Our February Mom of the Month

Our Mom of the Month program honors one of our Stroller Strides moms for her efforts to live a healthy lifestyle while giving us the chance to get to know her better at the same time. This month we honor Brooke Acas, aka Roman's mom!

Acas Family

Brooke joined our program early in the summer with her son, Roman, and the little boy she nannies for, Warren. She and the boys have faithfully attended classes 3-5 times per week ever since and Brooke can attest to the results of her efforts (see below)! Now expecting a little girl, Brooke is working towards a new goal- a healthy pregnancy! We're so proud of you, Brooke, and delighted to have you and the boys in our classes. Keep up the good work!

We asked Brooke a few questions to get to know her better and this is what she told us...

Hometown - Wilson, NC

Education- Where didn't I go to college? ...a total of 3, I finally graduated from Coastal Carolina University
Stroller Strides Member since - June 2012
Members of your Family - Roland, Roman, Olive (baby girl on the way) and Tiki, our dog!
Current/previous Career - I was the regional marketing director for 3 chiropractic offices.
What was your childhood ambition? I wanted to be a ballet instructor and own my own studio.
What does motherhood mean to you? I knew for as long as I can remember that I wanted to be a Mom.  The day I had Roman, I felt like I had accomplished everything I had ever wanted, that my life was complete!  I am so thankful everyday for my sweet little boy and for our new one on the way.  Motherhood to me, is the most wonderful blessing in the world!
What is the furthest you have been from home? Lithuania, my husbands homeland.
What has Stroller Strides done for you? During my pregnancy with Roman, I gained 61 pounds.  I was out of shape and looking for something to do... that I could stick with and that was fun!  I saw you ladies one day at North Hills, decided that's it!  I joined and from June to October I lost 22 lbs!  I love going everyday not only for my fitness but also for my sanity :)  I am hoping to gain a lot less this go around!
What is your favorite exercise? I like doing arms, Stroller Barre and the wall.
What is your proudest moment? Becoming a Mommy!
What are three of your favorite things (besides your family!)? Music: I love researching new music from around the world, mostly heavy metal.  The Ballet and traveling!
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique. I was awarded a scholarship to the NC School of the Arts when I was 13.
If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say? "You are a great Mother, the best wife ever, you have a big heart and you make great dinners!"

Special thanks to our friends at Omega Sports at North Hills for further honoring our Moms of the Month with store gift certificates!

Our December Mom of the Month

Our Mom of the Month program honors one of our local Stroller Strides moms for her efforts to live and role model a healthy lifestyle while giving us the chance to get to know her better at the same time. December's mom of the month is Kris Montgomery (aka Ashley's mom)!

 

The Montgomery Family

Kris is a dedicated class Member- faithfully attending Stroller Strides classes 3-4 times a week and always giving 110% of her efforts! She is a kind and patient mom and a sweet thoughtful friend to all. Kris also writes for a local blog that reviews area parks (http://raleighparks.org/), is a big-time Hokie fan and a dedicated volunteer with the Raleigh Jaycees.

We asked Kris a few questions to get to know her better and this is what she told us....

 

Hometown: Stafford, VA

Education: B.S. in Business Information Technology and Minor in Math from Virginia Tech

Stroller Strides Member since: April 2012

Members of your Family: Husband, Bill; Ashley - 20 months, and Ripken the Boston Terrier - 6 years

Current/previous Career: I worked as a Business Analyst at NC Farm Bureau for 8 years before having Ashley.

What was your childhood ambition? To be the founder of the Women's NBA (knowing my amazing height might be a disadvantage, I at least realized I should work behind the scenes)

What does motherhood mean to you? To me it means being a positive role model and providing opportunities for them to have fun, be healthy, learn new things and feel safe.

What is the furthest you have been from home? Italy

What has Stroller Strides done for you? It's given me a great outlet to introduce Ashley to exercise (she's already obsessed with the exercise tubing). It's also been a great way to stay in shape while meeting amazing friends for both of us...this group is full of such fun, intelligent moms and neat kids, I don't know what we'd do without it!

What is your favorite exercise? It's gotta be the leg lifts or anything that works the booty and legs.

What is your proudest moment? When Ashley was born.

What are three of your favorite things (besides your family!)? My MacBook, cheese, the beach

Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique. I got married on the most inconvenient day ever for our guests - it was a Monday, two days before Christmas in Blacksburg, VA (almost 10 yrs ago!).

If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say? After an inappropriate first response, he mentioned my generous, giving and dedicated nature.

Special thanks to Omega Sports (North Hills) for further honoring our 2012 Moms of the Month with $10 gift cards to the store!

October's Mom of the Month

Our Mom of the Month program honors one of our local Stroller Strides moms for her efforts to live a healthy lifestyle while giving us a chance to get to know her better at the same time. Without further ado, our October Mom of the Month is Jenny Solomon (aka Natan's mom)! Jenny was unanimously nominated by all of our Stroller Strides Instructors for this honor and her efforts and results are further evidence of how deserving she is!

The Solomon Family

 Despite juggling a work-from-home/stay-at-home-mom schedule and getting 2 older children off to school or camp each morning Jenny has been consistently meeting her fitness and weight loss goals by making healthy dietary choices and faithfully attending Stroller Strides classes, group 5K training runs and even running on her own. She's signed up for the City of Oaks 1/2 Marathon coming up later this fall and we have no doubt that she'll take this race in stride as well!

Jenny is always brimming with positivity and can often be overheard encouraging a fellow mom in their motherhood and fitness journey. And on top of that, she has a beautiful singing voice... a welcome accompaniment to our usual loud-but-less-than-harmonious vocal efforts in class!

We've asked Jenny a few questions to get to know her even better and this is what she said...

Hometown:

Dallas, Texas

Education:

B.A. Brown University, Providence, R.I.

Rabbinic Ordination, Hebrew Union College-Jewish Institute of Religion, Jerusalem/New York

Doctorate in Counseling, Post-Graduate Center for Mental Health, New York

Stroller Strides Member since:

April, 2012

Members of your Family:

Eric (husband), Meirav (9 1/2), Adi (7 1/2), Natan (7 mo.)

Current/previous Career:

Rabbi

What was your childhood ambition?

Rabbi, OB/GYN, or a News Anchor 

What does motherhood mean to you?

Being a mom is the greatest privilege of my life.  The gift of bringing three beautiful souls into this world and giving them roots and wings is my deepest joy. I believe my role as their mother is to create the space for them to grow into the best people they can be— to nurture their strengths and help support them in facing their challenges. My job is to give them unconditional love as well as sufficient boundaries so that they can  function successfully in the world and contribute their unique gifts. I hope and pray they will leave the world better than they found it and find ways to be of service as instruments of peace and justice.

What is the furthest you have been from home?

I have been fortunate to travel all over the world from Brazil to China to Australia, but my most special experience abroad was living in Jerusalem for three years.

What has Stroller Strides done for you?

We waited a very long time for Natan to arrive and I consider it an incredibly precious gift to be his primary caregiver. Being able to exercise and care for Natan at the same time is a privilege I never take for granted. I also love exercising outside— regardless of the weather. Being outside is good for my soul and Natan loves it (most of the time).

What is your favorite exercise?

Running (by myself) and Stroller Strides!

What is your proudest moment?

The experience of giving birth to each of my children are by far my proudest moments. Each birth was totally unique, but I remember the distinct feeling after each of them were born that there was nothing I couldn't do if put my heart and soul into it.

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

I treasure my relationship with my sister-friends (all of whom live outside of Raleigh), yoga and meditation, and leading meaningful prayer services.

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

In addition to concentrating in Judaic Studies, I spent a good part of my high school and college years devoted to education and taught in Girls Clubs in South Dallas, public schools in Harlem and Washington Heights (in NYC), and ran a drop-in day camp for two summers in the South Bronx.

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

My husband is my biggest fan (next to my kids and parents), so when  I asked him this question and he described me as:  "Beautiful. Spiritual. Intellectual. Loving. Devoted Ema (mother). Beloved friend."

Special thanks to our friends at Omega Sports for further honoring our Mom of the Month with a $10 store gift card!

Our June Mom of the Month

Lindsay & Family- Photo courtesy of Mason Dee Photography

Our Mom of the Month program offers us the opportunity to honor one of our dedicated Stroller Strides moms for her efforts to live a healthy lifestyle while getting to know her better at the same time. Our June Mom of the Month is Lindsay Blackburn (aka Graham's mom)!

Lindsay is a faithful class attendee (despite rehabbing a shoulder injury) and a sweet friend to all she encounters. She has also agreed to serve as a 3rd Playgroup Captain (serving alongside co-Captains Amy & Krista). Welcome aboard, Lindsay! We all look forward to the fun things you've got in store for the playgroup this summer and fall!

We asked Lindsay a few questions to get to know her better and this is what she said...
Hometown - One of the few people from Raleigh, NC! Never thought I would live in Raleigh after college, but my internship was here which led to my first job. After traveling with work a lot I grew to love and appreciate Raleigh and can't imagine living anywhere else.
Education - BSBA Accounting from Appalachian State University
Stroller Strides Member since - September 2011
Members of your Family - Husband of almost 7 years - Casey, Graham (2 years old), JD the cat, Tuscan and Moose the rabbits!
Current/previous Career - CPA, first in public accounting and later in industry. Neither was much fun!
What was your childhood ambition? President of the United States or CEO of a major corporation. Seriously.
What does motherhood mean to you? Motherhood is something I had always wanted and had to wait a while for, but it has been worth the wait. It is more rewarding and challenging than I could have ever imagined. I have a whole new respect for my parents since Graham is just like me as a child! Thank goodness they never left me somewhere because I now know just how tempting that may seem some days! Even on the worst day I can't imagine doing anything else. What is the furthest you have been from home? Hawaii and Europe, I think about equally far from here in opposite directions.
What has Stroller Strides done for you? I am wearing shorts again!! I can also run more than I ever thought I could and actually enjoy it. Stroller Strides is really the only way I can fit exercise into my day now and I love coming to class. It has done so much for Graham too. He was such a shy and clingy little guy before we started and it is a joy to see him make friends and come out of his shell a bit. I love having so many new friends to chat with each day. I was getting pretty lonely at home all day and didn't have many mom friends before joining Stroller Strides.
What is your favorite exercise? Anything for my arms, sometimes legs and never abs.
What is your proudest moment? It used to be passing the CPA exam on the first try, but now it is giving birth with no drugs!
What are three of your favorite things (besides your family!)? Photography, crafts/building things, anything made with lots of sugar.
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique. I have two pet rabbits that have their own bedroom in my house! I am also a House Rabbit Society educator, am the head rabbit volunteer and educator at the SPCA and organize the house rabbit meetup group! Before Graham, I used to foster rabbits as well and would have up to 8 rabbits in my house at one time! And no it didn't smell. I fostered a mom and her 6 babies which was a lot of work, but an amazing experience. Casey calls me the crazy rabbit lady.
If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say? When I asked him he sat for a long time thinking and came up with selflessness (giving), ingenuity (crafty), maternal instinct (good mom) and independent. I am pretty sure he was just trying to think of a big words. I added my interpretations in parenthesis after asking him to explain!
 

Our May Mom of the Month

Our Mom of the Month program honors one of our Stroller Strides moms for her efforts to live a healthy lifestyle while letting us get to know her better at the same time. Our May Mom of the Month is Krista Welty (aka Caiden's mom). 

The Welty Family

Krista is a faithful attender at our Shelley Lake class location, serves as one of our hard-working (volunteer!) Playgroup Captains and is a great role model for healthy living for Caiden! A former science teacher, Krista even provides the occasional impromptu science lesson during class and we all learn a little something new about the beautiful world around us. Thanks for all you do to help make our classes and playgroups so special, Krista!

We asked Krista a few questions to get to know her better and this is what she said:

Hometown : Long Beach, CA
Education: BS in Biology
Stroller Strides Member since: July 2010
Members of your Family: Chris, Caiden and me
Current/previous Career: High School Biology Teacher
What was your childhood ambition? I wanted to be a veterinarian.
What does motherhood mean to you? Not sweating the small stuff, enjoying your kids, making sacrifices.
What is the furthest you have been from home? Mykonos, Greek Isles 
What has Stroller Strides done for you? Made exercise fun!
What is your favorite exercise? Abs.
What is your proudest moment? Graduating from college.
What are three of your favorite things (besides your family!)? Books, ice cream, afternoon naps
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique. I can swim 50 feet underwater on a single breath... Well, I used to but haven't tried it in a long time. 
If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say? Smart & caring.

Our April Mom of the Month

Every month we take a moment to honor one of our Stroller Strides moms for their efforts to lead a healthy lifestyle while also getting to know her better at the same time! This month our Mom of the Month is Ann Clark (aka Kade's mom)!

The Clark Family

Ann is a sweet, funny mom of an active 2 1/2 year old little boy and she is just a blast to hang out with! She always has an amusing motherhood anecdote and a smile to share with everyone close-by. Ann is a regular attender at Stroller Strides classes and Plum Moms Club playgroup activities and when I polled our Instructor team for nominations for this month's Mom of the Month- they all unanimously nominated Ann! We're all impressed by your efforts to get and stay fit, Ann, and we love having you around!

We asked Ann a few questions about herself and this is what she told us:

Hometown: So unfamiliar to all of you- Bulacan, Philippines
Education: BS in Nursing- Class of 1999
Stroller Strides Member since: June 2012
Members of your family: My loving hubby Kurt, our lil' man Kade, and my awesome stepson Zane
Current Career: Housewife and I'm loving it!
What was your childhood ambition? I really wanted to be a flight stewardess (flight attendant). That's what I tell anyone who asked me what I wanted to be when I grew up because on TV they always looked pretty with make-up and those fancy looking clothes (yayy!) and went to different places all over the world! Exciting!
What does motherhood mean to you? It is the bet thing that ever happened in my life (well, besides getting married to my wonderful husband).
What is the furthest you have been from home? Being here in the US for only 2 years. I still consider the Philippines my home so I'd say its the United States.
What has Stroller Strides done for you? Amazing things, are you kidding me?! You guys are awesome. Besides getting my body in shape and my son getting to socialize, it is a big help that I get to talk to all of the wonderful moms on just about everything about motherhood, raising a toddler, places to go, etc.
What is your favorite exercise? Anything dealing with my belly!
What is your proudest moment? I think it was when Kade was born. I had him at 30 when I thought I would never be able to have a baby. I am so proud each day that goes by and he is safe with me, so proud when he first learned how to count. All of his milestones are precious and the proudest moments of my life.
What are three of your favorite things (besides your family)? Stroller Strides!!!, apple strudel (from Costco), and I loooove clothes and shoes!!!
Tell us something about yourself that would suprise us or that makes you unique. Ah, maybe that I'm a worry freak!!!
If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say? That I have a big heart and care about people and that I'm the best wife =)

Omega Sports has generously donated $10 gift cards to further honor our Moms of the Month- visit them at North Hills, Crossroads or in Durham!

Our March Mom of the Month

Our Mom of the Month program offers us the opportunity to honor one of our dedicated Stroller Strides moms for her efforts to live a healthy lifestyle while getting to know her better at the same time. Without further ado, our March Mom of the Month is Annie McGinn (aka Patrick's mom)!

Annie & family

Annie is a dedicated Stroller Strides mom- often attending class 4-5 times per week. She is always full of smiles for Patrick and the moms and kids around her and consistently strives to challenge herself during our workouts. Thank you, Annie, for setting such a wonderful example for our group and for being such a sweet friend.

We asked Annie a few questions and this is what she said:

Hometown: Cumming, Georgia
Education: BS in Business Management from Appalachian State University
Stroller Strides Member since: August 2011
Members of your Family: Ryan (hubs), Patrick (babe), Lucky (pup)
Current/previous Career: I was in sales for a staffing company & then I owned a stationery company.
What was your childhood ambition? To be a cake decorator at the grocery store. Seriously.
What does motherhood mean to you? Motherhood has made me feel like I've found my place in the world. Nothing I've ever done in the past has fulfilled me more than being a Mom.
What is the furthest you have been from home? Antarctica...just kidding. San Francisco.
What has Stroller Strides done for you? Stroller Strides has given me everything I need in a convenient, one hour time slot. I get my exercise, my socializing, & my mental clarity, plus I love getting to watch Patrick interact with his SS friends. I was just thinking about what I would do at home in the mornings without SS and it seriously made me scared. I only have enough creativity for 3 hours a day, and that has to last me from the end of nap time to dinner. I also love that I'm setting a good example for Patrick to lead a healthy lifestyle.
What is your favorite exercise? Even though I always get sore, I really love standing on the band & stepping side to side. It's instant gratification/pain.
What is your proudest moment? Besides becoming a Mom, running the Chicago Shamrock Shuffle 8K six months after having back surgery in less than 50 minutes.
What are three of your favorite things (besides your family!)? In no particular order: driving on a crisp fall day with all of the windows down and the heat on, listening to my parents tell stories about when they were little, and macaroni & cheese
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique. I'm pregnant! :-) I've never had a Big Mac or a sip of coffee.
If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say? Ryan said my sense of humor, but he was really tired when I asked him because he forgot to say that I'm the most amazing wife and mother in the universe and that he'd be lost without me.

Congratulations Annie & family on your big news and thanks for being you!
~Missy

December's Mom of the Month

Our Mom of the Month program allows us to honor one of our Stroller Strides moms for her efforts to lead a healthy lifestyle while getting to know her better at the same time. December's Mom of the Month is Amy Ruetz (aka Marley's mom)!

Amy moved to Raleigh from Baltimore earlier this year and quickly became a beloved member of our mom-community! She faithfully attends 4-5 classes/week and is currently serving as one of our 3 wonderful Playgroup Captains.

Amy spent the fall training for the City of Oaks 1/2 marathon and frequently doubled on up on her daily workout by running a few miles before Stroller Strides class. Fortunately, Marley was a willing training buddy and conveniently took her naps during the run. Amy even inspired a few of our other Stroller Strides moms to join her on her pre-class runs.

We asked Amy a few questions to get to know her a little better and this is what she said...

Hometown: I consider Chicago my home, although I grew up all over PA, NJ, and the midwest.

Education: I went to the University of Colorado for my BA in Communications. I then went on to get my Master's in Elementary Education in Chicago.

Stroller Strides Member since: May 2011

Members of your Family: I have been married to my husband, Mike, for 4 years. We have our amazing daughter, Marley (11 months), dog Tank, and cat Mugatu.

Current/previous Career: I was an elementary teacher (3rd/4th grade).

What was your childhood ambition? I knew I would love to teach, and be a mom. Lucky me, I have everything I always wanted :-)

What does motherhood mean to you? It is the most amazing accomplishment I have ever achieved! It's so cliched but I am so fulfilled with the love of this little person. Every day is a new adventure and I am so excited for this journey for the rest of my life!

What is the furthest you have been from home? I LOVE to travel! I am so lucky to have been to Thailand, explored Eastern Europe, and traveled around Argentina. I would love to share more traveling with my kids in the future.

What has Stroller Strides done for you? What hasn't it done for me? After having a baby, "retiring" from teaching, and moving to NC, Stroller Strides has helped me through all of these transitions! I am so lucky to have formed many friendships, both for me and my baby! I have mentors that I feel comfortable asking parenting questions to and a social calendar filled with fun outings and playdates. I am so happy to be a Playgroup Captain and feel even more connected to this amazing group of moms! Getting a great, daily workout make me feel stonger and healthier than I have ever been!

What is your favorite exercise? If watching reality television does not constitute as exercise, then wall sits and bicep curls would be my favorite. I love the feeling of accomplishment after a good run too!

What is your proudest moment? Prior to being a mom (that would take the cake), having my old students seek me out to tell me they loved coming to school when I was their teacher.

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

Traveling, being outdoors, laughing

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

I have never lived anywhere for more than 4 years. I have been a vegetarian for half my life (does that make me old?)

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

I would like to think that my hubby thinks I am fun to be around and am caring and giving.

November's Mom of the Month

Our Mom of the Month program allows us to honor one of our Stroller Strides moms for her efforts to lead a healthy lifestyle while getting to know her better at the same time. November's Mom of the Month is Amanda Falsone (aka Epi & Anna's mama)!

When we first met Amanda (early summer 2010) she was mom to one sweet little baby boy (Epi). Shortly thereafter she became our first pregnant Stroller Strides mom and remained a dedicated Stroller Strides and Fit4Baby participant throughout her pregnancy. In the winter of 2011, Epi became a big brother to baby sister Anna and Amanda moved into the world of double strollers.

Despite having her hands full with two little ones under the age of 2, Amanda makes it out to Stroller Strides class and playgroup activities multiple times/week. She always arrives with smiles and energy to spare and makes it look easy to get to class with two little ones (though she assures us it's not- and we believe her- see below). She also hosts a fabulous Breakfast with Santa and backyard Wet & Wild summer play dates for our playgroup!

We asked Amanda to answer a few questions so that you can get to know her better and this is what she said...

Hometown: Covington, Louisiana
Education: Louisiana State University for Ceramics and NC State for Industrial Design
Stroller Strides Member since: May 2010
Members of your Family: Joseph, Epi (23 months), Anna (8 months) and Scout our Jack Russell mix who's going on 15 years!
Current/previous Career: lately I've been juggling the babies' nap schedules full-time but as a career I taught ceramics and art to adorable students at Explore!
What was your childhood ambition? Being the youngest of 5 I think my ambition was to just be good and stay out of the trouble!
What does motherhood mean to you? What a question! It's given me a better perspective on just what a miracle it is that my husband and I created these little extensions of ourselves. I feel blessed, humble and grateful to have been chosen to be their mother. I'm one happy and lucky mama!

What has Stroller Strides done for you? It has done a lot! The exercises are always challenging, especially the ab work. I really enjoy the social aspect of it for both myself and the babies. Also, being a part of a program was a real test after having a second child to (try) to keep a schedule for myself and get everyone out of the house on time. Lucky for me you guys don't count tardies. One more thing I LOVE.... learning cute songs to sing to my babies!

What is your favorite exercise? Kick backs I think they're called. I love feeling the booty burn.

What is the furthest you have been from home? Venice, Italy for our honeymoon.

What is your proudest moment? There are two-When Epi opened his eyes and looked up at me seconds after delivery and second when I heard the blaring cries of Anna. I was shocked something so tiny could put out such sound!
What are three of your favorite things (besides your family!)? Rollerskating, listening to my mom play piano, making things- be it awesome birthday decor, murals or art with Epi (and soon enough, Anna).
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique. I have an incredible lucky streak. I once won a 7-day all expense paid trip to Hawaii when I called into a radio station. While on the plane to the island I won the contest the stewardesses announced. It was only 3 cans of macadamia nuts but I felt lucky to have won. I'm currently hoping to win a playhouse I bought raffle tickets for!
If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say?.....coming from my husband's mouth: "It's generic and cliche but I want to say, 'You're a great mom."' pause..."I would also say you're kind."

Instructor Spotlight: Meet Colleen!

Usually at the beginning of every month we take a moment to honor one of our Stroller Strides moms as "Mom of the Month" for her efforts to lead a healthy lifestyle. We're taking a break this month to formally introduce you to our newest Instructor with a post we're calling "Instructor Spotlight"!

Meet Colleen Gould (aka Alex's mom)! Colleen moved to Raleigh from Los Angeles, CA in the late Spring and began attending classes and substituting during Instructor vacations. Fun fact: she used to teach Stroller Strides on the beach in Los Angeles! This Fall she'll be teaching our Monday and Wednesday 9am Stroller Strides classes at the North Hills Mall.

If you've ever taken one of Colleen's classes you know that she is a seasoned and very knowledgeable Instructor. An advanced degree in Exercise Physiology and certifications in Personal Training, Group Exercise and Pilates and her sweet and welcoming personality make for fun and challenging Stroller Strides classes with a little something for every-mom!

We wanted to give you a chance to get to know Colleen a little better so we asked her our standard "Mom of the Month" questions and this is what she said:

Hometown: Mobile, Alabama
Education: BA from Loyola University New Orleans in Print Journalism, minor from Tulane University in Sports Science; MS from Middle Tennessee State in Exercise Physiology
Stroller Strides Member Since: May 2010 (in LA) and April 2011 here in Raleigh
Members of your family? My amazing husband is Andrew and y'all know Alexander (16 mo)
Current/Previous Career: Up until I had Alex I worked as an Exercise Physiologist at a Physical Therapy practice. Since Alex... I'm full-time mom with the exception of teaching Stroller Strides :-)
What was your childhood ambition? As a little girl I wanted to be a cheerleader, then a grade school teacher and then an interior designer but deep down I always knew I wanted to be a mom.
What does motherhood mean to you? Motherhood is complex! I am embracing being a mom and everything that comes with it. I love Alex's sweet demeanor, how he is passionate about bananas, and how much he loves dancing. I never expected some days to be so long, but also never expected some days to be so very cool as I watch him grow and learn new things with curiosity and amazement.
Where is the furthest you've been from home? I studied abroad in Dublin between Junior and Senior year of college.... it was like my home away from home, love it there!
What has Stroller Strides done for you? Stroller Strides has done so much for me! As a new mom looking to get back in shape and make some new mom friends, it was the perfect answer. Now as an Instructor, I enjoy sharing my enthusiasm for exercise with other moms and babes. Being outside, exercising, keeping the babies entertained... it just make sense!
What is your favorite exercise? I'm sure y'all will be shocked to read this but I've gotta go with any kind of ab work, especially after doing cardio and resistance for an hour- it's just so effective!
What is your proudest moment? Right after Alex was born, watching Andrew looking at him for the first time and feeling so blessed.
What are your three favorite things (besides your family)? Ribbons, ruffles & consignment shopping.
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or that makes you unique. I have never in my life had a sip of coffee.
If we asked your spouse what he thinks your best qualities are, what would he say? Trustworthy and sweet, but goofy!

Come try one of Colleen's classes at the North Hills Mall and introduce yourself! Your first class is always free- you can register with this link: click HERE.

Our August Mom of the Month

Our Mom of the Month program allows us to honor one of our Stroller Strides moms for her efforts to lead a healthy lifestyle while getting to know her better at the same time. Our August Mom of the Month is Shauna Elggren (aka Cameron's mom)!

Shauna rarely misses a workout- often attending 4-5 Stroller Strides classes per week. Sweet Cameron is always with her smiling and waving (one of his latest tricks) and usually sporting the cutest little baby faux-hawk you've ever seen! This fit, fun, and fashionable mama is a great asset to our program and we all love having her around!


We asked Shauna a few questions to get to know her a bit better and this is what she said...

Hometown: Born in Tuscon AZ. But I'm an army brat so I've had lots of hometowns. My family always seemed to come back to Salt Lake City, Utah.
Education: Some college

Member Since: Oct 2010
Members of your Family: 2 sisters: Shyloh (Utah) & Shelley (Nags Head, NC), ME, and 2 brothers: Jeff (Utah) & Justin (Raleigh)... also Cameron (age 1) and Greg (Cameron's daddy)
Current Career: Mommy (best job ever) and some very part time Bookkeeping
What was your childhood ambition? to be an Actress
What does motherhood mean to you? I never really wanted to have kids, but the moment I saw this little guy's face in the ultrasound I finally knew what true love really was. Then when he was born I knew my new life ambition was to help make this little boy as happy as possible. It has changed me for the better!
What is the furthest you've been from home? Hawaii or Cancun
What has Stroller Strides done for you? I don't know where I would be without you fabulous girls (prob in the corner crying everyday). I'm also starting to lose some of my baby weight & feeling more confident!
What is your favorite exercise? "Head shoulders knees and toes"...FAST...I can never find eyes, ears, mouth, and nose correctly ;) hahaha

What is your proudest moment? Becoming a mommy
What are three of your favorite things (besides your family)? I love the beach, dancing, & working out
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or that makes you unique. I got married when I was 19 and divorced at 29. Greg and I met when I was working for Gold's Gym, we always had so much fun together. We dated off and on for several month before I moved in. We were very pleasantly surprised to find out I was pregnant. We are so happy to be parents. Maybe some day we'll get married, but I'm in no rush.

Our June Mom of the Month

Our Mom of the Month program honors one of our own Stroller Strides moms for her efforts to lead a healthy lifestyle and gives us a chance to get to know them better at the same time. June's Mom of the Month is Gina Sarant (aka LilaKate's mom)!

Gina and LilaKate have been active Stroller Strides Members since May 2010 and we absolutely LOVE having them in class! Gina always has a kind word and an encouraging smile for her classmates and pushes herself to work harder and be healthier at every opportunity. She's even been known to grind up liver and add it to a turkey burger for the added health benefits- ask her about it if you want to hear how the burgers turned out!


We asked Gina a few questions about herself and this is what she said...

Hometown: Castleton, NY
Education: College of Saint Rose- BS in Elementary Education and I have a 2 year degree in Financial Services from HVCC
Member Since: May 2010
Members of your Family: Jimmy (husand) and LilaKate (turning 2 this summer)
Current Career: Domestic Goddess- aka Stay at Home Mom... BEST job ever!
What was your childhood ambition? To be a mommy. I think I believed my Baby Beth was real for at least a couple of years. I took such good care of her and would really lose it when my brothers used to dangle her over the staircase...
What does motherhood mean to you? Everything! It took a while to get pregnant with LilaKate and I love everything about being a mommy! When I see food all over the floor or feel vomit all over me (only happened once!) I think, I waited a long time for this! Motherhood truly is the ultimate gift and I thank God for my little girl every day!
What is the furthest you've been from home? Greece, with Tahiti coming in as a close second!
What has Stroller Strides done for you? It has created the ultimate place to get fit, bond with baby and hang out with some of the greatest moms in the world!
What is your favorite exercise? "No More Monkey's Jumping on the Bed"... where we side step with our feet on the band and jump in and out. It has really helped "my problem areas"!
What is your proudest moment? Giving birth to LilaKate :)
What are three of your favorite things (besides your family)? Coffee, day spas, reading a good book.
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or that makes you unique. My best friend is someone I have known since birth... our moms were neighborhood friends and were pregnant together.
If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say? "Gina's best quality is her heart. She is the most loving and caring mother LilaKate and I could have wished for." ~Jimmy Sarant

Our May Mom of the Month

In less than a week we will celebrate ALL moms... but for the month of May we want to highlight one special Stroller Strides of Midtown Raleigh mom for the strides she is making in fitness, motherhood and life! Our May Mom of the Month is Ashley Collins (aka Beatrice Kate's mom)- pictured below with her husband and daughter at the March for Babies!



Congratulations, Ashley! You're a super-mom and a wonderful example to our group in faith, fundraising, friendship, fitness, and of course- motherhood and we want to celebrate you! Ashley's most recent hobby has been raising money for the March of Dimes via the March for Babies walk that took place on Saturday in the Triangle. Under her leadership our team raised nearly $3500 in honor of her daughter, Beatrice Kate, who was born 11 weeks premature and is now a healthy and happy 1 year old!

We had Ashley answer a few questions so that we could get to know her a little bit better and this is what she said...

Hometown : Lincolnton, NC but I went to high school in Durham at the NC School of Science and Mathematics
Education : B.A. in Chemistry from NCSU
Stroller Strides Member/Participant since: September 2010
Members of your Family: Myself, my husband, Casey and our daughter Beatrice Kate (13 months)
Current Career : Mommy (and I LOVE IT)
What was your childhood ambition? To be a paleontologist (I even went on a fossil dig in high school!)
What does motherhood mean to you? Motherhood to me, means knowing a love like no other. From the moment I first saw Beatrice Kate's tiny, postage stamp-sized hand in the delivery room, I knew that my life was now bigger than just me. Being a mother means living everyday for someone else.
What is the furthest you have been from home? Cusco, Peru. We hiked for 4 days to get to Machu Piccu and it was well worth it!
What has Stroller Strides done for you? First- Stroller Strides provides a fun way to get in daily exercise. It's the only exercise class I've ever taken that I don't constantly check the clock! Secondly, Stroller Strides has given me a sense of community and a place to connect with other new moms. It's something that I look forward to every day and I love that Beatrice Kate also gets to meet new friends!
What is your favorite exercise? Hiking or Kayaking
What is your proudest moment? My most proud moment was the day that we took Beatrice Kate home from the NICU. We waited six long weeks to feel like a "real family" and I was so proud to finally have our daughter at home with us (even if none of us got any sleep for the next 3 months!). I remember drinking a cup of coffee the morning after she came home and thinking, "Wow. We did it!"
What are three of your favorite things (besides your family!)? Our dogs, Cooper (9) and Arnold (15); baking for friends and family; going to the movie theater (especially movies in IMAX)
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique. I can read books really quickly. It's really nerdy, but I read the entire Twilight franchise in two days and the Sookie Stackhouse novels in two weeks (all ten of them!).
If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say? I asked him and he said, "You always put other people's needs ahead of your own." I would say that I try to, certainly- unless one of those needs is the last chocolate chip cookie- and then all bets are off.

Our March Mom of the Month

Our Mom of the Month program allows us to honor one of our fellow moms and get to know her better at the same time. Our March Mom of the Month is Jen Hansen (aka Ivy's mom)! Pictured here at our Halloween party this fall...

Jen and Ivy rarely miss a class (only when they're out of state) and Jen always brings her smile and sunny attitude to class with her. Thanks for being such a great role model to Ivy and to your fellow moms, Jen! We can't wait to meet your little boy this spring!

Here is a little more from Jen to help you get to know her better:

Hometown Centerville, MN
Education BS Exercise Science from Minnesota State
Stroller Strides Member since August 2010
Members of your Family Husband- Marc, Ivy- 12months, and 26 weeks pregnant with our little man!
Current Career Stay at home mommy, the best job in the world!
What was your childhood ambition? To become an oceanographer and be a killer whale trainer at sea world.
What does motherhood mean to you? The strongest form of love to be experienced. It is the most important job I have ever had and I want to be great at it.
What is the furthest you have been from home? Costa Rica
What has Stroller Strides done for you? Making the life change to being a stay at home mom smooth, restored sanity, given myself and Ivy great friends in Raleigh, and gave me my body back! Well... until I was pregnant again, but I am a strong believer that it will happen again :)
What is your favorite exercise? Oh there are so many how do I choose...abs and anything with a jazzy tune.
What is your proudest moment? Delivering Ivy! 23 hours of labor with no drugs... never thought I could be so strong.
What are three of your favorite things (besides your family!)? Traveling, snuggling up and watching a movie, and house hunting.
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique. I was a pole vaulter in college, also coached pole vaulting for 3 years and had 1 state champion. I love the sport.
If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say? I am very layed back, cheerful most of the time, a great listener, not a nag, and I love with my whole heart.

Our February Mom of the Month...

Our Mom of the Month Program honors moms for making strides in fitness, motherhood and life and gives us a chance to get to know them better at the same time! February's Mom of the Month is Sharon Morris (aka Alexander's mom)!

Sharon's hard work during class and amazing attendance record have really paid off... every time we see her there's less of her to look at! She is getting so fit and trim that we wanted to honor her efforts and encourage other moms with her success story. Sharon has also agreed to serve as our Playgroup Co-Captain starting in February and will be planning and coordinating our playgroup activities with our current Playgroup Captain, Nora!

It has been a joy to get to know Sharon this Fall/Winter and to call her our friend. Here are a few interesting facts about Sharon to help you get to know her even better...

Hometown Raleigh, NC
Education NC State University
Stroller Strides Member since October 2010
Members of your Family William (hubby), Alexander (son), and Bernie (beagle/chihauhau mix)
Current Career Mom! previously a project manager
What was your childhood ambition? To be a judge
What does motherhood mean to you? Being challenged and rewarded each day in ways I never imagined.
What is the furthest you have been from home? Western Europe
What has Stroller Strides done for you? Helped me tone up and feel the best about my body ever! It has also allowed me to get out and meet some amazing women (gee- thanks, Sharon!).
What is your favorite exercise? Lunges or squats- I am trying to one day have a perky backside!
What is your proudest moment? Every time my mom instinct kicks in and I figure Alexander out.
What are three of your favorite things (besides your family!)? Reading, laying on the beach and being outdoors doing anything!
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique. After college I used my sociology/criminal justice degree and worked for a police department. I got to go to training and become a Certified Hostage Negotiator.
If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say? Patience, dedication, and organization.

Our December Mom of the Month!

Our Mom of the Month program honors moms for their efforts to lead healthy lifestyles while giving us a chance to get to know them better at the same time!

Our December Mom of the Month is Alicia Stephens, aka Court's mom! Alicia moved from Brooklyn, NY to Raleigh in early summer/late spring and starting taking Stroller Strides classes at North Hills in July. She and Court rarely miss a class or playgroup and we love having them around! Alicia's smiles, warmth, and authenticity make her fast friends with all of her classmates.
Alicia recently completed the NYC Marathon in early November and is already itching for another one! She plans to become a certified Stroller Strides instructor in the New Year and will be teaching for Stroller Strides of Midtown Raleigh! We're excited to have you on the team, Alicia & Court! Here are a few more details to help you get to know Alicia a little better...

Hometown - Haiku, Maui, Hawaii
Education - B.A. in Public Policy and Master of Public Administration from UNC-Chapel Hill
Stroller Strides Member since - July 2010
Members of your Family - husband Jon, son Court, dog Edith
Current Career -Mom!
What was your childhood ambition? - to be a U.S. Senator
What does motherhood mean to you? It has completely transformed me and has challenged (in a good way) some fundamental things that I thought I knew about myself. Becoming a mother has enabled me to live in the moment a lot more and to become more conscious of the world that I create for my child.
What is the furthest you have been from home? Lucerne, Switzerland
What has Stroller Strides done for you? Most importantly, it has provided me with a wonderful group of women. It also has strengthened my core and my arms, two elements of exercise that I always neglected before now, and both of which are so important to proper form in long-distance running.
What is your favorite exercise? All of our arm work with tubes around the escalators
What is your proudest moment? Achieving my goal of natural childbirth, despite 24+ hours of labor and 2.5 hours of pushing. Second to that, I am also pretty proud of the various marathons I have completed, despite not being very athletic or sports-oriented during my school years.
What are three of your favorite things (besides your family!)? Everything about my home island of Maui, all beaches, and oatmeal raisin cookies
Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique. My husband and I actually got married twice on our wedding day, first in the morning at a tiny and simple ceremony in my childhood church, and then later that afternoon in a civil ceremony with all of our family and friends present.
If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say? He replied "your determination and your ability to connect authentically with a broad range of people."

Our 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 Danielle Quinn, aka Camryn's mom, and one of our talented Stroller Strides instructors! We're fortunate to know Danielle as an instructor, classmate, and friend. Here are a few interesting tidbits to get to know her even better...

Hometown - Bennington, Vermont

Education - Masters in Sociology @ University of Connecticut, Bachelor of Arts @ St Lawrence University

Stroller Strides Member since - April 2009
Stroller Strides Instructor since - January 2010
Members of your Family - 3 and counting (Me, Mike and Camryn, baby Quinn due in February)

Current Career - Realtor with Coldwell Banker HPW (and I am always looking for referrals and new clients!), Stroller Strides Instructor, and of course a MOM!

What was your childhood ambition? 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 have always loved houses. And I also wanted to ski all the time so being a ski bum was a frequent response to what I wanted to do.

What does motherhood mean to you? Pure happiness. Camryn makes me smile everyday, all day. It means hard work, complete devotion and absolute happiness in return.

What is the furthest you have been from home? Europe. I did a semester in London my junior year of college and traveled to Paris, Rome, Florence, Brussels, several cities in Ireland and Scotland... I'm not sure which is actually the farthest, but it was an amazing semester.

What has Stroller Strides done for you? I first joined to meet other moms after moving to North Carolina and multi-task by getting a workout at the same time. I have found it to be inspirational, motivating and have made wonderful friendships. I love every second of it. Workouts used to be tough to fit into my day and now it is part of my routine and lifestyle to fit in my "me time" and something healthy for myself. And more recently, as Camryn has gotten older, I am so proud to find that I have taught her that being healthy and exercising is an important part of life. She "plays" Stroller Strides and looks forward to going to class.

What is your favorite exercise? Using the band to "double pole" tricep extension with a bend at the waist. It reminds me of skiing.

What is your proudest moment? Besides the obvious of bringing Camryn in the world, probably coming in 5th in the state (VT) for ski racing my second year on skis. I worked hard for it and the determination paid off.

What are three of your favorite things (besides your family!)? Giggling with Camryn (our girl time together is priceless), Skiing (although it doesn't happen much anymore living in NC), Art (Painting and Ceramics)

Tell us something about yourself that would surprise us or makes you unique. - I guess this is more something unique to someone living in North Carolina. - I grew up skiing every day of my childhood up through college. I was on a Division I ski team -St. Lawrence University (along with Thomas Vonn, the now husband and coach of olympian Lindsay Vonn). I skied with amazing athletes over the years and went to the Salt Lake City 2002 Olympics to watch 7 of my friends compete in the olympics. It was a former life I miss terribly, but the experiences I had and the lessons I learned have been life lessons that have impacted many aspects of my life today...even if I don't see snow much anymore!

If we asked your spouse what they think your best qualities are, what would they say? - I'm a hard worker. I'm organized and on top of things.