Growing Together: A Shift in How We Share Our Story

For many years, CROC has been more than an outreach program - it’s been a window into our everyday life. Alongside the reptiles, birds, and critters who make up our little world, my daughter has often appeared in photos and videos, helping with animals, tagging along to programs, or simply being part of the rhythm of our days. Sharing those moments has always felt natural, because so much of what I do is rooted in family, growth, and connection.

But as she gets older, things are changing in a way that feels both natural and necessary.

My daughter is beginning to understand her own digital footprint. She has become more aware of the image she shares with the world, the stories that follow her, and the difference between what I choose to share and what she wants to share for herself. With that growing awareness comes a need for space, privacy, and autonomy. And I want to honor that fully.

So moving forward, you’ll likely see fewer posts that include my daughter.

This decision comes from two places: First, like many parents, I’m increasingly aware of internet safety and how quickly content can travel or be repurposed online. Second (and just as important) I want to respect my daughter's boundaries as she builds her own identity. She deserves the freedom to decide how she's seen in the world without being defined by the images or videos created before she truly understood what “being online” meant. This is a coming‑of‑age moment for both of us.

As a parent, I’m constantly balancing the needs of my family with the needs of the animals in my care. Sometimes those pieces overlap beautifully - other times, they need room to grow separately. Adjusting how much of my daughter's life I share publicly is part of finding that balance and making sure she has space to grow, while still allowing me to continue the work I love and sharing those joys with others.

CROC’s education programs, and animal‑focused content will continue just as they did prior to my daughter's participation. You’ll still see updates from our events, behind‑the‑scenes moments with our ambassador animals, and the educational posts that have always been at the heart of our mission. The animals will always remain a central part of our story, while I give my daughter the space to write her own story.

Thank you for supporting not just our outreach work, but our family, and our continued efforts to maintain harmony in our household.