Here at The Bedford Mom we believe that moms deserve to be recognized and celebrated! This month we are proud to feature Bonnie Welden, a devoted mom of three. Learn all about her below!
Tell us about yourself!
Hello! My name is Bonnie Welden and I live in Bedford with my husband James and three kiddos, Parke (five), Samantha (two), and Grant (six months). You may have seen us walking our very patient dog, Caby. Always an adventure with this crew! We have lived in Bedford for almost five years. I am originally from Minnesota but moved to Somerville, MA in 2014 and then to Bedford when we were looking to buy our first home.
Tell us about your work!
I received my master’s degree from the University of Michigan in 2010 and am a Clinical Social Worker by training. I worked for the Alzheimer’s Association for nearly 10 years in various roles. My work focused primarily on supporting caregivers of individuals living with dementia while managing our Care Consultation and Support Group Programming. After our local daycare closed for six months at the start of the pandemic, I decided to focus my energy at home. I am trying on the stay-at-home mom role for now but would love to get back to work in the next few years, possibly in hospice or long-term care.
What are your favorite local restaurants?
Local spots we tend to frequent the most are Flight, 1750 Taphouse, and Inside Scoop.
What is your favorite way to practice self-care?
Self-care can feel hard to come by (right?) but I recently joined a local yoga studio and have really enjoyed taking that time to nurture myself. I also enjoy walking with friends and being outside.
What brought you to Bedford?
We moved to Bedford because we were looking to establish roots in a community that was near family, had good schools, and easy access to nature. My husband grew up in the Monadnock region and Bedford seemed to offer the best of all worlds in terms of NH living.
What is your favorite thing about Bedford?
There are so many things we have come to appreciate about our town but at the top of the list is the family friends we have made. We are so fortunate!
What are your favorite local spots in town?
Our family spends a lot of time at the local playground, Joppa Hill Farm, and the library. Hoping to add the splash pad to the list this summer.
What is your best piece of advice for moms who are new in town?
One piece of advice I would share with parents who are new to town is that every parent is relating to you and happy to help. If you forgot a diaper or snack while out and about or need someone to hold your baby, they are happy to! It is also a great way to meet people.
What is your best piece of advice for expecting moms or new moms?
Expecting and new moms, go easy on yourselves! Growing and birthing humans is hard. It takes a village to raise kids so reach out to your neighbors, family, and friends. Take them up on their offers to help. Rome wasn’t built in a day, and you are amazing!