I Don’t Know How She Does It – Sarah James

Ok, here’s the story with Sarah James of the Whoorl empire. I met her a year or so ago via a friend and PR colleague when we invited her to a cupcake date to try out a new bakery client we were working with. She was super stylish, sweet, professional and loving yet laidback with her littles Anders (now 6) and Malou (now 2) who she brought along for the taste test. You kind of wanted to hate her for having it all and making it look so effortless but it’s IMPOSSIBLE to hate this woman. Since then, I have remained a devoted reader of her blog which chronicles everything from hair dilemmas and lipstick shades to kitchen renovations and kids’ milestones. I consider her a great cyber friend, always willing to offer advice, a kind word and a supportive tweet. Oh, and I think of her when I wash my hair once in a while because she was featured IN A PANTENE COMMERCIAL this year. How cool is that? Only in Sarah’s Whoorl…I mean, world 😉

Here is how she does it:

What time does your day start and how?

5:45am. Most days start with a workout – I’m one of those types who has to exercise first thing in the morning or it just won’t happen. Trust me, I can think of 1,000 excuses once my day is in full swing, so I just dig in and do it first thing! My kids get up at 7am, and from that point, it’s a race against the clock getting them fed, dressed, and ready for school before we all head out at 8:00. When I return around 9am, it’s time to get to work.

What time does your day end and how?  

Well, “early to rise, early to bed” is definitely the case around here. I like to get into bed at 9pm, and lights out no later than 10pm. I’m definitely an early bird, and can’t get much of anything done after 7pm. It’s like I’m Cinderella, except instead of midnight, it’s 7pm, and instead of a carriage turning into a pumpkin, it’s my brain turning into complete mush.

Do you work from home or in an office? What is the set up like?

I work from home, 3 days a week. I have designated a corner of my bedroom as my office, and it works perfectly for me. Room for my desk, my inspiration boards, and right next to a window with the best light ever.

Do you see/speak to your kids throughout your work day? If yes, how/when?

Well, up until this month, I had a nanny in the home with my 2-year-old daughter. (My son is in school most of the day.) So, yes, I interacted with them on a regular basis, which was challenging. To be honest, trying to convey to your little one that “yes, mommy is home right now, but not really” is super daunting and super guilt-inducing! Not to mention hearing what’s going on downstairs and wanting to intervene or help out.

However, we made the decision this Fall to put my daughter in a part-time program outside of the home, and although I hemmed and hawed over the decision for months, it was the right one for us. She loves interacting with the teachers and children, and I get so much more done during my work hours. (Captain Obvious over here, but it’s amazing how much more focused you can be when it’s completely QUIET.)

What is the best thing about being a working mom? Hardest thing?

The best thing? Earning a living by doing something I completely love AND enjoying my family at the same time. I thank my lucky stars every day.

The hardest thing? Definitely the work-at-home aspect. There’s always a deadline lurking around the corner, and it’s hard to find the balance (and draw the line) between working and parenting. I’m genetically wired to work, work, work, and I have to really watch it.

Be honest, what is one thing you envy about stay at home moms?

I envy the friendships that form between stay-at-home moms. Playdates, mid-morning coffee dates…I just don’t have the time. Also, it sure would be nice to sit at my son’s soccer practice without worrying about a work deadline.

Answer the question “I don’t know how you do it?” in ten words or less.

Thank goodness I’m Type A! (And like wine.)

And trust me when I tell you that you want to get your hands on everything Sarah is currently coveting for she and he and she…

 

 Clockwise from top left:

Fall weather makes me want to wear hats every day. I daydream about this one.

Both my children have worn Freshly Picked moccasins throughout their toddlerhood. I might need to add these bright pink suede ones to our collection!

My son beats his shoes up like no tomorrow. That’s why I love Natives – they are stylish, yet completely durable.

My sister-in-law (whose daughter might be the best dressed child on the planet) gave me the best advice regarding my daughter’s clothes. Stay away from knitwear. The stretchy cotton invariably gets worn and faded, and there’s nothing more adorable than a crisp cotton dress on a little girl.

Loving the navy blue polish trend this season.

Puzzles are a hit in our home. Crocodile Creek makes great ones in adorable cases.

I want these leather pants. I have no IDEA where I would wear them, but I want them.

I am a cream blush addict, and Illamasqua makes the best ones around. They blend like a dream so they’re virtually fool-proof.