By Melissa Larsen
From the most influential educators and business people to the biggest trendsetters and taste makers, these locals are tops when it comes to making the Valley the best place to call home.
Favorite Valley Mom: Amanda (Ghezzi) Rumore, Work-From- Home Mom, Managing Partner, Freelance Journalist
Tell me about your day-to- day. When needed (which is often), I work early mornings and late nights to accomplish work tasks. During normal hours, I try to start the day by having morning tea or coffee with my husband, Anthony. After Mia Valentina, 2, is up, we play, eat breakfast, I hose her down and then she goes in the stroller and we walk our two Boston Terriers, Gigi and Harley. We then go to the gym, which has a terrific kid’s program. After that, she usually naps for a few hours, so I try to get as much work done as humanly possible. I’m also a regular at many toddler classes throughout the Valley and often host fun play dates at our house. Weekday evenings are typically spent at home; my husband grills or I cook. We love to eat in our backyard while enjoying the outdoors with a glass (or two) of wine.
What is your biggest joy as a mom? It has been completely awe-inspiring to see this teeny tiny human grow and develop every day. I also find it to be absolutely incredible to experience love, joy and laughter through my daughter’s eyes. Words simply cannot do justice to the amount of love you feel as a parent. I’ve also loved seeing my husband grow into an amazing dad.
How do you balance your career with motherhood? It’s probably the hardest thing I’ve ever done. You constantly have to stay on top of your game, be motivated and use all time wisely. Ultimately, being a mother is my priority so when things get too overwhelming, that is always my focus. I’ve also learned to have a trusted A Team. Know what BFF to call when you need a shoulder to cry on and who to call when you need a happy hour. If cleaning is your weakness, take time to find an awesome cleaning service. If you have events to attend, have a great make-up artist and spray-tan pro on your speed-dial. Moms today can have healthy meals delivered, dirty clothes picked up and returned pristine and a mobile med spa in their own home for a chemical peel. Just figure out what assistance you need, and find people to help. I’m also very blessed to have a wonderful family. Although they’re not local, they’re still always there when I need them.
Fast Faves
Outdoor spot for the family: Anthem Community Park is literally 63 acres of family fun.
Where to spend “me” time: We have so many options in the Valley! Some of my most relaxing “me” time has been simply going for a walk or jog through my community and enjoying the great Arizona desert scenery. Scottsdale is also a resort town, which means we have some of the best resort spas in our backyard. I don’t discriminate; I love Well & Being at the Fairmont Scottsdale Princess, Revive at JW Marriott Desert Ridge Resort and Alvadora at Royal Palms Resort.
Scenic spot: McDowell Sonoran Preserve in North Scottsdale has so much to do, whether you’re going solo or with the entire fam.
Check out Amanda (Ghezzi) Rumore in Arizona Foothills Magazine Best of Our Valley 2016 Collectors Edition issue here or get the digital version here.
