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It’s #TakeoverTuesday, when we pull our most recent Instagram takeover participant off the ‘gram and onto our website for a fun Q&A on what they’re all about.

Last week, Ari Petronelli (@aripetronelli) brought @longbeachpost followers a look into what it’s like to raise three kids in her hometown. From peninsula outings to taking the trolley during Fourth Fridays, mom life seems pretty sweet. This time we dig a little deeper into just how this Long Beach native makes it look so easy.

As a Long Beach native, what do you think it is about this city that has kept you here and inspired you to raise a family here?

I am trying to raise my children to be creative thinkers, open minded and adventurous and I truly believe that Long Beach is the perfect place to do so. I am in awe of the creative energy and diverse community. While Long Beach is a giant city it truly has a little town feel and we love seeing familiar and friendly faces every day. It takes a village and I couldn’t imagine doing it anywhere else.

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Have you ever considered moving to a different place?

I briefly lived in San Francisco and I have spent months in Colorado and New York, all which are wonderful places, but I cannot imagine raising my children anywhere else. I enjoy the peace and diversity that Long Beach offers! I have taken the kids to the snow multiple times which has always been a struggle because they didn’t want to wear shoes or pants. They are definitely little beach bums and you can’t beat this weather!

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What have been some of the most difficult aspects of raising three children that have helped you grow as a person, as a mother?

Children are not for the weak and having very young children as a single (or with a partner!) mom can feel very isolating and lonely, and it was scary to reach out and make new friends. I started going to things I wouldn’t normally do (like a children’s music class, Fit4moms, Moms yoga class), but I am thankful that I did because I now have an amazing support system with other Long Beach mothers and my children now have lifelong friends.

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And what have been some of the most rewarding/fulfilling aspects of being a mother?

Being a single mom with three kids is truly exhausting and overwhelming but watching them accomplish a task, completing a project by themselves, or even just getting along with each other makes me so thankful. My father used to take my siblings and me to the peninsula when we were children, and I have the most amazing memories of us exploring and playing for hours. Now, watching my own children do the exact same thing, creating similar memories, warms my heart and means everything to me.

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When you have some time off from the kids, what are some of your favorite pastimes/activities you enjoy? How do you find time for self care with (what seems like) a pretty busy life?

I don’t get too much time away from my children but if I am lucky enough to find a babysitter I will sign up for an art class or local workshop. I have learned how to indigo dye at the Family Store, now The Hangout, and looking forward to learning how to brew my own kombucha from Fine Feathers at their new location! I enjoy the local wine bars and vintage shops on 4th Street that I’m able to walk to from our home and finding a fun new (to me) spot to get a drink like at the speakeasy, The Exhibition Room.

Want a shot at a takeover? Is your profile public? Email [email protected] with a little information about yourself, why you love Long Beach and why you’d be a great @longbeachpost #TAKEOVER candidate!