December Mom of the Month

Our mom of the month program honors moms for their efforts to lead healthy lifestyles, and gives us a chance to get to know them better at the same time!

Our December Mom of the Month is: Janet Yunker! Congratulations Janet!


Janet first tried Stroller Strides in the summer of 2010, and loved it so much, she signed up immediately after her first class. She and Addison were regular attendees several days each week, and Janet continued working out with us throughout her second pregnancy, and as soon as the doctor gave her the ok to come back after baby Carson was born! She credits Stroller Strides and exercise as helping her to have a smooth labor and delivery, and for helping her get in better shape than she was before she was pregnant. And she is in AMAZING shape these days-- who would think she is a mom of two, including a 6 month old! ;) Recently Janet joined our Running Mamas program for the first time, and has been running amazing times at her first 5ks this fall! Join us in congratulating Janet and read on to get to know her better.

Hometown: Richlands, NC

Currently live in: Apex

Education: BS in Accounting from NC State University

Member since: July 2010 (or around that date)

Family members: Husband-Casey, 2 daughters, Addison-2 and Carson-6 months

Tell us about your children: Addison loves being outside, dancing, reading (especially Curious George), playing play doh, and coloring. Carson is very strong willed and vocal. She loves watching her sister and she also loves being outside.

Current/previous Career: In a previous life, before Addison was born, I was the Assistant Controller at Toll Brothers Inc in Raleigh.

What was your childhood ambition? My childhood ambition was to be an Astronaut, but it turns out Science was not my best subject. I still love visiting the Air and Space Museum in DC and actually met Buzz Aldrin several years ago in Houston at the Space Center.

What does motherhood mean to you? Motherhood to me means putting all of your wants and needs aside and doing everything you can to make your children happy and healthy.

What is the furthest you've been from home? Maui Hawaii.

What has Stroller Strides done for you? Stroller Strides has been so important to me. I joined at the end of my first class because I loved it immediately. I'm in much better shape than I was even before I had children and taking classes through my entire 2nd pregnancy helped me have a very smooth labor, delivery, & recovery. I also think an important benefit is that I'm setting a good example for my girls.

What have you enjoyed most about the Running Mamas program?
Running Mamas helped me do something I never thought I could do which is run a 5k. I've never been much of a runner, but the program stepped me up gradually so it made it easy to keep up with. It really surprised me the first time I ran 1 mile without stopping, I never thought I would even do that. Now I want to run a 10k!

What is your favorite exercise? My favorite exercise is hiking, especially in the Smokies.

What is your proudest moment? My proudest moment, well moments, was when I had both of my beautiful girls.

What are 3 of your favorite things (besides your family!)? Traveling, scrapbooking, & chocolate

Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique.
Something that might surprise you is that I have been skydiving twice and considered trying to be an instructor for a brief period of time.

If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say? I had to ask my husband because I had no idea what he would say and he says my best qualities are my attention to detail and my passion for life.

What advice would you give to moms looking to get back into shape?
My advice to a new mom who wants to get back in shape would be don't give up, you can do it. Find a program whether it be Stroller Strides or something different that supports you being a mom and helps you achieve your goals. Your children will thank you for being the healthiest mom you can be.

November Mom of the Month

Our mom of the month program honors moms for their efforts to lead healthy lifestyles, and gives us a chance to get to know them better at the same time!

November's Mom of the Month is: Jessica Kalendra! Congrats Jessica!

Jessica first joined us as a Running Mama last spring, joining us with her adorable daughter Alice for our 5k training program for moms. She did an amazing job in the running program and signed up for Stroller Strides workouts as well, and has been with us ever since. She has been a frequent attendee at Stroller Strides in recent months, and recently completed her second Running Mamas program this fall, culminating in the Monster Dash 5k with an excellent time, almost 2 minutes faster than her goal for the race. As she tells us below, she feels she is in better shape now then even before she was pregnant. She has been setting a great example to all of us moms on what you can do if you set your mind to it, and also setting a great example of a healthy lifestyle to her daughter Alice, who has been doing 'maniacs' and other Stroller Strides exercises at home to be just like mommy! :)

Join us in congratulating Jessica and read on to get to know her better.

Hometown: Rochester Hills, MI

Current part of the Triangle that you live in: Apex

Education: I graduated from the Eli Broad College of Business at Michigan State University in 2004 with a degree in Marketing.

Stroller Strides Member since: March 2011

Members of your Family: Me, My husband Mark and our daughter Alice.

Tell us about your child:

Alice was born in May 2010 and is 18 months old. She is terrifyingly fearless, goofy and full of energy. We recently took her to the ocean, and I swear she would run into the waves and float away if someone wasn't there to catch her. Her favorite new game is to run up to someone, tickle them and run away. She has also started randomly walking sideways and doing maniacs, I guess she's trying to do some Stroller Strides of her own! It's so much fun to watch her grow.

Current/previous Career: Sales and Marketing Associate for a small company

What was your childhood ambition?

I've always wanted to have a family and kids. Other than that just enjoying life with people I love.

What does motherhood mean to you?

Motherhood means learning that I never really knew the true meaning to words like "Worry" and phrases like "Unconditional Love". It also means discovering a strength in myself that I never knew existed and gaining a whole new respect for my own mother.

What is the furthest you have been from home?

Germany

What has Stroller Strides done for you?

Stroller Strides has done so much for me, but the first thing it did was get me out of the house. I didn't join until March when Alice was 9 months and lets just say it was a LONG winter. When I decided to stay home with Alice I figured we would have plenty to do. There are so many meet up groups and tons of other moms staying home with their kids that it would be no problem to find things to do. I found out pretty quickly that unless you have something scheduled for every day it's really easy to get stuck at home doing nothing. Stroller Strides got me out of the house and so much more. I met a ton of great people and great kids. I have plans for most days of the week that provide adult conversations for me and playtime with other kids for Alice. Also I'm probably in better shape now than I was before I was pregnant with Alice. And I found that being in shape makes the sleepless nights a bit more manageable. I'm really glad I found Stroller Strides, it is a great program!

What have you enjoyed most about the Running Mamas program?

I had run in the past, but the thought of gaining back my endurance (which I knew was not an easy road) while pushing a stroller was keeping me from even getting started. Running Mamas gave me an opportunity to ease my way back into running and realize that I can run while pushing a stroller. It also provided a great community and support system on days when what is usually an easy run felt like running up Mount Everest.

What is your favorite exercise?

I will choose cardio over strength training any day of the week. I love the Cardio killers, where we do Jumping Jacks, Skis and Jump Rope counting down from 10.

What is your proudest moment?

When I saw my 5K time in the spring and realized it was faster than my goal.

What are three of your favorite things (besides your family!)?

Reading, Coffee and Swimming

Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique.

I've jumped out of an airplane...twice.

If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say?

I'm pretty game for trying new things and love to be active and outdoors.

What advice would you give to moms looking to get back into shape?

Join Stroller Strides...no seriously. I actually gave this advice to my sister. She lives in Seattle and has a 2 yr old and a 7 month old. She had been trying to go the the gym, but the kids were not liking the care center very much which made it really hard for her to get a consistent workout. When I went out to visit her I told her about Stroller Strides, how it works and that it's a great workout. She joined SS in her area and the running program they have and really enjoys it. So there you go!

October Mom of the month

Our mom of the month program honors moms for their efforts to lead healthy lifestyles, and gives us a chance to get to know them better at the same time!

August's Mom of the Month is: Marisa Park! Congrats Marisa!

Marisa has been a member of Stroller Strides since this past spring, and she and her son Christopher have brought great smiles and energy to our classes and playgroups. She has made great strides in her own health and fitness these past several months, and sets a great example to all of us moms, and through Stroller Strides has realized that you can have fun while exercising! She recently joined the fall Running Mamas program, where she went from a beginner runner to making great progress each week, and she'll be completing the Monster Dash 5k on Oct 30th to complete her goal. Join us in congratulating Marisa, and read on to get to know her better!

Hometown: Northern Virginia (Arlington, Chantilly, Centerville) and then Roanoke, Virginia; we moved to Cary when I was 10.

Current part of the Triangle that you live in: Western Cary

Education: I went to UNC-Chapel Hill for undergrad (I double-majored in Comparative Literature and French) and then went to Western Governors University to get my elementary school teaching license.

Stroller Strides Member since: May 2011

Members of your Family: My husband, Chris; our son, Christopher; and our three cats, Annelise, Elwyn, and Perry.

Tell us about your child: Christopher was born September 1, 2010. He is so sweet and loving, and loves to smile at people and hug other kids. He is very busy, active, and inquisitive, and spends all his time figuring out how things work, how to get into things, and running around on the move!

Current/previous Career: I'm a stay-at-home mom now. Before, I worked as a TA and then I got my teaching license a year before Christopher was born. As an elementary school teacher, my favorite grade to teach was fourth.

What was your childhood ambition? I was all over the place. I wanted to be a doctor, a teacher, a ballerina (although that didn't last very long, since I can't dance!), and in high school, I wanted to be a professional soccer player (back when WUSA was still around). It wasn't until my senior year of college, when I volunteered at a local school, that I realized I really did want to become a teacher as my career.

What does motherhood mean to you? Motherhood means I get to show Christopher the world and everything wonderful about it. It means doing everything I can to make sure he has a healthy, happy life. And most importantly, it means I get to watch him grow up and share my life with this amazing little person who means everything to me.

What is the furthest you have been from home? I got to study in Montpellier, France for a month in college, and we went to Arles, Avignon, and Paris while I was there.

What has Stroller Strides done for you? Like several other people have said, Stroller Strides gave me myself back. I didn't have any local mom friends who were around during the day until I joined Stroller Strides, and it has given me a network of moms as well as a playgroup for Christopher. I was always very active before I had Christopher, but was having trouble finding a way (or motivation) to get back into that after he was born—Stroller Strides has gotten me in better shape than I was before I got pregnant and has made it fun, too! I've been having so much fun, I didn't realize how much of a workout I was getting until I was surprised one day by my arms looking different (I thought something was swollen at first, and then I realized it was just muscles I'd never really had before!) and then discovered through Running Mamas how far I could actually run!

What is your favorite exercise? I enjoy anything that makes Christopher laugh—the tickle runs, Five Little Fingers, etc.—because he loves them and trying to make him laugh makes the exercises easier.

What is your proudest moment? My proudest moment would have to be giving birth to Christopher. After that, it would be getting my teaching license—I was fortunate enough to be able to do my student teaching at the same school that I had been working in as a TA, and I got to share that achievement with all my friends and colleagues who had helped me get to that point.

What are three of your favorite things (besides your family!)? Reading, soccer, and spending time with friends.

Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique. I like to write and someday hope to have a book published, although so far the closest I've come is writing the story for a video game that my husband's company made.

If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say? I guess he would say I'm hard-working, a loving mom, kind, and optimistic.

What advice would you give to moms looking to get back into shape? I would say to find something that you enjoy so you are more likely to keep it up. Also, even though it can be hard to get started, especially when you are so tired from taking care of a little one, exercise actually ends up giving you more energy, so go for it!

September Mom of the Month

Our mom of the month program honors moms who lead a healthy lifestyle and allows us to get to know them better at the same time.


September's Mom of the Month is: Stroller Strides instructor Danielle Quinn! Congrats Danielle and thanks for all that you do for Stroller Strides moms!

Danielle was a member of Stroller Strides in Wilmington NC before moving to Cary. The SS Wilmington Owner, Jody, recommended Danielle as someone who would be a great instructor, and Danielle met Jen soon after she moved here--and the rest is history! ;) Danielle's been teaching for us since we opened in Raleigh, and has done an amazing job not only of leading fabulous classes and getting our mamas into shape, but she also has an impressive ability to balance a multitude of activities along with motherhood. She recently has become a coach for our Running Mamas 5k training program this fall, starting up a large group of running moms in the Western Cary area, and she is an inspiration to them along with all of our Stroller Strides moms. Be sure to cheer for Danielle and the rest of the Running Mamas at the Monster Dash 5k in October! Join us in congratulating Danielle, thanking her for all that she does to make Stroller Strides fabulous for all of you, and read on to get to know her even better.

Hometown: Bennington, Vermont

Current part of the Triangle that you live in: Cary, NC

Education: Masters in Sociology, Bachelor of Arts in Sociology and Fine Arts (double major)

Stroller Strides Member since: April 2009

Members of your Family: 4 (husband Mike and daughters Camryn and Kenna)

Tell us about your children: Camryn is 4 and Kenna is 6 months

Current/previous Career: I am a Mom, Realtor, Stroller Strides Instructor and about to add a Running Mamas Coach

What was your childhood ambition? to be a ski bum forever, but surprisingly, my 6th grade yearbook says "I want to be a realtor when I grow up" (I'm not sure I really knew what a realtor was, but I knew I loved houses and wanted to do something related to them)

What does motherhood mean to you? It means I get to smile everyday and for everything I work hard for and everything I do, it all pays off with the smiles I get from my girls. They are my world and all they have to do is smile at me and I am happy and truly fulfilled. The other stuff I do in my life just helps me be a better mom.

What is the furthest you have been from home? Europe...London, Paris, Rome, Florence, Brussels, Edinburgh, Killarney, Tralee (whichever is the farthest)

What has Stroller Strides done for you? It has allowed me to fit in a workout and for my girls to have a playgroup at the same time. I am extremely busy and have to fit a lot in my day. I work as a real estate agent and I don't use daycare so in order for me to do my job, I need to stick with a schedule and combine as much as possible to fit it all in. If I didn't have stroller strides, my workout would not happen. And chances are, my girls would not get a playgroup as much as they do with stroller strides. It means I get a fit life, a healthy life, and I get to be a good example for my girls. Camryn has already picked up how important is it to have exercise in your life and she "plays" stroller strides at home all the time. It is also my outlet to other moms with young kids and my reality check to the real world of motherhood!

What is your favorite exercise? Tricep extensions, because I have seen the most change...and maybe a bit because I see others improve so much with these as well.

What is your proudest moment? Besides when my kids were born, was depressingly way back to ski racing when I crossed the finish line a minute and a half before anyone else. It was the one race I go back to in my mind where I found being calm and relaxed gave me the most speed! And I had the most fun I can ever remember with exercise.

What are three of your favorite things (besides your family!)? Skiing (but it doesn't happen much anymore so I'm hoping running can replace it), art...the messy stuff like ceramics and painting, and home decorating...I love Home Goods!

Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique. I'm from Vermont and I used to live in a world of ski racing. I cross country skied monday through saturday and downhill skied on sunday. I skied for a division I team in college and if I had continued it would be to train for the olympics. Because skiing is not a sport that gets funding in the US, I really could not afford to move on so instead I went to grad school and went to the olympics in Park city to watch 7 of my friends compete. It was a world I loved and miss, but I wouldn't change things because I love my life in Cary, NC just as much.

If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say? I'm organized and can juggle a lot

What advice would you give to moms looking to get back into shape? Take it one step at a time, its not going to happen overnight so don't expect that of yourself. Have fun with it, enjoy it so you want to do it. Find what makes you like being a part of exercise and go with that.

What advice would you give to moms who are juggling careers and motherhood? Know that we all do what is best for our kids and our families. You are being the best mom you can be and there is no right or wrong way to be a mom. That constant struggle in your mind of whether you should or should not work, if you work too much or too little or if you are missing out on something you should not be...this is a struggle we all go through in one sense or another. There is no right or wrong answer about what is better for our kids so do what makes you be the best mom you can be.

As far as making it all work...combine as much as you can so that you have time in your crazy day to fit it all in. Stroller strides is my way to combine a workout and a playgroup. I also use activities my kids are in to meet other moms who may want to "swap" playdates so I can go to work appointments while my kids play. I am a stay at home mom who works full time and I don't use daycare...I make it all fall into place by combining everything and somehow I make it work. I use naptimes and "downtime" to get work done and I realize that sometimes something has got to give. My house is not always clean, the laundry is not always folded and put away and some days are crazy, but at the end of the day, I'm proud of myself that I'm doing it all...or as much as I can handle. And when I get to my limits, I take a step back and make sure I just have given myself the time to enjoy my girls. I always fit in time for my girls because that is what makes me happy:).

Why join the “Running Mamas” 5k training program, vs just running on your own??

Our seasonal “Running Mamas” 5k training program is kicking off in just a few short weeks! This program designed specifically for moms will help beginners (or those who haven’t run in a while) build up to running a full 5k, or it can also help current runners to focus on their speed and beat their goal race day times.

Some may be wondering, is it worth joining a group like this, or should I just train for a 5k on my own? Here are just a few reasons why a group training program can make a difference in your fall running plans…

Make a commitment as part of a group of moms working towards the same goal!

Every season, moms of all ages and fitness levels start off the program together and are immensely supportive of one another. There is a great sense of camaraderie—we’re all in this together! It is so much more fun to run with supportive friends on a regular basis, and we all cheer for one another, each week and on race day!

You won’t have to make up a training plan for yourself!

Sure you can find various training plans online, but how do you decide among all of the options? What if you find certain training assignments to be too tough or too easy? Should you blend some of them or just stick with one?

Our Running Mamas training plans have helped moms for several seasons attain their running goals. Beginners have gone from barely being able to jog 2 minutes at a time, to running the full 5k goal race. Others who were more experienced were able to surpass their timing goals by race day. Our plans are a blend of national Stroller Strides 5k training and the well-known “Couch to 5k” plans, and there are 3 different tracks based upon what your starting jogging level is (Beginner—for those not able to jog much at all at the start; Advanced—for those able to jog 1-2 miles at start of program; and Advanced Plus—for those already able to jog 3 miles at a time, who’d like to focus on speed training.)

Training plans focus on time initially, then distance, and include speed training, hill intervals, timed mile and two-mile runs, tapering at the end, and more.

We’ll help you MAKE IT HAPPEN!!

How easy is it to plan to run, only to get caught up with everything else at home and in motherhood, and never get out the door?? If you’re trying to make yourself train on your own, it can be that much tougher to get regular training runs in. Sign up for a group training plan and you’ll be more likely to make your runs happen, especially with your coach and fellow mamas looking out for you.

Get your questions answered

What should I be eating on days when I run? How many days per week is best to train? Should I do any other exercise on my non-running days? Should I focus on speed or distance? How do I know if I’m hydrated? What should my goal be this week?

These are the types of questions your trained running coach can answer. Throughout our 9 week program, you’ll receive tips on all of the above topics and more, at the coached sessions, in your weekly emails, and through our private facebook group.

Plus—get extra training sessions such as Yoga for Runners, Core Workouts for Runners, Nutrition & Hydration tips, sneaker discounts, family race day photos, and more!

Get personalized training advice

Between the three levels of overall training, the advice of your running coach, the personal guidance surveys and feedback offered, you’ll get continuous feedback on your progress and what your next steps should be….much more helpful to your training than trying to figure it all out on your own.

We’re all moms and we’ve all been through what you’re going through!

Challenges getting out the door, little ones exhausting you and making you question your plan to run on a given day, coordinating naps and feeding and carpools, lack of sleep, and lack of time for anything for yourself! Train for a goal that will help you feel great about yourself with the support of other moms. You’ll be amazed at what you CAN accomplish, and feeling better physically, mentally, and emotionally will help you be a better mom!

But don’t just take our word for it….check out all of the amazing things moms from our past seasons have had to say about the program! Click here to hear from past Running Mamas members

The season starts Aug 26^th, with weekday and weekend options available, in Raleigh, Cary and Apex.

Register now for the Fall “Running Mamas” 5k training program and cross that finish line with us in October!

August Mom of the Month

Our mom of the month program honors moms for their efforts to lead healthy lifestyles, and gives us a chance to get to know them better at the same time!

August's Mom of the Month is: Melissa Nafke! Congrats Melissa!

Melissa joined Stroller Strides in January with her adorable daughters Emma & Sara. She had been participating in Weight Watchers since this past fall, and has made amazing strides in health and fitness over the past year! She has lost an impressive 45 lbs since beginning her health and fitness journey last October. In addition to Stroller Strides workouts, Melissa joined our spring "Running Mamas" 5k training program, and went from having never really run before, to completing her first full 5k (the Run for our Heroes race) on April 30th! She has kept up the running, completing an 8k (Running of the Bulls) on June 18th, and she has challenged herself this fall to completing a half marathon, the Ramblin Rose, on October 16th.

Melissa and her girls have been frequent Stroller Strides attendees this summer, showing amazing dedication to fitness, inspiring our moms to keep up the hard work, and having a great time participating at many of our playgroup activities--- as a mom of two darling girls less than 18 months apart, Melissa is one impressive mama! Join us in congratulating her and read on to get to know Melissa a little bit better.


Hometown: Liverpool, NY

Current part of the Triangle that you live in: Apex

Education: MA in Organization Development

Stroller Strides Member since: January

Members of your Family: My husband, Adam, and my daughters Sara and Emma

Tell us about your children: Emma turned two in March and she loves to be outside - swimming or riding her bike are her favorite outdoor activities, besides Stroller Strides, of course (she asks to go now :)). Sara turns one August 3rd, and is already walking and climbing up on things and loves to follow her big sister around.

Current/previous Career: I'm currently a SAHM, and I was a Human Resource Generalist before the girls were born.

What was your childhood ambition? To be a veterinarian.

What does motherhood mean to you? Raising Emma and Sara to be strong, healthy and independent women. Nurturing them and giving the best I possibly can to them everyday, and loving them for who they are.

What is the furthest you have been from home? Singapore

What has Stroller Strides done for you? It's help me become stronger and healthier than I've been in my life. I am toned and have much more endurance than ever, and I really need it now :) - helps me keep up with Emma and Sara. With the Running Mamas program, I started at running three minutes at a time, and worked my way up to regularly running miles at a time.

What is your favorite exercise? Crunches

What is your proudest moment? I have had many, especially since Emma and Sara were born. It's hard to narrow it down to one :)

What are three of your favorite things (besides your family!)? Friends, my BOB stroller, my iPad

Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique. Unique, or probably just plain weird - I eat snack foods (like popcorn) with chopsticks so I don't get my fingers dirty.

If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say? I'm organized, thoughtful and a good listener

What advice would you give to moms looking to get back into shape? Make small goals, be kind to yourself and don't give up and ask for help and support when you need it. Getting in shape is important for not only your physical well being, but your emotional well being. Taking the time to do this not only sets a great example for our children, but at least for me, I feel like I am a better mother because of it.

July Mom of the Month

Our mom of the month program honors moms for their efforts to lead healthy lifestyles, and gives us a chance to get to know them better at the same time!

July's Mom of the Month is: Diana Teal! Congrats Diana!

Diana first came into contact with Stroller Strides when she won a free 10 Class Pass through Carolina Parent's Baby Fair last summer, when Will was less than 2 months old. She came to classes through the fall and loved Stroller Strides so much, she signed up for membership when her class pass was completed. She and Will both light up Stroller Strides classes with their bright smiles, and Diana's energy and upbeat spirit make her a mom we love to work out with. Diana gets the "best attendance" award so far this summer, you'll see her at classes regularly, and she's gotten into great shape because of it. Join us in congratulating Diana, and read on to learn more about her.

Hometown: Newport, RI
Current part of the Triangle that you live in: West Raleigh/Cary
Stroller Strides Member since: March 2011
Members of your Family: My husband Rick and my photogenic 10 month old son Will
Tell us about your child/children: Will (William Churchill) born 09/01/2010. He was named William after my husband's grandfather and Churchill is my husband's middle name (the family name). Will loves "speed crawling", watching Super Why, eating finger foods, and pulling himself up on everything!
Current/previous Career: currently SAHM / previously in Banking
What was your childhood ambition? To be a dolphin trainer!
What does motherhood mean to you? Everything! We waited 5 years to have children, to spend time being married, but I am so thrilled to be a mama. You can't describe the love I have for my son.
What is the furthest you have been from home? California (to the west) and Quebec, Canada (to the north)
What has Stroller Strides done for you? It's giving me a new sense of purpose. Stroller Strides in part of my daily routine each week (even if I'm always running late)! It get's me out of the house, keeps me motivated to exercise, unites me with a family of other moms (who I consider to be my SS sisters!), and gives my son social interaction playing with the other babies and toddlers.
What is your favorite exercise? I'm not really an exercise fan so favorite would be the wrong choice of words! I'd say the singing while we're exercising!
What is your proudest moment? Besides marrying my husband, each and every new experience that Will discovers. I especially loved it when Will learned to smile and laugh!
What are three of your favorite things (besides your family!)? The beach, Survivor, and my church (Hope Community)
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique. I met my dad for the first time 2 years ago through Facebook!
If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say? My husband would say that I am beautiful, very attentive, self-disciplined, and a great mother who truly enjoys caring for my son. He would say that I always make sure everything is taken care of and that I do what's best for my family, even if that includes sacrifice. Oh and that I can talk as much as he can!

What advice would you give to moms looking to get back into shape? Just come as you are! We're all different sizes and shapes, all at different levels of working out, but we are all moms, we all have a little extra and there's no pressure to be perfect! Make the commitment to get out of the house, you'll feel so much better about yourself! (By the way, I've never worked out in a group before, never even had a gym membership!)

June Mom of the Month

Our mom of the month program honors moms for their efforts to lead healthy lifestyles, and gives us a chance to get to know them better at the same time!

Our June Mom of the Month is: Megan Davis! Congratulations Meg!

Megan has been a Stroller Strides member since February, joining us when Payton was just a couple of months old! She quickly became one of our most active members and made friends with all of the moms and kiddos, and she sets a great example for all of us with her dedication to her workouts and consistent Stroller Strides attendance. Meg also completed several races this spring with extremely impressive times, including finishing in 2nd place in her age group in her first ever 10k last month! Join us in congratulating Meg, and read on to learn more about her.

Hometown: Butler, PA

Current part of the Triangle that you live in: Southern part of Raleigh

Education: BSBA Hospitality Management

Stroller Strides Member since: February 2011

Members of your Family: My husband Mark & amazing baby girl Payton

Tell us about your child: Payton has her dad’s calm and chill personality with a mix of my feisty determined independence. Payton’s pretty blue eyes and long eyelashes are a favorite characteristic for many. She’s recently hit the 5 month benchmark where she has discovered the world around her and so far loves what it has to offer. She enjoys running with mommy, working out with our mama and kiddo friends at Stroller Strides, jumping in her exersaucer, and most recently swimming. Payton is a happy go lucky baby that brings so much joy to our lives.

Current/previous Career: Communications Coordinator for an Engineering Firm

What was your childhood ambition? I always wanted to be a teacher

What does motherhood mean to you? Wow, it means loving someone unconditionally more than you ever thought you could. It means doing whatever it takes to provide the very best life you can for your children. It’s protecting, teaching, loving, supporting, and guiding them so they grow to be the very best they can be. Most of all it’s sharing in the joy of family and creating your own life story.

What is the furthest you have been from home? Paris France.

What has Stroller Strides done for you? What hasn’t it done for me? Stroller Strides has given me….
• Sense of Purpose
• A Daily Routine for Payton and I to kick start our days
• Amazing mama and baby friends that I hope will last a lifetime
• Motivation and excitement to get back into shape
• My pre-baby body back!
• Discipline that I hope will be passed on to my children
• Extreme fun for both Payton and I

What is your favorite exercise? Pushups

What is your proudest moment? Just one is so hard because the day I married my best friend and the day our baby girl Payton Eileen was born were my most proud moments!!

What are three of your favorite things (besides your family!)? Steeler Football, working out, and coffee!

Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique. I am the baby of five, three sisters and a brother.

If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say? Mark would say my best qualities are my inherent motherly instincts with Payton, which allow me to always make the ‘right’ parenting decisions with little effort, my strong moral values which will carry over to Payton. (And any future children), and my caring ways and strong loyalty to the ones I love.

What advice would you give to moms looking to get back into shape? Just get started! Don’t forget about yourself. As hard as it can be to get motivated, especially after a new baby or babies are thrown in the mix, always remember that if you take care of yourself you will be able to take care of your family even better in return. Also getting back into shape is a way to make you feel better about yourself, and releasing those endorphins can bring you a sense of well-being.

May Mom of the Month

Our mom of the month program honors moms for their efforts to lead healthy lifestyles, and gives us a chance to get to know them better at the same time!

Our May Mom of the Month is: Melanie Jacobs! Congrats Melanie!

Melanie has been a member of Stroller Strides for almost a full year now, and her positive attitude and bright smile bring a great energy to our classes. She is always laughing and smiling, even when working out hard, and no doubt Oliver gets his great smiles and attitude from his mommy. Melanie is a very talented mommy who manages to keep up her work as an Occupational Therapist, teaching yoga, instruction on car seat safety, Stroller Strides, and of course motherhood! And let's not forget her other interesting skills in areas such as belly dancing, cake decorating ;), costume creation (she won first place at our Halloween class for Oliver's frog costume she created!). Recently Melanie participated in our Running Mamas 5k training and completed her first 5k at the end of April, making amazing progress during the program and finishing with a great time. Join us in congratulating Melanie and read on to learn more about her!

Hometown: Uniontown, OH but moved to Charlotte, NC when I was 13

Current part of the Triangle that you live in: Holly Springs

Stroller Strides Member since: June 2010

Members of your Family: My husband Jim and my son Oliver

Tell us about your child: Oliver is a passionate 13 month old who is full of love, humor, and independence. He never ceases to amaze me with his abilities and colorful personality.

Current/previous Career: I am a stay at home mom by day and 3 times a week I work as an

Occupational Therapist for 2 hours and teach yoga on Thursdays

What was your childhood ambition? I wanted to be a marine biologist and here is the funny one – I wanted 6 kids (ha ha!)

What does motherhood mean to you? Motherhood means the world to me. It is the most important, challenging, and rewarding job I will/have ever had.

What is the furthest you have been from home? Cozumel

What has Stroller Strides done for you? Stroller Strides has given me an outlet that empowers me to become not only healthier but also a better mother. I have learned to push my exercise limits a bit and the benefits of being distracted by good conversation or songs for the kids. By exercising with Oliver, I am proud to know that I am setting a good example for him while showing him that exercise is fun.

What is your favorite exercise? I really like sit ups and most leg exercises but I am beginning to appreciate that I really need the upper body work.

What is your proudest moment? My proudest moment would most definitely be the birth of Oliver.

What are three of your favorite things (besides your family!)? painting, yoga, and the beach

Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique. I took belly dancing classes for 5 years and I am a car seat technician/inspector.

If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say? I asked my husband and he said: strength, energy, passionate, and caring

What advice would you give to moms looking to get back into shape? Success begins with a program that easily fits into your schedule, includes other moms as motivation, and includes your child (so you don’t have to worry about child care). Sticking with a wellness program in the long term will allow you to become healthy mentally and physically with weight loss being an added bonus.

April Mom of the Month

Our mom of the month program honors moms for their efforts to lead healthy lifestyles, and gives us a chance to get to know them better at the same time!

Our April Mom of the Month is: Monica McBride! Congrats Monica!

Monica moved to the Triangle a few months ago from California. She joined Stroller Strides in December and has been an upbeat, friendly presence at class and in our moms group ever since! Monica has shown dedication to fitness and Stroller Strides through her frequent attendance and hard work at class--she and Brody rarely miss a day, including Saturdays! She also has made her running debut recently as part of our Running Mamas crew, gearing up for their 5k on April 30th, and Monica is one of several moms who also signed up for the 10k plan, culminating May 22nd! Wish Monica luck in her running endeavors and congratulate her on her success, and get to know her a little better through the Q&A below.

Hometown: Sunnyvale, Ca. (Bay Area)

Current part of the Triangle that you live in: Currently renting in Morrisville and feeling out different areas to buy :)

Education: BS in Business Administration and Marketing from San Jose State University

Stroller Strides Member since: Dec 2010

Members of your Family: 3

Tell us about your child: Brody Logan McBride was born just before Halloween in 2009 in Santa Cruz, CA. He has been a very easy going "little man" as we like to call him since the moment he arrived! He likes to suck his fingers, play with anything electronic, plug things in, turn things off and on, play on his daddy's boat, dance to any music with a good beat, play in the man/guitar room with his daddy and do stroller strides with his momma!

Current/previous Career: Escrow

What was your childhood ambition? I always wanted to be successful in business and also have a family and be a mom.

What does motherhood mean to you? Motherhood is the hardest and most rewarding thing I have accomplished so far in life. It means true unconditional love.

What is the furthest you have been from home? Russia, St. Petersburg

What has Stroller Strides done for you? Stroller Strides and the Luna Moms Group has helped me develop some sense of "normal" in my new life here in NC. As a new mom in a new place far from family and friends, I was in need of a structured routine that would get me out into my new environment meeting moms, kids and exercising all at the same time! I love to stay fit and be surrounded by peers. Stroller Strides has provided me with all of the elements that I was missing in my new life! I

What is your favorite exercise? I really enjoy doing drills with the tubes and cardio bursts

What is your proudest moment? When I saw my son for the first time

What are three of your favorite things (besides your family!)? I love working out , cooking, mani/pedi, laying in the sun.. :) drinking wine... hanging out with my friends

Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique. I am a twin

If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say? Caring, Sensitive, Good Mommy, dedicated

What advice would you give to moms looking to get back into shape? I would have to say my best advice would be to establish a routine and be consistent. Stroller Strides has been helpful with that aspect because it has allowed me to workout on a daily basis with the little one! Gyms and home exercise programs are really challenging for moms especially! Working out with other moms helps keep you going because you also have a social outlet to help motivate you! It is really important to be aware of your space in life and be realistic with your personal goals. Working out with fellow moms is much better for the psyche than going to the gym. LOL

How can you get even MORE out of your workouts?

Your Stroller Strides® Instructors are trained to deliver new, effective and unique workouts at each class, and while that is an important part of your fitness journey, there is more! The piece that will make a HUGE difference in the results you see comes from YOU. The intensity with which you give every repetition, at every station, at every class is what will take your fitness to the next level. If any of you have been coming regularly and have seen great progress in your strength and endurance, but are now hitting a plateau, YOU can make the difference and up the intensity and challenge at class. Some examples of how to do this are:

• Increase the resistance that you’re using in class: Grab a red tube if you have always used green. Challenge yourself a little more each time. Or consider using 2 reds (or a red and a green) at the same time!


• Add depth and height to your movements: Make your squats and lunges deeper, and then come up higher in the extension of the movements.


• Add greater intensity/energy to your movements: If it feels good for your joints and pelvic floor, add in some higher impact movements (running, jumping…leaving the ground a little more). If high impact isn’t in the cards for you, make your movements bigger and put more energy behind them.


• Keep MOVING throughout the entire class; even if you stop for water or to help your child, etc, keep marching with your feet and/or pumping your arms to keep those calories burning.


• Add an extra day or two per week to your workout routine! For best results (in weight loss, toning, and mental well-being), aim to attend Stroller Strides (and/or get in another equivalent workout) at least 3-5 days per week.

It is very easy to go into “auto-pilot” in your workouts, especially when you have a fabulously interesting mom next to you and the conversation is riveting! However, if you aren’t seeing the changes you have wanted to see in your fitness level or your body, it’s time to add some add some extra intensity as suggested above. Be reassured that even if your body has adapted to your workout and class doesn't feel quite as hard as it used to, you ARE still burning calories and maintaining muscle at each workout; but if you want to push yourself even more, let's see what you can do at your next class!

(Adapted from Farel Hruska's article, National Fitness Director, Stroller Strides LLC)

Stroller Strides of Raleigh's Spring Schedule is in effect starting this week!

Starting Monday 3/14 (with our Free Class & Anniversary Picnic), we go to our official OUTDOOR spring schedule, which is as follows:

• Mon & Wed, 10am, Crowder District Park (4709 Ten Ten Rd, meet at Park Pavilion)
• Tues & Thurs, 10am, Lake Johnson Park (4601 Avent Ferry Rd, meet near boathouse)
• Saturdays, 9:30am, Apex Community Park (aka Lake Pine), 2200 Laura Duncan Rd (drive all the way in to the end of the road/parking lot, meet at shelters near path to lake)
  

(Note: additional Cary locations likely to be added later this spring)

When we are OUTDOORS-- if it rains or is colder than 45 degrees, we will move class to Cary Towne Center mall, in which case class will be at 9:30am (not 10), since that is what the mall requires.

For class changes due to weather, please check our facebook page (www.facebook.com/strollerstridesraleigh) or call 888-389-0701, option 3, for class change updates the morning of class.

This is a great time to come out and try a Stroller Strides class if you haven't yet! Your first class is free-- come join us for a chance to get outdoors and active, meet other moms, and have fun with your little one/s.

For more info about our programs:
www.strollerstrides.net/raleigh
888-389-0701
jen.kedrowski@strollerstrides.net

March Mom of the Month

Our mom of the month program honors moms for their efforts to lead healthy lifestyles, and gives us a chance to get to know them better at the same time!

Our March Mom of the Month is: Beth Breeden!! Congrats Beth!

Beth joined Stroller Strides in January, and has been a frequent attendee and upbeat, extremely friendly member of the group. She is an inspiration to all moms with all that she juggles-- motherhood, her own photography business (http://www.aewileyphotography.com/), Stroller Strides and other activities. Amidst all that being an entreprenuer entails, she still manages to drive out from Clayton to Stroller Strides workouts several times each week to stay in shape, and her husband Jonathan has also been a frequent Saturday attendee, sticking it out in the mall with us! We are glad to have Beth and her adorable son David as part of the group.

Join us in wishing her the best, and check out her answers below to get to know Beth a little better!


Hometown: Norrisville, Maryland

Current part of the Triangle that you live in: Clayton

Education: B. A. in politics and sociology from Washington and Lee University; M. A. T. in social studies/history from Duke University

Stroller Strides Member since: January 2011

Members of your Family: Jonathan, David, and Beth

Tell us about your child/children: David is almost a year and a half old. He is an on-the-go toddler, to put it mildly. I am enjoying watching his vocabulary and his skills grow to keep pace with his opinions. He really does change daily right now, which is fascinating and fun.

Current/previous Career: Current = Photographer (since 2005); Former = High School U. S. History and Law and Justice Teacher

What was your childhood ambition? To be a lawyer or a teacher

What does motherhood mean to you? It's a wonderful combination of spiritual, intellectual, and practical exercise all aimed at helping one little 2 1/2 foot redhead become a good person. Basically, I get a chance to try to help a little person develop his values, abilities, and personality so that he will be a good man.

What is the furthest you have been from home? Spain

What has Stroller Strides done for you? Where to start? It has given me a way to meet other moms with young children, to introduce David to children his own age, and to get exercise that I actually look forward to, in a social setting.

What is your favorite exercise? I really like the power walking. The wall sit and the leg kick-out activities are other ones that I enjoy.

What is your proudest moment? The moment that David was born.

What are three of your favorite things (besides your family!)? Coffee, the mountains, and my camera

Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique. I grew up on a family beef and grain farm.

What advice would you give to others who are juggling motherhood and their own business or career?
I would say be patient with yourself as you learn to balance both, get good help whom you trust to care for your children for at least a few hours a week so that you have some working time during the day (as opposed to trying to carve all of your work time out of what should be your sleep), and set aside some regular time to spend with your spouse, away from email/phone/computer.