My Friends Live In My Computer

I had a pretty demanding job as a social worker pre-baby, working sometimes 60-70 hours a week. I knew busy and was looking forward to a slower pace of play dates and mommy groups once my baby was born. And then I discovered a whole new level of busy as a mom, a different set of demands.

Life as a stay at home mom became extremely isolating. I was thankful to be able to spend time with my baby, but at the same time it could get very lonely. My family lives a state away, my husband has a long work commute and my most of my local mommy friends work typical office jobs. It was difficult to not be able to converse with another human being that could talk back. Here I was this social worker turned mommy, who talked to people for a living, not having anyone to talk to.

My colicky bundle of joy was born a month preterm. With that came some minor issues, like not being able to effectively breastfeed. I became a human cow and was attached to the pump around the clock for the first 11 months of his life. I didn’t leave the house very often for the first 3 months of Logan’s life because the thought of juggling a fussy baby while finding a place to pump was daunting for me.

So, I turned to my computer and discovered that I wasn’t the only one with these same feelings. I found other moms online that I could share the joys (and the less joyful moments) of motherhood with. We commiserated with each other during sleepless nights and celebrated first steps. We banned together during heartache and laughed with each other over the funny things our kids were up to.

Logan and I have now ventured out to play dates and music classes, but they haven’t replaced the friends that live in my computer. It might seem strange to some, being able to bond with complete strangers halfway across the country, but somehow it works. It’s nice knowing that I’m not having to do this whole motherhood thing alone. I have a sounding board and a support group.

The computer is a great way to meet people who share similar interests. I’ve enjoyed meeting people through online mommy groups, craft blogs and photography forums. I’m still part of an online wedding group that I joined 6 years ago where we planned our weddings together, purchased our first homes together and now many of us are having children together. I count these ladies among my closest of friends.

The internet has led me to the most amazing friendships, some of which I’ve been fortunate enough to meet in person. This is why I’m so excited to be part of the Chiquita Moms community. I hope that moms, who don’t want to navigate this whole parenting thing alone, are able to find support and friendships here. I’m looking forward to adding to the growing list of friends that live in my computer.