Celebrating Wilden Moms

What is the most rewarding aspect of being a mom?
Being a mom is the best part of my life. Learning and living through the eyes of young children opens you up to so much beauty in the world and of other people. Being a parent also teaches you a lot about your own strengths and weaknesses, and hopefully is motivation to be the best version of oneself!

How do you balance motherhood with other responsibilities and interests?
It is really important for mothers to spend quality time with their kids and try to “park” other responsibilities and mental loads.  It is also super important for moms to hold onto their own identities and pursue their own passions and interests – it is good for kids to see too that the world doesn’t always revolve around them!

What does Mother’s Day mean to you?
A day of the year on which mothers are honoured by their children. Whether it’s biological children,  stepchildren or fur children.

How do you like to celebrate Mother’s Day?
A walk on the Wilden trails with my fur child. Simple…

What is the most rewarding aspect of being a dog mom?
The pure joy of giving a dog a good, loving, home. To see your dog happy all the time warms my heart.

What is the most challenging part about being a dog mom?
Work schedules. I had a dog (Jessi) for almost 17 years. It took a village to raise him as my work schedule could be demanding. With Barley, our new pup, who we adopted at 8 months, I stepped down from my position as a surgical director so I can be home more and spend more time with him.

How do you recharge?
Yoga, golf, tennis & walking the beautiful Wilden trails.

How do you like to celebrate Mother’s Day?
With my mom and the whole big family under the cherry tree in my mom’s yard while enjoying a potluck brunch with lots of homemade cake.

What is the most rewarding aspect of being a mom?
The greatest reward of being a parent of grown-up kids is having this deep connection to the next generation and the understanding that comes with it. Every generation has a different reality, different values and their own ideas for a good life. I keep learning from my kids.

Has motherhood changed you as a person? 
Becoming a mom almost 30 years ago was the biggest change I ever went through. Before that I often felt lost and unclear about the future, but as a mom I never wondered again what my purpose might be. Meanwhile this has turned into an even bigger concern that goes beyond the wellbeing of my kids and grandkids. I’m caring a lot about the future in general because I care so much about all the young people in my life.

What does Mother’s Day mean to you?
To me, Mother’s Day is a special occasion to celebrate the incredible journey of motherhood. It’s a day to honor the hard work and sacrifices that moms put into raising their children and to reflect on the joys and challenges that come with it. It’s a reminder to appreciate the unconditional love and dedication that moms show every day. Mother’s Day also reminds me of the importance of self-care and self-love. As moms, we often prioritize our children’s needs over our own, but it’s essential to take time for ourselves. It’s a day to encourage moms to celebrate their unique journey through motherhood and for family members to take a moment to appreciate all that they do.

What is the most rewarding aspect of being a mom?
The joy and fulfillment that comes from watching my children grow and develop, and the unconditional love and bond that I share with them. I also cherish the small, everyday moments of motherhood, such as snuggles, laughter, and shared experiences, as some of the most rewarding aspects. Being a mom is about embracing the imperfections and finding beauty in the messy, chaotic, and unpredictable moments of parenting. There is also a sense of purpose and fulfillment that comes from being able to guide and shape my kids’ lives, and to watch them become happy, healthy, and compassionate individuals.

Has motherhood changed you as a person?
Motherhood has profoundly affected my life and identity, both emotionally and physically, and has pushed me to confront my strengths and weaknesses. This experience has provided me with a deeper understanding of the world around me and the lasting consequences of our collective choices on future generations. It has also allowed me to appreciate the beauty and wonder of everyday life, as I witness the world and experience firsts through my children’s’ eyes

How do you balance motherhood with other responsibilities and interests?
As a working mom that loves to volunteer and has three active kids in various activities, finding balance is a constant juggling act. I am always doing my best to set boundaries and be intentional with my time and energy to ensure that everyone’s needs are met.

What does Mother’s Day mean to you?
It’s a special day to celebrate and appreciate mother figures in my life including my own mom, Nonna and Grandma. All three women helped to shape the person I am today and I am so lucky to have them each in my life. Bonus, I am a mom myself to two beautiful daughters and I feel so blessed to be their mama.

How do you like to celebrate Mother’s Day?
Waking up to coffee and breakfast in bed with my girls. Bonus if there is a croissant from Sprout on the menu.

What is the most rewarding aspect of being a mom?
The unconditional love and deep bond I share with my girls. Watching them reach milestones in their lives, share stories with me, and find joy in the simple things of life, is all rewarding to me. I know how much of an impact I will have on helping to share their lives in a positive way. Seeing them mold into confident, happy, and kind girls brings me so much joy.

Has motherhood changed you as a person?
Yes, it has made me realize there is absolutely nothing more important in my life than my kids and that I would do anything for them. They give me purpose to be the best role model for them, and support their own individual interests and passions, and make sure I can provide them with the life they want to live.

How do you balance motherhood with other responsibilities and interests?
This is the hardest thing about being a mom- trying to find the balance between kids, responsibilities, my career, my own business, and everything else life throws my way. I am still trying to figure this out, but lists, my agenda, and my incredible husband’s help!

How do you restore your energy?
I find focusing on self-care and doing things for “me” is the best way to recharge. I go to a fitness class, or do a hike up Knox, grab a coffee, spend time with friends, or try a new recipe for dinner (I love to cook!)…alongside a local glass of BC wine to end the day, of course.