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Kristin's bio

Kristin Varela: bio

MP: What’s your family situation?
I’m a single work-at-home-mom of two amazing little girls (ages 7 and 9). I’m just soaking up this golden age between the hard toddler years and the really hard tween/teen years. They still kiss me when I drop them off at school, so I’m a happy mama.

MP: What is your current mom-mobile?
My current mom-mobile is whatever test car happens to be in my driveway at the moment, though I’m thinking about purchasing a little commuter car for my travels to and from the airport. The Volvo C30 and Audi A3 are on my short list, as are the Honda Fit, Suzuki SX4 and … er … guess the list isn’t so short after all.

MP: Do you have a favorite test-car feature?
My favorite feature has to be keyless entry/start. I’m always juggling so much stuff: my purse, the kids’ backpacks, their school folders, life in general. I appreciate being able to stash a key in the dark, scary depths of my purse and never having to dig around snotty tissues and half-sucked lollipops to find it.

MP: When you’re not driving your family around, what are you doing?
In between driving the kids to school and swim lessons, I squeeze in a full day running MotherProof.com (writing, editing and keeping a hand in nearly every other aspect of the business). That doesn’t leave a lot of downtime, but I like to fit in some dance and Pilates classes, dinner with friends or an occasional hour lost with my nose in a good book.

MP: If you were auditioning for a TV show, what show and role would you try out for?
Oh, that’s an easy one: “Dancing With the Stars.” I’m not sure if I’m going to become famous or a professional ballroom dancer in order to get on the show. I’ll let you know in a few years. Oh hush, you know you fantasize about it, too -- some sparkles, a little body paint and a booty shake -- I’m just brave enough to ‘fess up to it.

MP: What’s your favorite indulgence?
Chocolate and bubble baths. I haven’t yet ventured into bathing in chocolate, but that might be my next step. It couldn’t possibly be bad!

MP: What do your kids love about your job?
They really like feeling that their opinion matters. I often get the, “Mama, you need to tell the people that made this car that…” comment. The great thing is they’re usually right! Automakers, please put a handle down low on the B-pillar so my kids can climb up and into the car on their own.

MP: What beverage lives in your cupholder?
Tall, extra-hot, two-pump chai and a bottle of water.

MP: Where was your favorite family vacation?
I took the girls on an impromptu long weekend to Santa Monica, Calif., recently. Sprinkles (the cupcake store) was our main destination, and we spent the rest of the time without an agenda. We hung out at the beach, people-watched and swam in the hotel pool. It was great to be away from the daily grind and not have some grandiose schedule to stick to.


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