Smarty Mom: Danielle Gonzalez

Smarties, I’m thrilled to introduce you to today’s Smarty Mom, Danielle Gonzalez! Danielle is the newest member of the CSP blogging team and we can’t wait for you to get to know her and her sweet baby, Zoey. Danielle is a stay-at-home mom who will be documenting her parenting journey in the QC. From play dates to park dates to lunches at the hippest millenial mom spot, Mayobird – Danielle will be sharing every second all while Baby Zoey is literally attached to her body in her Boba baby wrap!

Smarties, let’s get to know Danielle Gonzalez!

Danielle’s Smarty Mom Stats:

Mom of: Zoey Isabella; 7 months
Years married: 1
Years in Charlotte: 16; 1 in Fort Mill
Hometown: Moved 10 times then landed in Charlotte.

Tell us about your pregnancy and birthing experience.

I was almost two weeks overdue and had a doula-assisted birth. I labored for 18 hours without meds, 18 with meds. Pushed for four hours and had an emergency c section. It was AWESOME (not).

What were your biggest fears in becoming a mom?

ALL. THE. THINGS. (Seriously, everything).

What surprised you the most about becoming a mom?

I knew things would change, but I was completely unprepared for how much EVERY SINGLE aspect of my life would change.

What was your best piece of advice from other moms?

Go with your gut. Don’t feel “bullied” into taking unsolicited mommy advice. You know your child, you know what he/she needs, so, TRUST your maternal instincts.

What does a typical day look like for you?

We are a “go with the flow” family. I’m a SAHM, so I’m always trying new activities and finding new places to explore with my little one. I still breastfeed on demand so, where I go, Zoey goes. A typical day would include at least two adventures away from home, lots of music, baby-wearing, and creating opportunities for Zoey to learn through play and investigation.

Where do millennial moms hang out during the day?

It would definitely depend on the “type” of mom. I typically invite other moms for “meet-ups” outside of home: stroll through the park (or mall, since this summer has been awfully hot), meet for brunch, baby yoga, museums, etc. We also keep pretty busy running errands, as I’m sure most moms do.

Favorite play date spot?

Home 💖 I love hosting play dates and attending play dates!!! I love being able to be authentic with other mommies, and that’s easiest to do at home. It’s always reassuring to hear that I’m not the only one who feels overwhelmed by the challenges that come with motherhood.

Favorite baby activity?

Yoga, Art, or Music

Favorite piece of baby gear?

My Boba Wrap! It’s awesome for comfortable baby wearing AND nursing on the go. 👍🏻

Favorite park?

Anne Springs Greenway

Favorite baby product?

Right now, I’m loving my Quinny BuzzXtra Stroller!!!

Favorite baby clothing line for girls?

Ohhhhmergossshhhh!!!! Fashion is my fave. I feel like I find a new one each week! My recent favorites would have to be “House of Mia” and “Spearmint Baby”. Although, “The Bizzi B” and “Happy Tuesday Signs” on Etsy are my go-to’s recently if I want fun/custom things.

Favorite date night spot?

If going out is the plan, you could find us in NODA, probably sitting in the Muse listening to local artists, sipping local brews.

What do you hope to bring to Charlotte Smarty Pants readers?

Authenticity. I’m a pretty transparent person and I honestly wish someone would have been completely “real” with me about mommy-hood, not just given me a “highlight reel”. That, and humor…because in being real, I can also be really funny.