Blog
Meet the Dad behind Get Joy, Dog Food
When Tom Arrix’s dog Cooper was diagnosed with lymphoma, he searched for ways to help him live a longer and better life. By changing his diet with the help of vet nutritionists and veterinarians, Cooper lived for almost two more happy years. Now, Tom (a Darien-based Dad to four kids and two dogs) has a growing dog food and wellness business, Get Joy, that helps dogs everywhere live healthier and better lives. We spoke to the former Facebook executive in this week’s Meet a Dad interview, about this amazing brand. Head to link in bio to learn more and use code MOMSNETWORK for 20% off through July.
Meet Foti!
If there is such a thing as a real live superhero, Foti Koskinas just may be It. As Chief of the Westport Police – and a Westport police officer for 27 years – Foti didn’t know when he started in this line of work, It would be his lifelong career. Born in Greece, Foti grew up in Westport and felt so privileged to be part of such a strong, supportive community, and after college was honored to help give back to a place that had served him so well! Foti has two daughters (17 and 19) who he has enjoyed watching grow up and play sports, and who he values time with more than anything! According to his wife, he’s a great cook, and if he had a free 24 hours, he would spend time on the tennis court, have a delicious meal with his family and get an uninterrupted night of sleep! Foti keeps our community – and kids – safe, and Westport is so lucky to have him! Thank you Foti; you are truly our Superhero!
Meet Erika – Parent Coach and Educator
As we continue to grapple with the senseless tragedy in Uvalde, Texas – in additon to the truly crazy two years we’ve had, for many of us, parenting only seems to get harder, and we all could use some additional support, Meet Erika – a trained Parent Coach and Educator – who works with families (namely parents) to guide them to feel more present, confident, and connected to their kids. After being a school counselor for many years, Erika discovered that her true passion was working with parents, and she’s never looked back! Erika is a first generation American, who in another life might have had her own talk show. She loves sushi (Oko is a favorite!), family nights on the beach, and can not survive without sufficient sleep! As another school year nears the end, we are grateful for people like Erika who help us navigate these unchartered waters day after day!
How to Talk to Kids About The Uvalde, Texas School Shooting
The Uvalde, TX school shooting is so many things—tragic, senseless, terrifying. It has also been described as unimaginable, but unfortunately, it is not. And whether our kids are old enough to remember Sandy Hook, Parkland or Columbine, many of them are asking hard-to-answer questions today. Even if your child is not asking any questions, how and when should you be talking to them about what they might be hearing about at school or seeing on the news? We spoke to The Local Moms Network Psychology Contributor Reon Baird, PhD about how she not only advises clients to talk to their children about school violence, but how she’s talking to her own two young daughters about Texas.
Summer Fun With Coastal Orthopedics & How To Avoid Injuries!
School is almost out for summer which means that your kids will have unlimited time for fun (within the boundaries you’ve set). The Coastal Orthopedics team always encourages your children to get outside, get active, and most importantly have fun! There are so many summer activities to choose from such as going on bike rides, playing on the playground, swimming, riding a skateboard and so much more. While it can seem like all fun and games, we advise that you take some precautions first!
Insider Tips on Making a Jewelry Investment with Nicole HD Jewelry
At NicoleHD Jewelry, their mission is to make high quality fine jewelry accessible to everyone. Founder Nicole Hendelman-Dersovitz comes from a family of jewelers and has rocked the jewelry industry for over 3 decades – so you can trust she knows that when buying fine jewelry, you want to choose pieces that are timeless and hold their value. Learn more about Nicole and her background in our last post! That’s why she personally curates each collection of our 14k and 18k gold and diamond everyday fine jewelry to ensure the highest quality and craftsmanship. Here are a few of her insider tips on making a jewelry investment.
Tequila on a Boat!
Let 21 Seeds help you kick off summer right with this delicious recipe for “Tequila on a Boat”!
Meet Janet!
We all know being a lawyer is a very intense, time consuming job, and doing It with three young children is truly a feat! Janet – partner at Ferro Battey, LLC – a local family and divorce law firm, somehow does It all! From the time she finished law school, she knew she wanted to be in Court, and one of her earliest opportunities after school was at a family law firm, and she never looked back! In another life, she may have been a teacher, but in this life, she survives with lots of coffee, very little sleep, and lots of hugs from her kids when she gets home! As one of seven children, she really understands family dynamics, and loves the work she does! In addition, Janet is also the president of her preschool (St. Paul’s) and President of the Westport Young Women’s League; while we thought WE didn’t sleep, Janet may have us beat!
Humming Homes; a new approach to Home Maintenance
Local moms are always looking for resources to save time, money and headaches. With that said, we’re excited to introduce you to Humming Homes! Humming Homes is more than just an application and more than just a service: it’s peace of mind knowing that your most important asset is taken care of by the experts. Humming Homes manages a home top-to-bottom and in-and-out. They pair you with a dedicated home coordinator, on-the-ground expertise, and a network of pre-vetted vendors.
Easton Country Day School Holds 1st Annual Memorial Field Day
The school community came together to honor staff member Nathan Kelly.
How to check for Ticks on Pets!
Stay informed and call Mosquito Squad today for help staying protected in your own backyard. Did you know that May is Lyme Disease Awareness month? Here we offers some resources and tips related to this tick-borne illness, and start protecting yourself now by implementing our 6 Cs of tick control.
Meet Nikki!
While many people in our community know and rave about “Dr. Nikki” from Village Pediatrics, what many may not realize is that she recently established – and is now the CEO of Westport Medical and Wellness Center, a membership-based care model where patients pay a flat fee directly for unlimited access to primary and preventative services. The wellness center is the result of Nikki’s belief that a better adult primary care model was needed in our community! Nikki’s passion for taking care of others started as a young child, and her love for travel most recently enabled her to spend time in Africa helping people there, a lifelong dream of hers. In her spare time, she loves spending time with her three children, in another life she might have been a writer, and fun fact – her real first name is Carol! Nikki has now started four unique medical practices over her career, and continues to find ways to provide kids (and now adults) with the health and wellness support they need. Westport is so lucky to have Nikki – and we look forward to all that’s ahead!
RSM: Building Powerful Minds Through Math!
The Russian School of Mathematics (RSM) is an award-winning, after-school math program for K-12 students. Learn more about the program and upcoming sessions here!
Meet our Mother Daughter Dynamic Duo – Kerri & Ali!
For many years now, Kerri Rosenthal has been disrupting the art world – and winning over the Westport community – with her unique paintings full of vibrant color, but many may not know she runs her business side by side with her daughter, Ali! After having her children, Kerri was itching to go back to work, and was inspired by some art she saw at a restaurant to begin painting again. After creating her first small collection, clients began buying art off the walls of her home, and strangers began commissioning pieces. Shortly after graduating and spending some time in the fashion industry, Ali joined her mom, and they have watched their business explode with a foundation of mutual respect, and love for colors and creating beautiful spaces. Just six years after opening the Kerri Rosenthal concept shop, the business has expanded into a mix of Retail/ Ecomm, Trade, Wholesale and Interiors. Together with Ali, they get to create, enjoy time together, and value family time more than anything. Their recent collaboration with Roberta Roller Rabbit (where their art was on PJs) sold out across all channels in under an hour, showing how truly beloved their work has become! This Mother’s Day, we wanted to share their story, and hope you enjoy learning more about this dynamic duo!
Dog Body Language and How to Interpret It!
Dogs tell us how they feel through body language, and Active Dog has some great tips on how to interpret It!
Your 5 Most Pressing Diaper Questions, Answered!
Choosing the right diaper for your family can feel like a daunting task— We asked you to share your most pressing questions on Instagram, then tapped the experts at our personal favorite diaper brand, Coterie, to help us make sense of it all.
Calling all Young Rising Actors; Camp WCP is here!
Do you know a kiddo that loves to act, dance, write, and make the world a better place? Westport Country Playhouse CampWCP is for 6–8th grade students who love putting on a show and inspiring others to make the world a better place. Whether they’ve participated in theater programs, are curious about the power of storytelling, or they are the kid who is passionate about organizing the neighborhood behind a worthy cause, CampWCP is for them; six weeks with a focus, a goal, and the chance to meet artists and community leaders.
Happy Mothers Day from East Coast Nanny Agency!
Happy Mothers Day from East Coast Nanny Agency! Moms, this month is all about you. Let East Coast Nanny Agency take some of the weight off your shoulders by helping your family find the perfect nanny for your childcare dilemma. Whether you need full time, part time, or summertime help.. our team is ready to help match you with one of our expert nannies. Book with us now through the end of the May and receive $75 off your placement, because you deserve it, Mom!
Family Fundraiser (and Fun Day) to support Star, Inc!
SAVE THE DATE! Join STAR on Sunday, May 1 at Sherwood Island Pavilion in Westport, CT from 9 a.m. to Noon. Enjoy face painting, arts and crafts, DJ Joe dance party, outdoor games, t-shirts, food trucks and more. All money raised will benefit @star_inc . STAR, Inc., Lighting the Way is a not–for-profit organization serving individuals of all ages who have Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities (I/DD), as well as providing support services to their families in Fairfield County since 1952. They create opportunities for individuals to live full lives with independence, freedom of choice and personal growth by providing support, services and advocacy. They are truly an amazing organization so hopefully you will support this family fun day!
Meet Stephanie!!
Mom to three, and one of six, Stephanie has always loved and valued the importance of the home and ensuring It is a space for people to eat, play and live well. While working in advertising in New York, she knew she needed both a change in lifestyle and a creative outlet, so she went to design school at Parsons School of Design to pursue interior design as a passion, but also as a serious career. For many years, Stephanie has loved working with clients who are inspired by fashion and edgier styles, and appreciate how custom design can elevate their lifestyle! Born and raised Italian, Stephanie couldn’t live without pasta, often can be heard using the word “chic,” and in another life would love to be a singer (she is currently amazed at how off tune she actually is!) Growing up in a big family and raising one has shown Stephanie how important It is to listen to others, to have a living space (especially a kitchen!) conducive to a family’s lifestyle, and to feel inspired in your own home.