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

Pamela - I began to live for someone else, which was a huge adjustment. My wants became secondary to my child's needs.  It was fulfilling in a way I never dreamed possible, but also a bit isolating and uncomfortable.  It took me a while to settle into the lifestyle and to strike a balance.

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

Pamela - When my first-born son decided we should host a birthday party on the day my second son was born - since it was, after all, his "birth" day.  My husband and my son showed up at the hospital with cupcakes and party hats and gifts for my newborn.  It was hilarious & joyous all at the same time!

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

Pamela - Achieving balance in all its forms.  Trying to be a good Mom, a good wife, a good daughter, a good sister, a good friend and a good employee & still trying  to find the time to be a good "me".

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

Pamela - Try to carve out some time for yourself-whether it is for a work out or a soak in the tub or a nap.  We all need it for our sense of wellbeing. You will be able to handle life's stresses better when you have had some downtime and your children will recognize the difference it makes in you. It will truly make you a better Mom.  It is something I struggle to do -but I always find that when I do make the time for myself, I am better equipped to handle all the curve balls motherhood throws at me.

BCM - How do you manage your career while being a mother and a wife? Any advice for moms?

Pamela - Love what you do. If you are passionate about what you are doing it is a labor of love- not work. I am lucky that I get to do work that is close to my heart. My work with the Scholarship Fund has allowed me to explore & indulge my passions. It has given me the opportunity to help create new sports options for children throughout the city. Most recently I was given the opportunity to help launch a program for children with developmental needs, CP Building Blocks. It gives me great pleasure to be involved in creating a program that allows children to experience multi-sport activities while at the same time helping children reach language & developmental milestones.

BCM - What types of activities do you like to do w/ your kids?

Pamela - If we are stuck in the house  we blast our IPod and dance the day away or we make up fun indoor games, like emptying the laundry basket and tossing balls into it. Sometimes we bake cookies and hide them and then pretend we are polar bears at the Zoo and have to sniff for our hidden food. If it is a nice day we go to the park & play ball, have a picnic or go for a bike ride. We also have a great time at the Children's Museum!

BCM - What has been your favorite Big City Moms event to date? 

Pamela - I so enjoyed attending the special needs workshop.  I got some great one-on-one time with the Doctor. I was able to take so much of what she said home with me & translate it into my everyday life.  It was so nice to have this level of support.  Mothers of special needs children often feel isolated, so I am looking forward to building a network through this workshop and to draw on it for support in the months ahead.