We're joining the Friday Introductions bandwagon, and taking time each week to introduce you to some of our amazing volunteer staff! Because our wonderful staff has grown so much, (amazing, truly.) we are doubling up this week on the introductions; this week, our Hospitality Team. First, we introduce you to Alicia, our generous and enthusiastic Hospitality Coordinator (and just gave birth to her second child!)
1) Introduce yourself! (name, age, kids? Job?)
Alicia Morgan, 27, Max (2 years and 4 months), and Ellie (born January 21st!). 10th and 11th grade English teacher at Jefferson Forest High School and 11th and 12th grade English teacher at Liberty University Online Academy! Oh, and my TMC job is Hospitality Coordinator – I run the meal team.
2) How did you come to work with TMC?
I volunteered to help out with the Vintage Lynchburg sale one year, and Lauren and Maria asked me to step in as the hospitality coordinator.
3) How do you take your coffee?
In latte form. But I usually drink tea.
4) If you could pick any vacation in the world, what would it be and why?
As much as I would love to say travel to Europe or some beautiful beach, my favorite vacation (at this point in my life) would be a Disney cruise with my family! HAHAHA
5) What has been the hardest part about your motherhood journey?
Breastfeeding was so hard at first, but once we got the hang of it, it was amazing! Also, this second pregnancy has been hard to get excited about. As I write this, I am 2 weeks away from my due date, but I have had several close friends lose babies, have fertility problems, or suffer from PMAD, and so I have almost felt guilty to be excited about having another. Fortunately, I have been able to talk all of this out at the PMAD group and I have been talking with my husband about my struggles with anxiety and guilt, and now we are starting to get very excited!
6) What has been the best part?
Breastfeeding was wonderful and I cannot wait to BF my next little one. (she wrote this about 3 days prior to giving birth to that next little one) Also, I love talking with my son. He’s so smart and sweet, and while having a conversation with a 2-year-old is not always the most fruitful, we always laugh and have a good time!
7) Leggings as pants: yay or nay?
As a general rule… actually, as my number 1 rule in life, leggings are NEVER pants. Hahaha! But, I do love leggings. As long as the front and the rear are covered, leggings are the best!
8) Favorite TV show?
I love The Office and Parenthood.
9) Favorite junk food?
Chocolate!
10) Best advice you’ve ever been given?
"It’ll get done because it has to get done." This phrase got me through my Master’s Degree! Hahaha
Next up, one of our newest members of the team, Sonya, our Nurture Basket Coordinator. Sonya provides us with wonderful wisdom and advice having gone through the 'trenches' of parenting and come out on the other side!
1) Introduce yourself! (name, age, kids? Job?)
Sonya Shaunassey, 55, 5 kids, (ages 21-29, 3 boys and 2 girls), full-time wife/mom/homemaker (and all the hats that involves). Before kids, I did foster care casework and worked for the WIC program doing nutrition education.
2) How did you come to work with TMC?
I became aware of TMC through knowing Lauren, our Executive Director. I remember watching her grow up, and remember her sweet mama as a dear friend when we were young moms. I found myself in the 'empty nest' season with more discretionary time, so I talked to Lauren...and here I am!
3) How do you take your coffee?
Whipped cream and cinnamon. (really just like 'warm coffee ice cream')
4) If you could pick any vacation in the world, what would it be and why?
Mountains and horses; a Western dude ranch and cattle drive! (ask me tomorrow and I may have a different answer)
5) What has been the hardest part about your motherhood journey?
Walking through hurts with my children when life is just 'hard'. (broken friendships, broken hearts, health issues, failures, coping with a classmate's suicide, poor decisions and hard lessons.)
6) What has been the best part?
Getting to know the unique individuals who are my children (with all their faults and gifts)! And, living with my favorite people!
7) Leggings as pants: yay or nay?
Nay, without adequate coverage around the hind end. Yay, if worn with modesty in mind.
8) Favorite TV show?
Downton Abbey and Fixer Upper.
9) Favorite junk food?
Chocolate brownie.
10) Best advice you’ve ever been given?
"Pick your battles."