Meet this first-time mom and new Go Ask Mom writer

WRAL multiplatform producer Jessica Patrick was pregnant with her first child during the COVID-19 pandemic. It made for a stressful pregnancy at times, but now she is enjoying life with her baby daughter.

Get to know Jessica in this Q&A:

How many children, pets, family members are you caring for?

My husband and I are first-time parents to a baby girl born in the spring. I am also mom to two crazy rescue dogs.

What type of parent would you describe yourself as?

I try to “go with the flow” as much as I can knowing everything won’t always go smoothly. It’s so important to me that my infant daughter has a fun, healthy and happy life full of new experiences.

What has been the most rewarding part of parenting or caregiving?

I love seeing the joy my daughter brings her four loving grandparents and one great grandmother. I am so lucky they all live in the area and that she gets to spend time with them. Also, her new smile makes my heart overflow.

What are some of the biggest challenges you have faced in your life?

Being pregnant during the peak of COVID-19 was extremely difficult. I’m also learning how to juggle being a new parent while working in breaking news full-time and making time for myself and my other relationships.

What are some of the stories or topics you are excited to write about and share on WRAL?

I will share my struggle with breastfeeding and my experiences as a first-time and new mom.

You can catch Jessica's posts on Go Ask Mom throughout the month!