my test. And it was on my birthday, and I practiced with Janae. She's a living ra, and, oh, my goodness, I was like, oh, I'm ready. I can do this. And I had you and Katelyn come with me. And, man, when I got in that car, all the confidence I had left the window. Cause I'm like, wait, we're not driving the car. I've been practicing in. And right when I started, immediately went the wrong way. I said, I failed the test, and I was so mad because it was on my birthday, and all you guys were like, oh, makai, it's okay. Everybody doesn't pass on the first try. But I'm like, no, it's not. This is not okay. Not on my birthday.
[00:08:15] Speaker A: It's definitely disappointing.
[00:08:16] Speaker B: It was definitely disappointing. But you guys kind of made me feel more better, and. And then I didn't give up. Like, I did it again, and I just needed more practice, and that's when I felt more confident to constantly go back and say, all right, I'll try again next time. Because you were constantly being like, you're not always gonna pass on the first try. That's how life is. I think that was the most funny part, is how I failed. And I walked down and said, I failed. You know, we're like, oh, Makai, it's okay, sweetie. Cause we all were pumped and ready.
[00:08:45] Speaker A: And it's true, though. Cause, you know, I know a lot of folks that they don't. You know, they don't pass on their first try. And really, it just boils down to more practice and then just, like, getting your confidence up, which is hard for anybody to do. So I actually. I remember that day, too, because we took. Because I asked you that morning, I was like, hey, like, it's your birthday. Where do you want to go? And you were like, I want to go to McDonald's.
[00:09:07] Speaker B: Oh, that was the first place. And then when we sat there and ate, I was like, I'm not hungry. I'm too nervous. Cause we were, like, right across the street from the driving place, and I'm sitting here being like, what happened if I don't pass? What happened if I throw up on the tester?
[00:09:21] Speaker A: Ouch.
[00:09:21] Speaker B: I was just so nervous because it was different. Feeling confident, of course, driving with the staff members. Cause, you know, you guys know me pretty much. I know I'm safe. But then being in another car with a complete stranger and not the car that I was practicing in, that's what threw me off more. I was like, oh, we're not practicing in the car I've been doing for almost an entire two months. We're in a different vehicle where I don't even know what the start button is. And that was just a whole little outlet. But then I kept, you know, keeping a better mood. You guys made me laugh, and, you know, hope, house, they've always made you, made me feel so good, even when I was sad. I couldn't even be mad for, like, a week without somebody being like, oh, let's make you happy. And I was like, you guys suck. Let me be mad for, like, two minutes without being happy. But I think I did it again. And then that second time, I passed. I could test, and I was so happy. I think it was you. When you saw me hit the thing, I hit the paper pole or something.
[00:10:18] Speaker A: When you pulled up.
[00:10:19] Speaker B: When I pulled up, I said, I failed again. But then he told me I passed. I said, let's get out of here. So before they change their mind.
[00:10:25] Speaker A: Before he changes his mind very quickly. Yeah, you did awesome. And I just remember, like, us doing case management together and, like, setting those goals and setting those expectations, you know, when you first started off with, like, CNA, I remember that was a little nerve wracking for you because, you know, I am also not a good test taker. So I just remember, like, you buckled down studying, and, you know, I don't remember which test it was, but I remember, like, you kept coming in the office, and you're like, des, can you quiz me? Can you quiz me on this? And I would quiz you, and you do so good. And I'm like, makai. Like, I have. Like, you're gonna do great. You know, you got this.
[00:11:04] Speaker B: And it was a written test. That's what it was, because I had to do. There was 100 questions on that test, and we were only allowed to miss one question. And if it wasn't a serious question, we could still pass, and we're not allowed to cheat. Of course, you have a camera standing in front of you, so you have to make sure you're doing it in a timely manner. So the whole time. As the month gets closer to testing season, I'm like, oh, my God. What happened if I don't remember any of these? So I kept asking any mom who was available, any staff member, can you sit down? Take this piece of paper? I'll come back to you when I'm done testing. I did it with Brittany. I did it with Jenny. I did it with Caitlin. Sasha. They're like, it's fine. Makai, you got all the answers right. And then that's when test day came. And you told me if I pass or even if I don't pass, you'll take me out to eat somewhere. So the whole time I said, I'm gonna pass. I didn't study for almost an entire two months just to fail. But then I failed the skill test and then passed it. But I passed the written test. That was the one thing I was more anxious about most of all was the written test. Cause, oh, lord, I didn't know what I was gonna do. I stepped into wanting to become a nursing assistant. Cause I've seen my mom do it before. She's been a CNA assistant for 20 years. And I seen how you can learn a lot of things and wisdom and just the experience of what it's like to be in the nursing field. There's different aspects, just not one thing. You can do multiple things as a nurse.
[00:12:31] Speaker A: Yeah. And it's a great, like, start off.
[00:12:33] Speaker B: It's a great start off too. Just with the career and learning how to be financially stable. That can show you what it's like to try to build up a budget. And that's one thing you and I were focusing on too, was me opening up a savings account, opening up a check ins account. Because I had only a checkings, but not a savings account. So you and I had to sit down and teach myself how to be financially stable, which was hard. Cause I wanted to spend my money on food constantly, but I wasn't allowed to. I think I was the only mom that had a food problem. I would like to go spend my money on food. Cause we lived by so many fast food places. And I was tempted, just like, I don't wanna go.
[00:13:06] Speaker A: Always with the Popeyes, always with the popeye.
[00:13:09] Speaker B: I don't know why you guys always wanted it to be like, if you're going bring me something back. And it was addiction. I had to stop myself.
[00:13:18] Speaker A: So, you know, when you look back. Cause you lived in the residential program for about eight months. So when you look back, like, what are some of your favorite memories? And they don't have to be with me. Like they could be with other moms or other staff here. Like, what's.
[00:13:34] Speaker B: What's.
[00:13:34] Speaker A: Like a. Just what comes to mind.
[00:13:36] Speaker B: When I got baptized, I remember I was building a friendship with one of the other mothers. Her name is unique and she was constantly talking to me about going to church and how she became a Christian and how it was a wonderful experience with her. At first, I was hesitant because my mother's a Christian, but she's not.
She doesn't believe in what her family believes because they were kind of hypocritical christians as we grew up. They were very hateful and said, if you did this makeup, you're going to hell. So it kind of led off me not wanting to become a Christian because of the different divided attention to what people want to believe, what God is saying to us. So it took me about a week before I said, you know what? I do want to build a relationship with Goddesse. I believe I was angry with him almost my entire life, to the point where I kind of didn't want to build a relationship with him. But Hope House, they wanted me to be introduced to it in a different light. So I wasn't focused on my past because I was suffering from a lot of trauma. I think when I did come to Hope House, I was an introvert, and I still didn't talk with any of the moms, nor did I associate with the moms for, like, almost three months before I started opening up. So the first time I did go to church, I went with my son, Janae and unique. And when I walked right in, I started listening to music, and I just busted down crying in front of the entire setting where everybody was sitting and they're playing music. And I didn't know why I cried. I think it was just so much weight lifted off or the comfort of grievance that I had from my uncle passing away and me not really going to see anybody for help and just holding that anger in. I think it was all let out after I went to church. So I started going once a week, and I started to like it a lot. Like, it made me so happy and how Hope House were such a support system. When I told them, I'm deciding to get baptized, that was beautiful. I can only remember the first time when I saw Emily and how she, like, cried and said, I'm so happy for you. And I just felt like so much stuff was lifted off of my shoulders.
[00:15:36] Speaker A: Yeah. Like, you were. You were reborn into that faith and that relationship with God that you always deserved. But, you know, sometimes it doesn't always go that way. So, yeah, we've had, you know, a lot of different moms and stuff that come here that are a little unsure, you know? And then. And if you get baptized here, let me tell you, like, all the staff shows up, we all do up, and.
[00:16:00] Speaker B: We show up, we have a whole parade for you.
[00:16:02] Speaker A: We have tissues, and we're all in tears because it's just such a beautiful moment just to be reborn and have that relationship.
But I am going to stop us right here. We'll be right back after this quick message.
[00:16:15] Speaker C: Hey, Hope House family, we are thrilled to announce our 22nd annual Hope House gala grow with us, happening on Saturday, November 2 at the grand High at Denver. Picture this, a memorable evening kicking off with a lively cocktail hour and silent auction, followed by a delicious dinner, inspiring stories from some of our incredible teen moms, and an exciting live auction. And that's not all. End the night dancing away with friends, old and new. This is more than just an event. It's a celebration of growth, hope and community. So whether you're looking to sponsor, purchase a table or grab a single ticket, head over to our website today to secure your spot. Don't miss out on being a part of an evening that will make a real difference in the lives of teen moms and their children. Let's grow together at the 2024 Hope house gala.
[00:17:02] Speaker A: Welcome back. We were just talking with Makai about her experience here at Hope House. Being baptized.
Makai, you know, after you got baptized, you know, what changed in your life? Like, what big change did you see between, you know, your relationship with God or even like your relationship with your son or with your mom? Like, what changed after that?
[00:17:24] Speaker B: I think wanting to be forgiving, I believe I hoarded a lot of anger towards anybody. Even if it was years down of feeling betrayed or her, I would hold it inside of me. So once I started building my relationship with God and me being told that for me to move on, I would have to forgive, I always used to despise hearing that because it will affect me more than it affects them.
And opening my eyes with the relationship with my mother and how hard it was not just for me, but also for her because she raised practically all of my siblings. I'm the second born out of five children with an autistic brother. So I wanted to make sure that I forgive her. And we sat down and she pretty much like cried and kissed me. She says, thank you for becoming not me because my mom, I think she was afraid that I would become just like her, angry with God, angry with her mother, angry with her husband. And I didn't want to become that. So being more open minded and willing to communicate with the people who hurt me in my path and say I forgive you, that doesn't mean I have to be around you, but I forgive you because it's not going to gain anything from me. And then wanting to introduce my son. Me being a first time mother, I want to make sure that he has the most epic life and the most beautiful life that he can and be chosen if he wants to become a Christian or not. But have him have the option not force him into that, because my mother never forced me into it. She told me, if you ever want to become a Christian, you go for it. I'm not going to judge you. I will be happy for you. It's just all of us have our own times when we're ready to speak with God or have a relationship with him. So I appreciate that. I wasn't forced into the. Into the religion or forced to get to know God right then and there because it takes time. Like you said, most moms come in not really ready to build a relationship with God or not ready to settle down and face what happened to them in the past.
And me kind of facing what happened and saying, God, now I understand why you did all of this and why it happened for a reason.
And now it feels like I become the woman that God is expecting me to be. He wants me to become somebody that he knew I could be before I even know who I was myself.
[00:19:34] Speaker A: So well, and that's. That's one of the things that, you know, there's a lot of things I admire about you, but, you know, through your journey here at Hope house, like, in the residential program, and even as you've, like, moved out and got in your own place and all those things, like your grace and kindness and forgiveness, is just, like, I admire that so much about you, and it's. It's hard. You know, it's much easier, I think, to choose to be angry or to hold a grudge or what have you, but to be able to step out of that and be like, you know what? Actually, like, I'm gonna give this to God, and I'm gonna forgive you, and I'm gonna move on, and I'm not gonna let that sit on my heart.
So I think that's just something that I truly admire about you so much, and I'm so proud of you. I think, like, when I think back to a lot of the memories we've had, and we've had a lot of laughs, we've had a lot of, you know, disagreements, but one of my favorite memories, actually, was after you had moved out. So we partner with knock knock angels. They're another nonprofit. You can check out their. Their website or their Facebook page, but, you know, they normally work with veterans, and they will furnish their apartment or their house for them, but they also work with Hope House. And so when Makai moved out of got that amazing opportunity, we were able to connect with knock knock angels, and they decided, like, yes, like, let's furnish Micaiah's apartment. I just remember talking to you and you're like, I got this, and I got this in my Amazon cart. And I'm like, girl, wait. You gotta wait. Cause they're gonna furnish it.
[00:21:13] Speaker B: I did, man. I was very tempted, but I was.
[00:21:16] Speaker A: Blessed to be able to come. And, like, a bunch of the staff here went to do your apartment.
It was so beautiful. And I just remember, like, the whole time, because I, you know, I'm working on the kitchen and I'm doing all the things, but I remember you pulled up and, like, I had to hold back tears the entire time because I just knew, like, God, like, she deserved this. Thank you, God, like, thank you for doing this for her because you worked so incredibly hard. I mean, in the short amount of time that you were in the residential program, I mean, you got your license, you got your CNA certification. You had done a ton of the classes for Hope House. We have, like, a hope house graduation as well, once you complete a. All of the classes and all the things, and you get to have, like, a hope house graduation. But, you know, you had just done so much, and I had just seen so much growth from you. You know, even you. You talked earlier about being a little bit introverted, you know, and I am, too. I mean, I think that's why you and I really vibed, you know, a lot, because I can be that way, too. And I think there's a lot of other people out there that can relate, but just to see you, like, really come out of your shell and, like, you know, you know, give those, those. Those hard things to God and then allow yourself to have some of that happiness and allow yourself to have some of that joy was really beautiful to see. And so the fact that I got to help, like, I mean, we moved, right? It was you and I. We moved you in.
[00:22:43] Speaker B: Yeah.
[00:22:44] Speaker A: You know, and that was. That was a little tough. Thankfully, you were on the bottom floor.
[00:22:48] Speaker B: Didn't know I had a lot of stuff until we actually left the house.
[00:22:51] Speaker A: Right. You would think you don't have a ton of stuff until you're moving it out.
[00:22:54] Speaker B: Exactly, exactly.
[00:22:56] Speaker A: But I just felt so blessed that I got to have that opportunity to just, you know, be there for that. And then I remember everybody kind of left, and I think it was just, you and I. Maybe Brittany was there still maybe a couple other folks. But Lucas is so shy, you know, he doesn't like being in a large crowd, which is okay.
[00:23:15] Speaker B: He's like, mommy.
[00:23:16] Speaker A: Yeah. So, you know, but I remember going into the room and I said, lucas, like, do you see your bed? Your toy story bed? And he was pointing at it, smiling, you know, sitting next to me, showing me it. And I was just so happy because the happiest moments I had with Lucas, you know, he's a man of few words, but when he comes up and he hugs you, he smiles at you, he's laughing with you, you know? And I miss seeing you guys every day because I miss, like, hanging out, like, even the dancing fruit videos. And I used to hold Lucas, and we would just dance, and he just had so much fun. I, like, I think about you guys every day. Like, every time you still dance to the dancing streets.
[00:23:57] Speaker B: He loves it. Oh, man. I can't explain how many words I appreciate Hope House and the relationships that I build with these women, to the point where I can imagine what my future holds if I ever get married and how many people are invited to my wedding.
That just warmed my heart, because, like, you said, how I gave just my lifestyle to God and said, you can handle this. Cause I was afraid of what was gonna happen. I said, okay, I'm moving out. I no longer live with the hope house. What's going to happen? I'm about to be by myself because I've never lived independently. I always had somebody with me and just the support how I had, like, all of the women who literally watched me and my son grow, stand out there with biggest smiles in their faces and watch me get out the car. I just broke down and I called my mom. I said, mom, like, all of these women just came and, mom, my son has a bed. I have a bed, an actual bed. And my mom walked in to after the whole thing, and she just hugged me. She says, I'm so grateful for it, and I love it, because Lord knows I would have not known where my life would have been if I didn't have a relationship with you. Sasha, Jess, Caitlin, I would not, never know what I would do. And just with you and my son, like you said, my son was very shy. And how you build a relationship where he always felt comfortable to be around you because he was stuck to mommy. It was just me and mommy the entire time. But realizing that you're like, you gotta be a mom, but you also have to take care of yourself so you would constantly help me when I got so overwhelmed or when I didn't know what to make for his lunchables when he started school.
[00:25:32] Speaker A: Oh, yeah, we loved him in the.
[00:25:34] Speaker B: Kitchen with me to make these snacks because I said, I don't know what to make a two year old, especially at daycare. And you would sit there with me and say, all right, this is what we're gonna make you buy this stuff.
You made me become a better woman, and you helped me flourish in so many things that I would have never remembered to do.
[00:25:53] Speaker A: Oh, man, I loved. So. I do love making little kid lunches. Cause they're cute and they're fun.
[00:25:58] Speaker B: I have pictures of them still.
[00:26:00] Speaker A: But I do remember, you know, when you guys first moved in, you know, you would. People would ask you, they'd be like, how old is Lucas? You know? And I think he was, what, 13 months when he moved in, so a little over a year. And he was really thin, but he also was breastfeeding at the time. And, you know, anybody that's. That's breastfed before any of the moms out there, you know, it's a connection. And honestly, like, it can kind of be hard when you're trying to wean kiddos off and you're trying to introduce them to, you know, solid foods or different foods. And Lucas specifically was a very picky. I mean, not with sweets. My guy always loves sweets.
[00:26:39] Speaker B: He was okay with Hershey chocolate oreos, ice cream. Ice cream. I had to stop buying ice cream because he kept eating mine.
Any type of candy, he would eat it. But anything when it came down to apples and carrots, it's like, don't feed me that stuff. I'm not eating any of that.
[00:26:56] Speaker A: Yeah. Yeah. And I just so, you know, going through that experience because I know it was hard. And I remember, you know, helping you, trying my best to help you through that. But we also, you know, tapped in Katie, who's, you know, has her expertise in that field. And we tapped in different moms and different staff just for ideas, right. Because we were like, what are we going to do with this kid? You know, he's just not wanting to eat any food, and he's just so connected to mommy during these moments.
Kind of tell me, like, how that was for you, because, I mean, I remember it from my perspective, but obviously you were there through the thick of it, you know?
[00:27:31] Speaker B: Oh, yeah. It. When I realized it was time for him to basically get off of breastfeeding is when I said, he's going to have to start daycare soon because mommy has to go work. But I realized I couldn't get him off. I've been breastfeeding myself for, like, almost two years before I said, it's time. And I knew it was gonna be hard. But most of the moms, when I asked them for, hey, do you have, like, a clue what I can do? Some of them didn't breastfeed their children for two years, so they were like, well, you can kind of be separated from him. So when I started not breastfeeding him at night, he would scream, and we were, like, right next to each other, and I would try to ignore him and fall asleep, but I couldn't because it broke my heart, because here's a baby saying, I want food. Why aren't you giving me my food? To the point where I started crying and begging, I need help. I don't know what to do. I've never thought I would have to come to the point where I have to wing him off. I thought it would be easy, and you guys were always, like, helping me with solutions. And that's when yogurt came in the process when we introduced him to yogurt or when I had to sleep outside of my room and lay on the couch just to be away from him, because I believe I would give in if I laid in my bedroom with him, and he would wake up from the nap. Cause it wouldn't be an issue putting him down. It's when he would wake up right after and be asking for milk, to the point where I had to have a pillow and a blanket just to lay on the couch and listen for 15 minutes. We would do the 510 thing. Go back in the room. Five minutes. It's okay. I love you. Leave the room. Set a ten minute timer. Oh, it used to kill me. Cause I hated it so much seeing my son cry. But I started to see how he was accepting solid foods, not constantly wanting to get breastfed, to the point where it started becoming easier, less stressful. And it took me a while, but I was grateful how. When it ended.
[00:29:22] Speaker A: Yeah.
[00:29:23] Speaker B: And it was right before he started daycare.
[00:29:25] Speaker A: Yeah. And that was a rough few months. And I just remember, like, even bringing my little heart waffle maker, you know, and we would make him little heart waffles, or we would make him little pancakes or, you know, try and incorporate something sweet because he loved sweets so much, but then trying to also make it healthy. So we would do, like, protein pancake mix or, you know, just try all these different things. I remember we made pork chops and this. This boy is. Is dipping his pork chops in his cup of milk.
[00:29:53] Speaker B: Oh, yeah.
[00:29:54] Speaker A: But whatever it takes, you know, whatever it takes to get him, you know, onto solid food. But I have to commend you for that, because, I mean, it hurt my heart to hear him cry, and so for you to be mommy in that situation and, like, not sure what you're gonna do, so. And you did work really hard, and it's not an easy task, but you did. You did amazing, and you're an amazing mother. I mean, just seeing you with Lucas and seeing your kindness and your patience with him and you guys playing and joking around and laughing with one another like, that is absolutely something that I miss seeing every day here.
But I am still grateful. Cause obviously, you come for laundry. You come for the dinners that we do, you know, and you know that I'll be there for you, you know, anytime that there's a graduation shoot, I.
[00:30:44] Speaker B: Call you on my days off.
[00:30:46] Speaker A: Yeah, we just talked the other day.
[00:30:47] Speaker B: Yeah, a whole hour conversation. I was like, I'm calling Des. I have nothing to do. I'm gonna call Des.
[00:30:53] Speaker A: And I'm so grateful for that because that was. That's always the thing, like, when you. When, you know, we have residents move out, is I'm like, oh, my gosh, I'm gonna miss them so much. I'm not gonna be able to see them every day. And as an ra, like, we kind of do life with you guys. You know what I mean? Like. Like, yes, it's a job, but in. In my time here, it's never really felt like that. Like, it was always so beautiful to come in and just have kids waiting at the door for me and saying, des, when I walk in and coming and giving me a hug or, you know, having, you are unique, come up and joke around with me or say, I'm so excited to tell you about this thing or about my day. So, for me, like, it's never felt like work, and I truly feel, like, through our mission here, that we are changing lives for the better, building these beautiful relationships and just, you know, kind of helping you guys move forward into that self sufficiency, but then also allowing you to open yourselves up to God, you know, opening yourselves up to the potential that isn't all of you. And I was always so impressed by you, just. And even, like, with the breastfeeding or even, like, with getting your CNA certification or getting your driver's license, like, you never gave up. There were times where I know you wanted to, but you know, I would give you some time. We'd have a few talks, and then you'd be like, you know what? I'm ready. I'm gonna get out there again. And that's something that I will just forever admire about you. And I'm so, so blessed that I got to have that time with you and that, you know, now that you're moved out, but, you know, you will always be a friend of to me.
[00:32:28] Speaker B: I still pop up, you know? I love you. I consider you family. That's why anytime I come, I say, lucas, lucas, Dez is not here. And he'll look when I hear your name. And he's like, where's Dez? And then when he sees you, he acts all shy, but he loves you. I even show him a picture of you and him. I say, this is Des. This is Des. I just need to have it in my house. But I think I will. I will never forget Hope house. Honestly, I'm only 21. I plan on always introducing my son to this, even when he gets older. And he's like, you talk about Hope House so much. What is it about? And I explain to them, this is a place where saved mommy were to help me raise you, where they helped me become the woman I am today to be your mother. And it helped me walk away from relationships and build healthy ones and set boundaries. I think Kol pals really did help me in a lot of things, and a lot of things I lacked and that I didn't know I lacked in. I didn't communicate as well, but I felt comfortable enough to communicate with you. And then you always told me, step out of your boundaries. Be comfortable. It's okay to be vulnerable. You don't have to lock yourself up in your room and be on guard with your feelings, because we are here to listen to you. We're not here to judge you or make you feel worse as a person. And I think that's the most that I will carry in all my relationships with you guys. You guys allowed me to be vulnerable. You guys allowed me to cry in front of you. You made me feel safe when I was stepping, you know, setting my boundaries with my son's father, how you kind of stood outside that day and was like, I got you in protection where I was like, all right, I'm okay. Nothing's gonna happen because Des is right here. So I will always love you. You're like my sister, but mainly my biggest sister. Cause I never had a big sister. So I will always call you, even if something happens at my apartment. I'm like, I'm calling Des, but she's not my case manager, but I'm calling Des. I'm gonna call her so she guys to speak to you. Cause this is beyond me. Even though I'm an adult and I can call it, I just need somebody there, you know?
[00:34:22] Speaker A: Sometimes you need an adult here. Adults. I have to remember.
[00:34:26] Speaker B: I always have to remember, Makai, you're an adult. You got this. I'll be so quick, Sasha, my car is gone. Just immediately and say, makai, you gotta do this on your own. I don't wanna do it on my own. I need somebody from Hope house. So I think, realistically, you guys will always be in my life. And that's why I carry these relationships more than I thought I would. And I think I'm more vulnerable now to the point where I'm allowing relationships to grow and blossom and let people get to know me and not be like, oh, I have trust issues. I don't trust you just because of my past.
[00:34:59] Speaker A: Yeah, well, so for you, Makai, you know, I know that obviously, you've now moved into your own place, you have your own vehicle, all of those things. So what are some next steps for you? Like what? What is the next step? Step for you and Lucas? Like, where are you guys heading?
[00:35:14] Speaker B: The next step is to go back to college.
The plan is to go further with my career in nursing, to become a midwife. I want to help women deliver babies, or just in any case of helping women deliver babies or wash them, anything.
I want to leave a peaceful life. I want to live a peaceful life with my son. I plan on having my own home one day.
Just being a mom. I think that's mainly my goal in life right now, is to further my career, build more relationships, and see if they blossom more in the future, raise my son and just gain my relationship with God, because it's the first time that I've ever opened up to him and allow him to do what he's been wanting to do. I just never allowed him to do it. So. So that's mainly my goal. And to go to Hawaii.
[00:36:08] Speaker A: Oh, that's a. That's a beautiful goal.
[00:36:11] Speaker B: Just in case I get kidnapped, please know I went to Hawaii and I sent my location. Cause I know you guys would be on my phone telling me to send my location everywhere, but, yeah, you know.
[00:36:20] Speaker A: That sounds like a really beautiful goal. And I know that you're also getting super close, if not already, to graduating from Hope House's program, correct?
[00:36:28] Speaker B: Yeah, that's amazing how long that it's so close, but it feels like it was so far away when I was taking these classes and I said, oh, I have to go to this class. And you have to tell them if you don't go, you don't get nothing out of this. So I don't regret any of it. Honestly, those classes were beneficial to me.
[00:36:44] Speaker A: Oh, yeah. You know, financial literacy, all of the different, like, self care classes. But what's really cool is once you graduate from the Hope House program, you get to go to the gala and get honored there. And I know you've actually already gone to the gala. You and Lucas, you were kind of like a last minute kind of step in. Yeah, they had a mom that had gotten. I think she had gotten sick or something, but. But you'll get to go again, and that's gonna be really beautiful to, you know, honor you in that way, you know, all of your hard work. Cause it's not easy. You know, there are a lot of classes. There's a lot of just different things that you have to do. Part of that is getting your license. Part of it's getting a job, you know? But once you graduate, like, that's just gonna be such a huge accomplishment for you, and I'm gonna be so proud of you. And I know Lucas, like, you're gonna be showing him pictures in a few years, and he's just gonna have his heart filled with pride for his mom.
[00:37:36] Speaker B: I still have pictures of Joe taking pictures of me when I was at the park, and I was like, oh, and Lucas actually wanted to pose and smile. The first one, he was like, I'm not smiling for anybody right now.
I can't wait. But also be sad, because even though it doesn't feel like this is the ending of Hope House, it's just I'm no longer a teen mom. I'm a woman that was a teen mom. So it feels weird to be like, oh, makai, you're like, you're 18 living up in here, and now I'm 21.
It's still unbelievable how so much has happened just in the span of a year and how it doesn't feel like it was long enough for me to stay here. Doesn't feel like I stayed here for almost a year before I said, okay, guys, I'm ready to go be independent. Gotta go. And then just diphdemdeze and then seeing how big my son is, he's gonna be three. And I don't know. I still cry when I, like, past hope house and be like, oh, mommy used to live there. That used to be a place where you and I would go home. And now when I actually go home to my own apartment, I don't hear kids laughing. I hear my son laughing. I don't have to go to bed at a timely matter.
[00:38:46] Speaker A: I knew that was gonna be one of your favorites, is not having to go to bed at a certain time and then not having to be up and ready at a certain time.
[00:38:54] Speaker B: Or if I sleep and it's like, makai, get up.
[00:38:57] Speaker A: Oh, man. Or even like, I remember, you know. Cause bedtime for kiddos here is 09:00. But Lucas would catch his second wind come 930, ten. And he would be running and laughing.
And I'm sure all the other moms were like, oh, man. We're trying to make sure our babies are asleep.
[00:39:15] Speaker B: Exactly.
[00:39:16] Speaker A: But it was hard to even be upset with him because it was so darn cute, just him running around and just having the time of his life, probably because he was the only kid awake. He's like, everybody's getting all the attention, man.
[00:39:29] Speaker B: Even when he say, I'm hungry, I'm like, well, you just ate. So literally be sneaking up in the kitchen, all right, get the food and go downstairs. But even the times I got in trouble for even eating downstairs when I was not supposed to, I tried to sneak off so many times to go downstairs and eat. And I guess one time you saw me, and you're like, mm hmm. And walk right back upstairs and said, okay, so, you know, I gotta write you up for that. Said, really? It was just pizza. It's still food.
I tried to persuade you. And then I called my mom and said, I'm in trouble for that. She says, heh heh.
[00:40:00] Speaker A: Oh, your mom. Always crying.
[00:40:01] Speaker B: My mom would always laugh at me for getting in trouble. I'm over here thinking, my mom got my bag right. I got in trouble for this. Although I kind of deserve it. She's like, you did it. You get in trouble. What, you expect to have my back, makai? That's not how life works, sweetie.
[00:40:17] Speaker A: Well, and I know, you know, obviously, we have a lot of, like, rules and stuff that are in place for a reason. But, you know, as you've moved into your own place, you know, what are some of the things that helped you here? Was it the structure? You know, being on a schedule, like the chores, like. Cause I know that, like, for me growing up, you know, that kind of set me up for success in a way, because I knew that, okay, I need to clean this room. This day. I need to do this this day. So has that helped you as you kind of transition?
[00:40:44] Speaker B: It definitely. It's more. A little bit easier because how small my place is, but it definitely helped me with the structure of life. So now I understand that how life goes for everybody as an adult, you're working Monday through Friday, seven days a week. So having that with Lucas and I get home from school, work, make dinner, sit down, eat, relax for a little bit, start cleaning up, and then get ready for bed. At first, for the couple of days, it was hard just waking up in the apartment by myself and be like, I don't gotta wake up right now. I mean, I don't gotta do too much. But then slowly but surely, setting my own structure with me and my son to the point where I said I definitely needed this. Because living on your own, especially with a two year old kid, is not as easy as you expect it to be because you're setting your own rules. Nobody's telling you what to do. It's you who's deciding what to do. What time you go to bed, what time you making dinner, what time you feel like it's time to clean or not. So setting that stuff up for me and my son for success was definitely something I need to learn. And I think all of us moms can agree it helped us tremendously when we left this place.
[00:41:49] Speaker A: Absolutely. Yeah. And then, you know, that's something that, you know, at first, you know, sometimes we have residents that move in and they're like, man, I really don't want to do that, or why do I have to do that? You know? And, you know, part of it is it's community living. And so we have to keep areas, you know, very clean to avoid, you know, sickness and things like that. But, you know, I've heard that actually from multiple residents, like, after they moved out, they're like, man, you know, I used to hate having to do my chore. They're like, but now that, like, I have my own place and I already was in the groove of doing that anyways, it was a much easier transition for me. So that's. That's one of the things that we do here that, you know, it seems so small and insignificant, but it. It's really not, you know, because, you know, if you were raised in a place where you didn't have to do that all the time, you don't have it on your mind yet. So when you're in a program and you're doing it day to day, getting in the habit of it. That's when you kind of set yourself up for some more success. And that includes meetings and going to classes, being on time, cleaning out your car, just these little things that seem like they don't make a huge difference, but they do. And it's much easier when you're already kind of in that mindset of, oh, I need to get all this stuff done.
[00:43:00] Speaker B: Exactly.
[00:43:01] Speaker A: So another memory that I have that really sticks out in my mind is Lucas second birthday. Right? So I remember you kind of came to me, we were in case management, and you were like, des, I don't have a ton of money right now, you know, but my son's birthday is coming up. And I just remember, you know, I remember back to even, like, our birthdays as I was growing up as a child, or, you know, baby showers that I've done, parties that I've done where we were on a pretty tight budget. And so that. And I like setting stuff like that up. That's always been kind of fun for me. So I told you, like, hey, you know, we can do this on a small budget. We're going to make it work. So I remember you got him that little Ben ten party kit from Amazon. It came in. It was so cute. And then, you know, we kind of set, you know, everything else up. But how was that experience for you? Because I remember, you know, as I'm. And I still have the photos on my phone, but how is that for you? You know, like, even just learning how to, like, do a party on a budget for Lucas?
[00:44:03] Speaker B: Well, at first, I always admired moms who had money to go all out for their children. I used to think I wanted to go all out for my son because I would always see other moms doing, like, a whole parade for their children. Mommy wasn't working with that type of money, so I was nervous if my son's ever going to be happy. But then I realized I have a two year old who's not going to even remember this, but I wanted to make it special. So having, like, the hope house moms contribute to with the decorations, me going to dollar tree with unique, and we're like, we got to get this. Oh, we got to get the cake. While my son's in daycare. Not even worried about any of this while mommy's going crazy trying to find everything for my son.
And just seeing how everybody was helping contribute to the decorations, it made me smile because that's what it means, is what you did to put the work for it to be done. Knowing that this is what my son needs. This is what mommy is showing you that she can do for you. Cause my mom used to be on a tight budget when it came to me and my brother's birthday. She didn't have money like that. So being in the same predicament, but seeing how happy my son was for the birthday cake and the balloons and the toys that he get, it just put a smile on my face to say it was all worth it. Cause at first, I was like, what happens if he doesn't like anything? Because I don't have, like, the toy car that he wants or anything, but seeing he. He just wanted a ball. He didn't care for anything else. He just wanted a ball.
[00:45:27] Speaker A: I got him. That's funny, because we had one of our volunteers, or. Yeah, one of our volunteers come in. She was there. She got him a gift. Oh, yeah, Janae got him a gift. And I think. Think unique might have as well. But he got a few gifts and stuff, and they're really cute. And then I had gotten him, because I'm also working on a budget, right. But I had gotten him a few things from dollar tree, and it was like, I got him a ball.
Was the most excited about the ball. And it was so funny, because I remember after the day was over, you and I were kind of chatting, and you were like, thank you so much. I didn't realize it was going to be like this. I was stressing myself out. And I think at the end of the day, it's just like you said, it's the heart and the effort and the community that gathered around Lucas and celebrated him. And I remember, too, we were trying to sing him happy birthday, and he was not having it.
[00:46:22] Speaker B: I've never seen him be upset and be like, don't sing me happy birthday. So he doesn't like when people sing to him now. I know.
[00:46:26] Speaker A: Yeah. You can't take him to a restaurant and have them sing happy birthday.
[00:46:30] Speaker B: If they even try to sing, he'll scream off his head. And I said, let's not do that. Cause he was upset with me more than saying, why are they singing, mom?
[00:46:37] Speaker A: So we ended up just lighting the candle. Let him blow out the candle. We pulled out the bubble machine, let him do the bubbles. And then we actually lucked out that night because we were gonna order pizza, if I'm remembering correctly, at the resource center for the free dinner they were doing that day. Had pizza. So we just ended up kind of lucking out there. We didn't have to get the pizza, and we took him over to the resource center, and then we were walking around, and all the staff members were, happy birthday, Lucas. And he was. He was digging the attention, for sure, but he was just looking around like, what is going on? You know, what's happening? So I just think that was a really beautiful moment, and I think just. You showed Lucas how much you love him in the effort that you put in for that, and he still had a beautiful birthday. You still have all those photos as, like, you know, as a reminder of that and going forward, you know, you'll always make those birthdays special. I remember growing up, like, you know, my mom always made sure to make us feel, like, loved and special on our day, you know? And so I know that you'll continue to do that for Lucas as well, but that's one of my favorite memories of you and him.
[00:47:45] Speaker B: He's going to be three, so this time, it's going to be at a party with a hope House staff member since mommy works now, because I think I was still just beginning my job.
[00:47:55] Speaker A: Yeah, you're just starting out.
[00:47:56] Speaker B: I was just starting. So I wasn't making that much because I was training at that time. But now that mommy works and I'm, you know, living on our own, the plan is to make sure that he actually has something where he gets to see all of his little friends and. And be nice outside.
How my family comes. Still can't believe he's gonna be three. He's almost. He's getting so big now that it's impossible to believe. Like, oh, look how small you were when we first moved in here. Now you're so big with long hair that reaches his back and stuff. So I can't wait. But I know I'm a cry there. Like, cried the first time realizing you're two. You're not one no more. You're two.
I'm not ready for that.
[00:48:38] Speaker A: I know. He's. He's doing so good, though. And I. I do really miss him being here, too, because I just remember he was just such a goofball when it came to, like, the other kiddos that we had in the house. Like, everybody, every time they would come in, hi, Lucas. And he would just look over, big old smile on his face, just wanting to play, you know? I think he felt more comfortable around the kids than he ever felt around like any of anybody else.
[00:49:02] Speaker B: Even with the staff, he built a great relationship with the children. I was surprised they even say, oh, lucas. Where's Lucas? And I would always tell him, oh, he's with my mom. He's with grandma. They're like, oh, when is he coming back? It would make me so happy that here are these children that I'm living with, and they love my son. I was always scared, like, what happened if, you know, he don't get along with the babies? And what happened if he doesn't like anybody? But he was so welcoming to the point where he built a relationship with one of the children. Her name is Addie. Oh. And they created a friendship right then and there. It was like a love hate relationship.
[00:49:33] Speaker A: Oh, yeah.
[00:49:34] Speaker B: And they would hug it out pretty much so that right there was something that I always cherish with me. Cause now my son can easily get along with babies, surprisingly. And he don't hit him, so we're good with that. You don't hit him.
[00:49:49] Speaker A: It's always the phase. Well, and I think it's beautiful, too, that, like, you and unique and unique has been on one of the podcasts as well. I believe she was on one of the first ones.
[00:49:57] Speaker B: Yeah.
[00:49:57] Speaker A: If you want to go back and listen to that one, she has a really amazing story as well. Well, but, yeah, just the relationship that, like, you and unique have been able to maintain as well, you know, because I think sometimes it's almost like when you leave a job, right? Like, you leave and. And maybe you don't talk to those people anymore or you just, you know, and it's not for any reason necessarily. It's just sometimes that's just the way that it works out. But it's really cool how purposeful you and her have been in, like, maintaining that relationship and making sure that Lucas and Addie do get. Get to still see each other and hang out and continue to have that friendship, because I know that we have residents. Previously, if you listen to Megan and Britney's podcast, I think that their kids, I don't know if they're necessarily friends still, but they still know each other and they speak so highly of each other and kind about each other, and it's just kind of cool. And that's like, what, ten to 15 years later? So I'm, you know, I would love to see that for you and unique as well, just, like, down the line, you know, whatever life has in store for you guys, just, you know, maintaining that relationship because you guys really built a sisterhood here. And I think that's also just one of my favorite parts of this job is just, you know, because when you move in, you're so nervous, you're like, I don't know, it's like starting a new job or starting a new school. You're like, is anybody gonna like me? You know, am I gonna do well here? And to see you guys, like, form these connections, like, when I would walk in and you and unique are on the floor laughing and just joking around and being goofballs with each other, like, I mean, I think I've heard all the staff here talk about it. They're just like, oh, we miss. We miss them being here every day and just being goofy. And, you know, I would come in, and sometimes I'd be having, you know, maybe not the best day, and I'd come in and you guys would be making me laugh. I'm like, all right, all right, here we go.
[00:51:44] Speaker B: Roasting each other. Or we would make inappropriate jokes and be like, hey, hey, yeah. So staff member here, like, we can't be doing that. I think me and her, it was like a sister relationship, too. Even if our children had a brother and sister relationship, we were kind of like sisters because we would bump heads, and then we go tell on each other to you and be like, she pissed me off and she upset me. I don't want to be her friend. No. Mo and melee be like, okay, just give it a break. And then a couple minutes later, we're talking to each other like, so what do you want to eat? And just immediately forgiving each other or how constantly, if we got in trouble, one person would lie and be like, I won't say nothing, but if she catches you, that's not my fault. It was constantly like that.
I love that relationship. And now, even though we don't live with each other no more, we still keep in contact. I will be at her baby shower this Sunday, so get to see my little niece, and I don't know, niece or nephew up in there, but I think I cherish that relationship with her. At first, I was really nervous. Like you said, when you walk in a hope house, you don't know what to expect. I didn't have many friends, and I was still closed off. My trust issues were, like, up the hill when it came down to trusting any new females. So getting to know unique and how she opened her arms. When I first moved in here, I was like, okay, I can see this relationship lasting. And even though we went head to head half of the time, we always forgave each other, communicated. I think we both got better out of communication at times. Or we understand there's hardship with friendships, but that's. That's the reality of life. You're not always going to get long. You're going to have disagreements, you're going to question your friendship. But it taught us a lot, even about our own relationships that we get into that there's going to be times where you're like, I can't stand you right now. But if we can overcome that, that means we can overcome so many things. So I do appreciate that relationship that I built with her, and I think.
[00:53:35] Speaker A: That'S a beautiful thing about Hope house in general. But specifically, like, the residential program is like, this is a safe space to learn those conflict resolution kind of things or learn about that forgiveness and God loops into that as well. And I think unique also really helped you build your relationship with God, as well as Janae and Sasha and other staff members here. And just in those tough moments, praying for one another, I know that anytime I ever asked you to open us up in prayer for a house meeting or whatever, you were always down to do it, and you always did it in such a beautiful way. Even before the podcast began, you know, you opened us in a beautiful prayer. So that's also something I admire about you, is just that relationship that you have built with the other moms here and as well as God and even with your son. So I'm so proud of you. I think you're doing amazing, and I think there's a lot in store for you.
And so I'm just excited to see where life takes you, you know? And as far as I next steps for me, I'm just working and building my skillset. And we have new residents moving in. I'm doing case management for other residents and things like that, but just polishing that and getting better at it each day because this is obviously coming from a tech background. It's been a little different for me, but I just feel so honored and so blessed that I get to be here as a part of this mission, that I get to help these women, you know, achieve everything that they deserve and everything that, you know, they want to do in this life.
[00:55:13] Speaker B: So, yeah, you came a long way. It's about to be 2025 soon, and it's been two years. You came a long way, and you've done an amazing job to the point where a lot of people can't wait to meet you. I'm not gonna lie, I get jealous when I see another mom and say, she was my caseworker before yours, so please recognize that.
But I can't wait for the journey to start. Honestly, I can't wait for you to be doing so much more because you are a big impact in all of our lives, Des. Each and every time we talk about you, we say nothing but good words. Even if we're like, we're mad at her. But we still love her, though, because we have to realize that even though we have a personal relationship, you still make sure to let us know I'm here to help you, too. You know, I don't want to see you fail. And I think just hearing that from somebody that says, I genuinely care about you, I'm not looking for an alternative motive. I'm not looking for anything back from you. Just for you to get your life together and be happy, that helps us a lot to know that we're gaining love. And it's not manipulation, it's honesty. And you teach us about that so we don't have to be on guard 24/7 when we walk out of here. That's.
[00:56:21] Speaker A: Yeah, that's always my goal for all of you, every single mom that joins hope House, you know, not just the moms in the residential program, but, you know, that is what I want for all of you guys, is just happiness and success, and then to just plant those seeds, like, for your children as well, and to break some of those generational curses that, you know, tend to happen and be able to move forward and have a calm, peaceful, happy life, you know, with God watching over you. And. And those are. Those are what I want for every single mom that comes through here. So it makes me so happy to hear you say that. All right, well, I just want to thank you all for listening to the podcast today. I want to thank Makai for coming straight here after work to come and do this podcast with me. You did amazing. I'm so proud of you.
[00:57:10] Speaker B: Again, thank you for having me. I really do appreciate it. At first, I was really nervous doing this, seeing as though it was an opportunity that was given to me. I would forever be grateful and tell my son mommy was on a podcast, just to let you know. So, mommy, being a business lady again, I thank you for letting me get to speak about my story, because I will always share his hope house. And you guys have made a tremendous, a big impact on my life that I will always bring with me and tell to my other future children, not right now, but my future children. But, yeah, I love hope house, and I'm all, we'll forever be grateful.
[00:57:50] Speaker C: Precious soul, the things I didn't know.
[00:57:55] Speaker B: The things I didn't know about you.
[00:57:59] Speaker C: Oh, precious soul, the things I didn't know, the things I didn't know about you, about.
