I have a mission for you:
Go find a mom with kids about ten years older than yours. Ask her how she’s doing. Ask how her kids are doing. If she seems friendly, invite her for coffee.
You need to befriend her.
Why? Simple.
It’s good to have someone in your corner who gets it, who is further along on the path of motherhood than you, who has turned the corner and looks back fondly at where you are now. These mommy friends can tell you that the tantrums don’t last always; yes, you will sleep again; and eventually, your kids will no longer need you to wipe their butt.
And it works both ways. Mommy veterans, who might be so used to their role that they forget to see the magic in everyday events, may see you interact with your little one and rejoice in how far they’ve come and how much they’ve learned.
Already have a veteran mommy in your circle of friends? How did you two meet? Let me know! (I’m so nosy!)
One of my dearest friends happens to be the mother of 7- her children range in age from 4 years old all the way to 20. She’s been an invaluable shoulder to lean on when I need insight on how to deal with various new situations. I’m in awe of how she managed to do all that she does (she’s very active in church, juggles dancing lessons, band, and other extracurricular activities for her 6 school aged children, and somehow always remembers who is where for what and when). It’s nice to have someone who is so encouraging, and who puts a lot of things in perspective (a toddler tantrum is nothing compared to some of the teenage ones she deals with daily). We met through Mocha Moms- one of the few places I’ve met other African American moms who stay/work at home.
Good idea! I want to know if my house will ever be quiet again.
I don’t know what I would have done without the Titus 2 women in my life. They were the women who imparted wisdom into me while I was raising my children. Mothers who had children the same age as mine weren’t always living in reality, “Oh, my child would NEVER do that.” I used to wonder why they had such perfect kids, while mine were passing notes in class…
I thank God for the veteran mothers who not only gave me advice on raising children, but also encouraged me to nurture myself.
The way I figure it, young moms are good for relating to you. They know you dozed off mid-convo because the baby was up. They were up last night too. It works out. Older moms are the ones I primarily look to for advice on the big stuff. Like, maintaining your sanity. LOL.
Veteran mommies are the best. I have more than a few in my circle of mommy friends. They kind of just fall into your lap at Cal =).
See, I have to seek out these mommy friends. But the few I’ve found have been insanely helpful.