PARENT TO KNOW: Caitlin Thielen

The Thielen Family

It’s been just over a year since Caitlin Thielen packed up her family and moved to Charlotte. Born and raised in Minnesota, the blogger, mom, and football wife left her hometown when her husband, Adam signed with the Carolina Panthers in 2023 (some might say he was the only one who showed up last season!).

Here, she talks to us about adjusting to a new city for the first time, giving kids individual attention, and her favorite Charlotte spots.

Tell us about your family. How many children do you have and what are their ages?

There is my husband Adam, and our three kids Asher (7), Hudson (5), and Cora (2). We just moved to Charlotte in July and have been loving it. My husband and I are both from Minnesota and this is our first time leaving. My husband played for the MN Vikings for ten years and this upcoming Fall will be his second year with the Panthers. We are praying and hoping for a better season! Our kids have loved their schools here and we are enjoying exploring this beautiful city. Our family is very active and loves sports and being outside!

Moving to a new community can be hard with kids, and I imagine in the NFL, moves happen fast. How was your transition to Charlotte?

Our move to Charlotte has been overall very good. It was definitely a big adjustment because my husband and I are both from Minnesota and have never lived anywhere else. It’s hard to find community when you are new but everyone’s been very welcoming.

Hardest part about being a mom?

I’d say just juggling everything and still being there 100 percent for each kid. I have mom guilt sometimes and feel bad whenever I feel I’m not doing enough for my kids, being present enough, or taking time for myself.

Favorite part about being a mom?

I love being with my kids and just hanging out with them, and laughing. I love and have loved watching them grow and seeing all the milestones they reach.

Biggest parenting fail to date?

I’d say forgetting my oldest son’s soccer cleats and shin guards for his game one time. He was wearing sandals too so he couldn’t even wear those haha.

Best parenting advice you ever received?

Slow down. Take time to really hang with your kids. Make time with each kid individually. You can clean and do all the other things later on.

Marriage advice for new parents?

Take time to really prioritize your relationship. I suggest to get a sitter for a weekly date night or date lunch just to check in on each other and actually have time to yourself without interruptions.

Communication is everything. If you’re not open and honest about things, your relationship won’t be as strong. Also, make sure that you and your partner are on the same team not fighting against each other. Make decisions together!

Parenting support you could not live without?

100 percent hands down my parents. We travel quite a bit and they are always willing to help with our kids. If I have parenting questions I’ll call my mom for help or ask some of my good friends. It’s great to have a few mom friends that are going through similar stages to chat with/ get advice from.

Phase you feared your child would never grow out of?

I’d probably have to say the pacifier phase, especially with my middle child! He was a tough one to take it away from.

Favorite way to spend an unscheduled day with your kids in Charlotte?

We love trying out new parks so if it’s a nice day we’d probably go to a couple parks. Freedom Park is one of our favorites and is a great way to get some energy out. We’d probably try out a smoothie shop or grab lunch together.

You have a whole day to yourself. What do you do?

If I had no kids and didn’t have laundry to do, meals to prep, or the house to clean ? I’d probably workout, get a massage & facial, read some of a book, and end the day with a walk!

Favorite Charlotte restaurant?

So many to count! My top 5 would be Ru Ru’s, Salted Melon, Providence Sundries, Duckworth’s, and Poppy’s bagels!

Favorite place to shop in Charlotte?

I’ve been loving Boem. I am also a big Ever Eve fan!

What local amenity/retailer/service could you not live without? 

Costco and Trader Joe’s for sure. I also love getting iv’s once a month. I usually go to Restore Hyper Wellness or use QC Hydrate.