Carley Shimkus, a familiar face as co-host of FOX News Channel’s FOX & Friends First, is navigating the joys of new motherhood while adding another feather to her cap: author. As a prominent figure in morning television and now a published author, Carley Shimkus offers a glimpse into her life as a working mom, sharing insights on parenting, work-life balance, and her exciting new cookbook, Cooking With Friends: Eat Drink & Be Merry. This interview delves into Carley Shimkus’s experiences, offering a blend of personal anecdotes and practical advice for new parents and fans alike.
You recently celebrated your baby Brock’s first holiday season. How did you commemorate these special first moments?
The excitement of Brock’s first holidays was definitely a highlight! Thinking about his first Halloween costume was a big deal for me, so naturally, Christmas was even more anticipated. We were really looking forward to capturing Brock’s first picture with Santa. He’s generally a very easy-going baby, which made us optimistic for a tear-free Santa encounter – though with babies, you never truly know! Showing him the Christmas lights was magical, and as expected, he was absolutely captivated by the wrapping paper and boxes, probably even more so than the gifts themselves! And for those wondering about the Halloween costume, he was indeed a hot dog, which was as funny as it sounds.
What aspects of Brock’s current developmental stage are you finding most amazing?
Witnessing Brock become mobile has been incredible. It truly feels like just yesterday he was this tiny newborn, and now he’s crawling all over, pulling himself up, and even taking assisted steps. It’s such a fun, albeit tiring, phase. One thing that really struck me is the sheer number of baby hazards lurking at ground level in a typical home. Babyproofing became an immediate priority! “Awe” really is the perfect word to describe the feeling of new parenthood. Every little milestone feels like a major celebration because you realize how unique and special every child’s development journey is.
Has parenting aligned with your expectations, or have there been unexpected surprises?
Everyone says it, and it’s absolutely true – the love you feel for your baby is simply indescribable. It’s a depth of love I never knew existed within me. I know every parent out there understands this feeling, and for anyone expecting, just wait – it’s the most beautiful, overwhelming experience. I’m so excited for anyone about to embark on this journey!
Have you encountered any parenting challenges or frustrations that you’d like to share?
Funny you ask! I’m actually answering these questions on the very day daylight saving time ends. The realization that Brock’s schedule might be disrupted was a bit of a surprise! I did a quick dive into research and reached out to friends for advice. The consensus was to maintain his routine, and he’d eventually adjust. On a lighter note, a constant frustration, especially for anyone in New York City, is the never-ending quest for more closet space to store all the baby gear! If you have ample storage, consider yourself incredibly lucky, and maybe expect a visit from me – I might just need to borrow some space!
How are you navigating the balance between your demanding work schedule and family life? What strategies help you maintain this balance?
Work-life balance was my biggest concern before Brock arrived. I honestly lost sleep worrying about how I would manage everything. Being a present mom while maintaining a rigorous work schedule, especially with a 1 AM wake-up call for work, felt daunting. There weren’t many people I could turn to for advice with such unusual hours. If you’re facing similar anxieties, please know you’re not alone. A friend wisely reassured me, “It will work out because it has to; you will find a way.” And she was right. That work, life, and parenthood balance – it’s crucial, and you really do find your way to make it work. We found a wonderful nanny who is fantastic with Brock, and our schedules have adapted. But it’s definitely a significant adjustment, and if you’re going through it, I completely empathize.
What advice would you offer to other new parents?
Regarding baby gear, the Snoo bassinet was a game-changer for us! Also, I got a bit overwhelmed by the sheer volume of sleep training advice available. Every expert seemed to have a different approach, and I ended up feeling more confused than informed. My advice would be to stick to one reliable source. We found Taking Cara Babies incredibly helpful and their advice very practical.
Tell us about the inspiration behind your new book, Cooking with Friends.
Cooking with Friends is actually the name of a long-running cooking segment on Fox & Friends! It features anchors, reporters, or guests sharing their favorite family recipes and cooking them on air. This cookbook is a collection of all those wonderful recipes, along with some special recipes of my own. Think of it as the official Fox & Friends cookbook! I was thrilled when FOX Books approached me about this project. I remember watching “Cooking with Friends” segments back in high school, so being part of this now is a truly special journey. The timing is also perfect because, as a new mom, I’m always on the lookout for quick, affordable, and delicious recipe ideas, and this book is packed with them!
Finally, just for fun, what are some must-haves you always keep in your diaper bag?
I love this question! My diaper bag essentials include water wipes, Vaseline, diapers, baby hand sanitizing wipes, a changing pad, a washcloth, sunglasses, three lip glosses (a must!), and gum!
