Welcome to your Meet a Mom Interview!
Where are you from originally?
Devon, Pa and arrived here in New Canaan via New York City
How long have you lived in New Canaan? How many kids and their age(s)?
We left the city and moved here six years ago. We have an eight year old son, William and a six year old daughter, Emma.
Favorite things to do with your kids in general or in town?
We are a big board game and card game family. We ski all winter long which has been an amazing way to watch the kids grow and see them get closer to one another. In town, we love to go for walks and bike rides in Waveny when the weather permits and also just walk around town. We spend a lot of time in the bookstore and love eating out.
What’s your favorite restaurant in town for a family date?
Family date is easy…Sole. The kids literally beg to go there. The staff is wonderful and the food is consistently good. This is also a great spot for adult outings, but we also really enjoy South End and Spiga.
What is your favorite kid-friendly recipe?
I think my kids and I may not agree here. They love chicken parmesan, but I love to make anything in the slow cooker because they eat all the veggies. A good one is always pot roast…heavy on the carrots:)
What is your local go-to store for children’s clothes? Shoes? Furniture? Yourself?
My son is easy to shop for so crew cuts always fits the bill. Emma on the other hand is very particular so Groove is a great addition for us! Walin and Wolff is surely my go to for both casual and evening. For furniture I have to say I lean on Lisa Hildebrand our designer, she is not only outrageously talented, but she understands how to decorate a home that is lived in with young children. And when it comes to me I love Togs and Ralph Lauren.
What are your favorite events in New Canaan?
The May Day Fair is certainly one of the top if not the top. The Library fundraiser is always so much fun. The Easter Egg hunt gets everyone out an excited not only for the bunny, but spring!
What has been the most difficult age with your children to date? What helped you overcome the challenges at that time?
I think that the hardest ages were when they were 3 and 5. It was a time when both of them were asserting independence and we couldn’t get out the door. What I have realized as a parent, is that patience is not in all of us and that it is learned. I think one of the things that helped me the most was getting out for a run or my AKT dance class. These activities cleared my head and helped me learn to be more patient.
#Momfail
I think my current biggest #momfail (because the list is long) is this past February when everyone in the house had the flu or some kind of ailment and Emma was complaining that her head itched. I checked her hair very quickly and sent her on her way. Two days later…Full.Blown.Lice. Lesson here…kids do know more than us (sometimes).
What is one piece of advice you would pass along to other moms? What was the best advice your mom gave you?
My best advice that I try to do instead of a knee jerk reaction when the kids misbehave is by telling them that there will be a consequence. It allows me to cool down and still dish out something that is not only proper, but one I will follow through with. My Mom’s best advice is to slow down, that time with the kids is the most important. That if the kids are run down, keep them home and snuggle with them at this age. And to also read in front of them so that they will see that time alone can be wonderful too.
Anything else you want to add? Business venture? Involvement in local organizations?
I am involved with the Young Woman’s League, The Board of Realtors, Little Sisters of the Assumption and Young President’s Organization.