What is Mothers' Circle? Well, I have some vision of what I think it might be, but what it becomes depends on you! First, Mothers' Circle is a time once a month for women to gather together. The first half of the Circle will be time talking with others, sharing what's happening (joys & challenges) in your life, listening, offering support. You'll get settled, with or without your baby, grab some snacks and later in the evening, we'll welcome MaryAnn Martin, IBCLC as she guides us through conversation regarding breastfeeding, working outside the home, and the related choices, decisions, expectations and concerns that come up during pregnancy and new motherhood.
Mothers' Circle is taking the time for YOU, minus the guilt that you may feel in stepping away from your family for a couple hours. It's about being with others where you can honestly share how hard it may feel. Or, sharing how amazing you felt after sleeping for three hours uninterrupted and being met with "that's amazing! I totally understand! You must feel like a new woman!", rather than, "that's all?! Your baby is not sleeping longer stretches yet?!", as you may hear from parents that are far from the infant stage.
Mothers' Circle is where we can acknowledge and support your feelings, and if you're interested, you can ask for ideas with challenges you may be facing. It's where you can be yourself, no strings attached. No one is perfect, we're all figuring out how to mother our children, regardless of age or stage, and Mothers' Circle simply gives you the time and space to give and receive support in your mothering journey.
Please join us on Thursday, August 20 from 6-7:30pm. The fee is $10, which helps pay for our visiting community professional, snacks and the remainder will be donated onward or put aside to help make our Circle affordable for interested moms. You can register by contacting me (see Contact Me page on website), sending payment via PayPal (to [email protected]) or by check (made payable to Amy Beck, and mailed to 214 E. Hillside Drive, Bloomington, IN 47401).
Mothers' Circle is held at 214 East Hillside Drive, near the intersection of E. Hillside Dr./S. Walnut St. and near the cross streets of South Lincoln Street and South Washington Street. You may park on South Lincoln Street, as driveway parking is limited. Olive Tree Birthing loves dogs and cats (they'll be kept away from the Circle), but please be advised in case of allergies.