I’m Jenna – a 35 year old mama of Ava June (3 years old), Mabel Elizabeth (2 year old) and Baby3 on the way. I have an amazing hubby named Dan who is my partner in everything. And when Ava was born, we needed each other more than ever. Ava was born with something called Pierre Robin Sequence (you can find out more about her story here or here) and had three major surgeries before she turned one. It was a whirlwind year for us as parents, but now she’s a feisty, silly and happy toddler who just loves life. When Mabel was born, she fit into our family perfectly and her sweet smile just lights up a room. I’m still trying to figure out this “mom-of-two” thing, but every day it seems to get a little better. We will see what happens when the third baby arrives!
My background: I have over fifteen years of experience working with kiddos. I’ve taught preschool, led drama camps, taught acting at all ages, and for several years I was the Associate Director of a touring teen theatre company. Now I’m a stay-at-home mother of two and loving (almost) every minute.
I love all things kid and love to play. Between my teaching background, practically growing up at a day camp (since my mom worked there), and my theater background, I can party with the best of them! You’ll often find me dancing and singing along, being over-dramatic while I read picture books and get messy with the girls.
I always try to be a perpetual learner. I’m constantly picking up activity ideas to do with the girls, learning about children’s development, and reading articles about psychology (people fascinate me).
When we were dealing with Ava’s medical issues, people would tell me they were impressed how I was able to stay positive. How did I do it? Basically, it’s cuz I’ve been practicing for a long time! You see (getting a little personal) – I have a history of depression. I’ve been healthy for the last several years, but I’m always on the look-out for ways to sustain my mental health. My favorite tricks? Positivity, mindfulness, gratitude, stress management, self-care and having a strong support system. So… why am I bringing this up? I want to share what I’ve learned with you! I am not perfect at it, but I am always striving to be better.
I believe life is better when we can take the time to appreciate it. My favorite quote (and where the name of the blog came from) is:
“And I urge you to please notice when you are happy, and exclaim or murmur or think at some point, ‘If this isn’t nice, I don’t know what is.’” ― Kurt Vonnegut
This quote helps me all the time! Because this life really is nice, isn’t it?
xo Jenna
Keep Getting to Know Me:
My Parenting Philosophy
Noticing the Happy 