Ruby Gooch

Ruby has been smiling since day one and only grows more expressive with time. Calm, curious, and full of opinions, she studies the world intently—fascinated by faces, her reflection, and every new sound. She babbles, giggles, and makes sure we know how she feels. Now past her binky, Ruby loves chewing on toys, grabbing objects with both hands, and filling our days with joy, wonder, and the sweetest moments to we never want to forget.

Ruby shines brightest in life’s simple joys. She adores living-room concerts with Dad on guitar, trying to “sing along” with her babbles and coos. Conversations are her favorite—she lights up when we talk and eagerly experiments with new sounds. She loves grabbing toys, books, and anything within reach, often chewing and exploring them with curiosity. Outside time is her happy place—car rides, porch rocking, or simply soaking in the world around her. She’s always wide-eyed and taking it all in.

We’ve spent the past four years living in a small single-wide while pouring our savings and energy into renovating the little farmhouse we bought when I was pregnant with Ruby. Winning $25,000 would mean finally finishing our home and creating the childhood we’ve always dreamed of giving her. It would also allow us to begin a college fund for Ruby’s future. We’ve given everything to building this life, and this would bring us one step closer to that dream.