Meet Tera

Tera is mom to 19-month-old Winston, and Chief Operations and Marketing Officer at Classic Kids, one of our favorite photography studios in Newport Beach.

Where are you from originally?

I am from Tucson, Arizona, although I was born in Northern California and moved a lot in between!

How long have you lived in Costa Mesa or Newport Beach? How many kids do you have?

We’ve lived here for 5 years – part of it in CDM, and now in Costa Mesa.  Our son, Winston (Win) is now 19 months!

What are your favorite things to do with your family in general or in town?

We love the simple things. The parks, long family walks or hikes, and of course the beach! The beach is our son’s very favorite. Recently, we’ve been taking him on more boats as he has developed a fascination with them – so this past Sunday we cruised the harbor. He was at the front of the boat the entire time with eyes as wide as saucers.

What’s your favorite restaurant in town for a family date? A night out with friends? Why?

We love True Foods – always yummy and healthy. Our son loves getting a healthy juice there, and their kid menu is great. We’re eager to try Playa Mesa that just opened up on 17th for a date night.

What is your favorite kid-friendly recipe?

My son loves soups/curries/stews – it’s a way I can sneak in a bunch of healthy veggies. They’re also easy to cook- toss it all in one big pot or a crock pot. Fewer dishes to clean. Always have leftovers. Being a busy working mom, these types of recipes are perfect.

What is your local go-to store for children’s clothes? Yourself?

I do most of my shopping for our son online… H&M, Zara, Old Navy (you can get basics for a steal!). I love shopping at Zara for myself too. Their kids section at South Coast is pretty solid if you get there before it’s all picked through. Along Came A Spider in Corona Del Mar plaza is an adorable boutique. We went into AntHill on Newport Boulevard this past weekend and our son was entertained for a very long time. They have everything from toys, to clothes, to shoes, stuff for mom, and perfect gift items. I will be going back! Then you can eat at Eat Chow after – yum.

What are your favorite events in Costa Mesa or Newport Beach?

The OC Fair! Love the fair. We are also excited to take Winston to LobsterFest, and we are going to try a movie on the lawn at the OC Great Park.

What has been the most difficult age with your son to date? What helped you overcome the challenges at that time?

For me personally, it was the newborn stage – my postpartum recovery was difficult on me, hormones all over, coupled with lack of sleep…. but we made it through, had Winston sleeping in his own crib through the night at 4 months, and it all just keeps getting better as he grows. The best most beautiful thing we’ve ever done. Really, my husband helped me overcome it all. My rock. And my little mamatribe from various parts of the country (thank you 3 am texts).

What is one piece of advice you would pass along to other moms? What was the best advice your mom gave you?

Don’t get too caught up with what’s online or even in books. Be present. Be you. You know. You really do. My mom encouraged me to not be shy asking for help in any form. That is essential.

Also, no one is perfect. But YOU are perfect for your babies.

What do you most value in your friends?

No pressure. No drama. Being understanding about life’s demands, and just being there when we can find the precious time.

What was your career before having children? If it’s the same, how do you balance career & motherhood?

It’s the same. I’ve been with my company for 12 years. Honestly, I don’t have a formula. You just find a way when you’re in it and have to rely on your support systems. I will say I’ve become VERY efficient, have gotten better at compartmentalizing, and work to be present in whatever I’m doing.

How do you relax and unwind?

Yoga. Yoga. Yoga. My most treasured “me” time. My favorite way to relax and unwind. I’m a better person after every session.

Thank you Tera!