Here at The Bedford Mom we believe that moms deserve to be recognized and celebrated! This month we are proud to feature Jamie Stein, a devoted mom of three and a very active member of our local community. Learn all about her below!
Tell us about yourself!
My name is Jamie Stein and I live in Bedford with my husband Joe, and my three kids, Ryan, Taylor, and Claire. I’m a stay-at-home mom and enjoy the flexibility that gives me to volunteer in various organizations around Bedford.
Tell us about your work!
Prior to having children, I was a manager at a Residential Program for individuals with developmental and/or physical disabilities. I became certified in Social Security and Veterans Benefits to assist individuals successfully return to work. Since moving to Bedford, I’ve begun volunteering with the Trails Stewards through the Conservation Commission. It’s a lot of fun and my kids love helping care for the trails, too! I also volunteer at my kids’ schools, and am on the advisory board of The Bedford Mom!
What are your favorite local restaurants?
The Inside Scoop is my favorite spot to get lunch (the turkey club is delicious!) or have ice cream with friends and the kids.
What is your favorite way to practice self-care?
This past winter I went to a Mindfulness workshop presented by The Friends of Bedford Library. I’ve have been practicing mindfulness and find it so helpful. Most of us have so much in our plates that our thoughts get into overdrive. Mindfulness gives your brain a break; I have found that even short mindfulness breaks help me to feel more relaxed and in control.
What brought you to Bedford?
We have lived in Bedford for almost 2 years now. Our road to Bedford began eleven years ago when Joe and I left Maine for him to attend medical school in the south. We have traveled all along the east coast during his training, and now that he is finished with training, we have settled down in Bedford. It’s so nice to not have to pack up and move every 1-3 years anymore. We chose Bedford for its schools and proximity to all the things we love: the beaches, mountains, and our families who live in Maine.
What is your favorite thing about Bedford?
Even though the population is good sized, Bedford still feels like a small town. It’s nice to see familiar faces while out at places like Educational Farm at Joppa Hill or at kids sporting events. I also love that Bedford residents take so much pride in living here. You can see it in the way residents support local businesses, the schools, athletics, and the overall community.
What are your favorite local spots in town?
I love walking the Bedford trails. Muller Park, Van Loan, and Legacy are my favorites. The Trail Stewards built a snowshoe trail at Legacy Park this past winter and hosted moonlit hikes which were so much fun.
What is your best piece of advice for moms who are new in town?
If you’re new in town, Welcome! You’re already in the right place because you are connected with The Bedford Mom! Coming to events is a great place to start!
What is your best piece of advice for expecting moms or new moms?
My favorite NH author and Occupational Therapist, Angela Hanscom said “We need to allow children to move in ways that make adults gasp”. She has a wonderful book titled “Balanced and Barefoot” and I’d recommend it to any parent. I think play, movement, and physical and mental challenges are so crucial to kids’ development. I find it to be a fascinating and inspirational topic!