When I was pregnant with our first child, I knew I was going to be a Stay-at-Home Mom, and I knew that I was going to need support. Up until that point, the only support that I needed was involving career goals and shopping habits. It was a very overwhelming feeling that I was about to be responsible for the life of an itty bitty!
The support from my husband, family members and friends was out of this world, but I needed to connect with other moms who were right in the middle of mommy hood just like I was. Parenting books and mommy blogs provided me with both valuable (and laughable)knowledge as a first time mom. I decided that I needed something more, and that’s when I discovered Moms Clubs.
I joined MOMS Club “Moms Offering Moms Support” and MOPS “Mothers of Preschoolers” when my daughter was four months old. You know, the time when your hormones have settled a bit, you have figured out enough to venture into public, and you have come to the realization that staying at home is not in anyone’s best interest! To be honest, I didn’t know what to expect and I was a bit nervous. It felt like I was going on a blind date, except I was about to mingle amongst moms and kiddos. I was officially a mom now, and I was ok with the fact that I was about to make new friends while chatting over hot coffee (I hope?), goldfish and sippy cups. Let the fun begin!
What kind of moms are in moms club? Would I meet the stereotypical “crunchy” momma? What would I talk about? Eating, sleeping, pooping and teething…all things that involve my child of course! What if I didn’t have anything in common with my new “mom” friends? Wait a minute, of course we would have at least on thing in common- we were all moms!
After attending both groups, there was no doubt in my mind that this was the right place my daughter and I to be. Everyone welcomed us with open arms, sunny smiles, and hot coffee. I felt a sudden sense of relief and confidence with myself as a mom. I was looking forward to growing friendships (for both my daughter and I), adventurous play dates and learning about my new gig called motherhood.
Joining a moms group is good for the mind, body and soul. They are a safe haven for frazzled nerves when you feel like you just can’t take it anymore. They provide a welcoming and encouraging atmosphere- nobody judges you if the only thing in your wardrobe is yoga pants, if you use disposable diapers or feed your kids hot dogs. Lifelong friendships are created for both moms and kids, which is important for everyone. If you are looking for a place to laugh (and maybe cry) while embracing motherhood, check it out!
Want to learn more? Cincinnati Moms Blog has a directory of Moms Groups for you to check out. Use THIS LINK and maybe I will see you soon!
