Has anyone inspired you as a mother? Very Cliché – but my mother, for sure! She is a role model who taught me a great deal and then gave me the freedom to live my life, knowing that she gave me the foundation to be a successful human being. I want to instill the same values that she gave me to my son: to be a kind, honest and hard working individual... if you are, the rest will fall into place. And, as a mother, she taught me to care more about ‘who’ they will become not ‘what’.
MY STORY I moved to Fort McMurray in 2007 from Vancouver BC. My Husband (then Fiance) had been living in Fort McMurray for eight months before I came up to join him. We moved up here to take advantage of the opportunities Fort McMurray offers... to get ahead. I was pleasantly surprised at how diverse the population of Fort McMurray is. I worked as a waitress for the first four years I lived in town and got to meet some really amazing people – many of them from large cosmopolitan cities, just as I was. I knew moving up here was a step towards building a family. I actually remember driving into Fort McMurray for the first time and seeing the Northern Lights Hospital. I had thought to myself, “that is where my first child will be born.” 5 years later – my son, Odin arrived!
What ‘hidden gem’ have you discovered as a resource for moms? Not sure if this is a “hidden jewel” but Health Link Alberta is an amazing resource! I have called them several times in the past year, and have always been very glad I did. The Fort McMurray Doulas association is a great resource for expecting/new moms. They were a great support for me when Odin was first born and we were learning to breast feed. Little Hero’s Baby Boutique, in the same mall as my store, is a great spot to find all the little helpful things you’ll need for your little one.
What’s your advice to expecting moms-to-be? SLEEP as much as you can! Really appreciate those moments you have for yourself. Indulge! Spend the entire day reading an awesome book. Get a pedicure! Go for a long leisurely lunch with a girl friend... Seriously, do it! spring 2013 | mcmurraygirl.com
49