Name: Maria “More” Collins (Hot 107.9 Middays, Atlanta and Philadelphia)
Name and age of kids: Andre (13), Eric (11), Ligaya (2), James (due on July 11th)
What do you love most about motherhood? I love the abundance of love that I feel daily from my children and the privilege to raise my children to be future influencers in this world.
What are three things that no one told about being a mother? 1) The importance of raising children with BOTH parents present. Before I met my husband, I was a single mom of 2. I really had to humble myself and ask for help because unfortunately, I did not receive that from my son’s biological father. 2) The importance of prioritizing. Once you become a mother, you can’t do the things that single women with no kids do. You have to handle your responsibilities in terms of home and career while making sure the needs of your children (both physically and emotionally) are met. 3) Labor is VERY…VERY painful. My grandmother had 6 kids, she would also joke that giving birth was like “chewing bubble gum. It wasn’t that easy for me. LOL!
What’s one thing that ever mother-to-be should know? Be present and pay attention. I have a VERY active radio career and run other businesses, and sometimes its easy to get distracted and not pay attention to what your children are being exposed to. I make sure I limit the amount of time my kids spend on the internet and watching television. We also do a lot of stuff together as a family.
How do you balance work and motherhood? I make sure I prioritize. I don’t allow myself to feel guilty when I need to say “no” to things that interfere with my family time. Conversely, I initiate and make sure I work hard at my job. When I’m working, I’m focused on work and when I’m in “mommy mode,” I make sure the needs of my children are the center of my attention. I think it’s important for women to understand that you CAN have a career and be a mother. I have a Bachelors and Masters degree, I’m a licensed Zumba Fitness Instructor, I design websites, I’m married, I own a home, I have EXCELLENT credit and I’m a mom of 3 (soon to be 4). Personally, I believe that with a strong partnership (with my husband) and a determined mind, anything is possible.
Three words that describe your mothering style? Attentive. Understanding. Compassionate.
What’s the best mother’s day gift you’ve ever received/given? I’ve always enjoyed the gifts that my children handmade for me.
What family activities does the family do together? Movies, days at the park, going out to eat, etc.
Where did you vacation last? What’s upcoming? Disney World in Orlando. We probably won’t be taking another vacation until the new baby is a little older.
Do your kids participate in extracurricular activities? If so, which one(s)? Why is this important? Yes. My oldest son enjoys art, he participates in different art exhibits and has been acknowledged by Cobb County Schools for his work. My younger son has Autism but still excels academically and participates in different sports activities at school. My daughter’s extracurricular activity is driving the rest of the family nuts! LOL!
How do you relax and unwind? I have my bi-weekly trips to the nail spa, I get a massage every now and then, and I just have my general “chill time” at the house.
