There are no shortage of meetups around here. Maybe I’m just realizing this now because Franco is an only child and I’m constantly canvassing activities for him to do. Whereas pre-Franco, we simply hung out with friends, family, coworkers, and alumni networks. I never went to a meetup! Now I’m all about meetups: story time at the library, family happy hour at the local winery, Saturday play date for babies born in 2014. But despite all these opportunities to interact, I’ve been missing the connection of friendships, which is probably one of the reasons why I’m in therapy. I need adult interaction without having to worry that my son is going to run out into the street!
On Monday night, I went to a local motherhood support group. I didn’t read the group description carefully, thinking it was going to be a nice event to connect with some other mothers who lived in my same town and possibly network for potential babysitters. It turned out to be much more; I felt as if I should have gotten my checkbook out and written $150 to the organizer since it was equivalent to a professional therapy session. It was amazingly empowering and a huge relief to hear about issues other mothers are going through: whether to work or stay at home, difficulties potty training, moving, commuting…
We sat in a circle of chairs and couches, with each attendee given time to talk about what’s going on in their life and specifically any challenges they are facing. I was new to the group so I didn’t introduce myself as Catherine, the mom who had a nervous breakdown last week! Instead I focused on returning to my hometown and having a hard time finding quality care options: daycare, preschool or babysitting. Then the group chimed in and I grabbed my blackberry to type down names of places they recommended. There were 15 women there and we continued for almost 3 hours, past my bedtime, but well worth it. I’m a huge convert and looking forward to the monthly meetups.
Would love to hear what Meetups or regular gatherings you go to. So important to stay connected with people.
This sounded like a great opportunity and truly so glad you have this chance to meet and interact with other moms. I can tell you that with the birth of my girls it was a huge help getting to talk and share with moms that had babies similar ages to my own, too.
That’s amazing. And it IS therapy.
My original baby group was 40-50 women strong. Most of those friendships are still strong today, six years later.
I joined a moms group when we moved, and it was a fabulous resource. But the women I met at preschool became my girlfriends for life – 12 years later and we are still close!
I’m so glad you found some other moms to connect with, Catherine.