It was a rainy Monday recently and I had every excuse not to leave the house, but I’m so glad I did. There was a playdate I was invited to and I am still very new to the group. The playdate was to begin at 9:30 am, however my daughter was still catching up to daylight savings time. So at almost 9:00 am, after her older brothers were already well on their way to school, I thought “Do I really wake her up to go?”. After getting her up and ready she quietly enjoyed her breakfast. I received a message from the group leader (as this event was part of a larger organized group that meets about twice a month) encouraging me to attend. I got the kids( 2 y/o and 6mos) in the car and we headed out. When we arrived at the playdate I was delighted to see my daughter’s face light up, and the anxiety of being 45 minutes late melted away. The morning was filled with children’s laughter, singing, playing, and snacks(even gluten-free goodies for me)! I knew It was a morning well spent as I got two tired littles ready for the return journey home.
I am not saying there are not times to slow down and have an empty calendar. I am also not saying you need to plan a full day of excursions and excitement( as if getting everyone out of the door with both shoes on the right feet is not an event itself). We often encourage our kids to take chances and be brave. Within safe limits, but out of their comfort zone. What I am asking is, “Do we set an example of that?” Sure, I could have said, “This is last minute, maybe next time.”. However, I would have missed out on great fellowship and fun. It could be a walk in the park with friends, an ice cream meet-up, a simple playdate, or an errand run together. You may find you are not as alone as you think.
Until next time,
Kira
P.S. If you feel like your outings or playdate attempts do not go as planned, don’t be discouraged. My daughter and I went to the library playgroup today and we were the only ones there. Just keep showing up when possible, you got this.
Mommy Who 
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