MBP: What surprised you most about being a mom to four?
Candis: I think what’s surprised me the most is how strong God made me. Self-doubt likes to try and creep in some days, but I just try to remind myself that God made me enough and carries me when I feel like I’m not. I didn’t know I had the capacity to love each of my children so deeply and differently at the same time. I am so much more patient and resourceful than I thought I would ever be. Managing everyday life with four kids can be so taxing, but I figure it out because that’s what they deserve. They’re so worth it.
MBP: How do you juggle work, marriage, and four kids without burning out?
Candis: With God’s grace, mercy, and daily talks with Jesus. I would love to say I have mastered juggling it all, but I haven’t. However, I will say that it starts with being intentional. Because of the size of my family, it can be a challenge to feel like I’m giving everyone the attention they need or deserve, including myself! I spend a lot of time pouring into others, so it’s important to be mindful of ensuring that I’m also getting the rest or downtime I need to recharge. I work really hard to be the best wife and parent by being supportive and present with everything, but some days I’m just not that great at it. It would be easier to say I never get tired or frustrated, but the reality is I do. In those moments, I just have to take a breath or sometimes remove myself for a second. I also remind myself that things won’t always be this way… they won’t be this small or this age, they won’t need me in the same way, so it’s important to have a grateful heart.
MBP: What is one boundary you have learned to protect as a working mom?
Candis: Something extremely important to me is being present. I grew up knowing that at least one of my parents would be at school or sporting events, and I remember how important it was to me. I always had someone in the stands, no matter how much they worked or how far they had to travel. If my kids have a program, I’m there. If they have a sporting event, I’m there. God has blessed me with a flexible work schedule, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything because being present is a non-negotiable for me.
MBP: What advice would you give couples raising kids while both working?
Candis: I would say communication is the best thing for any couple, not just the ones who work! Being on the same page about what’s going on in and outside of your house is so important and makes everything so much smoother. Having both my husband and me present for the same event is a challenge, but we’re a team and know that at least one of us will be there for sure. I love putting everything on my calendar…appointments, events, and games.
MBP: What’s one thing you wish you had known about raising multiple kids? I
Candis: I was actually talking to my mom about this very thing the other day. It’s so special to be blessed with four kids who are all very different, which means I’m not the same parent to anyone at any given moment. Yes, we have established rules and guidelines we go by as a family, but sometimes navigating everyone’s personalities can be hard. It’s a lot for my brain some days, but what can be challenging some days also brings joy and variety to our household!
MBP: How has your career evolved since becoming a mom?
Candis: I feel like I’ve worked with more purpose, set better boundaries, and have a much clearer sense of what matters. Becoming a mom has taught me how to prioritize, be flexible, and lead with even more empathy, which are skills I use every time I work with my patients. It has caused me to be more focused, confident in my decisions, and more intentional in how I spend my time. I want my kids to see what it looks like to chase goals while still showing up for the people they love.
MBP: What’s your biggest hope for your family in the next few years?
Candis: There are so many things that can’t be predicted, but my biggest hope for my family is that we stay close and support each other with all of the changes ahead. As the kids grow, graduate, and step into new seasons, I pray we are able to protect our time together, continue making the best memories, and show up for one another the way we always have.
Rapid Fire Questions
Early mornings or late nights? Late nights!
Messy house or unfinished to-do list? Unfinished to-do list
Dress up and go out or lounge and stay in? Both
One word to describe yourself. Compassionate
Candis Jones and her husband, Carvel, have been married for 13 years. She said it was love at first sight. Her husband is the Head Football Coach, Track and Field Coach, and PE Teacher for Cottage Hill Christian Academy, and she works full-time as an occupational therapist for a home health company. Together they have four kids — Kennedy (17), Cali (11), Kobie (8), and Champ (6). All of their kids are very active in athletics. The family enjoys playing board games together and cannot resist a good game of hide and seek or a dance party at home. Dinner time is a sacred time for the Joneses as they prioritize eating together and catching up on their day.
