A Fond Farewell

by Leslie

“Don’t cry because it’s over. Smile because it happened.”
- Dr. Seuss

Julia and I met with our playgroup for the last time today. By the time the next playgroup session is here, we will be in our new house, in a new town. I’d been so wrapped up in the moving preparations, I didn’t realize this was our last meeting until today. And it hit me - just how much I am going to miss it.

I’ve met a lot of moms through Julia’s various activities, like Kindermusik and Baby & Me, and our association was pleasant, but superficial. We’d chat during the session, making kind remarks about each other’s children, but that’s where it ended.

Our playgroup was different.

After meeting in a Baby & Me class, one mom suggested we start a group where the kids could play and the moms could talk. I jumped right on board, because I thought Julia would benefit from interacting with other children and a little adult conversation would be good for me, too.

Our playgroup quickly became our favorite weekly activity. Julia absolutely loved the other children and I was amazed at how much I had in common with the other moms. We all had similar views on parenting, but wonderfully different personalities. It was nice to relax and just let Julia play without hovering over her or worrying about her “performance.” It was especially nice to get to talk to other moms.

And man, did I talk.

The first few times we got together, I worried that they wouldn’t invite me back. Once we started talking, I was like an erupting volcano, spewing thoughts, opinions, and anecdotes. I could barely contain my excitment over finally connecting with people who understood. Rather, I didn’t contain my excitment. I talked. And talked. And when someone else started to talk, I interrupted them.

But, they did invite me back and I am thankful for it!

I am so grateful for the opportunity to know these amazing women and their beautiful children. I am beholden to them for the care and friendship they have given my daughter and me. They have touched our lives more than they realize. They will not be forgotten.

“Don’t be dismayed by good-byes. A farewell is necessary before you can meet again. And meeting again, after moments or lifetimes, is certain for those who are friends.”
- Richard Bach

Posted in Mommy's Stuff, Julia |