Meeting with Premier Dalton McGuinty

Last week, I received an email from the Premier's office casually asking for a meeting the following Tuesday with Ann-Marie Burton and me in Burlington. I was in shock. Things like this don't just happen, or do they? 

I thought about it over the weekend and couldn't help but feel excited about this opportunity.  I would be meeting the Premier of Ontario at his request!  What an honour! 

I started preparing for the meeting as best I could.  Who else would be there? I envisioned a room full of people and Ann-Marie and I trying to make sure we could be seen.  What questions did I have for the Premier and would I get the opportunity to ask them in this large crowd?  Would there be a question period? 

I reflected on the Premier's latest bills and his hot topics - I viewed this video about bullying that he had recently posted and loved the message that it shares.  Before having my children, I was a Child and Youth Counsellor and I ran countless anti-bullying programs and worked with so many young people who had been bullied.  What a great message that the Premier is getting out there.

A few emails were sent back and forth to arrange the meeting, and it started to sound more and more like it would just be myself and Ann-Marie meeting with the Premier.  I kept telling myself that wasn't possible.  Sure enough, we walk into Pepperwood and it is suddenly very clear that it will just be us and Premier McGuinty.

Shortly after meeting with some of the Premier's wonderful staff, Mr McGuinty arrived and we were introduced to him.  Our conversation was so laid back, it was honestly like speaking with a neighbour.  We were able to tell him all about the amazing business we have connecting real moms in our community.  Premier McGuinty shared with us a bit about himself and we were able to discuss topics surrounding anti-bullying, kindergarten and technology in the classroom.

As quickly as the moment had arrived it was over.  I was so honoured to have this opportunity and that the Premier of Ontario took the time out of his schedule to connect with local entrepreneurs and actually listen to what we are doing in the community. 

I am so proud to say that I am the owner of momstown Burlington.  I'm proud of where we've been, where we are and where we're headed.  What an amazing company to be part of.  We've had some amazing opportunities and there are so many more that lay ahead.  Thank you Ann-Marie for all that you do xox