Together, we’ve been through so much the past few years, including having babies just one week apart! She’s an amazing friend, one of the kindest people I know and I’m so grateful she’s a part of my life. Our very own Katie sits down for an interview…

What is the most rewarding part of being a mom?

Just looking at my son, knowing that he is mine because the Lord has entrusted him to me, is the greatest, most humbling, and rewarding feeling I have ever felt!

What is the hardest part of being a mom?

All of those little things that I know will be better for him “in the long run” are hard at first. From sleeping in his own bed to weening off the pacifier, to many things that are yet to come in childhood and adolescence, my husband and I want to be proactive parents. Although hard in the moment, I know that the choices we are making will help our son to become a confident and strong young man.

What values did your parents instill in you that you would most like to pass on?

My parents taught my brother and me the importance of good work ethic, integrity, and respect towards all people.

What do you remember most about your mother or grandmother?

My mother is the most selfless servant that I know. She and my grandmothers are beautiful examples of hospitality.

When did you first consider yourself grown up?

When I began teaching 3rd grade, I realized that I at least needed to act grown up. And when I first signed my name above a line that said, “Parent/Guardian”, I thought that I should feel grown up. Although I try to keep “childish” ways behind me, I try to hold onto that mystical and innocent “child-like” view of the world.

How do you stay true to yourself as a woman?

I make sure to spend quality time with girlfriends.

How do you juggle work and motherhood?

I salute working moms! I don’t know how you do it! Simply being a mother is a huge job in and of itself. However, I am prayerfully considering a part-time job in which Nolan could come with me.

How do you destress and relax?

About once every couple of months, I create my own day spa at home. I take an extra long shower, use those gritty scrubs and fragrant lotions, coat on the green face-mask, and give myself a mani/pedi. For a more frequent stress-reliever, I pluck my eyebrows. It actually relaxes me!

What is your favorite memory of when your children were babies?

Every week, amazing memories are made. But I will never forget our first day at home from the hospital. We sat on the couch to watch the next to last episode of Lost which had been recorded. Although I was a huge fan of the show and we had been anticipating the finale, I couldn’t take my eyes off of our brand, spanking-new, perfect baby boy. He peacefully slept in my lap, and I just stared him down. It might not sound like much of a memory, but I was so overwhelmed with awe and wonder to finally see and hold our son!

What is your favorite word? Least favorite word?

Hallelujah. Ouch.

What is your favorite sound? Least favorite sound?

My favorite sounds from my son are giggles. They are the best! My favorite sound as a teacher was, “Ohhhhh, now I get it.” I’m looking forward to hearing that from Nolan.

Right now my least favorite sound is hearing Nolan’s head thump the floor. He likes to pull himself up, holding onto furniture. But sometimes he forgets that he can’t stand on his own, yet, and lets go. Ouch!

Do you have a bedtime routine?

Nolan and I read a story together. Then my husband comes in to pray with us, we tuck him into bed, and I kiss him goodnight.

What is your favorite book to read to your child?

Guess How Much I Love You by Sam McBratney

How did you come up with your children’s names?

First, I just liked the name Nolan, but there are a couple other special things about it that finalized our choice. It’s my great-grandmother’s maiden name, and she has actually been a big part of my life until she passed away a couple of years ago. Also, the name Nolan means “champion” and “noble”. His middle name Michael is my husband’s middle name, too. It means “like the Lord”. I pray that Nolan will be noble, like the Lord.

As a mom, what is one thing you couldn’t possibly live without?

Nap time.

What was the transition to parenthood like for you and your husband?

We both have been looking forward to this new stage of life, and we’ve tried to prepare ourselves in every way possible. However nothing could completely prepare us for this amazing journey! We’ve found that being parents has changed our dynamics of communication. So we’re in a process of learning what great communication in this new role looks like.

What do you do to encourage healthy habits in your family?

I focus on making healthy choices at the grocery store so that we have healthy options at home. Also I often make my husband’s lunch for him to take to work. But I’ve heard that guys at the office make fun of his “kiddie lunch”.

What is most important for your family to do together?

Going to church together.

If you were famous, what would you be famous for?

Writing for Mama Moderne!

What advice do you have for new parents?

Be proactive instead of reactive. But I’m just beginning motherhood, so I’m in learning mode myself!