August Mama of the Month
Hey Mamas!
I’m Stephanie, mama to 10-month-old William and wife to Matt. We are from Minnesota and have recently been stationed here in Norfolk. In my past life, before becoming a mom, I worked in many different roles in the early childhood field. I love watching littles grow! I now stay home with my favorite little human on the planet.
Matt and I met in high school and reconnected many years later while he was stationed in San Diego, and I had moved there to finish my student teaching. He eventually decided to leave the Navy and we moved back to Minnesota so he could pursue his Bachelor's degree and be closer to family. We got married in the Bahamas in 2017. Once he finished school he decided he missed the Navy, (what?!) so back in he went! This last year has been a whirlwind, as life in the Navy usually is.
After having William, I was researching different mom & baby things we could get involved in. I found FIT4MOM and I am so grateful I did! I joined while still in Minnesota. As soon as we arrived in Norfolk, I reached out to Caitlin.
I’ve enjoyed staying active since college when I fractured my pelvis and realized, I have this amazing body that can move! I never want to take that for granted. However, I never realized how much I needed exercise for my mental health as well until I had William. Joining FIT4MOM has helped me get through postpartum depression and anxiety that really peaked when the pandemic started. After being alone with a newborn for months, moving across the country, Matt’s crazy work schedule and then a global pandemic, I just about crumbled. I was so grateful for the virtual workouts. Seeing everyone’s smiling face really helped me not feel so alone.
From my first class, I have felt welcomed and cared for. Not only has Stroller Strides helped me lose thirty pounds and counting, it has given me reassurance that I am never alone. Thank you for accepting me into your community and listening to my story. See you in class!
XO,
Stephanie
