We began 16 sentences that each person finished in their own words. Here’s what the Jane of all Trades, Melanie Cantelmo had to say about balancing her family, her hobbies and everything in between.
I was born…
Burlington, Ontario, Canada. We lived in Canada until I was 7 years old and then relocated to Phoenix, Arizona. It was hard transitioning to Arizona at first but now I couldn’t imagine living anywhere else.
My favorite thing about Arizona…
is hiking. The mountains here are beautiful and you can easily go on a short hike that doesn’t take up an entire day. With having my pregnancies so close together, I haven’t been able to hike as much as I would like to. So as soon as the baby is born I plan to get back into hiking again!
I’m listening to…
nothing exciting. The only chance I get to listen to music is in the car and lately it’s whatever my kids enjoy such as The Fresh Beat Band and Justin Bieber.
My family…
a total blessing. I always dreamed of having lots of kids but never expected to have all the kids so close together! I need to remember to enjoy my husband and kids more even during the hard times. With having lots of little ones our days go by so quickly but we still have time for tickle time, being silly, dance parties, and cuddle time. Those are some of my favorite things about my family.
If I could have dinner with anyone, it would be…
my husband. My husband and I rarely have time to have a meal where it’s just us (no kids)! It would be so nice to have dinner with him and actually have a conversation!
One thing I cannot live without…
my iPhone. It has everything on it, my pictures, my Bible, twitter, instagram, Facebook, GPS and the internet. It helps me stay connected and not get lost (thanks to the GPS).
When I was younger, I wanted to be…
I wanted to be a mom and a teacher. I turned our guest room into a classroom and used to teach my stuffed animals. My daughter Grace “teaches” her dolls all the time and it brings me so many memories!
I’m inspired by…
people who a real and humble. Nothing is more inspiring than being with someone who is real, they know who they are and aren’t afraid of being judged. It inspires me to be open and honest with others.
The one person who motivates me is…
my husband. He is such a hard worker, smart, compassionate, and talented. It motivates me to get moving and work hard.
The perfect day would be…
at day with my kids getting along and no temper tantrums. My day would also include a nice hike or bike ride alone and a pedicure! Then to finish the day I would have a date night with my husband.
My first job was…
working at Pugzie’s on 16th street and Highland. One of my best friend’s mom owns the store and hired me and two of my good friends to work for her during the summer. We were all 16 and felt so mature!!
My favorite escape…
is going on a walk or a bike ride. It helps me recharge after a stressful day with the kids.
My life…
is extremely chaotic! I’m always busy chasing after the kids, cleaning up after the dogs and trying to keep things in order.
I’m currently working on…
being more patient with my children.
Always…
be yourself and be real.
Never…
pretend you are someone you’re not just to be liked.
Melanie is too humble!! She is an amazing woman with a huge heart and she never rests. She works very hard to ensure she is doing everything she can for her husband, children, and the people outside her family whom she serves.