Millburn Short Hills December 2025

Millburn & Short Hills

FAMILY FUN

‘FROZEN’ AT PAPER MILL PLAYHOUSE

BEYOND THE BEAN COFFEE MILL ROASTERS

Laura Vesterholt thinks outside the crayon box at Pop Blossom Studio.

Mary Kate Morrissey and Samantha Williams bring depth, heart, and Broadway magic to Paper Mill’s highly-anticipated “Frozen.”

Beyond the Bean

craftsmanship meets modern coffee culture at Coffee Mill Roasters.

aIT STARTS WITH A STORY

AS THE YEAR draws to a close and I reflect on 2025, a resounding nod is in order for the fortuitous collaboration our team has enjoyed with our editor and lead writer, Eve Golden, which began when I knocked on her door to pitch a story about her local shop, Bungalow. Eve has left her mark on the magazine in so many ways, and this month is no exception. Thank you, Eve! The best part is that she makes me feel like I also play a role in crafting the magazine. Fittingly, of course, she is the one who gives voice to our community’s invaluable stories. As we celebrate voices that spark imagination, we’re thrilled to spotlight

Pop Blossom Studio and its owner, Laura Vesterholt, on our cover. She has chosen Millburn as the home for her art studio, which is designed to fuel childhood creativity and even offers an adult class. As she says in the article, “Creativity is a superpower!” Pair this inspiring story with our piece on the highly anticipated Paper Mill Playhouse production of “Frozen,” and local families will have no shortage of activities to brighten the cold, snowy days ahead.

We take great pride in covering community organizations like Millburn Mamas and Minis, which hosts community events, offers support, and provides activities for moms and kids in the Millburn–Short Hills area.

This month, we shine a light on another group connecting busy moms who are trying to incorporate exercise while building meaningful friendships with like‑minded locals. We hope you enjoy our Q&A with Anai Rai, founder of Moms Fitness Mojo.

We have a great lineup of stories slated for the new year that we can’t wait to share. We’d like to thank our readers for all the wonderful ideas you shared with us throughout 2025. Please continue to reach out, and we wish everyone a safe holiday season.

We’re grateful for every story idea you share. Keep your story ideas coming at marylima@millburnandshorthills.com and editor@millburnandshorthills.com.

Warm regards,

Mary Lima Publisher

Millburn & Short Hills

MAGAZINE

Publisher Mary Lima

Editor and Lead Writer Eve Golden

Writer

Michelle Lemieux

Hannah Zimmerman

Jenna Galletti

Photographer Melissa Spector

WAINSCOT MEDIA

Chairman Carroll V. Dowden

President and CEO

Mark Dowden

SVP, Group Publisher, Regional Thomas Flannery

VP, Content Strategy

Maria Regan

Creative Director

Kijoo Kim

Art Director

Rosemary O’Connell

Associate Editor

Sophia Carlisle

Advertising Services Director

Jacquelynn Fischer

Operations Director

Catherine Rosario

Production Designer Chris Ferrante

Print Production Manager Fern Meshulam

Advertising Production Associate Griff Dowden

Millburn & Short Hills magazine is published by Wainscot Media. Serving residents of Millburn and Short Hills, the magazine is distributed monthly via U.S. mail. Articles and advertisements contained herein do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the publisher. Copyright 2025 by Wainscot Media LLC. No portion of this magazine may be reproduced in any form without written consent.

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Home for the Holidays

Shop and dine locally at the S’mores Shopping Winter Villages this season.

BY MICHELLE LEMIEUX, EXPLORE MILLBURNSHORT HILLS

’TIS THE SEASON in Millburn–Short Hills! It’s time to start checking gifts off the list, enjoying time with friends and family over cocoa and cocktails, and spreading holiday cheer!

The holidays in Millburn–Short Hills are nothing short of magical. As the most wonderful time of the year approaches, residents and visitors alike are invited to indulge in the sophisticated charm, boutique shopping, and festive ambiance that define this premier community.

AN ENCHANTING TRADITION

Explore Millburn–Short Hills’ annual S’mores Shopping Winter Villages is a beloved tradition now in its fourth enchanting year. Taking place on Dec. 6 and 13 from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. at the beautifully designed Town Hall Plaza, this special event invites families to unwind in decorated igloos, gather around roaring fire pits, and delight in holiday carolers and costumed characters—all while enjoying complimentary s’mores, hot chocolate, and seasonal treats.

Millburn–Short Hills is home to some of the area’s most coveted boutiques and fine dining destinations. During the Winter Villages, discerning shoppers can enjoy exclusive promotions and personalized service from acclaimed jewelers, art galleries, fashion stores, and specialty home décor shops. Whether selecting the perfect Hanukkah gift, a oneof-a-kind Christmas treasure, or a luxurious indulgence for yourself, the district offers an unparalleled shopping experience.

What brings this spectacular event together is the warmth of the community and its commitment to supporting local businesses. Shopping locally creates opportunities for shoppers and business owners alike. It gives customers a more personalized experience, with the chance to find specially curated items. In turn, store owners can keep money within the community—supporting its growth and development—while also giving back to Millburn–Short Hills through local charities, fundraisers, and sports team sponsorships.

The S’mores Shopping Winter

Villages is one of Explore Millburn–Short Hills’ biggest annual events. Explore Millburn–Short Hills, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, was created to support and promote businesses across the five areas of the Special Improvement District, which was established in 2020. Each year, Explore produces a robust lineup of events and initiatives— including musical performances, educational programs, and networking opportunities—to support the community and its businesses. The organization also oversees public art and streetscape projects throughout town, including Millburn Art Alley and Town Hall Plaza.

This year’s festivities are generously sponsored by Beyond Young Academy, Liv Breads, The Footer Financial Group of Janney Montgomery Scott LLC, and VEG ER for Pets.

As you plan your winter calendar, make Millburn–Short Hills your destination of choice.

The S’mores Shopping Winter Villages promises not only festive cheer but also a luxurious holiday experience filled with style, warmth, and community—where every visit feels like coming home for the holidays.

S’mores Shopping Winter Villages hosted by Explore Millburn-Short Hills

Saturday, Dec. 6 and 13 (snow date: Dec. 7 and Dec. 14)

Website: www.exploremillburnshorthills. org

Facebook: www.facebook.com/ exploremillburnshorthills

Instagram: @exploremillburnshorthills

ABOUT EXPLORE MILLBURN-SHORTHILLS

Explore Millburn-Short Hills is the 501(c)3 nonprofit organization established to support and promote the businesses throughout the five areas of the Special Improvement District that was established in 2020. Explore organizes numerous events, musical performances, educational programs, and networking events. The organization is also responsible for various public art and streetscaping projects in the town including the Millburn Art Alley and Town Hall Plaza.

Sugar and Spice

If you love winter spices and rich, creamy frosting (or know someone who does), these cupcakes are for you.

BY HANNAH ZIMMERMAN

THIS RECIPE TAKES all the warm, cozy flavors of your favorite chai latte and packs them into a fluffy cupcake topped with creamy, buttery frosting.

What sets them apart is the homemade chai spice blend. It adds a layer of richness and delivers just the right amount of spice to balance the sweetness. The spices are incorporated in both the batter and the frosting, so every bite is full of warmth.

Whether you’re an avid chai drinker or just love classic cold-weather spices, these cupcakes are a delicious twist on a beloved classic. Bake them for a weekend get-together, a birthday, or simply because you want your kitchen to smell amazing. These chai spice cupcakes are winter baking at its best.

Chai Cupcakes

Prep Time: 25 minutes

Cook Time: 18 minutes

Makes 16 cupcakes

INGREDIENTS:

For the chai spice blend:

• 1½ teaspoon ground cinnamon

• 1 teaspoon ground cardamom

• ½ teaspoon ground ginger

• ¼ teaspoon ground cloves

• ¼ teaspoon ground nutmeg

• ¼ teaspoon ground anise (optional)

• Pinch of black pepper

For the cupcakes:

• 1²/3 cup all-purpose flour

• 1 cup granulated sugar

• ¼ teaspoon baking soda

• 1½ teaspoons baking powder

• 2 teaspoons chai spice blend

INSTRUCTIONS:

• ¼ teaspoon kosher salt

• ³/4 cup (1½ sticks) unsalted butter, melted and cooled

• 2 large eggs, room temperature

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• ½ cup whole milk plain Greek yogurt, room temperature

• ½ cup whole milk, room temperature

For the frosting:

• 1 cup (2 sticks) unsalted butter, softened at room temperature

• 4 cups powdered sugar

• 1½ teaspoons chai spice mix

• 1 teaspoon vanilla extract

• 1 - 2 tablespoons milk or cream

• Optional garnishes: cinnamon stick, star anise

1. Preheat the oven to 350°F. Line a muffin tin with paper liners.

2. Make the chai spice mix. In a small bowl, stir together the chai spices. Set aside.

3. Mix dry ingredients. In a large bowl, whisk together flour, sugar, baking powder, baking soda, salt, and 2 teaspoons of the chai spice mix.

4. In a separate bowl, whisk together melted butter, eggs, Greek yogurt, milk and vanilla.

5. Pour wet ingredients into dry ingredients and stir until just combined. Fill the prepared muffin liners halfway with batter. You should end up with 15-16 cupcakes. Bake for 18–20 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted in the center comes out clean. Cool completely on a wire rack.

6. Make the Frosting. Using a hand mixer or stand mixer, beat butter until light and fluffy. Add powdered sugar one cup at a time, beating after each addition, until all is incorporated. Mix in the chai spice mix, vanilla, and milk as needed to reach your desired consistency.

7. Once the cupcakes are cooled completely, frost them with buttercream. Garnish as desired.

Hannah Zimmerman is a food photographer, recipe developer and founder of Bite Sized Studio. She creates vibrant, craveworthy imagery for CPG brands, restaurants and publications. Her work has been featured in The New York Times, Forbes and Eater. Find more information on her Instagram @bitesizedstudio.

Whisked Into Wonder

Laura Vesterholt thinks outside the crayon box at Pop Blossom Studio.

BY EVE GOLDEN

CCREATIVITY BLOOMS like wildflowers at Pop Blossom Studio, a whimsical haven for young minds. Formerly an attorney, Vesterholt traded courtrooms for canvases during the pandemic. What started as joyful art sessions with her own kids has evolved into a vibrant studio where imagination runs wild and every doodle tells a story.

“I was an attorney before having my children, but I also attended Parsons School of Design, so art has always been an important part of my life,” Vesterholt shares.

BLOOMING IDEAS

It all began under colorful tents in Vesterholt’s yard, a safe bubble of creativity amid lockdowns. “At first, we set up tents outside each week—a simple way to create and connect

safely,” she recalls. As autumn chills set in, the garage became an impromptu studio to keep the magic alive. “The sense of community felt among our students and their families was truly immeasurable.”

Growth came swiftly: Subletting a small space allowed for more students, wilder projects, and buzzing events. “We sublet a small studio space a few days a week. That marked a real turning point for Pop Blossom—we were able to welcome more students, introduce new projects, and host special events,” Vesterholt says. The turning point was finding their home in Millburn. “When I walked in, it was truly perfect. It had a big, beautiful window letting in tons of light, gorgeous high ceilings, and plenty of room to create.”

KID-POWERED FUN

Pop Blossom Studio is a creative launchpad for little dreamers. “Our mission is to spark imagination and help children grow into confident, independent thinkers—a skill we believe will serve them well throughout their lives,” Vesterholt says. “We hope to inspire kids to explore their world through handson learning, unique materials, and self-expression.” Geared toward ages 18 months to 12 years (with expansions on the horizon), the studio offers session-based courses, single-day workshops, and soon-tolaunch summer camps.

Tinker Doodle for tots (18 months to 4 years) dives into sensory wonders, while Children’s Workshop (4 to 6) unleashes colorful adventures. Older kids thrive in the

Makerspace (6 to 12), which blends drawing and sculpture, and Art Lab (7 to 12), which focuses on mastering paints and perspectives.

“Tinker Doodle is a workshop created specifically for our littlest makers. Each session features a creative, sensory experience filled with discovery and exploration designed to encourage your child’s creative confidence,” Vesterholt says.

ART INTO ADVENTURE

What sets Pop Blossom apart is its blend of structure and freewheeling fun. “Our classes are unique in that they’re designed to inspire kids to explore through hands-on learning, creative materials, and imaginative processes,” Vesterholt shares. Projects include hot-air balloons crafted from lanterns and fabric, complete with tiny riders on epic quests, from puppy pilots to K-pop demon hunters. “The children imagined where their balloons were traveling, who was on the journey, and what adventures awaited them there!”

The studio’s Makerspace is a treasure trove of invention, stocked with everything from washi tape to wood scraps. “My favorite ‘I did it!’ project is my treehouse—a multilevel structure that can be used for many different scenarios, from fairy house to winter wonderland to owl house. It’s an amazing framework that allows the kids to create an entire little world straight from their imaginations. They come up with incredible things,” Vesterholt says.

Vesterholt tunes in to each child’s artistic passion—a practice that goes the extra mile in fostering emotional connections. “I really try to listen and tune in to each child’s individual needs—creatively, socially, and emotionally,” Vesterholt shares. “I ask questions, listen to their answers, and show genuine interest in their ideas and vision. When they have that ‘aha’

moment, I share in their excitement and celebrate it with them.”

IMAGINE THE DAY AWAY

The future sparkles with possibility as Vesterholt eagerly expands her creative wonderland to welcome even more dreamers of all ages.

“I just added adult workshops to the schedule! I have some incredible artists in residence at the studio to share their skills,” Vesterholt says.

Pop Blossom Studio reminds us that creativity is the ultimate superpower.

“When I started this journey, I was simply documenting the projects I did with my own kids: sharing our experiences, creative experiments, and discoveries online. Before long, people began following along; it truly feels like a shared accomplishment.”

“A long time ago, when I was looking at preschools for my daughter, one of the directors said something that has

always stayed with me: ‘You can tell it’s a good, supportive, and creative school by the artwork on the walls. Is it all the same? It shouldn’t be. Each piece should be unique and tell its own story,’” Vesterholt shares. “I carry that wisdom with me every single time I create a project with my students. I ask myself: ‘Are they all different? Did each child tell a story, laugh, and get excited along the way?’ If so, that’s what success looks like to me.”

Let it Snow

Mary Kate Morrissey and Samantha Williams bring depth, heart, and Broadway magic to Paper Mill’s highly-anticipated “Frozen.”

BY EVE GOLDEN

FFOR SAMANTHA Williams, playing Anna in “Frozen” at Paper Mill Playhouse for the holidays is a love letter to her grandmother and great aunt, who shared the same names as the beloved Disney sisters. When Williams got the call that she’d been cast as Anna, her family’s reaction was unanimous: “Oh, Grandma would be so excited.” Her grandmother Ana and great aunt Elsa were devoted “Frozen” fans who delighted

in introducing themselves as Princess Ana and Elsa.

“We lost my grandmother to cancer a few years ago,” Williams shares. “She has these funny ways of popping up in my life, and this is no different.” The show’s themes of family and sisterhood make the role even more meaningful. “I am so honored to have this opportunity to honor her and my aunt’s sisterhood with this piece.”

LET IT GO

In a world that often feels overwhelming, Williams finds inspiration for Anna’s quintessential optimism in unexpected places.

“With the current political climate, I find that it has been hard to find moments of joy and awe,” she says. “But, like Anna, I have been trying to stay focused on the beauty of humanity no matter what.” And for Williams, the connection is natural: “Anna and I are not so different in that I am also awkward and hopeful—my love of being silly, messing around, and having fun with my castmates is going to make those characteristics of Anna fun to portray on stage.”

Maintaining Anna’s infectious

enthusiasm through eight shows a week requires strategy. Williams plans to embrace the fundamental magic of live theatre. “One of the most beautiful parts of theatre is that there are new things to find in every show,” she explains. “So, I’m hoping that if I just focus on the new every day, I’ll be able to maintain my authentic joy.”

Williams couldn’t be more thrilled about her onstage sister. “I was so excited to hear that Mary Kate would be playing my sister!” she shares. As a fan of Morrissey’s social media presence— particularly her vocal health videos— Williams has been inspired by watching her navigate the demands of playing Elphaba. “It reminded me that we really are athletes.”

FINDING FOREVER

For emotionally complex numbers like “Do You Want to Build a Snowman?” that span years in minutes, Williams relies on meticulous preparation. “I think it takes a lot of work before the work,” she notes, “like developing a strong back story and really diving into what my childhood was like with Elsa and the exact moment everything changes.” The real craft comes in trusting that foundation. “Figuring that out for myself as the actor during rehearsals, then trusting that all that emotional life is there as we get into performances, is all a part of the craft.”

LOVE IS AN OPEN DOOR

Beyond the ice palaces and snowmen, Williams believes the show’s true power lies in its central message: “To not underestimate the power of love.” Her hope is simple: “I hope people leave more connected to their families and loved ones, as I know the holidays can be complicated for many people.”

Williams is mindful of the broader cultural resonance of her casting as Anna. “It’s so awesome that little Brown and Black girls will get to see someone who looks like me play this role,” she says. “I am so grateful to the casting team for giving me this opportunity and looking past how this role has been cast in most iterations.” For Williams, honoring her grandmother’s memory while creating new ones for young audiences is the real magic of this “Frozen.”

There’s something magical about watching an actor step into a role that feels both familiar and uncharted. Mary Kate Morrissey— best known for her commanding turn as Elphaba in “Wicked”—is ready to let it go as Elsa in Paper Mill Playhouse’s production of “Frozen.” But don’t expect a carbon copy of the animated icon—this powerhouse performer is bringing her own magic to Arendelle.

FROM OZ TO ARENDELLE

After spending significant time living in the green skin of Broadway’s most misunderstood witch, Morrissey is embracing a different kind of outcast. The transition from “Wicked” to “Frozen” feels both familiar and refreshingly new.

“It’s such a cool opportunity to come into a new character, who shares such similar traits and themes to one I know so intimately,” she explains. But the differences are just as compelling as the similarities. “[Elsa] is a queen, and she already has a deep relationship with her sister, as tortured as it is, so she doesn’t have to create it.”

Both Elphaba and Elsa grapple with extraordinary abilities that make them feared rather than celebrated. “Both are reactive and combustible, but the way they handle their power is very different.” Both were originated by the inimitable Idina Menzel. “She has left her fingerprints on both roles,” Morrissey shares of Menzel. “Respecting the perspectives of the women who have played these roles before me is really important when it comes to interpreting them.”

WANT TO BUILD A SNOWMAN?

The heart of “Frozen” beats in the complex relationship between Anna and Elsa, and Morrissey is thrilled to explore that dynamic with costar Samantha as Anna. They first connected at callbacks, and the chemistry was immediate. “I remember thinking that we would be a really good pair,” Morrissey recalls.

When it comes to building that connection, “I try to see where that character’s point of view and my own overlap and make that part of the character very bold,” she says. The secret ingredient is her own relationship with her sister. “I have a deep love and loyalty to my sister, and I know the strength of a bond like that, and I know how outside forces can test it.”

The rehearsal process will be “like a constant conversation between the two of us,” Morrissey explains. “You have to be respectful, attentive, humble as you work through your unique dynamic with your partner to find what’s true for yourself and what’s true to the show.”

TAKING THE THRONE

The musical number “Let It Go” is a cultural force of nature, but Morrissey is most excited about the physical work of embodying Elsa’s powers. “Something that I am really looking forward to working on is how she feels the cold in her hands and coming out of her body,” she says. “I want to make sure that I don’t Elphabatize by just doing what I’ve done before.”

This holiday season, the production will create a different kind of magic for Morrissey. “All of my friends who have kids and family who have kids are planning on bringing their families to our show,” she says. “This holiday season, ‘Frozen’ will be a part of my holiday memories because I will get to see everybody this year.”

And when asked to choose between Elsa’s ice magic or Anna’s warm hugs? Her answer is pure Broadway: “The correct answer is ‘C,’ Olaf’s vibrato.”

“Frozen” will run at the Paper Mill Playhouse from Nov. 26 to Jan. 11.

Beyond the Bean

Old-world craftsmanship meets modern coffee culture at Coffee Mill Roasters.

BY EVE GOLDEN

OOUTFITTED WITH FORMAL training in the culinary arts, Adel Aziz launched his first venture in fine dining—an upscale Italian restaurant where handmade pasta and regional wines took center stage. Yet something unexpected happened between the primi and secondi courses: He discovered an affinity for exceptional coffee. As he pulled shots of espresso and steamed milk for cortados, cappuccinos, and macchiatos, Aziz recognized that great coffee shares the same DNA as great cuisine: passion and provenance.

COFFEE PARADISE

Aziz arrived in downtown Millburn with a vision to create a sanctuary where quality coffee and community converge. Fresh-baked goods, superb roasts, and an atmosphere that invites lingering conversations—after nearly 15 years in operation, it’s clear that this combination has struck a chord with coffee lovers.

The cafe’s serene ambiance reflects Aziz’s understanding that great coffee experiences extend beyond the cup. Soft lighting, comfortable seating, and the intoxicating aroma of fresh-roasted beans create an environment where morning routines transform into rituals, and afternoon coffee breaks become genuine respites from the day’s demands.

A GLOBAL PERSPECTIVE

What distinguishes Coffee Mill Roasters from the ubiquitous chain coffee shops isn’t just the atmosphere—it’s the beans themselves. Aziz sources top-tier beans from a carefully curated roster of origins: the bright, floral notes of the Ethiopian highlands; Kenya’s bold complexity; Guatemala’s balanced sweetness; Costa Rica’s clean acidity; and Brazil’s chocolatey richness. For those seeking something truly extraordinary, the shop offers beans from Jamaica’s legendary Blue Mountains, one of the world’s most coveted coffee regions. Or consider Sumatran Mandheling, a dark roast revered by coffee purists for its low acidity and rich, earthy character.

PULL UP A CHAIR

Coffee Mill Roasters doesn’t stop at an expert doppio espresso. The Espresso Acai Gelato Bowl is exactly the kind of contradiction you didn’t know you needed, and its Pumpkin Pie Latte brings actual pie vibes to your mug.

The homemade baklava—layers of flaky phyllo, honey, and pistachios—pairs well with a macchiato, creating a sweet-and-bitter symphony that hits every note. And the creamy, authentic Italian gelato reminds you why Aziz fell in love with Italian cuisine in the first place. It’s the kind of place where you come for coffee and stay for everything else.

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The Cardio Connection

Short Hills-based Aina Rai is bringing the mojo back to mom life.

BY EVE GOLDEN

WE SAT DOWN WITH Aina Rai to learn more about her journey as the founder of Moms Fitness Mojo. The dynamic community is a hub for moms to connect, motivate each other, and reclaim their wellness journey through fitness and social interaction.

What was the moment that sparked Moms Fitness Mojo—what gap were you trying to fill for moms?

Moms Fitness Mojo launched in December 2024 and, in just 10 months, has grown to 180 incredible moms. The spark came after I became a mom and moved to the suburbs, looking for

my tribe—moms I could connect with not just as parents but as individuals with their own passions and goals. Like many, my life revolved around kids’ schedules—natural, but physically exhausting and emotionally draining—until I realized my brain felt saturated, and I needed a reset.

I pushed through my own fitness journey, losing 40 pounds after my second pregnancy by squeezing in 10 p.m. and lunch-break workouts. When I couldn’t find that circle, I created it: a small WhatsApp group that, by February 2025, was working

out, meeting for dinners, and even heading into the city for nights out. The energy was electric—welcoming, encouraging, and a true judgementfree zone.

How does the community help moms reclaim identity beyond “someone’s mom” or “someone’s wife”?

At a recent doctor’s visit, he asked, “What do you like to do for fun?” I froze—and realized I’d forgotten myself, known only as “Vihaan’s mom” or “Vikas’s wife.” I began remembering what made me feel alive—being social, dancing, music, fitness, exploring—and

with Moms Fitness Mojo, the focus isn’t on labels; it’s on me as a person.

In a recent weekly challenge, moms said seeing others’ step and workout posts motivated them to move—even on low days. At events—brunch, workouts, even our gala—the vibe is show up as yourself. No labels, no judgments, no pressure. Just women celebrating each other, finding joy, and reconnecting with parts of themselves that often get pushed aside.

What does a typical week look like: challenges, check-ins, workouts, social support?

A typical week is full of energy, encouragement, and little wins that add up. Moms share workouts, steps, calories, and new classes—some daily, others weekly. There are subgroups for

hiking, tennis, pickleball, and healthy recipes. On Saturdays, moms often head out for morning hikes; Sundays usually mean a lake walk. Every Sunday evening, we kick off a new challenge— squats, burpees, “hold your pose”—and my favorite, “Real Goals, Real Journeys,” where moms share their stories, tag a friend, and feel safe, seen, and supported.

How do you accommodate different fitness levels, postpartum needs, injuries, cultural preferences, and schedules?

We’re not fitness coaches or mentors, and we don’t tell anyone what they should or shouldn’t do. The beauty of Moms Fitness Mojo is that it isn’t one-size-fits-all. You go at your own pace, share what you’re comfortable with, and the group cheers you on no

matter where you are in your journey— whether she’s postpartum, coming back from an injury, trying something new, or already super active. The common thread is encouragement, motivation, and the joy of seeing moms prioritize themselves in ways that fit their lives.

What rules or rituals keep the space positive and motivating?

No effort is ever too small to be celebrated. Respect is also key; every mom has her own personality, preferences, and pace, and that’s valued. What we don’t allow is gossip, irrelevant chatter, or advertising. That’s why the group feels so alive—every conversation, every event, every post centers on encouragement, positivity, and the reminder that this space is about you.

GOOD VIBES

AT THE MILLBURN HIGH SCHOOL STUDENT CENTER, STUDENTS THRIVE.

The Millburn High School Student Center is serving up serious feel-good energy this year. Monday mornings begin with Harp for Wellness sessions, where soothing melodies melt away weekend stress.

Tuesdays bring Salty the therapy dog, who trots in during lunch delivering tail wags and instant mood boosts.

Fun Fridays have become a favorite tradition, especially Waffle Fridays, when the sweet aroma of fresh waffles fills the hallways, and students unwind with syrupdrenched treats. It’s the perfect way to wrap up the week.

Behind the magic is the dream team of Ms. Linda Randazza, Ms. Shannon Dahse, Ms. Dawn Nowak, and Mr. Roger Askins, who has transformed the Student Center into MHS’s ultimate hangout spot.

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