When we made the move to a new state, I had no concerns about my kids making friends; their outgoing personalities ensure they make connections wherever they go. I also wasn’t overly worried about myself—juggling a home and working remotely keeps me busy enough. However, one thing was clear: we would dearly miss the special bond I had with my mom friends who treat my children as if they were their own. These remarkable women watched my kids grow, from their early days as drooling infants to adventurous toddlers, and now as school-aged kids navigating homework and friendships. I knew I could count on them, whether it was picking my kids up from school while battling sickness or assisting with those inevitable bathroom emergencies. They truly were a lifeline for me during those chaotic years, allowing me moments to breathe amidst the demands of motherhood.
Stepping into the world of motherhood can often feel isolating. You find yourself searching for connection, support, and friendship. I certainly did. A decade ago, I made a pivotal decision for my mental well-being—joining a stay-at-home mom playdate group. It was this choice that led me to drive 40 minutes for playdates, lug my newborn and toddler to the zoo in sweltering heat, and navigate the wildness of Chuck E. Cheese.
Through this group, I met the women who became my first true “mom friends.” They were the first to hold my baby, letting me realize I was on the right track. As our children grew, we formed a beautiful community, supporting each other through tantrums and challenges, showing up in pajamas with wine after rough days. When one of our kids faced academic struggles or health scares, we rallied together, sharing hand-me-downs, meals, and even spare underwear after mishaps.
I am eternally grateful for these friendships, and I want to express my heartfelt thanks:
- Thank you for remembering my son’s nut allergy and for keeping your cabinets secure.
- Thank you for understanding that while he wants to “handle it himself” in the restroom, there are moments he truly needs help.
- Thank you for showing kindness to my daughter, who often finds herself surrounded by brothers and boys, and for letting her explore her creativity with your arts and crafts.
- Thank you for setting gentle boundaries, making it clear that my kids aren’t allowed to be little terrors in your home or mine. And for being honest when they misbehave (and for still inviting them back).
- Thank you for understanding my son’s desire to fit in with older kids, even when it leads to tears, and for protecting my daughter from sunburn by slathering her with sunscreen.
- Thank you for feeding them—seriously, I can’t believe how much you’ve fed them.
- Thank you for stepping in when I had to rush my toddler to the ER, meeting me at the car with no questions asked, simply saying, “Go! I’ve got her.”
- Thank you for being the emergency contact I could trust, ensuring my kids would be safe and loved if I couldn’t be there.
- Thank you for letting the children wreak havoc in your home so I could catch my breath.
- Thank you for sensing when I felt guilty about overstaying our welcome and insisting they stay a little longer. I truly needed that extra hour.
- Thank you for coming over when my house was a mess, with only grilled cheese to offer, just because I needed someone to talk to.
- Thank you for pretending to be captivated by my son’s magic tricks and Minecraft tales, even when I know you tuned out.
- Thank you for sharing in their achievements, celebrating milestones together, even the little ones like potty training.
- Thank you for being there on my toughest days when I felt overwhelmed and inadequate as a mother, and for sharing your own struggles to help me feel less alone.
Thank you for embracing my children as if they were your own. This kind of friendship is rare, and I will forever treasure you and all that you have given us. You are my tribe, my support system, and I love your kids just as much in return.
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Summary
This heartfelt tribute expresses gratitude to the friends who support and love our children as if they were their own. It highlights the importance of these connections in the challenging journey of motherhood, celebrating shared experiences, mutual support, and the unique bond formed through parenting.