Introduce us to your family!

I live in Bolingbrook with my husband Brian, and our 3 kids- Finley (6), Reagan (4), Levi (almost 2) and Goldendoodle, Winston. Brian and I met after we both relocated to Chicago in 2014 for Teach For America. After meeting briefly the weekend before at a professional development session I went to a Halloween party with some friends that turned out to be his house.

How long have you been a member of F4M Naperville? What made you come to your first class and which classes have you participated in?

I joined F4M in July 2022. I was taking the second half of my maternity leave and needed something to do with my kiddos over the summer while my husband was working at home.

My first unofficial class was Boost and Brews at Noon Whistle. I loved working out with a bunch of strong mamas for a great cause and getting some time to chat over a beer slushee and lunch after.

Since joining FIT4MOM I’ve participated in Body Well, Body Boost, Stroller Strides/360/Barre, Body Ignite and coming off of an amazing season with RunClub+.

What are your favorite things to do with your family?

We love being active- walks, bike rides, swimming, finding new parks. We also love a good dinner and movie night.

What would you say to a mom considering joining our village?

Take the first step- I know it’s easier said than done. I showed up to my first stroller class and didn’t realize the sheer amount of snacks and entertainment my kiddos would need for a 1-hour class. But as I was working out several moms offered help and extra snacks and reassurance that it was ok for them to cry because their kiddos used to do the same thing. And that was the moment I knew that I wasn’t alone. We don’t have any family out here and I needed a community of people who “get it.” And that’s exactly what FIT4MOM Naperville is.

What has been your biggest gain since joining FIT4MOM Naperville?

My biggest gain has been the change in my mindset- I get to go workout and prioritize myself for an hour. The coaches, workouts and community of women are an added bonus. It's nice to be surrounded by incredible moms going through the same phase of life. I’ve been able to reach out for help or support many times and there has always been some ready to jump in to help.

I’m just very grateful to be a part of this village.