December 16, 2013 4:11 pm Meet Jennie Prince from Abu Dhabi!
What do you love to do with your children? How old are they? And what is your greatest wish for them?
I have two boys, ages 3 1/2 and 2, and we love to explore together! We moved to Abu Dhabi two years ago- and even now, so much feels new! The desert is a favorite spot since the weather has cooled down here. We love to cook out, hike the dunes and play in the giant sand box with construction vehicles. We live right on the Arabian Gulf, so we swim and play on the beach all the time. I love watching the boys come up with new games and test their independence in an environment that is vast- and safe. We also are starting to ski here! I assumed I would teach my children to ski on an actual mountain, but my oldest son is learning to ski in a mall (with actual snow and a real chair lift), which is great and strange all at the same time. It’s hard to nail down a greatest wish- I hope that they learn how to love well, that they know how to be a true friend, that they find wonder in learning something new, that they are kind and compassionate… I wish that they get to do so many things until they are very, very old.
When and where are you the happiest?
I am happiest surrounded by those that I love with good food and good wine! Anywhere…
If you could go anywhere in the world, where would you go?
One of the best parts about living in Abu Dhabi is that we get travel to some pretty amazing places! I am awed by my children who are far more flexible than I would have imagined- and who love any kind of adventure. I have always wanted to go to Africa, so we are headed to Kenya in the spring- and then I cannot wait to go home this summer!
What quality do you most admire in a mother? And what woman has had the biggest impression on you?
I love watching mothers and their children! I have learned so much from other mothers, and I am grateful. Patience is a quality that has to be on the top of my list- As we all know there are moments when patience is in abundance and moments when we are depleted. It’s summoning patience in those difficult moments that is something to be celebrated and admired!! The woman that has had the biggest impression on me is my own my mother. We had a special routine when I was growing up- several days a week, without my brother, we would go to Versailles on Greenwich Ave. We would just sit and talk about our days, but over the years, a lot was said over my hot chocolate and her cafe au lait. My mother asked questions and listened with great interest, but she never tried to control me or push me in one direction or another. I feel like I was heard and loved, which I think is a pretty great combination. I hope I can do that for my boys!
What is your favorite book? Movie?
I have a tendency to walk into Diane’s Books and ask for a good love story! Truthfully, my favorite is Jane Eyre– I reread it every several years and have done so since high school…
What personal achievement are you most proud of?
I am most proud of creating a life and home in the Middle East, far away from family and friends. When I first arrived I didn’t know anyone, and I had no idea how to navigate the city. My youngest son was 3 months, and I was a bit lost- in all ways! My husband was a great support- as were my friends back home, who reminded me that I was loved far away. Slowly and steadily, we have made a wonderful life here. I look forward to coming home when the time is right, but for now, we are all doing well.
What do you feel is your strongest talent?
I think I take care of those that I love! I cherish my family and my friends- those relationships mean the world to me. Loving those people and being there for them is a great gift.
What do you like to do for fun?
I love to play golf with my husband! He taught me how to play when we were dating, and we try to get out as often as possible! I love going to my exercise classes- I recently took up zumba, which is a bit of joke since I am not a fabulous dancer, but I have a great time! Any pampering is fun for me- manicures, pedicures, massages- heaven. I also love spending time with my friends- doing anything with them is fun!
What is your favorite time of the day and why?
I love my morning coffee and the beginning of the day, but my favorite time is the evening. I love when we are all together at home, and the boys are in the bath after a busy day. We have a great routine of reading stories, getting cozy, and saying goodnight. And then I love the peace and quiet where my husband and I can talk about our day, have dinner, a glass of wine and relax.
Where is your favorite place to Party with Moms and what do you like to drink?
My favorite place to party with moms would have to be outside, with a glass of red wine and good conversation… my best friend’s back porch is a favorite spot, which I will always choose over going out!