Smarty Mom – Robin F

By Katie M

Greetings Smarty Readers, and welcome to another Smarty Mom Saturday. This week I am especially pleased to introduce Robin F of Winston-Salem.

Robin is the first mom I met when I moved here almost four years ago. She and I share a dear friend in Charlotte who introduced us right off the bat. A native of Winston-Salem, Robin seems to know everyone and everything about our area! She has been a great friend from day one and has been gracious enough to introduce me to many of her other Smarty friends in the area. Robin is married to Chris (they both went to high school together but did not start dating until after college) and they have a beautiful little girl, Annie who will turn four in February. For the past couple of years, Robin has been a “nanny” to many of her friend’s children in her home, and now Robin acts as a back-up nanny to two children (ages six and four) at least two afternoons a week, sometimes more. Plus this past year, Robin started teaching and working four days a week at St. Paul’s Episcopal Preschool (where her daughter attends). All this, and she supports the very busy schedule of her husband who is chef and owner of Christopher’s restaurant near downtown.

So, let’s get Smarty with Robin.

How do you manage to juggle a busy household while managing your two part-time positions – all while your husband works more hours than the normal dad?
I don’t get enough sleep! I make lots of lists…and thankfully Annie is very laid back and easy. It’s very hard, but I try to focus on the fact that I’m thankful to be home with Annie and not working full-time and taking her to day-care every day. And, I have just accepted that some things will not get done!

What Smarty tips do you have for moms who struggle with the same busy schedules?
TRY to take time for yourself when you can. I find that it helps keep me going.
Don’t get too caught up in “doing things,” but try to focus on having quality time with your child(ren). That is what will be remembered 20 years from now…not whether or not your house was spotless!

Tell us about Christophers (located on Broad Street in Winston-Salem), and some of the specials your husband is offering this holiday season, plus other times of the year.
Christopher’s is a really warm and inviting place that feels like home to people when they go. The food is out of this world, and you can get things there that you can’t get anywhere else…like lobster mac & cheese and chocolate/raspberry dumplings! There is not a children’s menu, but Chris is always happy to make something special for children who are there. It’s a great place for a date night, but you should also feel free to take your kids. Especially to Sunday Brunch!

What is the funniest things Annie has ever said?
I breastfed for a long time, so you can imagine that some funny comments came from that. One time, Annie said, “Annie wants milk.” I said “from a cup?” And she said, “No, from Mommy’s bra!”

What is your favorite family activity?
Going to the Triad Farmer’s Market

Favorite “mommy-time” activity?
Going to a movie with a friend…and enjoying my big Diet Coke, popcorn and Junior Mints!

Favorite date place in the Triad, or near by?
Noble’s in High Point (we got engaged there!)

Favorite place to eat out with the whole family?
Las Estrellas

Favorite place to get a good deal on kids clothes?
Ebay!!!

What’s the Smartiest way you save money?
Buying things on Ebay and at clothing exchanges

Favorite park?
Miller Park

Favorite birthday party venue?
My house! (It’s free!)

Mini-van or SUV?
SUV

I could not live without…
My precious Annie! (And chocolate!)

What do you like best about raising a family in the Triad?
It is the perfect size town…plenty to do, but traffic isn’t bad, etc. Winston-Salem, especially, is very family-oriented, and I love that.

Thanks, Robin for all your Smarty answers!

Do you know a mom who goes above and beyond the call of duty for others, someone who does incredible work for her family and a charitable organization, runs a company and a marathon, or is just simply living the daily grit of motherhood? Then email me here your “Smarty Momination!"

Posted by Triad Smarty Pants at 5:00 AM