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February 2018 MOM-Motivating Mom of the Month

We are so excited to announce our MOM (Motivating Mom of the Month) for February! Each month we will take a moment to honor one of our local FIT4MOM Montgomery County Moms for her efforts to lead a healthy lifestyle and for her dedication to the program. This month we honor Dana Quass!

It is always a pleasure having Dana and Kirwan in class! I admire her dedication. Most of us with older kids know that there is usually a brief but challenging phase when your toddler goes through separation anxiety and doesn't want to stay in the stroller. I admire how Dana has seemed so cool and relaxed helping her son get through that stage. She has been a great example of keeping your sense of humor with one of those developmental stages that we have almost all been through with our babies (or will experience eventually!).~ Instructor Ashley

Dana is such a joy to have in class. She always comes ready to work hard no matter how hot or cold it might be outside. She also pushed through when her son was in that lovely stage when all your kiddo wants is to be in your arms. I remember her first class and to see her now a little over a year later is so impressive. Her strength, focus and dedication is truly inspiring. We are so lucky to have her as part of our village! ~ Instructor Adrienne

We asked Dana a few questions so we can all get to know her better, and here is what she had to say:

1. Who are the members of your family?

My husband, Kolby, our son Kirwan (18months), and our pup Scarlet

2. What is/was your career?

I was a teacher. I taught second grade in DC. I hope to eventually go back someday.

3. When was your first class, and what do you remember about it?

My first class was in October 2016. I remember when we did abs and I attempted a plank for the first time postpartum (and it’d be safe to safe pre-pregnancy too) and I wanted to send out a search party to find out where my abs had gone. Adrienne reassured me the feeling was normal and offered encouragement and modifications. It really was a great workout and I was definitely motivated to come back for more.

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

I’m usually at Silver Spring or Wheaton for Stroller Strides.

5. What is your favorite strides exercise?

Duck walks because we did them in my very first class I remember barely being able to do it, but then a month or so later we did it again and it was then I really noticed my ability changing. Also anything that has us jumping in front of our stroller because Kirwan thinks it’s hilarious and he gives the best smile.

6. What has being a mom taught you?

Being a mom has certainly been life changing. I naively thought I would be more easy-going. Yeah, that didn’t happen. But it’s been a great lesson in learning to let go of control of every little thing, stepping out of my comfort zone, and trusting my gut.

7. List 3 of your favorite things.

Tea, crosswords, and wine

8. Give us a giggle- What is your funniest or most embarrassing mommy moment so far?

A couple of weeks ago my husband and I were standing next to each other and my husband jokingly said let’s see who he likes more. So we each got down and stating calling our son over. I was getting a little over confident as Kirwan was bee lining to his beloved mama and I looked over at my husband and said don’t feel too bad I mean I’m like with him all day. But just before he reached me, my loving son took a hard left and ran straight to our puppy who graciously claimed her victory.

9. Any advice for other moms out there?

Motherhood can be challenging, but it’s so worth it. Don’t be afraid to reach out and ask for help. It is really important to take care of yourself too. Balance and routine can really help create sanity if nothing else. And, sometimes its totally okay to have a pj day and just soak in the snuggles.

10. What would you tell someone who is considering attending their first Fit4Mom MoCo class?

Do it, it’s definitely worth it. The workout is great and so are the moms.

Thank you, Dana, for being such a valuable part of Our Village here at FIT4MOM Montgomery County! We truly appreciate you & the positive energy you bring to class and Our Village!

Check back to see who our MOM will be in March!