Divine secrets of the modern mommyhood
“Raising a blessing childrenthat you is only get to do once in a lifetime. Find your own unique way and avoid obsessing over things that no one will remember in five years!” Crystal Wright, anesthesiologist at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center “Take care of yourself. Carve out time to exercise and eat well. Sleep should not be considered a luxury but a necessity. Also, learning a threeminute makeup routine, and a scheduling a weekly blowout won’t hurt either.” Candace Thomas, founder of Luxe… With Kids “TV moms don’t reflect reality. Set realistic expectations. And don’t be so hard on yourself because your kids will love you, no matter what. Try to cultivate at least one personal interest or hobby despite the chaos of life.” Ishwaria Subbiah, palliative care and rehabilitation medicine at the University of Texas M.D. Anderson Cancer Center “Timenot stuff sweatingare managementmy biggestthe small and secrets to successfully raising three kids in three different schools. This mommy has to be CEO of ‘Corporation von Stein,’ as I like to call it, plus the chief administrative assistant, nurse, short-order cook, listener and homework helper.” Stephanie von Stein, store manager of Bulgari Houston “Give grace; yourselfyou don’t some need to reinvent the wheel. Talk to other moms you trust about the best stroller or the best car seat — steal from their playbook and short-circuit the research jumble. I have a really great network of moms and use their wealth of knowledge to my full advantage.” Kathleen Jennings, BeautyNow app founder and Kathleen Jennings Beauty blogger
Valerie Dieterich,
managing director at Savills Studley real estate and swan-about-town, is expecting her first child with husband Tracy Dieterich in July.
The fashion-forward philanthropist, who recently co-chaired the Hermann Park Conservancy’s “Evening in the Park” and Big Brothers Big Sister’s “Big Taste,” has yet to hang up her stilettos or designer frocks, and why should she?
“The difference is, 20 years ago it was only Mom taking care of baby. Now it’s Mom and Dad,” Valerie says. With no intention of slowing or dressing down any time soon, it’s no wonder that her baby shower, hosted at Jana Arnoldy’s River Oaks home by 10 (yes, 10!) bold-faced socials, was Pinterest-perfect. In fact, the mommy-to-be’s one request was a strawberry cake that she spotted on Instagram. Here, posh partygoers — and fellow #womenwhowork — weigh in on having it all and eating it, too.