Introducing Sarah Blalock: A Bloomfield Hills Mom

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March 16, 2017

Introducing Sarah!

:: Down with Detroit ::

Hey there, metro Detroit! My name is Sarah, and I’m so happy to be here as a new member of the Detroit Moms Blog! I was born and raised in Ohio, and while it will always be home in my heart, Detroit has won me over in a big way. I may not have grown up here in the Detroit area, but I’ve adopted it as my home, and I love it like it’s my own.

I’m a working mom of twins-plus-one, and wife to my husband Michael. Although Michael and I don’t have as much free time as we used to, our favorite date-night activities include checking out new restaurants, or heading to a Tigers game in the warmer months. We also love the vacation destinations that Michigan has to offer, like Traverse City and Saugatuck. Our favorite family attraction in the area is the Detroit Zoo, and we’ve been members for a couple of years now.

:: My Life ::

Michael and I met when we were both in law school in Cleveland. He was from Michigan, and grew up in Redford. From the time I met him, Michael had always made it clear that he wanted to move back to Michigan. Once our relationship became serious, he began a campaign to convince me that Detroit was the perfect place to be. At first I was skeptical about moving farther north, but the more I saw of this area, the more difficult it was to deny that the city has so much to offer. So, shortly after graduation in 2005, we moved here, and I haven’t looked back since.

Sarah and Michael on their honeymoon in 2008.

Although it was tough leaving my home to move to a new state, I know I made the right choice, and I have fallen in love with Michigan and all it has to offer.

:: Babies & Beyond ::

My first pregnancy was smooth sailing, until my son refused to turn head down and had to be delivered via c-section. This was the first inkling we had of our wildly stubborn, inquisitive, and feisty firstborn’s personality. When our son P was two years old, Michael and I found out that I was pregnant. Just a few weeks later, Michael came down with a case of pneumonia. It came on suddenly without warning, and required him to undergo emergency surgery. I don’t know what we would have done without the help of family and friends to get us through that time. While Michael was still in the hospital, I had an appointment with my OB/GYN for a routine early ultrasound. I went to the appointment alone, thinking that it would be no big deal. Boy, was I wrong! That routine ultrasound turned into some big news – we were having TWINS! I decided to break the news to Michael immediately. Via text message. It went pretty well:

Needless to say, that was a pretty good motivator for Michael to get well soon.

My pregnancy this time around was much different than the first, but our healthy baby girls were born in August 2015. They are identical twins, but their personalities are not! K is our sweet, cuddly girl, while S is our sassy little spitfire. Big brother P loves to make them laugh, and he loves being the big brother to “TWO babies,” as he makes sure to tell everyone he meets.

Big brother P and his little sisters. Photo by Daphne Doerr Photography.

While having twins threw our life into upheaval, it was a blessing beyond belief. All three of my children have given me an entirely new perspective on life, and inspired me to be a better woman, wife, mom and friend. I am so excited to be a member of the team here at DMB, and I look forward to sharing my journey with you.

What Baby #3 Taught Me About Myself

By

Robin Kinnie aka Motor City Woman

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March 16, 2017

Let me start by stating that I did not anticipate having three kids. I was gleefully raising two rockstar girls. And, it happened: hubby brings up having another baby. At first, I resisted. Then, after a year, I began to entertain the idea. And, ultimately, I started getting excited about the possibility of holding a newborn again. Months later, we realized we were expecting again.

There was nothing out of the ordinary with baby three. No heartburn. Slight morning sickness. Lots of hummus. My son came into this world like a rocket. Fifteen minutes of pushing and there he was. He latched on instantly from the womb (something neither of my daughters did). After being in the hospital for a few days, we thankfully went home.

As always, the first few weeks were a blur with odd sleeping schedules and nursing around the clock. However, this experience felt different than my other kiddos. It felt – dare I say – easy. As I was cuddling with my son on the couch, I shared with hubby my thoughts. “He is perfect. I don’t feel as much anxiety. What’s up?” Then, he said something that I hadn’t considered. He says, coolly and calmly, “He’s no easier to care for than the girls were. You’ve changed. You have more confidence.” Hmmm. Hadn’t thought about it that way but it was true! Here are a few things that changed from baby #1 to baby #3.

I no longer cared about what the “experts” had to say about, pretty much, anything.
I threw the schedule out of the door. I slept when he slept. He wants to play at 3am? Let’s do it!
I trust my instincts more.
When I needed help, I sought it without feeling inadequate.
I treasure the small moments.

These rules came from trial and error. I’m no longer the momma who frets over what others think. Overall, my job is to make sure my babies feel loved. I accomplish this through meeting them where they are. This means helping one discover his toes (fascinating!) and another discover her voice. I am unapologetic in my style of parenting and know that if I am unsure about something, there’s always google.

What have you learned about yourself as you’ve had more kiddos? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

Introducing Candice Ilene Byrne: A Plymouth Mom

By

Candice Ilene

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March 15, 2017

Introducing Candice!

:: Down With Detroit ::

I was born in Windsor, Ontario, Canada where I lived on the farm with my parents and younger sister and brother. My earliest memories of Detroit are traveling across the beautiful Ambassador Bridge to visit my mom’s family in the city. There was a stark contrast between the farm that we lived on and the glamorous, big city. My family moved to Detroit when I was in elementary school. My parents divorced that same year, shattering my world. My father became incredibly ill and moved back to Canada. I grew up in Warrendale playing kickball in the alley, riding my bike all over town and running through the sprinklers on our block. My fondest memories are of dancing on the playground at school with my friends. We didn’t have much, but we had music and each other.

My mother was a working single mom in the city with three young children. We lived in several houses in Detroit and East Dearborn. It was confusing, yet wonderful to be a minority amongst my peers. Without consistent parental influence, I struggled to find my identity. Times were generally tough. I recall sewing crooked Guess signs taken from my cousins size zero hand-me-downs onto the back of my size eight KMart jeans. I held a great deal of responsibility for my younger siblings, whom I love dearly. They were my first children and continue to be my best friends. Growing up in Detroit, we are huge sports fans. Attending Tigers, DCFC and Red Wings games with my siblings is a favorite pastime. The passion of Detroit fans is unlike any other. That passion extends to the wide assortment of foods that are offered in the city! I credit my brother with introducing me to the great eats of Detroit; from Avalon Bakery to Evie’s Tamales to Mudgie’s to El Barzon to Roast. Detroit is such a vibrant place with so many incredible people and cultures. . . it is delightful to watch the city explode with life.

:: My Life ::

I attended the University of Michigan-Dearborn, where I studied education, I always dreamt of being a teacher. I love children, learning and summer vacations! I obtained two master’s degrees: one in teaching and one in special education. I taught secondary special education for eight years. I loved being in the classroom and watching my students learn before my very eyes. There was never a dull moment. A career in education afforded me the opportunity to do what I love most: travel. I spent all of my summers traveling around the United States, Europe, and the Caribbean.

Hiking in the Adirondacks, sightseeing in Milan and cruising in the Caribbean.

:: Babies & Beyond ::

I loved my life, but something was missing. I was ready to settle down and have a family. I had a fairytale image in my brain of what a family should look like. But, dreams do not always unfold the way we expect. Sometimes God’s plans are bigger and better than anything we can imagine. I am running the kingdom on my own, with my beautiful princess at my side. I am eternally grateful for the privilege of motherhood.

Finding out I was pregnant was one of the greatest days of my life. I was volunteering at Gilda’s Club in Royal Oak when I received the call. I raced home, music blaring and windows down. It was a perfect Michigan summer day.

My pregnancy sparked an interest in health and fitness. I had always had a love/hate relationship with my body and now was the time to love it! I began prenatal yoga with Elise Bowerman and fell madly in love. After my daughter was born, we attended baby and me yoga at Namaste Yoga in Royal Oak. I continue to practice at the Yoga Room in Plymouth and in my living room with my little yogini. While yoga helps to keep me at ease, running and dance are more my speed. I love to attend Zumba and hip hop classes. I thoroughly enjoy running, albeit slowly, at Maybury Park and along the River Walk.

I often take my daughter with me on these adventures. My daughter has renewed my faith in the world. I see everything differently now. Nothing gives me greater joy than watching her become this perfect little person. I am continually in awe of who she is . . . beautiful, strong, brave, kind and absolutely hilarious. And she isn’t even two! I am hopeful for the future. I am thrilled to be a part of DMB and the opportunity connect with so many incredible women in the metro Detroit community. Join me on my journey as a mama who is single . . . seeking to find peace and love in this oftentimes chaotic, beautiful world.

Introducing Kelly Houseman: A Birmingham Mom

By

kellyhouseman

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March 15, 2017

Introducing Kelly!

:: Down with Detroit ::

The old saying you don’t know what you got ‘till its gone hits close to home for me. Growing up in the northern suburbs all my life, this Michigan girl got a run for her money when my husband and I moved to New York City for five years. Then we spent a year in Nashville where the Music City won us over. But as that other saying goes: there is no place like home!

Almost three years ago we decided to make Michigan home sweet home once again. We settled on buying our first home in Birmingham and have fallen in love with the area ever since. We frequent many of the local downtown restaurants and having a brewery within walking distance is a beer filled dream come true.

Heading to downtown Detroit this night for a charity ball.

In the short six years we were away both of us were blown away by how far and delicious downtown Detroit has become! We have been many times checking out the concert scene, new restaurants that have not disappointed, and I even took my fear of heights head on and rode the elevator to the top of the Renaissance Center. Not saying I looked out of the all glass window, but hey I made it.

Of course our personal favorite Detroit spot is Greektown. We are partial because we got married there but they do have some of the best Greek food this side of the Atlantic. I have a huge list of hot new spots to try and my goal this year is to visit as many as I can.

:: My Life ::

While being a mother takes up most of my sanity and energy, outside of that my other title is mental health counselor. I run my own private counseling practice part time where I focus on women’s issues including pre and postnatal mental maternal mental health and parenting.

Seeing my name on my office door has been one of my proudest moments

I have known from a young age that being a therapist was my ultimate calling. I love the power, trust and challenge that comes from working closely with another person and motivating them to seek their potential and build strength from within.

As mothers we are pulled in so many directions but self-care is not a luxury, it really is a necessity. Being a therapist has given me a new appreciation for life and my own innate ability to make it great. I think talking to someone whether it is a counselor, girlfriend or even an online forum {or a blogging site dedicated to Detroit moms cough cough} reaching out and connecting with others is essential.

I am also a member of a few local philanthropic organizations. Being in the helping profession I feel like giving back makes me a happier person.

:: Babies & Beyond ::

Something about being married for 5 years without children gives grandmothers license to ask daily when a grandchild is coming! After her seemingly endless wait my mother finally got her wish and our son Knox (his name is an homage to our mother in law’s maiden name) was born in June of 2015.

Being a nanny for 10 plus years before having our own child, I figured I had the child-rearing thing down pat. Oh how wrong I was! It is a whole other beast when you don’t get to go home to a quiet house after a 9-hour shift and sleep until noon. It is said all the time but being a mom has given a purpose in life and a love so strong it feels like your heart is going to just explode every time you look at your child. It is by far the hardest, most world rocking, stressful thing I have ever taken on but I would never trade it for anything in this world.

One of my favorite candid shots ever. I cherish these snuggles.

I am looking forward to joining the Detroit Moms Blog team to connect with the readers and hopefully make someone laugh and realize they are not alone in this journey. I am hoping my experience as a counselor can be helpful and my experience as a frazzled mom can be relatable. I am looking forward to writing and getting to know everyone!

Learning to Trust My Gut With a Growing Belly

By

Heather Todero

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March 13, 2017

It was an ordinary day in September when I felt like I needed to stop and pick up a pregnancy test on my way home. This wasn’t uncommon for me, I peed on many a stick while trying to conceive our first and early on when we decided we were ready for #2. I didn’t think it would be positive, we had stopped “trying” and hadn’t pursued the hormones we used to get the two pink lines the first time around. I listened to my instincts though and stopped at the dollar tree and bought 10 tests, I may as well stock up again, right? I took a test as soon as we got home and instantly there were two lines. I was shocked, but then again I wasn’t. I had a feeling that it would be, I had just doubted my instincts could be right.

I scheduled an appointment with my doctor, who had been my provider with my first, because she was easy to get in with and I needed to confirm if I was 6 weeks or possibly 3 months along; irregular cycles are confusing like that. In my gut though I knew I needed to find someone else if I was going to get my vaginal birth after c-section (VBAC) that I longed for. But I didn’t listen to my instinct with that and back to the old I went.

Weeks passed, I scheduled my husband and I for a five week hypnobirthing course, hired a doula, and finally couldn’t avoid that voice in my head saying “make the call!” over and over again. And so, 25 weeks along, at lunch when my stomach was growling, I listened to my gut instinct as well as my hunger pangs. I called a midwife and made an appointment. I anxiously awaited my appointment and as soon as I got into that room I felt relaxed and empowered. Ready to ask all the questions I failed to ask my previous doctor because I already knew her answers wouldn’t sit well with my instincts. And so I asked, and overwhelmingly heard “yes, Yes, YES!”

My mother always told me that when you have a baby your instincts kick in like some internal switch is flipped and you know what to do. I did feel like with many aspects of parenting in the past 2 1/2 years that has been true but I’ve also learned I have to make sure to get out of my head to get in touch with those instincts. A few things I’m focused on this time around are:

To stop glorifying the anxiety. If you Google any parenting question you are sure to find forum after forum of women who all have one thing in common: anxiety. They are worried about everything and if you aren’t worried about it they are worried about you too. We thrive on fear but fear locks us into place rather than giving us the freedom to enjoy our decisions. I’m trying to make the conscious decision to let go of at least the little worries, then build to the bigger ones. The hope is that when a legitimate problem arises I will have practiced separating the anxiety from the problem solving and be able to take action to a solution much more quickly.

Breathe deeply. When I can’t get through the anxiety right away, I have learned to take several deep breathes. Focusing on breathing forces my mind and body to relax, it’s also a great coping skill to model for our kids.

Ask myself the questions first, and listen to the answers. When I’m afraid of the answer I am going to get from someone else, I ask that question aloud to myself. I play through the conversation, if I don’t get the response I want to hear, there’s a good chance I already know the response I’ll get from the other person. Then I can either ask the question to the person and confirm my instinct or choose to find someone else to ask my questions too. When I knew my OB wasn’t going to be fully supportive, I didn’t ask. When I knew my midwife was supportive I asked even more questions!

Limit advice seeking. Or at least who I am seeking advice from. Dr. Google and parenting groups on Facebook can be helpful at times but the are also full of fear mongering and side-taking. I’ve learned I will always search but that I need to do my reading then sit with that information for a while to see what conclusion I naturally come to. If I have to ask, I pick one or two very trusted individuals and run my ideas past them first before soliciting their advice.

Here we are, just a couple short months until we meet this sweet boy, and now I’m learning to listen more. Do I need to sleep more? What foods are going to enhance the way I feel and the health of the baby? What does my husband need for this delivery? What does my toddler really need from me? I’m asking the questions that I had avoided, but instead of discomfort, I’m feeling stronger, more confident, empowered. Far more prepared and feeling like I’m headed for success. Turns out my ever growing gut is a pretty smart lady if I take the time to listen to her and trust the instincts that nature has put there for a reason.

Moms Night Out: DMB Barre Crawl {Tickets On Sale}

By

aubreymoon

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March 13, 2017

Mark your calendars, moms.

Buy Tickets

Our second annual Moms Night Out: “Barre Crawl” Edition will take place on Friday, March 24 from 7-9PM at The Walton Shoppes in Rochester Hills. Grab your best mom-friend for this fun-filled night out at Lolë Rochester & The Barre Code!

The night will begin at Lolë Rochester, a locally and mom-owned activewear boutique made just for women. Lolë stands for “Live Out Loud Everyday,” and that’s something that we at Detroit Moms Blog can stand behind. We’ll be sipping, snacking and shopping amongst their latest collection, which features pieces like barre, yoga, crossfit and pilates attire, swimwear & accessories {ahem, who’s ready for a new Spring Break bathing suit}, and a lifestyle collection that will have you planning your next MNO to show it off!

After a little shopping spree, we’ll walk next door to The Barre Code for a 50 minute strength training class. Whether you’re currently a “barre star” or you’ve been wanting to try it – this event is for YOU! The class will leave inspired and ready to be your best self! The Barre Code gives you the small studio feel and personal attention you deserve; You aren’t just a number.

Barre workouts have become super popular in our area and for good reason. Lindsay and Janelle, co-owners of The Barre Code in Birmingham, Rochester Hills and Royal Oak, are passionate about bringing this low-impact, full-body workout, designed specifically for women, to as many clients as possible. Barre Code classes designed to build lean muscle, stamina and endurance, while working the areas women tend struggle with the most: arms, abs, thighs and of course our “seat.” The Barre Code offers eight classes to choose from; Workouts that combine cardio {HIIT}, strength training, and restoration to create a comprehensive workout unlike anything else.

Leave your skinny jeans and booties at home for this Mom’s Night Out; Think yoga pants and messy buns! DMB’s Barre Crawl is an event for grown-ups only.

Come ready to shop, sweat and laugh with your fellow Detroit mamas! Plus, you’ll have the opportunity to connect with some great local {you know we love local} businesses, take home a swag bag of goodies, and enter to win a few giveaways you’re sure to love.

When: Friday, March 24th from 7-9PM
Where: The Walton Shoppes —
Lole Rochester – 1266 Walton Blvd., Rochester Hills, 48307
The Barre Code Rochester Hills – 1260 Walton Blvd., Rochester Hills, 48307
Cost: $20

Last year’s event sold out quickly so be sure to purchase your tickets now!

Buy Tickets

Introducing Alysha Boyle: A Brighton Mom

By

alyshaboyle

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March 12, 2017

Introducing Alysha!

:: Down With Detroit ::

Hi, everybody! I grew up in Linden, a small town about an hour northwest of Detroit. I grew up surrounded by lakes and farmland and dirt roads and it was magnificent. Well except driving to school past those farmlands and having to hold your breath to avoid inhaling the obnoxious smell of all things cow. But anywho, I loved growing up there. After graduating high school I went to Michigan State University and graduated with a degree in Medical Technology in 2010. Nerd alert!

My parents are high school sweethearts from Redford, so we are tried and true Detroit fans. My dad is the quintessential sports fanatic and happily cheers on the Tigers, Lions, Pistons and Red Wings through each season. By and far though, we’re hockey fans. Some of my favorite childhood memories involve going downtown with my dad to Joe Louis Arena and watching the Red Wings with him. It didn’t happen often because I’m the oldest of 4 and my younger brother somehow always managed to weasel his way into going to the games, but when it was my turn it was always really special.

:: My Life ::

It shouldn’t come as a surprise that my husband, Alex, is an avid hockey fan himself. We met at our local church, 2|42 Community Church, when I emailed him with a lame question about the church hockey league. My husband clearly saw that email for what it was (bologna) and asked me out on our first date shortly after. He recalls he knew I was the one when about halfway into our date I asked him if he would turn on the TV because there was a Red Wings game on. Seven months later we were engaged and we were married six months after that on a sunny & cold day in February 2012.

What else would we have done for our engagement pictures? Hockey, baby!

:: Babies & Beyond ::

In January 2013 we became parents with the arrival of our firstborn, Tristan, and despite a year of extreme sleep deprivation we were excited to quickly expand our family again. Life doesn’t always work out as planned though and instead we found ourselves with an infertility diagnosis after 3 consecutive miscarriages. God is so faithful because in September 2015 we welcomed our second baby boy, Ethan. Our boys are little hockey fanatics themselves and my 4-year-old recently entered into the world of hockey, so we spend a good amount of time each week at the local ice arena. It has always been my dream to be a hockey mom, and I love every minute of it, even the early rink times on Saturday mornings.

When I’m not cluttering my Instagram or Facebook feed with #momfails of the day, I’m usually at our church getting my Crossfit on. You read that right – our church has a Crossfit gym INSIDE our building. It’s crazy awesome. I mostly love going because I get to socialize with friends, and I tend to forgot that I actually do have to workout more than just my jaw. I’m not a naturally athletic person, so I didn’t anticipate falling in love with the sport as much as I have. Please take note that just because I love it does NOT mean I’m good at it. I joke that the coaches have the prescribed weight and then the weight that Alysha uses. I also love running with friends on the weekends, feeding my research happy obsession for all things related to essential oils and eating dark chocolate by the ton. Oh, and napping. I could be a professional napper. Unfortunately my oldest does not share his mother’s love for napping, so naps are becoming few and far between. Which leads me to my last and final obsession – coffee. Black coffee. Cold black coffee, because that’s just life with kids.

So that’s me in a nutshell! My life is chaotic and wonderful and I’m loving every minute of this crazy journey of motherhood and looking forward to joining you all on this journey. I hope you’re all ready to hear about endless amounts of hockey, chocolate and coffee!

My motley crew cheering on the Tigers last summer!

Introducing Christina Wincek: A Birmingham Mom

By

christinawincek

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March 11, 2017

Introducing Christina!

:: Down With Detroit ::

As a transplant to the Detroit suburbs, I fought the housewife life tooth and nail. I wasn’t ready to call it quits in the cool department when we arrived from Los Angeles 4 years ago, so I thank my lucky stars for the rebirth of Detroit. While I love the quaint and simple nature of Birmingham, there’s something about the grit of the big city that calls to me. Thankfully, the whole family likes to hustle harder, so they’re always up for an adventure.

We escape to downtown Detroit nearly every weekend, and on weekdays when we can’t take another morning of open gym. Saturdays are market days, and if we can keep the kids held over long enough with fresh cherries or peas, we hit up Batch Brewing Company for a game of Candyland and a brewski. If they need to stretch their legs after a long wagon ride, you can find us running amuck in the back of Mercury Bar, scarfing down tots and burgers. In the summer my kids are the ones trying to strip down to their birthday suits at the Riverwalk splash pad or dancing the day away at Reading & Rhythm on the Riverfront.

I’m not allowed to play because I cheat.

I secretly wish I could live downtown, but settle for a 20 minute zip down Woodward. The access to art, culture, music, food really is world class. Plus we get to expose our children to diversity, get out of our comfort zones and homogeneous communities. It’s a Motor City melting pot!

:: My Life ::

I’ve lived a bit of a gypsy existence since the moment my parents let me run away to college. I traded in my suburban New York bubble for jazz and food in New Orleans. After 4 years of business school, beads and bliss, I packed it up and made my way back to New York City for a job in the fashion world where I was exposed to some incredible women in business. I capitalized on my first job, my own apartment and my own money by plowing my way through NYC like everyone in their mid-20’s should, not a care in the world. Four years later I was tired. So I retired.

Why would I have two hands if I was only supposed to carry one drink?

Okay, so I didn’t ACTUALLY retire, but decided to move to California, which is like the same thing. I gave my two week notice and moved to Hermosa Beach to find a simpler life. Then 2008 happened and the rug was pulled out from under me as it was for so many young people. Fate intervened and I helped open a boutique in Santa Monica. I got to learn the ins and outs of small business during one of the toughest times in the American economy.

Time came to slow my roll and find me a man. Dating when you’re a busy bee can be near impossible, so I signed up for eHarmony. Keep in mind, this was back in the day when people still laughed at you if you decided to date online. It was on the world wide web that I met my husband, Chris. On our fourth date I told him I loved him and was going to marry him, and six weeks later we moved in together. He’s been stuck with me ever since.

It has always been his dream to work in the auto industry and he’s a pretty smart dude, so he got the job he’s always wanted and we moved to Michigan in 2013. I’m still finding my rhythm as a work-from-home mom, picking up design and marketing work as my schedule allows, but there are bigger things in store. I feel like a Goonie, “He’s got to do what’s right for him, because it’s his time, his time up there. But it’s my time, MY TIME down here.” Stay tuned.

:: Babies and Beyond ::

I gave birth to my oldest daughter, Sloane, 2 months after moving to Michigan. 16 months later, we did it all over again and Drew came along. To answer your question, yes, it was on purpose.

Don’t let them fool you. #onceinalifetime

My kids are total opposites and best buds. It was my master plan to have them close together – once the little one could hang, I was off the hook as primary playmate. Sloane is skeptical, inquisitive, creative and focused. Drew is loud, hilarious, eager to please and never. stops. smiling. Each came out of the womb the same way they are today, and we hope they never change. I feel so lucky that I get to engage with these tiny humans every day.

In our 4 years here we’ve lived in 3 houses, had 2 kids, and gone on one vacation that wasn’t to visit family. I’m looking forward to us getting into more of a groove and settling in to Detroit. I mean, come on, a place that lays claim to a hot dog with chili on it?? Count me in.

Pretending unicorns and mermaids are real for just a teeeeeeny bit longer…

Introducing Allyson Dunn: A Livonia Mom

By

allysondunn

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March 9, 2017

Introducing Allyson!

:: Down with Detroit ::

I grew up in Livonia…and currently live there! Most my family lives in the area still. Except for my siblings, who are in NYC and Australia. When growing up, we loved spending days with my grandparents who would take us on adventures in downtown Detroit. One of our favorites was when grandma would take all the cousins to the “Peanut Butter Players” theater. I cannot tell you how much we loved going to the fancy theater, eating lunch and getting to meet the actors after! We probably saw twenty different variations of The Wizard of Oz. We loved visiting my grandma at work in the Ren Cen, walking around in awe at the tall buildings. We would explore Belle Isle, and drive around Indian Village.

When we were very young, my mom worked for Little Caesars. Red Wings ruled our house. Not to mentioned the undying support of the Detroit Lions. My favorite, then was heading to Tiger Stadium to watch the Tigers play! Even now, catching the bus from Nemo’s to head over the Comerica is one of my favorite things to do. It is something my son and I do as much as we can. Exploring Greektown with friends, is a close second. (Who can say no the restaurants there?!)

Beyond spending time at Comerica, we love exploring The Henry Ford and Greenfield Village, another one of my favorite places! We have memberships there and at the Detroit Zoo. Both get used frequent year long use! During the warmer weather, you can find us in downtown Northville at Rebecca’s Restaurant, the Next Chapter Bookstore, farmers market or Mill Race Village. Like most in the area, we love everything downtown Plymouth as to offer, from the various 5K’s, festivals and Saturday farmers markets.

:: My Life ::

I attended Madonna University for my undergrad and now for my master’s degrees, both in education. I am so close to finishing my Educational Specialist degree in Educational Leadership. In the past, I taught middle school social studies. I am so passionate about social studies! I never thought I would teach middle school, but love it. Currently, I am lucky to teach kindergarten through eighth grade, as technology teacher in Detroit. Teaching multiple grade levels can be a challenge, but I love that I get to interact with all the students at the school.

One way I am a bit different than most the mama’s here is that I am a single mom. And . . . whoa the challenges that brings. It can be struggle to be the sole parent. I must depend on others, while trying my best to do it all myself. It has taken a long time to understand my worth, build confidence and trust others again.

:: Babies and Beyond ::

I was the first of my friends to have a baby. I am still the only mom in the group. Trying to balance my friend’s social priorities along with my mom priorities can be a difficult balance. They are dating and planning weddings, while I am shuffling schedules and lesson plans. Thankfully for the most part they are understanding about the struggle!

Outside of work and school I spend most of my time taking care of my son, Mason. He is a very active eight-year-old! He has a heart of pure gold and is smart beyond belief. Within the last year he was diagnosed with ADD. He does take medication for this, which was a great internal debate of mine. For right now, for him, it was the right choice. We are still working everyday to support him, helping him to be the best student and friend he can be.

He loves going up north, swimming, soccer, karate and baseball. We love to plan getaways to Sleeping Bear Dunes, Mackinaw Island, and Great Wolf Lodge. During the summer we spend most of our time hanging out by the pool!

One of my biggest priorities outside of “momming” is fitness. My son and I love our membership at Lifetime Fitness. He loves his swim classes and the child center. (He literally knows everyone there . . . my social butterfly!) I love the group fitness classes. From weight intervals to yoga, and my favorite kickboxing. In addition to group fitness, I run online accountability groups for programs such as Core De Force, Body Beast, and 21 Day Fix. I love being able to share what works for me with others. Helping others find their passion for fitness is a love of mine!

If any spare time is left after fitness and mommy duties, I love to fashion, podcast, current events and reading. I blog about all those things, and more over at: http://www.allymama.com

Connect with me on Instagram and Twitter: @allysonp85

Introducing Stacie Cooper: A Warren Mom

By

staciecooper

-

March 9, 2017

Introducing Stacie!

:: Down with Detroit ::

I grew up in a small farming community in the thumb area, with less than one hundred in my graduating class. It is a far cry from my current residence of Warren, the third largest city in Michigan. I am constantly in awe of the diversity and culture I am surrounded by because that was not something I grew up with.

My husband Bill and I love being in such close proximity to a variety of activities and events for our daughters. We have a family membership to the Warren Community Center which has an amazing pool for the kids, gym, and library. Our family can usually be found at the Detroit Zoo once a week, even through the winter! We usually head downtown once or twice a month to go to Belle Isle and the Outdoor Adventure Center. It is great having such kid-friendly, affordable options so close to home.

Before we had children we attended a lot of sporting events as well, and hope to get back to that once the girls are a little older.

:: My Life ::

The summer after graduating high school I met Bill online. We exchanged emails daily and after a few months I made the long nine hour drive up to the western Upper Peninsula to meet him. Was it the smartest decision I have ever made? Probably not, but it turned out to be the best. I spent two years at Oakland University before transferring to Northern Michigan University in Marquette to live with Bill. I graduated with a Bachelors of Fine Arts in Photography from NMU in 2009. Before graduating I had already decided on a new path, so I stayed in Marquette and took more classes before being accepted to the Sinai-Grace Hospital School of Radiologic Technology. Talk about culture shock. After living in Marquette, on the shore of Lake Superior, for almost four years, we packed everything up and moved to Livonia. We went from a laid back, artsy college town to a fast paced, diverse city.

In January 2011 Bill proposed to me along the Riverwalk in downtown Detroit. We were married in August 2012 in Munising, MI. The plan was for the ceremony to be at Pictured Rocks National Lakeshore, but a torrential downpour pushed us under a gazebo at the city park. It was small, family only. Bill’s aunt became ordained to perform our ceremony. It was us, and it was perfect.

After graduating from Sinai-Grace in 2012, I accepted a position at the hospital and have worked myself up to a Lead Technologist position. I feel like my job allows me to see a side of Detroit that a lot of people will never experience. Working in Northwest Detroit has opened my eyes to things I never imagined. Anyone who works in healthcare knows that we often see people at their lowest points. Working in Radiology, many times we are the first to confirm injuries, and to what extent they have damaged the body. We see fractures daily, caused by falls, motor vehicle accidents and gun shot wounds. I’ve seen Detroiter’s at their weakest, most vulnerable moments. I hear their agonizing cries down the hallway when the doctor breaks the news that our best efforts were not good enough – we could not bring their loved one back. I won’t lie and say it doesn’t take its toll. Unfortunately you actually become a little callous to it all, yet day in and day out we give it our all every time.

:: Babies and Beyond ::

After getting married we had an amazing honeymoon in Hawaii. I knew before we came home that I was pregnant. Our beautiful Brianna arrived in June of 2013, on my grandfather’s birthday. She was every first parents dream. She slept through the night at 8 weeks old, was never fussy with teething, and loves her fruits and veggies. Just a month shy of Brianna turning 2.5, we completed our family by welcoming Brooklyn in November 2015. She barely waited for the doctor to arrive before making her entrance, and she has made her presence known every moment since then. She is basically the opposite of her big sister in most aspects, but I cannot imagine life any other way at this point. I feel so blessed to be their mommy.

Perhaps my favorite thing ever about Detroit is that both of my daughters were born in Mid-town, and I could not be more thankful for that.

As our daughters grow, we are trying our best to give them experiences that we didn’t have. We have family in the Upper Peninsula and Chicago, so we try to visit as often as possible. We try to get outside and enjoy nature whenever we can. When we are stuck inside (LONG Michigan winters…) we do a lot of crafts, read a lot of books and love to watch Disney movies.

Introducing Sarah!

:: Down with Detroit ::

:: My Life ::

:: Babies & Beyond ::

Introducing Candice!

:: Down With Detroit ::

:: My Life ::

:: Babies & Beyond ::

Introducing Kelly!

:: Down with Detroit ::

:: My Life ::

:: Babies & Beyond ::

Mark your calendars, moms.

When: Friday, March 24th from 7-9PM Where: The Walton Shoppes — Lole Rochester – 1266 Walton Blvd., Rochester Hills, 48307 The Barre Code Rochester Hills – 1260 Walton Blvd., Rochester Hills, 48307 Cost: $20

Introducing Alysha!

:: Down With Detroit ::

:: My Life ::

What else would we have done for our engagement pictures? Hockey, baby!

:: Babies & Beyond ::

My motley crew cheering on the Tigers last summer!

Introducing Christina!

:: Down With Detroit ::

:: My Life ::

:: Babies and Beyond ::

Introducing Allyson!

:: Down with Detroit ::

:: My Life ::

:: Babies and Beyond ::

Introducing Stacie!

:: Down with Detroit ::

:: My Life ::

:: Babies and Beyond ::

In + Around Detroit

When: Friday, March 24th from 7-9PM
Where: The Walton Shoppes —
Lole Rochester – 1266 Walton Blvd., Rochester Hills, 48307
The Barre Code Rochester Hills – 1260 Walton Blvd., Rochester Hills, 48307
Cost: $20