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Many of you have probably noticed by now that we have a pretty regular blog team and we’re super excited! We are 5-strong with guest bloggers on Saturdays. We will be introducing our “new” bloggers over the next few weeks on Smarty Mom Saturday so you can get to know them personally and hopefully look forward to their posts.
Jenny D’s vitals:
Married to incredible hubby, Brent, her high school sweet heart:-)
Kids: Zoe (3) and Annie (9 months)
Occupation: Advertising Guru and Incredible Working Mom
Lived here since: native Charlottean, born and raised!
CSP Blog day: Mondays
Jenny worked with Jen Bunich at their ad agency and they shared their lives as working moms while juggling a successful career. Jen B. admired her so much and spoke so highly of her work ethic and mommy insight on a regular basis. Jen B. watched Jenny pave the path as a working mom in advertising and was so excited to follow in her footsteps. We couldn’t be happier to have Jenny’s vibrant personality on CSP as well as creative flare. Meet Jenny D:
As a working woman and mother of two, how do you find the right balance between work and family?
I am very fortunate to have a reduced-hours schedule at work. I work Monday though Thursday. Having my Fridays off has been great. It allows me to get ready for the weekend. I run all of my errands, clean the house and do laundry. That way when Saturday rolls around, I can give my girls my undivided attention.
What is your favorite weekday activity with your kids?
During this time of year when the days are longer, I love to take the girls on walk after dinner. Sometimes my three-year-old decides to take her baby for a walk in her stroller. Other nights, she rides her bike and I push Annie in the stroller. I love when she rides her bike because it wears her out. It makes going to bed time a breeze.
What is your favorite weekend activity without your kids?
Playing golf or tennis with my husband. I love the opportunity to get some exercise and be competitive. Unfortunately, he always wins.
What is your favorite restaurant with kids?
We go to Eddie’s Place on a regular basis. It’s kid friendly and Zoe loves to order breakfast for dinner.
What is your favorite restaurant with NO kids?
Carpe Diem. My husband and I went there once in high school and we have been going ever since.
Funniest thing your kids have ever said to you?
A couple of weeks ago we sat down for dinner and Zoe turned to me and said, “Mom, let’s have a conversation.”
Favorite store to find children’s clothes?
I shop everywhere, The Gap, Gymboree, Janie and Jack, Target and Old Navy. I don’t think I have a favorite place.
Favorite place to get a good deal on clothes?
Mini Boden online sale. But you have to pay attention – by the time the catalog comes out most of the good stuff is gone. I am also fortunate to have a sister-in-law who has two girls. She handed down some beautiful clothes.
Favorite parks?
Plaza Midwood Park. We used to live in that neighborhood and I like to go back and look at all of the new houses on our way to the park.
Favorite birthday party venue?
Our neighborhood pool. Last summer, I was nine months pregnant when my daughter was celebrating her third birthday. I couldn’t imagine hosting a party at our house. So we invited everyone to the pool and ordered pizzas. It was perfect, no cleaning up the house beforehand or after.
Minivan or SUV?
SUV. I know Minivans are kid-friendly, but I still wanted an SUV.
Best thing about raising a family in Charlotte?
I grew up here, so it is fun to watch my girls experience some of the same places as I did.
I could not live without my…
husband. He travels a lot, but when he is home, he is extremely helpful. He does most of the cooking in our house which is wonderful. He is a very involved Dad and his girls just adore him.
I wish someone told me sooner about…
Preschool. I had no idea that you had to sign up at the beginning of the calendar year. I missed the sign-up and felt like a terrible mom. Luckily we got in our preferred place from a waiting list.
Best kept secret in Charlotte?
Charlotte Smarty Pants
Stay tuned to meet the rest of our blogger team! We also have some super-fun changes to the CSP site coming very soon…
