SOMA Living April 2024

her right at the beginning of the pandemic,” with Lauren chiming in, “We always say that she’s about 70% trained because we had a two-year-old and a five-year-old at the time and she didn’t really get our full attention.” The Henkel-Lorenz family’s love for Maplewood is palpable, especially its proximity to New York City. “We go into the City all the time,” Liz notes, sharing their recent adventures to the Statue of Liberty, Broadway, the High Line, and the Rockettes. Both moms currently work from home, with Liz leading a curriculum team for Great Minds and Lauren working for Goalbook, an ed tech company. “We’re both still in education,” Liz says, highlighting the precious moments of dropping off and picking up their kids daily. Ellie and Hadley both attend Seth Boyden Elementary School. They love their teachers, participating in the Read-a-Thon, and getting to learn and see their friends every day. Ellie is a Maplewood Makos swimmer. She also enjoys gymnastics, softball, basketball, and of course, Taylor Swift. Hadley also participates in gymnastics and softball, and is looking forward to trying out for the Makos this summer. Maplewood represents more than a home; it’s a community where their children can thrive. “We’ve met really great people here. The queer community is amazing,” Liz shares, detailing their participation in Pride and other community events. Ellie, ever the PR specialist, concludes, “The best part of having two Moms is that you can have a birthday party with all girls.”

APRIL 2024 | SOMA LIVING 9

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