32, Third-grade teacher
All about the Longfellows:
I’ve been married to my husband Nate for six years, and we have two dogs, Bella and Scout, and a two-year-old named Calvin. Calvin is a busy little boy. He is talking up a storm and growing every day! Partly why I work out is to keep up with him. He enjoys being outside. We’ve taken him to Shelby Farms for practice on his strider bike lately, and he loves it! He has started a little soccer program, and we’ve had fun with that on Saturday mornings. Additionally, we love our church, Lindenwood, and are glad to have that community as a part of our lives!
My favorite part of motherhood:
Being a teacher, I feel like I’ve been in some stage of motherhood long before Calvin was born. I’ve always referred to my students as “my kids,” and “my kids” taught me so much about parenting. My favorite part of motherhood is learning how I can foster the best environment for kids to grow and thrive. I’m thankful that teaching has given me so much insight and perspective as I’ve REALLY stepped into motherhood with my actual kid, Calvin! I love seeing him grow and change. He is his own little person, and I can’t believe I get to be his parent.
Biggest challenge of becoming a mom:
Honestly, getting to know me as a person now that I’m a mom has been challenging. The responsibility of raising a child magnifies everything for me. I had this pretty firm idea of who I thought I was before my son was born. Since then, my body, mind, heart, routines, boundaries, priorities, and relationships have all changed in some way. Whether big or small, for better or worse. I’m not a different person at my core, but I have changed. These changes have presented challenges but are a beautiful part of my journey.
Balancing motherhood & fitness:
It’s hard to find balance, but making it a priority in my routine has been the key to consistency. I look at the week ahead and schedule my workouts ahead of time with my family in mind. My husband supports my ability to work out at my favorite local gyms, and I am so appreciative!
How I stay active:
Currently, I am a member of OrangeTheory East Memphis. During the summer months, I like to mix it up. Studios like Higher and CycleBar are some I enjoy in addition to OTF. Group fitness classes with good instructors, loud music, and high energy really help keep me motivated!
The importance of prioritizing wellness:
I know I’m better to others when I am in tune with how I’m doing. My physical body, yes, but my mind and spirit make an even bigger impact on me being my best self. It seems obvious, but I think it often gets forgotten. Incorporating therapy into my wellness routine has been monumental for me in recent months.
My advice for new mothers:
Give yourself some grace.
By Lucy Modzelewski
Photo by Laramie Wheeler
