Working Mom Spotlight: Anna McCrickard
Meet Anna! Anna is a wife, teacher and a Restored mom of two who loves photography.
Name: Anna McCrickard
Occupation: Kindergarten Teacher
Number of kids: 2
Favorite candy bar: Anything with chocolate and peanut butter
Tell us about your family, and what’s your childcare solution?
My husband Brian and I were married Dec. 13, 2014, and I instantly became a mom to his wonderful five-year-old son, Caiden. On Aug. 26, 16, we welcomed our son Dawson to the world. Caiden is now a fifth grader and attends the FAST program at his elementary school, which is a program that helps school staff children with their school work while their parent is teaching virtually. Dawson is now four-years-old and enrolled in a pre-K program. I am blessed to have my sister watch him while I work.
Where do you work, and what is a typical workday like for you?
I work at Holly Springs Elementary School. I usually drop Dawson off at my sister’s around 8:15 a.m. and I head to school. My virtual teaching day starts at 9:15 a.m. with my morning meeting session. I am currently teaching 16 children on the Plan B transition schedule. My day typically ends around 3:45 p.m. – but like many other teachers, I’m putting in extra time to get the job done these days!
Share some of your goals – personal or professional.
One of my biggest personal goals was to lose weight and be healthier because I want to be there for my family. I’m happy to report that, so far, I have lost 80 pounds! Now I want to find time in the day to work out.
What motivates you to work?
My family motivates me to work. Unfortunately, I am not able to be a stay-at-home mom. I always thought I would want to be a stay-at-home mom, but after maternity leave with Dawson I realized that I need to work and staying at home full-time was not for me.
How do you like to relax?
I like to relax by spending time with my family. Before COVID-19, we would go to the movies and to the park. I really need to work on taking time for myself by getting a pedicure, hair done, etc.
What is your favorite part of motherhood?
My favorite part of motherhood is watching my boys grow and learn new things. I was not in my oldest son’s life as a baby, so experiencing that phase with Dawson was completely new to me.
What does Restored mean to you? How has it impacted you personally?
Restored has been great because I feel that I am not alone as a working mom. There are other working moms out there that are struggling too. It’s great to see how others balance being a working mom and taking time for themselves.
What is one of your favorite Restored events to date? Why is it your favorite?
One of my favorite Restored events was when Stephanie interviewed a panel of men on the topic of marriage. It gave me a different perspective on how men think. I wish my husband could have been there too! 😊
Can you share how you overcome challenges related to the “mom chaos” that settles in when you feel pulled in 100 directions?
Haha…I don’t feel like I will ever overcome the “mom chaos.” As a working mom who is new to teaching virtually, I still feel like I am being pulled in a million directions. During the weekends, I am lesson planning and I am helping my parents move into a much smaller place. It’s always something!
Besides your faith and family, what are you passionate about?
I am passionate about photography. I love taking pictures, but wish I had more time for it.