Our expat community thrives on connection, and here at Jingkids, we’re all about our readers, what they need and want in order to maximize their time here in Beijing. Every Monday, we’re going to feature a prominent member of our expat community and get to know them a little bit better.
“I am an energetic, down to earth, traveling, creative, loving, and dedicated mama of two energetic girls, Gaia and Kiana. I am insanely grateful that I managed to marry my best friend and how he still laughs at all of my (sometimes awful) jokes – that’s true love, y’all!
My favorite things are cuddles from my daughters, laughing, seeing kindness in the world, being helpful to others, and seeing the joys of learning shining in someone’s eyes. My two passions are (besides margs and wine) education and maintaining a healthy lifestyle.”
What’s On Your Mind?
You mean besides my next meal? Haha! Well, I have decided to dive back into academia and spend my days at Keystone Academy in Shunyi co-teaching grade one and spend my evenings earning my teaching certificate via online classes. I hope to use all of the amazing things I’m learning and teach my own class next year! I’m also co-troop leader of a Girl Scout troop for Daisies and Brownies and am currently organizing our upcoming service project for the community. If anyone has ideas on how a troop of 5-7-year-olds can physically help the community feel free to reach out to me!
What’s your motivation to get moving?
Volatile economic trends are one of the factors that keep me going. I’ve always wanted my girls to be strong, independent critical thinkers and so I strive every day to set an example for them. They are always watching me so the bar is set pretty high but when I can I do my best.
I’m also motivated in ensuring my mental health is balanced. It’s been a challenging year for a lot of us and it’s crucial that we take care of our minds as well. I have recently started a journal and enjoy reflecting on my days during stretching sessions or Pilates.
How do you stay sane in all the madness?
I take very long, scalding hot baths. I love to boil away all of the stress and madness of my days. It is a special time that I get for myself and the time for reflection has been invaluable. I have also decided to make more sustainable life choices by cutting down on meat and dairy products. A healthy balance is important to me and I’ve seen how much it has physically benefited my family. We do still have pizza nights and go for tacos though so it’s all about finding the right balance for us!
What’s your favorite thing about Beijing?
Coming from Louisiana, Germany, Shanghai, and now Beijing has been a cultural experience in every sense of the way for my family. Every day is a new discovery for us in Beijing’s wandering hutongs. We love jumping on our bicycles and just spend our days riding around… of course ending with a nice meal somewhere!
Have someone you believe deserves some recognition for their outstanding contributions to our community? Nominate them for our weekly spotlight by writing their name in the comments below!
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Images: Courtesy of Nikki Malek
1 Comment
Omg I saw this……
THATS MY MOM!wow I can’t believe it that’s sooooo cool