*All photos courtesy of Katie Smith Photography
“Be kind whenever possible. It is always possible.” Dalai Lama
Smarties, it’s my pleasure to introduce you to Smarty Mom, Annie Dixon. Annie is someone that epitomizes the word kindness. I see it in her parenting, her friendship, her work, and in her volunteerism. She truly serves as a reminder to us all that there is always a KIND way to do something. Annie also shows us that as moms, we can do it all. We can have 2 jobs, volunteer well, and be there for our families. Her secret in doing all of this well is that she takes good care of herself. Fitness is very important to Annie and she makes it a priority for both her mental and physical health. Not only does Annie exercise regularly, but she also inspires others to do the same in that she is an amazing cycle instructor. Annie’s energy and positive attitude truly make her classes tough and fun…just what you want. For those that know Annie, I know you’d agree that she is humble, gracious, caring, kind, enthusiastic, fun, & so much more. Enjoy getting to know more about Annie below.
Smarty Mom Stats:
Married to & years: Married to Steven Dixon for 16 years
Children (age): Ellie (12), Claire (10), Luke (7)
Hometown: Grew up in Charlotte; Went to St. Patrick’s Elementary & Charlotte Catholic High
Alma Mater: UNC-Chapel Hill
Years lived in Charlotte: Grew up in Charlotte and after Steven and I got married, we spent 2 years in NYC, and then 2 years in Davidson, NC; We have lived in Dilworth for the last 12 years.
Questions for you:
You are one Smarty Mom that has a lot of irons in the fire. I love it. You don’t let one thing stop you or hold you back. Share with us about your current jobs and how you manage them all.
I have a Masters in Speech-Language Pathology from UNC-Chapel Hill, specializing in pediatrics. I currently see children on a private basis treating a variety of speech impairments and communication disorders. I have always loved working with children, and I make sure that speech therapy is fun even when these kiddos are working hard and being productive!
I have been a spin instructor at CycleSouth in uptown Charlotte since it opened in January of 2016. Being a part of a private, family-owned business from its beginning has been life changing for me. CycleSouth has opened so many doors and introduced me to the most amazing riders and friends. We ride to the beat of the music. No computers, no leader boards, no competition… just a super fun way to get a great workout. It’s inspirational and for all fitness levels and ages. CycleSouth just started a Teen/Parent class on Sundays at 3:00pm. As a parent of “Tweens” we are all searching for ways to get our kids moving and off of those screens!
I’m not sure I manage all of my jobs well, but my number one priority is my family. Steven, Ellie, Claire, and Luke are my world. There are definite moments when I say to myself, “Wow, that was really not my best performance (as a mom) today.” However, I think that juggling opportunities that make us “whole” as parents whatever that may be (work, fitness, book clubs, etc) in addition to caring for our “peeps” will only make us better parents in the long run.
Has fitness always been apart of your life?
I have loved sports since I was young. I played softball, volleyball, and basketball for all 4 years of high school. All of my coaches played a role in shaping the fitness lover that I am today. I love the adrenaline rush of working to your edge and the satisfaction you feel when you finish. For me, exercise is not only important for my body but also my mental health. It keeps my anxiety tendencies in check, and I feel that I am a better mom because of it.
Why CycleSouth? Now, I know it’s SUPER fun because I have been, but what got you interested in CycleSouth so much to become an instructor?
When the owner of CycleSouth, Erica Fenlon, was in the initial planning stages, her sister, Lindsay Lambertson, and I were in a book club together. Erica’s whole family has played a huge role in making CycleSouth a reality. Knowing my love for fitness, Lindsay suggested that I train to be an instructor….so here I am!
I love it that you also still do what you trained in college to do, speech pathology, but I also love it that you’ve picked up new career interests too. I think as moms and women we struggle finding what we are meant to do sometimes. Any tips to share on how you’ve found the path your on?
Through God’s grace…. 🙂
You are also very generous with your volunteer time with your children’s sports, schools, church, & more. Share with us those things that are near to your heart.
Coaching basketball….well that just brings me great joy! First and foremost, Steven and I love coaching our own girls and getting to know all of their sweet friends. I love team sports and the confidence it builds. I love the pure joy you see when these girls sink a basket!
I also serve on the Children’s Missions Committee at Myers Park United Methodist Church where we are active members. My job is to find opportunities for our kids, grades K-5th to serve locally in Charlotte. On the first Sunday of every month during the school year, our MPUMC kids go to Loaves & Fishes, retirement communities, Urban Ministry, Stop Hunger Now, etc… These Sundays are meaningful service events for our kids to have fellowship with each other while serving the community at the same time. We are always on the lookout for additional volunteer opportunities!
Just for fun:
Favorite activity to do with your family at home and out & about: We always love a good game in our family….Family Ping Pong tournaments, Clue, Sorry, UNO, Bananagrams are some our our favs! We are also avid Clemson (Steven’s alma mater) and we go to almost every home game.
Go-to for Lunch: Luna’s Living Kitchen….definitely their Kale Ceasar Salad with a veggie burger on top!
Coffee or Tea or Soda Girl? Coffee addict! I love it with just a little bit of NutPod cream (Whole 30 approved and can be bought on Amazon); My fav coffee drink is an almond latte from Luna’s Living Kitchen.
Favorite Hobby: CycleSouth
Favorite TV Show: This is Us
Best Advice another mom ever gave you: Even though your days may be hectic, take the time to cuddle your children, no matter how old they are…..
Favorite Sport Team: Family Divided! Go Heels! Go Tigers!
App you couldn’t live without: Shazam – lets you save songs that you hear in the grocery store, in the mall, on the radio…wherever you are to your ITunes account and also tells you the name and artist of the song.
Best Book You’ve Read Recently: Emergence: Labeled Autistic – a true story by Dr. Temple Grandin that gives insight into the thoughts, feelings, and experiences of individuals with autistic spectrum disorder.
Favorite Thing about Summer: I love the slower pace of summer. I love the longer days and hosting outdoor games of flashlight tag and capture the flag until dark. I love tired, sweaty, happy children.
