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Motivating Mom of the Month-July 2022: Joelle "JC" Shoemaker

"JC is my spirit animal. She always brings light and laughter to classes. This fierce mama is a prime example of a hard-working woman. JC shows her children what self-care looks like. I admire her tenacity, even during hectic times."-Shannon Link,Fit4Mom Franchise Owner

"JC is a mom on fire! I love having her at my classes. She is always very energetic, empowering and gives a 100% during work outs. I am very happy she is part of our united in motherhood village" -Aneta Loftus, Fit4Mom Instructor

"JC is a ray of sunshine! She has the best smile that radiates joy and kindness. She motivates me in class by working hard and keeping it fun! She is super mom and is always prepared. For example, grabbing old towels from her van to wipe off the wet playground equipment. I’m so happy she’s joined our village!"

-Alicia Chiapusia, Fit4Mom Instructor

"JC brings energy and motivation every time she's at class. She's so friendly and kind! She's easy to talk with and has a warm and welcoming energy that puts everyone at ease. She always makes me smile!" -Laura Davis, Fit4Mom Instructor

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

I am originally from Buffalo, NY. I left for college in AZ, entered the Army and moved all over for eight years before landing here in VA. My mom, dad and sister still live in Buffalo, and my brother ended up here in VA.

My husband, Matt, recently retired from the Army. I have three older stepkiddos-Madeline-16, Gavin-14 and Delaney-12. Leo is my first bio-kid, and is almost 3.

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

The thing I most remembered about my first Fit4Mom class is that I waited too long!! I first found Fit4Mom online, but then kept running into moms who were members and raved about it. That's what made me finally flip the switch. And now I feel like I have a community wherever I go.

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

I am a regular at Burke Lake. I love exercising outside-sun, rain, snow....and that's the Burke Lake crew. I am also hooked on S360! It's exactly what I need to push my routine a little bit further each week. It leaves me a hot, sweaty mess and sometimes that's exactly what I need to feel strong!

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

My current job is stay at home mom. I wish that was an option on forms, instead of employed or unemployed. It's the hardest job I've ever had-requiring more engagement, energy and creativity than I've ever had to use. I really struggled when I left the workforce with conflicting feelings around my personal worth, and now I fully embrace the phase I'm in as the right one for me and have found joy and satisfaction.

What are 3 of your favorite things?

I'm taking guitar lessons and I am in LOVE with it!

I love running, although it's been a while since I've done any long ones.

And coffee. I love coffee. A lot of coffee.

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

Ummmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm........ALL OF IT!!!!

What has being a mom taught you?

SLOW DOWN!!! Patience. And to be gentle to myself. I mean, if Leo dumps milk all over, I tell him it's ok to make a mistake and I tell the older kiddos making mistakes is part of growth and learning. But then if I make one, I beat myself up?? I'm learning to see myself the way I see them-imperfect and amazing.

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

Jeez. I mean, anyone who's met Leo knows there is a lot to choose from. He's a walking chaos bomb. I mean, as I'm typing this he's running around with an Elf on a Shelf. Anyone know where he got that-it's JULY!? Who knows?

Any words of wisdom for other moms?

Nope. Nowadays, I seek wisdom way more than I offer it. Most days I'm pretty sure I'm messing it up and it seems like everyone else has it way more together. Maybe that's it-you don't have to figure it all out on your own. Everyone has something to offer, so if you're stuck in a situation you just can't figure out-reach out. Bet you're not the only one.

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

Do it! It's not just about the "FIT". The community will help you on your roughest days and celebrate you on your best. And your kids will love it!