BCM - How did your life change when you became a mom?

Tiffany - My life changed in so many ways.  But the most obvious to me is that my life is no longer just "my life".  I used to be this free spirit, I had my own business, I scheduled clients when I wanted to, I took acting and dance classes when I wanted to, I went to the gym or for a run with my dog on a whim.  Sometimes, I ate dinner at 6pm, sometimes at 8pm or sometimes I simply shared a bottle of wine with my husband or a girlfriend at an outdoor cafe.  Come on you all know what I am talking about, we live in NYC for a reason.  Then suddenly on October 10th 2006 this amazing little spirit came along and now I do everything for him!  My freedom has been replaced by this little bundle of love and light that requires soooooo much!  I can no longer just think of myself or run off and do what I want.  Instead my heart is his and he is my first thought...everyday. Not too mention that I have a schedule now!  ha ha

BCM- What has been your most memorable moment as a mom?

Tiffany - When my son was born.  We had natural child birth at birthing center and it was the most amazing and intimate experience for myself and my husband.  When Gio was finally born they put him on my chest and at first he was screaming because the umbilical cord was too short.  I cut it myself!  Then he layed there and just starred at me with these humungous eyes (that he still has).My husband, myself, the midwife and the doula were all crying and laughing at the same time.  They never took him from me, they cleaned him right there with me and wrapped him up and he slept in the bed with me and my husband that night.  I couldn't sleep a wink I just layed there next to him watching him sleep.  I will never forget it -it was the most memorable day of my life.

BCM- What has been the biggest challenge for you in motherhood?

Tiffany - I have three...First was breastfeeding. I had a lot of trouble in the beginning. Actually for the first two and half months but thanks to the help of many a lactation consultant and lots of emails on Baby Center I stuck it out and got through it.  I am so happy I did because it is still so special to me.  Second is sleep.  Gio has never been a "good" sleeper even at the ripe old age of 7 months.  Name the book or method and we have just about tried it all....and in a one bedroom apt even the dog is starting to get pissed.  Super Nanny where are you???  Third is balance.  Trying to find balance between being a mom, a wife, a friend, working, exercise, even eating healthy ...it's hard to do and be it all!!

BCM - How do you maintain your sense of style while juggling a business and children?

Tiffany -Do I have a sense of style???  Oh you mean my bloodshot exhausted eyes, unwashed hair, sweatpants and t-shirts.  Yes, yes it is tough to maintain that look. The BCM Lunches are my big day out, I try and spruce it up!  Seriously, I feel the least "styled" I have ever been...oh well, I keep telling myself when I have sleep that will change.  My husband still says that I am beautiful.  (He's a keeper). 

BCM- What activities do you like to do with your children and why?

Tiffany - I love to read to Gio, he is only 7 months but it is the cutest thing.  He really pays attention ( I swear) and he turns the pages himself and he laughs at my different voices. He even has his favorite books already.   The weather is just now getting nice so we have been enjoying going to the park.  He loves the grass or should I say he loves to rip up the grass!   And he loves the swings in the playground.  I guess I just about like doing anything with him right now, except bedtime- ha ha.  It is amazing to watch him grow and make new connections and be in awe!

BCM- What are your favorite “Mom Essentials” and why?

Tiffany -

"Mom Essentials" hmmm so many but the one that sticks out the most is my Bjorn carrier and my Moby wrap.  They are both baby carriers.  It's the only way I have been getting things done from the beginning. Like making the bed, doing dishes, folding laundry ect. He has been coming along for the ride for 7 months now. 

BCM- What is the best advice you received about being a mom?

Tiffany - That you can't do it all, you are going to make mistakes but if you just do the best you can with alot of love you are a good mom.

BCM-If you could give another mom or expectant mom one piece of advice, what would it be?

Tiffany - See above answer and don't be too hard on yourself.

BCM- Do you have a motto you would like to share with other moms?

Tiffany - Yes,  "I am a good mother, I love my child and I try very hard"  Repeat hourly or more if necessary!! :)

BCM- Name your favorite Big City Moms event to date..

Tiffany - They have all been fun and informative but my favorite BCM event so far has been the New Mothers Lunch on how to cook your own baby food.  It was awesome!!