Like many women of their era, my grandmothers were avid bridge enthusiasts, and their monthly bridge luncheons were untouchable. As a kid, I couldn’t grasp the appeal of this card game—what was so thrilling about it? Now, I realize that those gatherings were far less about the actual game and so much more about these women recognizing the necessity of escaping their daily lives. They knew how important it was to carve out time to laugh, connect, and simply enjoy each other’s company. Now that I’m a mom, I’ve come to understand this truth: we desperately need our own playdates, too. Here’s why:
1. Less Kid Time Equals Less Mom Time.
As children grow up, the chance for mom-to-mom interactions tends to dwindle. I spent countless hours with fellow moms during ballet practices, soccer games, and school drop-offs, reveling in those precious moments together. However, as my kids gained independence—biking to school or driving themselves to activities—those gatherings naturally diminished. Recently, I found myself reminiscing with the moms from my kids’ Brownie Troop at a graduation party, and I realized just how long it had been since we had all been together. It’s time to plan a reunion, just for the moms!
2. Friendships Matter Through the Parenting Years.
Parenting can feel like an endless cycle of obligations, and there are days when you wonder if this on-call duty will ever cease. But trust me, it eventually does. Just as it’s essential to nurture your relationship with your partner, it’s equally vital to maintain your friendships. Once the toys are no longer strewn about the living room and you’re not juggling carpools or homework, you’ll find yourself with a lot of free time.
3. Life’s Ups and Downs Are Easier with Friends.
My grandmother’s bridge club stood the test of time, sharing over 50 years of life’s rollercoaster. They navigated marriages, breakups, financial struggles, and every other twist and turn life threw at them. In my 20s, I thought that list was eons away; now, in my 40s, I realize how crucial it is to have friends who have weathered similar storms. To have a circle of buddies to celebrate joys and lend support during tough times is not merely a luxury—it’s a necessity.
4. Let’s Be Honest, It’s Just Plain Fun!
Gatherings don’t have to turn into wild nights out or chaotic escapades. Sometimes, it’s just about enjoying a delicious meal with friends, sipping some wine, laughing a little too loudly at silly jokes, grooving to ’80s hits, and chatting about everything from the delightful to the downright maddening aspects of life.
So excuse me while I organize my next mom playdate. Who’s up for some bridge?
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Summary
Moms need playdates to maintain friendships, enjoy time away from the chaos of parenting, and have fun! As kids grow more independent, these opportunities often slip away, making it crucial to prioritize time with fellow moms.