How many children do you have and what are their ages?
I am a mother of three: two girls, Ava, age 8 and Gianna, age 6, and a son Nico, age 2.
How long have you lived in Stamford? What made you decide to live here?
I have lived in Stamford for about 14 years now. I moved here after college because I wanted to work in fashion. Stamford is a close commute to the New York City. Another factor was my college boyfriend at the time Joseph, (now husband), is from Stamford.
What is your favorite family activity in Stamford?
My favorite family activity in Stamford is going to the Stamford Museum and Nature Center. My kids love the animals, walking the grounds, and playing on the playground. We also love the carousel at Mill River Park, plus getting books at the library.
Where is your favorite places to eat and shop in Stamford?
My favorite place to eat is Café Silvium, and my favorite place to shop is Target.
What are your must haves when you leave the house with the kids?
I always keep a small snack bag of goldfish, plus raisin boxes, lollypops and sweet tarts in my purse. My kids are always asking for snacks, the candy is only for emergencies. For example, when my 2 year old is getting impatient with the long line at the grocery store checkout a sugar free lollypop from Trader Joe’s usually saves the day!
What has been your favorite ‘mommy moment’ so far?
Having a love for fashion, I was so proud of my middle daughter Gianna who walked the runway at New York Fashion week. It was for the Rookie USA Show and she walked alongside Nigel Barker’s daughter!
What is your favorite thing to do when you need some ‘me time’?
Just love getting a manicure, or pedicure, or a facial peel.
Tell us about Camp by Mama.
I started Camp by Mama as a creative look into motherhood. I’m always on the go with my three children, so Camp by Mama is to help inspire and provide fun information to other moms.
Why did you decide to start Camp by Mama?
I started my blog after our third and last child (the Prince) Nico turned one. I was getting the itch to do something for myself, it was the perfect time for a fun creative outlet.
You find the coolest activities to do with your children around this area, how do you find out what’s going on?
I actually love spending time with my family, plus I want my children to experience fun things to remember. I follow all mom/child oriented accounts on social media in CT and NY. Also, I sign up for everyone’s newsletters. That way I can always be on board and in touch with current and future events and activities.
What activities have been the biggest hits with your children?
My girls just love the pop ups in New York City. The Pint Shop this past summer was their favorite. Trying all the different ice cream flavors, shopping those shelves, and taking photos in the Instagramable stations. Broadway shows are always enjoyable and they loved the obstacle course at the Spartan Race.
What is your advice to moms looking for unique activity ideas for their children?
I Strongly recommend following The Local Mom’s Network site in your area. Also check out the moms who have personal blogs, the ones who post and write about adventures with their kids.
What has been your favorite thing to write about on Camp by Mama?
My favorite thing to write about on my blog would have to be my children’s birthday parties. Turning a year older in an Italian household is always a big deal. I usually go Amazon and Pinterest crazy, but the kids love it and are so appreciative of the celebration. I post the photos from the parties along with a detailed write up of the event. Hopefully the birthday party write-ups will help create ideas for other mothers.
How do you balance your blog & motherhood?
Well, family is my number one priority. My children are still young and I don’t want to miss anything. So I write when my son naps, or late at night when the children are all sleeping. I wish I could do more with my blog but for now, it’s a fun creative outlet. Obviously I enjoy it, so without sacrificing my first priority, I find the time. You kind of struggle with ‘mom guilt’, it’s real. I have so many ideas, events, and projects, but I don’t want it to take away from any of my time with my children. Nico will be in preschool this coming fall so I’ll have more time to work on the blog ‘to do’ list.
I also really do enjoy connecting with other moms. I’ve made so many new friends through blogging this past year. And going out to an adult ‘only/mom’s’ events are much needed for sanity purposes. Moms do need healthy breaks. It sure helps to make you a better mom at the end of the day.
What is the best piece of advice you’ve gotten from another mom?
One of my good friends once told me how important is it to make date nights with your spouse a priority. You need that in a marriage with children and the normal chaos. It helps to keep you connected and grounded. Plus you feel so refreshed after stepping away from the house… the house that’s been trashed, and overflowing piles of laundry.