Dana, our great Summer Support

I'd like to introduce you to Dana! She is Jonathan's sister, a sweet wife, a loving Mom, a third-grade teacher, and a one-day-a-week BA Summer Support staff member. Dana took a maternity leave this year when she and Adam had baby Mathew, and she's been a wonderful addition to our Cafe.

Dana decided to volunteer for a few months because baby Matthew is trying-out daycare one day each week. Since, soon enough, Mom (like Dad) will go to work each day, they thought it would be good for the baby to experience daycare (a little). He'll be accustomed to it when Dana returns to school this fall, and she is excited to get back to teaching.

Right now, though, Dana absolutely loves the other six days a week! Morning is her favorite time with Matthew; they wake up, snuggle, and play. Sounds like perfect mom-son bonding time. Another daily activity for Dana and Matthew is taking walks. It seems to me that walkers (sometimes with strollers) are a big part of most neighborhoods. I think it's the perfect exercise.

Dana's response to my request for advice for new moms was solid. She said, "Don't be so hard on yourself, just enjoy that baby!"

Of course, I asked Dana about her time at our Cafe. She said, "This Cafe exudes pure sunshine, and the Team Members are a huge inspiration." I am not at all surprised that the Team Members came up!

Dana absolutely loves spending time with her brother, Jonathan!  She considers him her very best friend. (Now if that isn't the cutest thing in the world, then what is?) She says that Jonathan taught her the importance of patience and she considers that a vital quality in life! She insists, "Jonathan has taught me so much." They often go on brother-sister dates and both especially like Rita's Italian Ice. (Dana's favorite flavor is Swedish Fish- mine is Black Cherry or Mango. We might like different flavors, BUT we agree that it's sooo good!)

When Dana gets to relax, she loves to read. The Reese Witherspoon and Jenna Bush book suggestions top her list. She says that she would recommend those authors anytime. Because those books appeal to so many people, I imagine they're pretty good! Her favorite non-fiction is usually about the impact teachers have on their students. Sounds like fantastic reads! I have no doubt that Dana's positive personality and bright smile impact her students.

Dana is amazing, and we are sooo grateful for everything she does. We love you, Dana!