Jennifer Pate

Jen's story:

I grew up in Highland Park, IL (a suburb of Chicago), moved to the city (Chicago that is!) and had a career as a Dancer (musical theater, commercial work…no, not pole) while simultaneously attending college at the University of Illinois at Chicago (3 years; still regret not finishing).  I moved to LA to become a Casting Director for TV and Film (partner at Colloff, Fishman (my maiden name) and Britt Casting).  Once I had my first child I became a stay at home Mom (which I did for over 5 years).  Today I am busy juggling motherhood and marriage while producing and hosting Mom Life.

I have been married to Jonas for 13 years (big milestone!). Jonas is a writer and director for TV and film (we are on the road a lot). We have two children; Cooper, 10 and Lilah, 9.  I can’t believe how different two children can be who are only one year apart!  We live in Los Angeles (which is of much debate as my husband is certain that this is not the place to raise kids).  We are an Interfaith and Intercultural couple.  My husband is from the South and I’m from the North; this is as much of a difference as our Jewish and Christian faiths.  I have three siblings (one sister, two brothers) and have an incredible bond with all of them; this may partially be the result of the “war of the roses” divorce my parents had over 25 years ago (it never goes away… I mean never).

As a woman I navigate my way through life while working to maintain happiness, good health and hope.  I say this because many of us tend to define ourselves based on our job, age, marital status, how many kids we have, etc.  Through Mom Life, I hope other women feel as though we have a support system and know we are not alone in life’s journey.  I also hope they find helpful advice and get in a good laugh.

In my free time I love doing yoga, traveling, reading and talking!  I would be lost without all my girlfriends; they are my support system through the good, bad and ugly!

Remember, we’re all in this together!

Jennifer 's Posts :

• What age should your kids get rid of their “security blanket”?
• How often do you have a “date” with your husband?
• How do you stay connected to your kids when they are away from you?
• Separation Anxiety
• How Do You Discipline Your Child?
• What do you do to make holidays special?
• Do You Lie To Your Kids?
• Daughters Vs. Sons: Do You Treat Them Differently?
• My Husband’s Fashion Ups and Downs
• Check Out Jen & Barb’s This Next “Pursuing Your Passion” Shopping Guide on Thisnext.com
• The Birthday Party Dilemma
• Check Out Jen & Barb’s This Next “Wow Your Guests” Shopping Guide on Thisnext.com
• Should Parents Dress Up on Halloween?
• A Confident Mom to Admire
• “But Mom, EVERYONE Has One!”
• Lending an Ear to Our Teens
• Keeping Your Kids Busy This Summer
• Coming Up: Mom Confessions
• Advice for New Moms
• My Agenda-Free Father’s Day Plans