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Motivating Mom of the Month-December 2023: Gabriela Ray

"Since joining Our Village Gabby has been such a positive presence! She is always calm, cool, and collected - even when there's craziness all around! She works hard at each class and is inspiring to me and other Mamas!" -Jessica Fit4Mom Instructor

"She always shows up to class with a big smile on her face, ready to give it her all. Her children are wonderful and are always making new friends at playgroup. I love having her in my classes. She is a light in our community" -Jamie, Fit4Mom Instructor

"It has been such a fun time getting to know Gabby and her kids. She has such a calming presence about her. Gabby is an inspiration to all of us. I am in all of how she puts her self-care at the top of her priority list. This warms my heart. A mama that takes care of herself, is taking care of her children and family. Even showing up at 5:30 AM before the rest of the world is awake! Keep it up girl." -Shannon, Fit4Mom Franchise Owner

Who are the members of your family and where are you originally from?

My husband and I have two kids, Ruth (2yo) and Ambrose (14mo), and we are originally from Southern California.

When was your first Fit4Mom class and what do you remember about it?

My first class was at the end of January of this year, and I just remember feeling super proud of myself for getting both kids out the door by myself for the first time. After Ambrose's birth we had my mom, then a close friend staying with us to help with the two under two. I signed up for my first class right after my friend had left, so it was my first time getting both kids into the car by myself and I had some anxiety about it! The class was fun and it was so nice to get out of the house and do something for myself! All the other moms were very welcoming and friendly.

Where can we find you? What is your Fit4Mom routine these days?

You can find me at the in person classes at the Kingstowne and Springfield locations on Thursdays/Fridays and occasionally on Saturday. I've also been trying to make more of the virtual morning workouts.

What is your current job? Or what did you do before staying at home (if you don’t currently work outside the home)?

I currently stay at home, but before doing so, I was a college Academic Advisor and have many years of experience working in higher education.

What are 3 of your favorite things?

Rewatching episodes of the Office

Going for long walks

Exploring new places with my family

You are given 4 hours of FREE babysitting. What would you do?

I would go out on a date with my husband! Dinner and some sort of activity (mini-golf, bowling, skating).

What has being a mom taught you?

So much! It's hard to be concise because I feel like I've learned so much about myself, the world, my parents! I think the biggest thing has been that it is okay to ask for and accept help. I find it so difficult, but with two under two I have really had to suck it up and ask for help sometimes. And people want to help! For example, today we went to the grocery store, but Ruth didn't want to sit in the cart, so I had to hold her hand while trying to self checkout. The attendant came over and asked if I needed help and I was honest and said yes. He happily helped me finish checking out and put my bags back in my cart and I was super thankful!

What is your funniest or most embarrassing mommy moment so far?

One time at church, Ruth was reading a book that had sheep in it and during a period of silent prayer she yelled out "SHEEP!" We had to fight hard to stifle our laughter.

Any words of wisdom for other moms?

Ask for help when you need it!

What is your favorite thing about FIT4MOM? What would you tell someone thinking about joining?

I love getting to meet and work out with other moms! My kids love the classes too, so not only am I doing something good and fun for me, but also something fun for them. If you are thinking about joining, just do it! I regret not signing up earlier.