#MOMLIFE with Ebony

Looking for inspiration + ideas for things to do with kids in Metro Detroit? Tried and true suggestions that real moms actually do? Here they are! We’re asking local Metro Detroit families to share their favorites, to help you find yours.

Are you following @EbsKnowsBest on Instagram? Ebony is a local working mom of two kiddos and serves as an Oakland County Parks and Recreations Commissioner (which are some of our FAVORITE local parks to visit!). She just relaunched her YouTube channel where she offers super helpful #MomLife ideas, virtual schooling hacks, and business tips!

Meet Ebony

Hi, my name is Ebony Bagley and I am a wife and mom to two kids. Khloe is 6 ½ and Kristopher is 14-months old. Currently, I am a communications director for the American Heart Association covering Southeastern, Michigan. Prior to this position, I spent the past five years working as a news producer, and before that, I was a teacher for seven years.

Currently, I reside in Farmington Hills and love my community. In 2019 I was appointed to serve as an Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commissioner. Additionally, I also advocate for internet wellness and ways we can live in harmony with technology. My most recent accomplishment which I am proud to share is that I have launched my first online store ‘the Ebony Heritage Collection.’ My collection specializes in empowering and educational décor and products that celebrate African American figures and culture.

Favorite Ways To Spend Family Time:

Movie Night
Eating out
Daycations

Favorite Places To Go:

Favorite Bedtime Stories:

Favorite Recipes:

Best Park/Playground: Heritage Park (Farmington Hills)

My favorite local park is by far Heritage in Farmington Hills. Located a ½ mile from our home it’s absolutely gorgeous complete with a playground, scenic trails, a nature center, and a splash pad. There are also several family-friendly events and concerts planned there all year round.

Best Family-Friendly Annual Event: Disney on Ice at Little Caesars Arena (Detroit)

We are big fans of Disney On Ice! My love for all things Disney has definitely rubbed off on my family. I love the entire Disney on Ice experience especially since it’s at Little Caesars Arena now it’s truly magical.

Your Mom Must Have: A Goal Setting Planner

One thing that helps make parenting a little easier for me that I rely on now more than ever is my goal setting planner! Working from home, raising kids, running a business, and staying pretty active in the community I’ve really had to learn over the years how to prioritize. Writing down everything and setting my goals daily and checking them off as I go keeps me organized and going. I’m also super intentional about carving out “me time.”

Best Winter Destination: Noel Nights + Campus Martius Tree Lighting (Detroit)

My favorite annual holiday event is always Noel Nights and the Detroit Campus Martius tree lighting. I absolutely love how beautiful Downtown Detroit looks during the holidays and I love exploring the Historical Museum and the other museums that night with my kids and taking part in all the festivities.

“Pat Yourself on the Back” Accomplishment: Oakland County Parks and Recreation Commissioner

I’m proud to serve as a Parks and Recreation Commissioner for Oakland County, Michigan. As someone who grew up in Oakland County and experiencing all that our parks and neighborhoods have to offer it is an honor to serve my community and to give back in a big way.

Photo credit: @EbsKnowsBest

About Ashley Hubbbard-Porter

Ashley Porter is a Chicago native who now calls Birmingham home. Ashley and her husband Mike and son Jake love attending local festivals, exploring Detroit’s diverse food scene, and venturing outside of Metro Detroit to enjoy the natural beauty of Michigan. With a background in Early Childhood Education, Ashley loves connecting with and supporting families in her community, which is why she is so excited to be a part of LittleGuide Detroit.