How many kids do you each have and what are their ages?
One very energetic son! He is 14 months old.
What are your favorite family activities in Stamford?
We love to go for long walks around our neighborhood, hang out at the beach, and we are VERY into the swings at the park these days! We are members at both the Stamford and Darien Nature Centers and have spent some great mornings there as a family. You can also find us at a Happy Hour or Sunday Brunch with the baby in tow at one of the many delicious restaurants Stamford has to offer!
What do you like about living in this area?
We love the family-oriented community and being close to the beach. Starting our family here has been incredible and we’ve built such an amazing support network of friends. We also love being close to NYC, so we can pop in for a show or a parents night out dinner every once in a while!
Tell us about the Cottage & Co.
The Cottage & Co. is my passion project and I’m so happy to have finally launched this year! I work with my clients on improving their relationship with food, achieving their health and wellness goals, and will partner with them to create sustainable lifestyle changes that stick. I love helping people get to the best version of themselves through the things that nourish us – both on and off our plates!
What are your top three tips for moms to improve their relationship with food?
Add in vs. restrict. Don’t cut things out of your diet entirely, because that will lead to cravings and then an overindulge. Think instead about adding in some of the whole foods, the fruits and the vegetables, instead of entirely taking something away.
Don’t sweat the small stuff, moderation is key. If there is a day where you feel like you’re “off track”, don’t feel like you have failed. Remember, the key to wellness is moderation and your every meal is an opportunity to start again. Have patience and grace with yourself. As I tell all my clients, JOY is one of our most important nutrients.
Mix it up. Feel like you’re in a rut with food? Go to a local farmers market or grocery store and try something new you’ve never made before. Maybe it’s a more exotic fruit, or even a new herb. Get on Pinterest and find a fun recipe to try, and include your family in the fun!
What strategy should parents use to be sure they are purchasing nutrition rich food when they head to the grocery store?
Think about sticking to the outside perimeter of the grocery store. Most of the whole foods are found there, with the more processed foods on the shelves in the middle of the store. And to save money on fruits and vegetables, try buying organic frozen! It’s an easy way to get the goods in on a budget, just check the ingredients to make sure there aren’t any added sugars or sauces added in.
How do you juggle work and mommyhood?
OH, this is a tough one, because sometimes it’s still a juggle and feels out of balance. Being a mom has taught me to be way more organized and intentional with my time, so that when I’m not working I can give my attention to my family in the way that I want to. And honestly, being able to communicate my needs and ask for help when I need it, and I am so lucky to have a husband that has played such an important role in helping me navigate all of it. That has been my saving grace!
What is the best piece of advice you’ve gotten from another mom?
Aim to be present, not perfect. This means being present in the precious moments I have with my son instead of trying to always “do it all”. The laundry will get done. The dishes will get done. We don’t have to do everything perfectly as mommies, but make sure we not only take care of our families but ourselves too!