We had the opportunity in Episode 009 to sit down with two of our dearest friends, Brooke and Crista, to talk a little bit about what it’s been like to venture into this journey of motherhood. Between the four of us, we all have very different stories, but together we are all mamas. Liz and I got to ask Brooke and Crista some pointed questions about how we’ve mutually encouraged each other in parenting, what we’ve learned from one another, and what it looks like to step in when we need each other most. These highlights from Episode 009 are a great reminder as we navigate relationships amidst our growing families. We have to remember to invest in the mamas who help make us who we are — they lift us up, cheers us on, and they know our hearts. Some of our key takeaways from this episode included:
The 2am friend…
The friend that you can call anytime, any place. The friend who has seen you at your worst, but loves you just the same. This is unconditional friendship.
Making the transition to parenthood, as friends, with the Lord as the foundation…
Friends who give us the freedom to be parents together, learn together, and not be anxious about some of the more challenging parts of parenthood that might have us on edge.
Learning together…
The freedom to ask each other questions, especially when navigating the nuances of children who have joined a family via foster care or adoption.
Asking for help…
What is meaningful help? Anticipating someone else’s needs. Providing flexible support to a family with unique needs, allowing you to meet them where they’re at – there are different seasons to a family’s needs.
Do you ever get caught up in wanting to offer the perfect help, or the best support, and sometimes let an opportunity pass by? You know it doesn’t have to be a home-cooked meal, take-out is okay, it’s just one less thing for them to think about. You don’t have to have a picture perfect play date planned from beginning to end, maybe just taking a human off your friend’s hands for some time would help them take the deep breath they’ve been holding in. You don’t even have to know the perfect thing to say, but rather just acknowledge that you can see they’re struggling, and reminding them you’re here. Also, can we all agree on one thing? In acknowledging someone else’s time of need, please don’t say, “Let me know if you need anything.” Friends, we all know that when someone says this to us, we never ask them. Nope. Let’s try this…
What day this week can we bring you a meal?
How can I pray for you specifically — today?
When this week can we have [insert name/s] come over to play to give you some time?
What can I take off your plate today?
We’re talking about the friends that step into our messes and let us step into theirs. This can’t be every friendship. But let us be reminded to cherish the few that are. To learn from one another. Give each other grace. And thank the Lord for the people He’s given us on this side of heaven — especially the mamas.
