We moved to Lafayette a little over four years ago. I stepped into unknown Cajun territory with my husband and 6 month old baby girl. We had followed our hearts and our faith to Acadiana, yet I was miserable. Why? I was so LONELY.
As women, we crave relationship and connection. However, when we become mothers we can find ourselves isolated by the new role and responsibilities. The craving for connection doesn’t stop simply because our identities evolve. Finding myself in a new place with a new baby surrounded by thousands of unfamiliar faces felt totally secluded.
That, my friends, is no way to live! So, here are a few ways that we Acadiana mamas can escape our loneliness, connect to one another and build relationships.
MOPS of Acadiana
Mother of Preschoolers is a national organization that has a local chapter right here in Lafayette. MOPS of Acadiana meets at The Open Door Church the second Friday of each month and hosts events throughout the month like play dates and moms night outs. The goal of MOPS is to create community and equip moms during a challenging time in our lives. I will forever be grateful to the women in MOPS for pulling me out of my isolation.
Baby Boot Camp
If you are more fitness inclined go check out Baby Boot Camp. They meet three times a week for stroller workouts and more. As part of Baby Boot Camp you can join their Mom Tribe. Sign me up! It’s more than just a work out. These mamas are supporting each other beyond the squats and push-ups. Just take a look at their Facebook page.
Lafayette Moms and Babies
If you haven’t been to Lafayette Moms and Babies out on Kaliste Saloom you need to get there …NOW. Beyond making the best maternity, baby and kid products available to us Lafayette ladies they also provide meetings and classes. They offer several opportunities for expecting moms like Lamaze, breastfeeding, and cloth diapering basics. One unique meeting they offer is Postpartum Support Group. Praise! Mama, if you are wandering lost or struggling with feelings / life after having your sweet baby, JUST GO!
Toddler Classes
Lafayette is an amazing place to raise kids. Beyond the hundreds of festivals we have every year, we have many great businesses geared specifically toward growing and engaging our children. The funny thing about these toddler classes, moms are ALWAYS there! It’s like going to a singles bar but for mom friends. Check out any of these places for educational and physical enrichment of your children and work on your mom pick-up lines before going!
The Learning Train The Music Garden The Little Gym
Church
Honestly, this is my sweet spot, and I want to share with you why. Every Sunday morning when I show up to First Baptist Lafayette, I take my three children and drop them with their teachers in the preschool department. Then for a solid three hours, my husband and I get to spend time in fellowship with other couples, hanging at the coffee shop and sitting in peace with our community. It’s worth the struggle to get there. I promise.
If Sunday morning isn’t on your radar yet, don’t miss out on MOMentum at The Bayou. Our very own Casey Hilty of Lafayette Moms Blog leads this group of moms in study and friendship. You can find them every Tuesday morning at 9:30 gathering at The Bayou (Oh and there is free childcare!).
These are just a few of the options to help you break out of your loneliness and back into the world of relationship and connected-ness. You just need take the first step.
Thanks for helping mommas connect! I can attest to the importance of all of these groups and opportunities! Go out and plant yourself and roots will grow! 🙂 Thanks Wendy!
Yes! Me too! Seriously, what would we do without these amazing places and organizations to meet amazing people like you, Annie???