Fit4mom has been such a blessing to me. The moment I encountered our fearless leader Amy, I instantly felt welcomed and knew that there was something special about this group. Getting to know other mommas has brought me so much joy, and I am so thankful for the lifelong friendships that I have made through Fit4mom. Exercise has always been a passion of mine, but with a newborn, I was not able to go to the gym or go for a run as easily as I once had. This group has allowed me the ability to keep up with my physical exercise and fitness goals, while sharing that passion with my daughter. I am so hopeful that by incorporating her into my physical fitness routine, she will in return develop a passion and will understand the importance for physical health and exercise. This group has been an answer to prayer, and I am continuously thankful for these wonderful mommas and kiddos!

Mama of the Month Q&A

Where are you originally from?

I am from St. Johns, Michigan but have lived in Texas for a little over 5 years.

Tell us about your little workout buddies!

I have the sweetest little workout buddy, my precious 20-month old baby girl, Brinley Rose. She enjoys coming to class with me, singing all of the songs, socializing with her sweet friends, and even imitates the exercises at home (especially the tickle runs with her poodles, daddy, and dolls) We will be adding another workout buddy, a baby boy at the end of the month!

How did you meet your husband?

I met my husband in Austin Texas at work. He was one of my supervisors. I knew immediately after meeting him that he would one day be my husband!

What’s your favorite family activity?

I absolutely love spending time with my husband, daughter and two poodles! You can usually find us outside at the park on the weekends.

Tell us a little about your career—pre or post baby.

I graduated from Michigan State University (GO GREEN) in 2014 and have spent my early career (before becoming a momma) as a Foster Care Case Manager for both domestic and unaccompanied refugee children. I am finishing up my master’s degree in social work at UTA. I hope to continue to serve and advocate for families and children within the Child Welfare system.

How did you find out about FIT4MOM?

During one of my morning jogs at Bailey Lake (with my then 6 month old) I encountered sweet Amy, who invited my daughter and I to participate in a Fit4Mom class. She was so welcoming and inviting, I instantly could tell that there was something so special about this group. After trying out one class- I was hooked!

What is your favorite thing about FIT4MOM?

Fit4Mom has been such a blessing to not only me, but my family. It truly was an answer to prayer! Being away from family is incredibly difficult, but this group has provided me and my family with our own village of genuine friendships and support. I am also an avid fitness lover, so being able to work out with my daughter in tow has been a godsend!

Do you have any big plans this month?

We do have BIG plans this month. My family and I will be welcoming our baby boy at the end of the month!

What do you look forward to for the holidays?

I enjoy the Holidays, spending time with family and friends and look forward to creating our own memories and traditions as a family.

What is your proudest moment as a mom?

There are so many wonderful moments that make me honored and proud to be a momma. God has blessed me with the sweetest gift and my daughter reminds me of this daily. I have enjoyed watching her grow, learn and develop her joyful personality. Watching her laugh and light up has by far been my favorite.

Have you ever thought, gosh I can’t do this, and what brings you to see the good?

There have been so many moments where I have doubted my ability to be a mom, especially during the season where sleep and rest seemed out of reach. Being connected with other moms has been such an encouragement to me. Their advice, support and love has been immeasurable, and I am continuously grateful. My precious daughter reminds me that although being a mom often comes with selfless hard work, there is no greater joy than experiencing the laughter and bond with your child. God has blessed me, being a momma and I know that by trusting in him, he will provide for my family and me, on both the good and bad days.

How has becoming a mother changed you?

Being a mom has changed me, and continually changes me for the better. I have learned that patience is key and have strived to put my family’s needs first. No matter how exhausted I may feel, I always am able to find strength to care for my daughter.

What advice would you give a new mom?

Give yourself grace, lots of grace. Being a new mom is so hard in the moment but will get easier with time and experience. Forget all of the pressure that you may feel on parenting a certain way. The greatest thing you can do is love your child and foster a secure attachment with them. Once the bond is formed and secure, everything else will fall into place.