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Shaun Sturz: The Manny
Not many guys can call themselves a “manny” (male nanny), but I can! It takes a ModernMom and Dad to let a “manny” into their private life. As a “manny” I have a different approach and different agenda then the normal run-of-the-mill gray haired, mothball smelling nanny. It requires that I use a take no prisoners attitude. Most of all, it takes a BIG heart, and someone who enjoys watching SpongeBob SquarePants. All of my passions in life have led me back to working with kids in one way or another- probably because I am just an overgrown 6’2’’ kid myself.

My Posts
Enjoy "Beverly Hills Nannies" and the long summer days before it is too late!
Wow! Is it really summer? Did we already celebrate the 4th of July? As the summer days are longer I swear time is getting shorter in the sense that everything is happening in the blink of an eye. I got another manny gig with a new family. Within the last five weeks the toddler got six new teeth. That is nuts, she is growing like a tumbleweed! I am sure she will soon be driving me around town to playdates. Since this little tike is growing so fast, we have been doing a lot of activities together like special art days and field trips to the museums- perfect things to do on the long... continue reading
Life Changers. How Do You Measure Up?
Dear Everyone, Wow! I can’t believe how long it has been since I last wrote you. Time flies when you are having fun! Actually, the more I think about it, time just flies in general, and the older I get, the faster it seems to go! And speaking of getting older, since I have last written, I have had a birthday, gotten a new part time gig (I will talk about that at another time), and taken my new car to the dealership for an oil change and 5,000 mile checkup. This reminds me of that line in Rent, “How do you measure a year? Well, for me, a year is measured in cups of coffee and miles... continue reading
New Year, New You - Words of Inspiration from the Dalai Lama
Hi there! My apologies for the long delay since my last post. I can't believe that the last time I wrote something was way before the holiday season even began. Were you naughty or nice this year? Did Santa bring you everything your heart desired? How was your New Year? Did you make any resolutions? I feel like there is so much to catch up on, so I will tell you what I did: Some of my all time favorite manny memories revolve around being with the kids I take care of during the holidays. It is a magical time when the kids wait with anticipation for Christmas morning. It is also a magical time... continue reading
"007 Granny" The MOST Facinating Lady I Know! + A Personal Story For Breast Cancer Awarness
Since it’s breast cancer awareness month, I thought I would share a personal story. But, before I do, let me tell you another story about the most awesome, coolest, smartest, and amazing woman I have ever met. This woman, who happens to be my paternal grandmother, deserves to have an epic book written about her. My grandmother, Marian, is an only child. During her early years she was accepted to Stanford University. It was there that she met my grandfather, Charlie, who was studying to become a geologist. My grandmother studied to be an archeologist. It was during her time... continue reading
Chaz Bono: Cha Cha Chaz'ing Onto DWTS & Our Dinner Table Conversations
One important lesson I know I instill in the children I work with - and one all parents want to teach their kids - is to understand, tolerate, and respect their fellow human beings. The opposite of this state is bigotry. What is the definition of a bigot? “A bigot is a person obstinately or intolerantly devoted to his or her own opinions and prejudices, especially one exhibiting intolerance, and animosity toward those of differing beliefs. The predominant usage in modern English refers to persons hostile to those of differing sex, race, ethnicity, religion or spirituality, nationality,... continue reading
"Mommywood" Reminds Us To Keep Kids Out Of The Spotlight
An episode of Primetime Nightline called “Mommywood” recently aired. It was an interesting and informative piece that made me think about what it really meant to have kids in the Hollywood spotlight. The show interviewed a variety of mothers on what it means to be a mother in Hollywood, born into it or not. As you know, I am a “Hollywood Manny” and I do have some pretty strong opinions of this subject. It is a subject that can create much controversy, because many people have a perception that Hollywood is just sex, drugs, and rock and roll. More controversy arises when you group this... continue reading
A Midsummer Night's Dream
Summer is going by way too fast, it’s hard to believe we already celebrated the 4th of July and are in mid summer already. I love the 4th of July holiday and recently recreated my childhood memory of it. I have been dreaming about it a lot lately, so I made it happen again this year. Instead of going to a packed party at a random persons house I choose to spend it quietly with a couple close friends. We barbecued on the rooftop of his building, walked the local street fair with kids competing to be the best water ballon tosser, and picked up some Big Stick popsicles and ice cream... continue reading
Remember What Makes You Happy = WINNING
Welcome to summer everyone! It is the official beginning of bikinis, beach blanket, BBQ’s, and blogs for me. What does this summer hold for you? After celebrating Memorial Day with close friends and reflecting on the everyday freedoms we are so blessed to have, it made me think of the simple things that make life great, especially those special summer time treats. Sunshine and a good book. Backyard BBQ’s with the gang. A Corona... 2 limes, please! These are some of the simple summer pleasures that make me happy. I know most of you Modern Mom’s out there are probably asking yourself the... continue reading