Mom Club with Donna Perrin
Donna Perrin with her husband Dave and their children Livia and Nicolas. (Photo courtesy of Donna Perrin)
It’s no secret that every time I run into Livia (16) or Nicolas (12) I end up reaching out to their parents Dave and Donna Perrin, to not only tell them how wonderful their children are but also, to beg for them to write a book on parenting. As a bed and breakfast owner, a wholesale sales specialist for Wölffer Estate Vineyards, and a parent, Donna likely doesn’t have time to write a book, instead I’ve invited her to be our featured mom in this month’s Mom Club.
Join us as Donna shares mothering on the North Fork in our monthly Mom Club, a Q&A with local North Fork moms.
We hope this series inspires you and helps to make motherhood less intimidating and more inclusive. And the best part is, there’s no dress code or any other code, for that matter. All are welcome to join Mom Club just as you are.
Q: Describe your parenting style in three words.
Donna: Loving, supportive, empathetic.
Q: What is your favorite thing about motherhood?
Donna: Learning. My children have taught me so much about myself as I guide them through life. I love seeing them develop into their own personalities. I have learned listening is so important as we encourage them to share their opinions and thoughts.
Q: What is your least favorite thing about motherhood?
Donna: There is no instruction manual on raising children. You really need to trust your instincts and that is not always easy to do. Over the years I have realized you have to give yourself some grace and go with the flow.
Q: What would you change anything about motherhood?
Donna: How quickly time passes. I raise my children to be independent so they can leave the nest. You want them to always need you, but you must allow them to make mistakes to learn and grow. Letting go creates so many mixed emotions.
Q: Assuming you do, why do you think raising kids on the North Fork is unique?
Donna: The exposure to a small community, agriculture, beaches, hiking trails, parks, art, and music is something I am so grateful for. The beauty of the North Fork is endless. We have the opportunity to explore nature as a family. We also try to give back to the community in any way we can.
Q: What role does nature play in raising your kids?
Donna: Fresh food, fresh air, and open space are things I do not take for granted. We also have a beautiful backyard with a vineyard. I believe our natural surroundings affect our inner peace and mental health. I encourage my children to go outside — it is my favorite place to be!
Q: What's your favorite recent thing that you've done with your kids on the North Fork?
Donna: Going to Breakwater Beach for sunset. Since the kids are older, it gets more challenging to spend time together. This is our way to unplug, talk, laugh, rest, and have some fun playing volleyball. It helps keep us calm and grounded. I was taught saltwater is nature’s cure for many things. Some of my fondest memories with my children are at the beach.
Q: What's your kids' favorite thing you've recently done together on the North Fork?
Donna: Going to Magic Fountain after sunset.
Q: What is one thing every kid should experience on the North Fork?
Donna: The Annual Strawberry Festival
Q: It’s said that motherhood lasts long after we're gone — that it's the values that live within our kids for their whole lives, too. What are some things that you hope your kids carry with you forever?
Donna: Their kindness and empathy for others and themselves. Knowing their self-worth, and believing they can accomplish anything with hard work and focus. I do not want them to allow fear to stand in the way as they journey through life.
Love and family traditions. They are already ahead of the game knowing the importance of family. I hope they continue to nurture their relationship with each other.
Their faith. Finding joy and being grateful for all blessings. Prayer is powerful.
Also in Mom Club: