MOPS

I joined a local moms chapter of MOPS (Mothers of Preschoolers)- an international organization.
Taken from their website MOPS is:

MOPS is a grassroots movement that believes moms are world influencers.

We also believe that incubating hearts and giving just-because-hugs can change the course of history. That’s why we connect moms all over the world to a community of women, in their own neighborhoods, who meet together to laugh, cry and embrace the journey of motherhood. MOPS groups are rallying women to be more honest, to feel more equipped and to find our identity by journeying along side one another.

MOPS stands for Mothers of Preschoolers, and by preschoolers we mean kiddos from birth through kindergarten. We know it's a little confusing so let's just stick with "MOPS."

We are moms, and we believe that better moms make a better world.

So far I've gone to all 3 of the MOPS meetings.  The first being at the beginning of September and occurring every other Tuesday. It's a great group of about 50 women.  At the first meeting we were assigned to tables where there is a Mentor Mom and a Group Team Leader.  That way throughout the year we get to become really close with those at our table.

There is free child care with women that just love on the kids and provide snack, craft, outside play and lots of games inside. Each meeting a different table of women are responsible for providing homemade breakfast. There is also a raffling of free items and gifts from local businesses.  I just won a gift card to the local signature style store in Wilton!  But more importantly there is a specific underlying message or theme for each meeting.  It's a place for moms to talk about topics regarding kids, marriage, daily struggles and life in general without being judged.

The first meeting was about having the Courage to be Honest.  Having those difficult conversations allow relationships to thrive and can often foster a deeper connection.

The second meeting was a roll out of bed day followed by a fun cooking demonstration.  Come as you are!

The most recent meeting was about: Courage to Face Your Real Mom Fears.  MOPS has done research and has found that most moms have a same common fear - Am I enough for my children.  One of the strategies for facing your fear is: Name it, Learn it, Do it, Let it go.

We also received a handout of scriptures for fighting worry. It may help to look them up yourself. Do you have fears and worries too?
Philippians 4:6-7
Colossians 1:16-17
Hebrews 11:1

Psalm 29:11

Psalm 55:22

Psalm 91

Isaiah 43

Isaiah 26:3

John 14:27

I always have an important take away from each meeting and am really looking forward to the future meetings. 

Coming up are meetings including a Mother In Law Panel that is a hoot, or so they say....holiday tablescapes....nutrition and exercise....and a sprinkling of topics that take courage.

This years overall theme is called "BE YOU BRAVELY."  It's a fantastic support group.  I highly recommend seeing if there is a group near you.  I will try to post more throughout the year.

First MOPS meeting.  A great video with Shauna Niequist, cute centerpieces and lots of new friends to meet.