This is part of a series introducing you to all the 2013 State Young Mothers of the Year from American Mothers, Inc. Read more of the series here.

(Photo by Michelle Peterson Photography)

Today I’d like to introduce you to the youngest state Young Mother of the Year for 2013, Stephanie McKnight from California. When I first met Stephanie at the AMI convention in New York she was pregnant and looked absolutely stunning. She is beautiful inside and out! Here’s Stephanie….

Tell us little about yourself.  I am “mom” to four wonderful children! Autumn (9), Sarah (7), Garrett (2), and Tanner (3 months). We live in Ramona, CA. My husband (Mitch McKnight) is a scientist and is working hard to solve the world’s problems, such as alternative fuel. I love that I am able to be a stay at home mom and homeschool my children. We have such a great time learning and exploring together. I received a BA in Liberal Studies, a special education teaching credential, and an MA in special education from California State University, San Bernardino. As a family we enjoy outdoors activities like hiking and going to the beach. We enjoy our herd of animals, which includes chickens, quail, fish, and one dog.

Why is motherhood important to you? Did you always want to be a mother?

Motherhood is important to me because of the influence I have on my children, our future generation. As a mother I am in the position to be an example to my children and possibly the biggest influence in their lives. I knew from a very young age that I wanted to be a mother and I strive to exemplify that calling and become a little bit better every day.

What is the biggest lesson your children have taught you?

The biggest lesson my children have taught me is to be flexible. I have a very type A personality and I would love to have a spotless house, be on time to every single activity, and follow a detailed schedule to a tee. In the past I have let my happiness ride on how well I accomplished the mundane things in life. Having children has taught me to find joy in the journey! Sure, we may be late for church and the house may be a mess, but we we were able to create some awesome memories along the way.

What has given you the most joy as a mother? 

(Photo by Michelle Peterson Photography)

I think my most joyous times are watching my children play together and help others. When I see them giggling and enjoying each other’s company I can’t help but smile on the inside and out! One evening I was breastfeeding Tanner and watching the rest of my family fold laundry. My husband turned on some music and they all started dancing. I love that even though they were just folding laundry they were able to enjoy each other! Service is something that is very close to my heart. I try to teach my children to help those in need, even if they don’t ask! I was out to dinner with my daughters one evening and Autumn got up to get utensils. I saw her walking back with a tray of food (not ours) and was wondering what on earth she was doing. An older woman hobbled up behind her with a cane. Autumn had invited offered to help her and even invited her to sit with us. My heart was heavy with gratitude for my sweet girl who saw someone in need and acted.

Do you have any family traditions? Which one is your absolute favorite?

We have a few family traditions that are very simple, yet they keep us unified as a family. We eat dinner together as a family. Sometimes it’s not at home, sometimes one person is absent, but we strive to enjoy each other’s company and chat around the dinner table. We also pray together every night before bed and attend church each Sunday.

What is your favorite thing to do at the end of the day?

My favorite thing to do at the end of a long day is curl up with my husband and chat. I love that man! We often talk about how our day went, what activities we have coming up, current events (he keeps me up to date on the news), and our plans for the future.