Jess

I’m fortunate to work from home, which allows for flexibility each day. Slow mornings are my favorite - I spend time with Cora (my dog), catch up with my mom over coffee and take a yoga class or go to the gym before diving into work. I love to cook, so evenings are spent making and enjoying dinner before winding down with a cup of tea and a good book or easy show.

Weekends can be busy with errands and activities or lowkey with catching up on sleep and chores. When the weather is nice, you will find me outdoors walking Cora, hiking or lounging in the sunshine. My nieces and nephews love spending time with my parents (Maw Maw and Pops), so Sundays usually end with a big family dinner, which is the perfect way to start the week.

My free time is spent traveling, going to a ballet or musical, napping with Cora, or dinner with friends.

My family is large (mom, dad, older sister, brother-in-law, two nephews, older brother, sister-in-law, nephew, younger brother, sister-in-law, two nephews & two nieces), close-knit and loves traditions. Every Christmas, my sister and her family fly to Maryland for a week. We go to church on Christmas Eve and enjoy sticky buns Christmas morning. The best gift is my sister’s homemade calendar because it keeps everyone connected. My sister, a breast cancer survivor, is my best friend, and every August, my mom and I travel to Wisconsin to join her and my nephews for Mile of Music. MoM is a weekend long music festival that is fun for all ages. We have a blast!

My favorite tradition is family vacation to Ocean City. We are major beach bums and will spend hours playing in the sand and splashing in the waves. The condo is steps from the beach and only a few blocks from the boardwalk. Fisher’s Popcorn and Thrasher’s Fries are a must! In addition to my family, I have the most supportive friend group. They have enriched my life in different ways, and I know they and their children will add diversity to your child’s life.

My most favorite place to visit is Portland, Maine. I discovered Portland a few years ago, and I instantly fell in love. No matter the time of year, Portland is magical.

It’s a walkable city with phenomenal food on every corner – handmade pasta, fresh seafood, decadent desserts. My favorite breakfast spot serves toasted sourdough with homemade raspberry jam and is located just up the hill from a dog-friendly beach with a walking trail.

Leading up to Christmas, you can take a ride on the Polar Express and/or spend the afternoon shopping at the Maker’s Market. The Market is full of unique vendors, and is my favorite place to buy one-of-a-kind Christmas gifts for my family and a souvenir for myself.