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'Just 4 You' Winner Helps Others In Need, Cooks Organic

EAGAN, Minn. (WCCO) — Each week, WCCO This Morning is rewarding a hard-working, dedicated parent who loves what they do.

Natalie Kane went to Eagan to surprise this week's winner, a mother who goes the extra mile, taking care of her children and others', as well.

Tara and Becky Lien live in Eagan with their two young girls, Aidia and Brooklyn. Tara stays home with their children while Becky works during the day as a microbiologist.

"It's overwhelming at times," said Tara. "And I think that, having kids, you have this level of 'Can you do more?'"

Becky said she nominated her wife Tara for the Just 4 You award because she constantly goes above and beyond.

"She works all day with the kids, not just sitting on the couch watching TV," said Becky. "She is very active with our kids in a positive way by demonstrating good health, good exercise and being a great parent."

Money is tight for the Liens, and health is a priority, so Tara replaces expensive store-bought baby food with homemade, organic food.

"We try to cook it all up, put it in a blender and try experiments," said Tara. "She's pretty forgiving of my recipes."

When Becky comes home from work, the day doesn't stop there. Tara then opens her phone line to care for even more children.

"We work a crisis line that we can do from home," said Tara.

Operating a crisis line may require Tara to leave the house at any point overnight, should there be a need.

To balance the couple's own needs, Tara says communication is key. Her advice is to always take things "one day at a time."

Apparently the couple doesn't get out very often with all those responsibilities, but we're taking care of that. We have given them two tickets to an upcoming show at the Guthrie.

Each week, WCCO selects a new Just 4 You Parent, so keep those entries coming. You can nominate a deserving parent, grandparent or guardian online.

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