I am excited to introduce Smarty Mom Marie Cain. We met in the infant room at our kids’ daycare. Our first kids are just months apart and our second kids are only a year apart. It’s been nice to see Marie day in and day out at daycare and get to know her as the amazing working mama she is! This is one fun and dedicated Smarty Mom. She always keeps her cool – even after dropping off baby number two for the first time. Today she gives us a little insider info for any other working moms that are getting ready to head back into the workforce. Let’s get to know Marie!
Smarty Mom: Marie Cain
Married to: Patrick
Children: Evan (4 years) and Maxwell (9 months)
Years in Charlotte: It’s hard for me to believe but it will be 10 years this fall!
Originally from: Buffalo, NY
Occupation: Environmental Heal Plans Examiner – I review proposed plans of restaurants before they are constructed to ensure that they will be built to comply with NC food code regulations.
Tell us a little about your family.
My husband Patrick and I will be celebrating our 6 year anniversary this September. We originally met our freshman year of college in Erie, PA but didn’t actually start dating until 7 years after that. We got married in Buffalo in 2010 and Evan was born less than 2 years later. Now we have added Max to our family and life is crazy busy between the boys and work, but I wouldn’t have it any other way. 
What was it like going back to work after each baby?
Bittersweet for sure. It was hard to leave them both but at the same time it was exciting to get back out into the world and continue working.
What was the biggest challenge in going back to work?
When I went back to work after both of my kids, I was in a different position where I worked out in the field versus being in an office setting. Every day I was in different restaurants in a different part of town. Finding the time and a place to pump several times a day was a huge challenge.
Why do you love being a working mama?
I love working because it makes being a mom even more rewarding. I love to seeing the excited looks on their faces when I get home. There’s nothing better than a big hug and lots of kisses from my boys after a long day at work.
What’s a “must-have” of being a full-time working mom? i.e. shared calendar? A super amazing carry-all-my-stuff tote?
Post it notes. I’m always thinking of something that I need to do or something that I need to pick up at the store. They are so convenient to help me remember everything.
What’s your advice for other Smarties getting ready to go back to work?
Just relax and try to enjoy both lives – home and work. Work hard so you can get home to play hard with your kids.
What’s your favorite kiddie activity in the Queen City?
We really like to go to all of the different festivals and seasonal events around the city. There’s always a kid friendly festival or activity to check out.
What is your ideal date night?
Dinner (nothing fancy) and some sort of fun activity – live music, bowling, art show
What is your favorite spot in the QC?
It’s a toss up between either Freedom Park or the shoe section of Dillards at the Southpark Mall. Freedom park is beautiful and I love being outside but I also really love shoes!
SUV or Minivan?
SUV for sure. Although, I hear that once you get a minivan, you’ll wonder why you didn’t get one sooner!
Favorite Smarty phone app?
Shopular. They have coupons for almost every store all in one convenient place on your phone.
Where do you see yourself in 10 years?
Honestly, I’m not really good at planning. I have a lot of ideas and dreams but I really just prefer to see how life unfolds and take it day by day.
I could not live without ….
As cliché as it might sound, my husband Patrick. I truly cannot picture life without him. He is my partner in crime and fun. He helps keep me grounded and sane. He’s also the cook in our family so he makes sure I eat well too!
