Meet Our New Village Captain: Mackenzie Frens! We are so excited to have her join the team and can't wait to see what fun she brings to Our Village!
Tell us about who is in your family.
I have been married for 2 1/2 years to my hubby, Micah. We had our first son, Caden last March. He will already be a year old on March 14th!
Where is your hometown?
I grew up on the East side of the state in Birmingham, a suburb outside of Detroit. I went to Grand Valley for teaching and fell in love with West Michigan! The West side is definitely the best side. I would never move back!
What is/was your career?
I have a degree in special education and elementary ed. I loved teaching! I taught resource room, kindergarten and most recently, second grade in Hudsonville Public Schools. I took a year leave from teaching and have since fallen in LOVE with being a stay at home mom. I feel so blessed to be able to stay home with Caden. I am LOVING the mom role and most recently, my new gig as "Village Playgroup Captain"!
How long have you been with FIT4MOM Grand Rapids, and what has it done for you?
I joined Fit for Mom over the summer when Caden was around 4 months old. I wanted to find somewhere to get out of the house and be active. I loved the idea of having Caden come along too for my workout! I have loved joining a community of moms! Everyone has been so welcoming since day one. I feel like I have already made some wonderful lasting friendships for myself and for Caden.
What is your favorite class exercise?
My favorite class exercise would have to be a good old wall sit- it gets me every time feeling the burn! :) haha I also love the welcoming stretches at the beginning of each class where you get to meet everyone and learn more about someone with the question of the day!
What is something that has surprised you about motherhood?
I was surprised about how deeply and unconditionally I could immediately love my son. This love is like nothing anyone could describe. It is the greatest feeling in the world.
What are some of your favorite things?
I love being outdoors - taking in the Michigan sunshine- when we have it! I enjoy walks, hikes, gardening, and especially being anywhere by the water! I also love to try new things- whether that be a new recipe, new restaurant or a new fun class/activity with Caden! I love finding new things in our awesome city!
What is your proudest mommy moment so far?
My proudest mommy moment so far would have to be giving birth! I had a pretty traumatic rough labor. I surprised myself thinking back about how calm I was when nothing was going according to my "plan". Since then I have learned that being a mom is being flexible, patient and knowing often things will not go according to plan and that's ok!
What advice would you give to a new mother?
Well I definitely agree with the advice that everyone gives, try to rest as much as possible when your baby sleeps! Don't worry about the to-do list that will never be done. The most important thing is to be present for your baby. The cleaning, organizing, etc. can always wait. Time seriously flies- soak in those snuggles!
Anything else you'd like to add?
I am thrilled to be your Village Playgroup Captain! I am looking forward to bringing new activities for both your kiddos and Mama's to Fit4Mom! I can't wait to meet everyone and get started planning!