This Mom Thinks There’s Joy Just Feeling the Sun on Your Skin

Our expat community thrives on connection, and here at Jingkids, we’re all about our readers, and what they need and want in order to maximize their time here in Beijing. Every Monday, we’re going to feature a prominent member of our expat community and get to know them a little bit better.

Today, we are proud to feature one of the members of the new Jingkids International Parent Board, which serves as a bridge between our publication and our dedicated readers.

I’m Libby Fitzgerald. Though I’m originally from Canada, we were based in London for 11 years before moving to Beijing in 2019. In London, I worked in fashion for several years and am now a full-time mom to my daughter and son, aged 7 and 6. This year, I’m helping cover teaching at my children’s school, and it has been such a brilliant experience. I’m constantly in awe of the staff’s enthusiasm and creativity with the students. I’m so grateful for the quality of education available for my children here in Beijing.

What’s on your mind?

Friendships. One of the best things about Beijing is the friends I’ve made. As an expat, your friends quickly become your family – especially during the pandemic. With the ups and downs of the past few months, I’ve had days where I’ve felt anxious. But cue a weekend with friends and their families, lots (and lots) of laughs, and suddenly all seems OK with the world for the moment.

What’s your motivation to get up every morning?

I love mornings. I wake up before everyone at home and spend time exercising and organizing breakfast and school prep for the day. Plus, we now have a 1-year-old French bulldog, “Baozi,” who accompanies me on long morning walks after my kids head off on the school bus.

How do you stay sane in all the madness?

Over the past few years, I realized how exercise and movement are equally important for my mental state as well as physical health. I had knee surgery last summer and was amazed at how quickly my mood was affected by my limited mobility. Sometimes, I can’t believe the moments of joy you can get from simply walking and feeling the sun on your skin and taking in the sights around you.

What’s your favorite thing about Beijing?

I love the vibrancy of the streets. The rush of people, scooters, carts, trollies, and bicycles. I love the sky in the late afternoon on a summer day and the willow trees along the canal. I love watching the neighborhood slowly wake up each morning, and at night, the twinkling city lights that make my kids sigh sleepily on a late-night drive home. [Beijing is] where my then toddlers started their journeys as confident grade schoolers. It will always remind me of my dearest friendships. And for all of that, I’ll always be grateful.

Have someone you believe deserves some recognition for their outstanding contributions to our community? Nominate them for our weekly spotlight by writing their name in the comments below!

Images: Courtesy of Libby Fitzgerald