Meet Jessica: A Work In Progress

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work in progress

Hello, FCMB readers! As a new contributor to the blog, I’m privileged to share my perspective on parenting with you. My aspiration is that you’ll find my posts relatable, informative, and maybe a little fun. I’m a work in progress, rethinking the world around me now that I’m responsible for a tiny human. As an introduction to my world, here are a few things to know about me.

I am a freelance writer and an aspiring novelist.

In the spirit of “don’t quit your day job,” I also have a part-time office gig. Besides the benefit of a regular pay check, it allows me to dress up and have daily adult interactions.

My first baby was a Yorkshire Terrier.

Now twelve years old, my pup Madison is the one who made me a mom. I often refer to him as my Furry Firstborn. When I was pregnant with my human child, and hesitant about entering parenthood, I declared that if I loved the baby as much my dog, we’d both be okay. I was kidding. Mostly.

Photo Credit: Jennifer Lynn Photography

I went to college to find a husband.

No, not really. I went to college to read and write and plan my Pulitzer Prize acceptance speech. Meeting my husband there was just a bonus. Post-graduation, we lived together in Maryland for a few years before moving to Fairfield County where I grew up. It was time to give adulting a try. Six years later, we threw in the towel on our carefree days and officially signed the contract on our house in Trumbull. That very same day, we found out I was pregnant with our son. I’ve heard that a parent’s heart grows with each child they have and that their capacity for love is unending. I’ve opted to keep my heart average-sized and completely devoted to my only child. To each their own. Our kiddo is now four and and being his mom is my greatest source of joy (though I’m still working on that Pulitzer).

I am a proud Xennial.

Born in the early eighties, I’m part of the non-generation that doesn’t qualify for Gen X and can’t identify with Millennials. Basically, I don’t take selfies but I go out of my way not to talk to anyone on the phone. Also, I’m pretty clueless about current pop music while completely worshiping 90’s alternative and grunge. Unrelated to my generation, my go-to stations on Pandora include Amy Winehouse, Avett Brothers, Brandi Carlile, and Arctic Monkeys. Oh, and Love Shack will never fail to get me out on a dance floor.

I don’t dance. Also, I don’t work out. Ever.

My doctor recently told me that I can look forward to what’s left of my metabolism grinding to a halt when I turn 40. I figure that means I still have a few years before I need to jump on a treadmill. Fair warning: if you try to tell me you get endorphins from working out, I will assume you are untrustworthy and watch you out of the corner of my eye whenever we’re in the same room. For the record, I get endorphins from eating raw cookie dough* and watching Big Little Lies while my husband is away.

*I have an eggless cookie dough recipe. I’m not a monster. 

I’d rather stay in with friends.

Going to a fun restaurant or brewery is nice every once in a while, but I prefer staying in with my friends and family. I love entertaining and can throw together a cheese plate with an hour’s notice. My favorite meal of the day is cocktail hour in my kitchen. I believe there is always an occasion for sparkling wine. And while I don’t want to be rude, and mean it with the best intentions, I will correct you if you misuse the word champagne.

Speaking of which, I love the sound of a champagne cork popping.

Other favorite sounds include: the ocean waves at night while standing on a dark beach; high heels echoing through an empty parking garage; and my son laughing, completely uninhibited, joy-filled. 

So…did we just become best friends?

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Jessica
Jessica grew up in Redding and, after going to college in Virginia, grad school in DC, and living in Maryland for a few years, she ultimately made her way back to Fairfield County. Jessica is grateful to have her family nearby as she navigates through life with her husband, Rob, her son, Carter, and her furry firstborn, Madison. In her free time, she is an outspoken advocate for oxford commas, knowing the difference between ‘less’ and ‘fewer’, and cocktail hour. Jessica is a freelance writer and aspiring novelist. When she grows up, she would like to be a backup singer.

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