We're having a baby!

By Elisa DiStefano

We're having a baby! Okay-- so technically, I'm not-- but my colleague and dear friend Elizabeth Hashagen is!  I am so excited! The stork has been making a lot of stops at News 12 Long Island this summer. Many adorable babies have been born!

        Elizabeth is due next month-- followed by our friends, executive producer Kelly and editor Valerie. Expecting three babies really makes this place so much more fun! It really feels like we are all having a baby-- or three! When I see the moms- to- be I can't help but smile. Plus, now more people want to have snacks with me! I am currently brushing up on my babysitting skills and lobbying for the "Cool Aunt" title.          

This morning I was lucky to sit next to Beth at the anchor desk. The baby was kicking! I don't know how she can concentrate with that little guy or girl bouncing around in there! In fact, I don't know how she does all that she does regularly-- let alone 8 months pregnant!

She still teaches her step classes, has a lot of responsibilities here at News 12, and has a full social schedule! She can throw one amazing BBQ! And I wonder why Baby is so active-- I guess like mother, like daughter or son! (Elizabeth's husband is also full of energy-- and is fantastic too!) I can't wait to find out if it's a baby girl or boy... but I am not looking forward to her going on maternity leave because I'll miss her!

People always ask what the best part of my job is... the truth is, it's the people that I am so blessed to work with every day. If it looks like we are having fun, we are! It's so rare to have such a supportive group of colleagues, especially in this business. It's also rare to work with people who are so passionate about what they do.

Speaking of being passionate, I recently received this.

Recognize her?

This was sent to me by Westbury native Jean Esther. Jean graduated from The Nassau BOCES Cultural Arts Center. He went on to study art at the University of Hartford for one semester. He couldn't stay because although he was on a partial scholarship, he could not afford tuition.

Jean was discouraged, but didn't give up his dream. He kept on drawing and today he teaches at the Google Works Center for the Arts in PA and has his own art service. He says it's a dream come true. Thanks for the portrait and for sharing your story, Jean! Hope to have you back on Long Island real soon!

Comments

[Liam]

Elisa

Hope while Beth is out you become her replacement till she gets back, you are the most beautiful woman ar news 12 where there are a whole bunch of beautiful woman.

[larry cj]

HI Elisa
I have to say you are a beautiful Italion woman and you have such a nice friendly down to earth smile, I bet you are very nice to talk to. keep up the good work doing the traffic reporting and anchoring.

[martin]

elisa, hi its so nice to see you anchoring in the morning with elizabeth,I guess you will be taking over for her when she goes on maternity leave.Push for it as much as you can,your bright smile and wisdom make me watch you even more now doing the anchoring. hope elizabeth is doing well and can't wait for the magical moment. keep up the smiles and the news...

[tom thumbles]

I am only excited about the pregnancies for one reason and I know you secretly feel the same way too Elisa. This means more air time for you. You are the fresh face of the future. They can take as long as they want on maternity leave. More you! More you! Suddenly your bright shining smile in that pic with your pregnant co-worker makes a whole lotta sense. Wink!

[Tim]

Hey Elisa,

Very best blog you do about your co-worker Elizabeth about her having a baby. Elisa you be a mother too one day in life. Very nice portrait of you that Jean did of you.