September 16, 2013 1:11 pm Meet Yonni Wattenmaker From Breast Cancer Alliance!
What do you love to do with your child? How old is he? And what is your greatest wish for him?
I have one son who is 13 and ever, since he was little, one of our favorite things to do together was cooking. We’d have “Max & Mom cooking classes” complete with an easle with ingredients and directions! We’ve certainly progressed, from chocolate chip cookies to sushi! My greatest wish for him is to find something he’s passionate about and be successful in pursuit of it, and, of course, to have a family of his own who can love him as I do!
When and where are you the happiest?
Great Barrington, Massachusetts is my happy place. I went to camp there for many years, and now my son does as well. I spend at least a few weekends there each summer, and am known to hop in the car and head up there for a day for a great meal or shopping at a local market. There is no sky in the world like a Berkshire sky!
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
While I traveled to Greece years ago, I have never been to the Greek Islands and would love to go. As a vegan, mediterranean fare is one of my favorites, and the photos I’ve seen just look simply spectacular.
What quality do you most admire in a mother? And what woman has had the biggest impression on you?
Honesty, loving-kindness, strength and a great sense of humor. My mother and grandmother taught me how to love unconditionally, be a parent and not just a friend, and to laugh.
What is your favorite book? Movie?
My favorite book is Those Who Save Us by Jenna Blum. It is a haunting but beautiful piece of historical fiction and really challenges you to think differently about a very difficult subject. My favorite movie is Stealing Home ~ I’m just a sucker for Mark Harmon and it’s a touching, ageless love story.
What personal achievement are you most proud of?
Being a mom, of course! I am also really proud of the career I have made for myself. I was a Director in private education for a longtime and I am so thankful for my role as Executive Director of the Breast Cancer Alliance since June of 2011. I also have a vegan blog, www.thetrendyvegan.com, write freelance and consult with people about that lifestyle. It is all about hard work and dedication but so rewarding.
What do you feel is your strongest talent?
Making people feel welcome – like they matter. I believe everyone has a story – I enjoy learning those stories and engaging with people, hosting people at my home, catching up with old friends…
What do you like to do for fun?
Spend time with family and friends, enjoy a great meal, jog on a boardwalk, go to Soul Cycle, read a great book…
What is your favorite time of the day and why?
I love mornings at Soul Cycle. I go really early but it starts my day like nothing else! After that it’s the quiet after dinner time, curling up with a great book or one of my favorite shows on tv.
Where is your favorite place to Party with Moms and what do you like to drink?
I love going out in Manhattan, but locally Village Social in Mt. Kisco is a lot of fun. I order what I’ve dubbed The Tipsy Vegan ~ Patron Silver, on the rocks, with fresh lime juice and a splash of pineapple juice.