Name: Jessica Pierson
Kids’ names and ages?
Stephen (13) and Scott (11)
How long have you lived in NWA and what brought you here?
We’ve lived here 1-1/2 years and moved from Ohio due to my husband’s new job and because we’ve heard wonderful things about living in Fayetteville.
What’s something you did recently to make your kids laugh (and were glad nobody else was around to see it)?
I turned up the volume on some 1980s music, specifically something a little more “rock-n-roll” than what I’m known to enjoy, and I danced in a goofy way, played air guitar, and even finished by sliding across the kitchen floor (at least a 5-foot span) in some slick socks. These are the kinds of things a mom must do to impress kids this age. Afterward, I had to rest, but it was worth it for such approval.
Tell us about a day in your life:
I’ve learned it’s necessary to rise before the two young teen drill sergeants awaken so I can get breakfast and sack lunches rolling. Some hot tea propels me in the right direction, and before I know it, I’ve hugged my kids and husband and they’re off to do daily business. My work shift seems long and leaves me forgetting to eat, but when it’s a leftover-dinner night, that allows me an extra hour to assemble some healthy afterschool snacks (and on the rare occasion, a dessert!). Carrots and dip, or some apple slices and cheddar…those are the kinds of snacks that cheer everyone up and give that little end-of-day lift we all need. Amazing how much better I feel after that one small effort!
If you went back to college what would you study?
I’d want to study the language and culture of a country or region abroad where I’d like to live and work someday, even if just for a few years of adventure.
What are three things you always have with you?
Cell phone, keys, and kids’ inhalers.
Do you have any New Year’s resolutions?
I plan to make better use of this upcoming spring for getting out on some of Fayetteville’s awesome trails and for walking in general, for both physical fitness and the tranquility one finds on a walk.
Your favorite places to hang out with your family in NWA?
The Square downtown has a stunning light display—perfect for hot cocoa and a walk together. My kids seem to find something new in the display each time we go, and we’re sure to pass through their even in the car on the way home from a late errand. We also have a favorite restaurant down that direction, so in getting there, we find that a “bonus” opportunity for a walk on the Square allows us to see up close what the various shops offer.
What’s something cool that happened to you recently?
A lifelong friend of mine, who’s been living and working in New Zealand for nearly 10 years, came to visit for the Christmas holiday break. Together, we explored more of NWA—so many things I didn’t even know were here, from restaurants to an art gallery to some cool spots that make Fayetteville funky! We found several pigs around town from the Pigshibition collection too! Even though I’d previously been to Crystal Bridges Art Museum a couple of times, we were able to slow down this time to see more of that as well, including learning the intricacies of the architecture and outdoor sculptures.
Your favorite hobbies?
Reading, trying out new recipes, and writing.
One word to sum me up …
Learning
