How long have you lived in the Shawnee Area why did you choose to live here?
We lived in the Shawnee area for about 6 years before moving further South to Spring Hill. We loved our time living there and enjoyed being so close to everything and downtown as well!
How many children do you have and what are their age(s)?
I have two boys, ages 3 years and 1 year (April 8th birthday)
What is your favorite part about motherhood?
This is a hard question because I love so many things about motherhood. It took us awhile to start our family, so when I finally became a mom, it was such a dream come true. I love watching my boys explore and learn new things. I feel so much love and pride for them when they realize they are capable of doing something new. Being silly, reading books, going for walks, creating art, and spending time in nature are some of our favorite things to do together. It is so rewarding watching my kids enjoying things that I loved as a kid too. Being a mom is a constant bittersweet feeling. Wanting them to stay your baby forever, but at the same time, loving them more and more as they grow into each new stage of life. Being a mom is just the BEST.
What’s one thing people would be surprised to know about you?
When I was growing up, my dream was to become a professional soccer player! I haven’t played sports since my freshman year of high school, and most people don’t know about that part of my life! I actual played soccer year-round on the Shawnee Elite team and played on the Junior Varsity and Varsity Volleyball teams at my school!
Anyone special you’d like to thank for helping you with motherhood?
My best friend of many years, Angela. She has been there since before either of us had kids, when it was just a dream for both of us. She is always there to listen and is always understanding and validating of whatever feelings I am having. She never judges and I love how we can talk about the hardest parts of motherhood and the best parts within the same conversation. We even went through pregnancy together (her youngest, my oldest) and they were born 15 days apart. We grew even closer during that time and I love that our kids get to grow up together. I know she will always be there. I can’t imagine doing this motherhood thing without her!
What is your favorite family activity in the Shawnee Area?
We loved going to the old Wonderscope (and love the new one in KC too!) We also frequently take our boys to Fritz’s (the train restaurant) off Shawnee Mission Parkway!
Are you involved in a business venture, a local organization, a creative endeavor, or in the corporate world? Please share!
I am the owner of my own small business, Creative Play KC LLC! I started it at the beginning of this year, and it has been so much fun. I create Sensory Play kits, playdough kits and homemade, scented playdough for kids! I have always had a creative spirit, so this outlet for my creativity has been amazing! Before starting this, I was always coming up with fun activities and sensory bins for my oldest son. All my friends would love when I would post and share about all the fun things we did, so I decided to start making them for others too! My background is in early childhood education, and I believe that learning through play is the best way! I am always coming up with fun new themes and love involving nature in my ideas as well. My website is up and running at www.creativeplaykc.com and I am always coming out with fun new play kits for kids of all ages! You can also follow along on social media @creativeplay_kc (Instagram) or search Creative Play KC on Facebook.
How do you juggle this venture, while being a mom?
It definitely has its challenges. Being a brand-new business owner, and mother of young kids, I am learning all the time. Finding a balance can be difficult, but luckily for me, my kids can get involved in what I do! They love playing with their Creative Play KC kits while I get work done! My husband is definitely helpful as well and often takes the boys outside to play when he gets home from work so I can have some uninterrupted work time.
How has this community been instrumental in getting you to where you are now?
I am still fairly new to this community, but I am grateful for the opportunity to share what I do and love with other moms.
