Since being on maternity leave I have loved hanging out with my two boys.
I feel incredibly blessed to be a mummy, and thank God every day for the two little dudes he blessed me with.
But after six months I was getting itchy feet to do something other than:
- changing nappies
- sterilising bottles
- washing clothes
- cleaning the house
- dressing boys
- (followed by undressing boys when one is sick all over himself and the other one hasn't made it to the bathroom in time)
As much as I love doing all of these things, I felt like I needed an extra challenge to add to my week!
Redeemer's just finished running its first term of meetups.
I had the pleasure of hosting a parent and toddler meetup at my home. I invited parents from Redeemer, as well as other local mums that I've met over the last few years.
Despite being a reception teacher at a local primary school, for some crazy reason I felt the need to turn my own home into a classroom for 9 weeks!
My flat was full of baby equipment and all sorts of toys. It felt like mayhem, but the kids had a blast.
It turns out toy trains, cars and the play kitchen were the most popular toys!
We sang songs together, and snack time was loved by all (adults and kids).
Mums enjoyed connecting with one another, sharing stories and advice about the latest milestone their children were going through.
It was a great experience I felt privileged to be a part of, and I met some cheeky adorable kids and some incredible new mum friends throughout.
I had 49 kids and parents through my door over the 9 weeks!
When our final session came to an end earlier this week, one thought came to mind:
Why should this end?
The answer is - it shouldn't!
I am heading back to work next month, and will be surrounded by many other kids that will keep me busy...but the opportunity is there for someone else to host next term!
As I summarised my ramblings of my last blog in 5 easy steps I thought I would do the same:
- Take on new challenges
The tots group is just my example of taking a risk in leading something new. You could lead a meetup in the future! - Use your skills to connect with others
I've discovered I'm actually good at being with kids! It's probably because I am a big kid at heart (and so is my husband, he keeps me young). Think about what your skills are - how can this help you connect with people locally and build friendships? - Try not to focus on WOE IS ME
Don't feel sorry for yourself if you feel that you don't have any friends and haven't been invited to things. That was their loss not having you there. Instead, make the first move and... - Invite people to an event
It doesn't have to be in your own home. It doesn't have to be run by you. Everyone loves being invited to something. From experience, not everyone will turn up - so be brave, and invite twice the amount you were planning on. - Love being local! (That's my blog copyright if you'd not noticed)
Enjoy your surroundings, the people around you and what Ealing has to offer.
