We loved our Ergo baby carrier, the Medela breast pump, a bunting by Canada Goose that always made me feel comfortable knowing he wasn’t cold in the deep chill of winter (he was born in December) and finally Doctor Brown’s glass bottles were critical.

Realizing that true “balance” isn’t possible. Attempting it is. Giving myself forgiveness and grace and celebrating the times I succeed at living in the moment. Being present with my son while I’m at home then being dedicated to work while I am there.

The greatest gift from the book is starting the open conversation about depression. For me it’s been a healing moment where I, a perpetual people pleaser, am finally saying “I don’t care if you judge me, or don’t like this dark secret about me…because it’s part of me. And I’m proud of my journey.”
I’ve been so fortunate to get help and find sunshine. I want this book to help others find this too.
What is your favorite part of being a mom?

Knowing when to stop giving in…I want to give him everything he wants. I know that isn’t the answer so finding that balance has been one of my greatest challenges so far.

Forgive yourself. Perfection just is not possible so you can strive for it, but never beat yourself up because it wasn’t achieved. Also, get ready to love your parents more than you ever thought possible because now you’ll really know what they went through.

It’s made me grateful for every single moment in life. It’s the best thing I have ever done.
What is the best way to spend a day off?

I miss my family and friends in Chicago, I miss Michigan Avenue during the holidays all lit up, I miss RL (the restaurant) and most of all the beauty of that gem of a lake that lights up the city.
I don’t miss the frozen tundra west of Chicago, they allows the deepest winter cold to brush right over the city. Where I’m from in west Michigan we get a little insulation from the lake and here in NYC the ocean insulates us a bit. You all get it with a north or northeast wind but still…