October 23, 2018 2:35 pm Meet This Week’s Mom of the Week – Sonia Tembeck!
What do you love to do with your children? How old are they? And what is your greatest wish for them?
We love going on mother/son “dates.” Whether it’s breakfast, lunch or dinner, we talk about our days, exciting things that have happened or things that are challenging us. It’s a nice way to reconnect and model proper behaviors!
My son just turned seven on July Fourth! My greatest wish is for him to continue to find joys in his life and share his happiness with those around him.
Who has had the biggest influence upon you?
My late husband John has influenced me in so many indescribable ways. He has taught me to love, to parent, to let go, and to forgive. His memory inspires me to live with honor and respect and to cherish the time we have in this life.
What quality do you most admire in a mother?
Patience is definitely something that is tested constantly as a mother. It is not always easy but certainly an admiral quality for any mom.
Besides motherhood, what other careers/opportunities have you enjoyed?
I was a preschool teacher. Working with children is such a rewarding experience. Whether it’s in the classroom or research setting, understanding how children learn is something that continues to fascinate me.
I really enjoyed studying psychology and development in college. It gave me a tremendous understanding of how our brains and bodies develop. Learning about children and their growing brains and emotions is something that I can apply to so many experiences in life as a mother.
What are your strongest qualities?
I think my strongest qualities are empathy and understanding. I always try to treat people with compassion and imagine different situations from different perspectives.
Were you happiest in elementary, middle high school or college? Please explain why.
I remember elementary school as being so carefree. I would have to say that would have been my happiest. I remember running around outside, playing with cousins and neighbors… swimming, boating, exploring. School was fun and piqued my curiosity while being social too.
What do you like to do for fun and what is your idea of a perfect day?
I love starting my day with a great yoga class. It’s an excellent workout, incorporates mindfulness and gratitude and gives me energy for the day. Running around town checking things off of my to-do list ensures I can give my undivided attention to my son after school/camp for homework help or activities. We like ending the day with one of our Mother/Son dates or a nice dinner with friends.
What is one of your favorite books? Movies?
I loved reading Blink by Malcom Gladwell. It’s fascinating to learn how people think and understand how our minds work. Juicy mystery novels are fun too!
What is your favorite type of food and what do you love to cook?
I love to cook hearty Italian dishes with a tasty pasta and homemade sauce! But my favorites to eat would either be sushi or Mexican with a chunky guacamole and a margarita!
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
I love exploring new places with people I love. Anywhere we haven’t been before is great because you can share the new experience together!
Where is your favorite place to Party with Moms and what’s your drink of choice?
Anywhere we can sit outside in warm weather! Margaritas are always a good choice – reposado tequila with salt on the rocks!
Photo by Katie Farro of Classic Kids Photography, Greenwich