Q&A: Christy Henley & A Giveaway!

 Meet my niece, Christy and her adorable family.  Regulars to my blog will be familiar with these cute faces most likely, as I just can't help myself!  Christy is starting a new venture as a stylist for Stella & Dot, so I thought to kick that off I'd do an online trunk show for her.  I am also doing a giveaway of one of their fabulous pieces of jewelry. (which is shown at the bottom of this page!)  But first, I want you to get to know Christy with this Q&A session.  I might be a bit biased but I think she is a pretty fabulous woman & mommy!

Tell us a little about your life & career before children:  

My husband, Kevin and I have been married since May 2009. (he is smart, handsome & a wonderfully hands on dad).  Before kids, we loved to take day trips/travel, go out to dinner and go to the movies.  I'm not going to lie, we also enjoyed sleeping in!  Before I had my two boys, I worked for a 911 contracted ambulance company as an EMT.  I had a passion for helping people during their time of need.  I loved what I did, and found the job very personally rewarding.  After my first son, Mason was born I decided to try the "stay-at-home" mom thing (I've been home ever since).  Although it is the toughest & most challenging job I've ever had, I find it to be so much fun and so rewarding.  I'm very fortunate to be able to see my boys learn & grow everyday.  I've been able to witness all of their "firsts".  These days, I can't get back - and while they are exhausting, I wouldn't trade it for anything in the world. I am the luckiest mommy in the world to Mason (2 1/2) and Hudson (6 months).

  

How has becoming a mother changed your world?  

What have your kids taught you?

I learned that life isn't as spontaneous as it once was. (WHY on earth didn't we travel & explore more before kids!) No more spur of the moment late night dinners/movies, pedicures or last minute trips. But I wouldn't trade it for anything!  I learned that everyday is a clean slate.  If today wasn't so great, we get a do-over tomorrow.  I've learned the true meaning of unconditional love.  It's amazing the kind of bond you have from the minute they are born...it's a supernatural/superhuman thing that overcomes you - you would lay down your life for these little people. It's funny how once you have children of your own, you can't remember life before they came to be (at least that's how it is for me).  My children have taught me to SLOW down... I find myself watching my boys play & I think to myself "what did I ever do in this life to be so blessed with these beautiful baby boys - they belong to me & how did I get SO lucky".  I love that I'm seeing the world again through their eyes.  There is so much wonder in a day...listening to the wind blow through the trees, finding the moon in the sky while the sun is still out, spotting the tiniest flower in a crack on the sidewalk.  Life is really amazing.  If only we could all see it through a child's eyes.  Today is a gift and I will never have these days with my children again.  I have learned to take notice.  To study their faces, their hands, their toes. I'm trying to relish and enjoy the present (even the tough days) because they will be gone before I can blink.  I've also learned not to waste time on people that don't make time for you in their lives.  This life is so short, I like to spend my time with my absolute favorite people; my husband, my children, my family and a few close friends that I hold very dear to me.  And through all the tough days, you have to laugh.  Or you won't survive!  I've learned more about myself, life and the things that matter most from my boys.  I am one lucky mama.  And last but not least, I love the quote from Annette Funicello - "Life does not have to be perfect to be wonderful"

Does it make you look at your own mom differently now that you are a parent?

I've always known that my mom has the patience of a Saint.  But after I had my boys, I realized that she not only has the patience of a Saint, but might in fact just be a Saint.  I have always looked up to her & have learned so much from her.  I feel as though I am constantly trying to live up to her as a mom.  All I can do is try...You would have to ask her how I'm doing! 

(From this aunt's perspective - you are doing an amazing job!)

What are your guilty pleasures?

Good music, good food & good company.  Ok, and maybe some smutty reality tv!

What is your personal motto?

"Pausing to delight in the simple joys of everyday life is the only way to truly live"

Before we get down to the business at hand, as your aunt, I would like to know if we can expect any more adorable Henleys in the future?

Haha....Well if you ask Kevin, he would probably say that we are done! (our kids are terrible sleepers...)  BUT, maybe in a couple years we will forget all about how exhausted we have been in the last 2 1/2 years and we will go for the third!  

What made you decide to become a Stella & Dot Stylist?  

What goals have you set for yourself for this new venture?

As much as I love being at home with my boys, I find that I need some "me" time.  Some time to get out of the house (ok, and out of my sweats too) and socialize.  Do something for myself, meet some new people and have fun while I'm at it.  I really do love everything that Stella & Dot has to offer.  It is a great San Francisco based company that really wants their employees to succeed.  I love the idea that the founder & CEO Jessica Herrin is a mom to two young children - she prides herself on building a company that gives women the opportunity to achieve success & balance through a career.  Stella & Dot guarantees you the flexibility to set your own schedule, reward for your hard work, style and profit all while having fun.  I would also love to earn extra money for the kids, help pay for some of their schooling and have extra money for some family trips down the road.  I'm having fun while working towards these goals.

What are your favorite Stella & Dot products?

 To name a few that I'm currently loving on......the Palomino necklace, Maldives necklace, Aileen necklace, Petra bracelet, Tribute bracelet, Camilla ring & of course the How Does She Do It Bag in Blue Ikat. (it goes everywhere with me.)

Thanks, Christy for taking the time to answer these questions - they were wonderfully candid! (but I wouldn't expect any less from you!) Good Luck in your new venture!  I'm super proud of you! 

In honor of my niece, Christy - I am giving away this gorgeous Christina bracelet.  Please check out all of the wonderful products (that would make fabulous gifts)

that Stella & Dot  offers and then comment below to enter the giveaway.

Also as an extra added bonus there will be a raffle for any

 orders over $50 to win these fabulous swallow earrings!

*If you don't live in the U.S. and would like to place an order,

feel free to ship to my address and I will forward on to you. 

 Email me at cathinunn@gmail.com for details.

I will draw the winning name on October 1st - if you Blog, Tweet,

Instagram or Facebook the details of the giveaway for extra entries,

please let me know!  Good Luck!!!!

Have a fabulous week, friends!

xxoo