Big Changes At The House Of Fawn

Hello, hello -- lovely news this evening! I alluded to this a short while ago, but now it's all official: This Thursday, things are going to change quite a bit around here. This Thursday, Gretchen and I are getting a housemate!

A friend of mine -- from elementary/secondary school -- will be renting a room from me, turning our house of two, into a house of three! I'm so thrilled that we're able to stay in our home, and excited to be getting a roomie.

I've been doing lots of FlyLady cleaning this week, in preparation (especially this sort of cleaning). Essentially, and I'm letting my guard down to announce this, but my house has been a disaster since BlogHer. It's true. It was a mess when I left and of course, a mess when I got back. You all know things have been tough lately, and with the trip excitement, one daycare-less month, a round of colds and zero motivation -- well, you can only imagine what things were starting to look like around here. However, I'm happy to announce that I've now conquered the chaos and I'm feeling back on top. It's so difficult to be productive when your home is in a state.

Again, the refreshments of autumn are serving me well. The air is sweet with opportunity and I'm finding a smile on my face much more frequently. I know that life won't be perfect anytime soon, but I'm certainly on my way to a much more manageable existence.

I've been busy with several new projects lately as well. I've taken on two new blogs (writing/design for local businesses), two new doula clients to serve, private and group prenatal classes -- my calendar is full-up, mes amis. This world is providing for me and I'm grateful.

I've really been holding tight to those days when it's just Gretchen and myself. We've been enjoying cafe dates together, visits to the park, photo-taking by the river and countless bike rides. She's been a force to be reckoned with lately, folks. And honestly, I adore that strong willed nature of hers. I think she gets it from me. At times it gets tough, I question my parenting, I question everything, but for all of her feisty moments, her angry fits, her vows of stubbornness -- she's still the most brilliant, sweet, caring, gentle, sensitive child. It's a wild ride, worth every jolt and turn.

Wishing you a wonderful week, with quiet moments, tea by the pot-full, pumpkin flavoured goodies and ear-to-ear grins. Sweet dreams, dear hearts.

Motherhood Is All About Community

Did you know that on Wednesday mornings, I help run a local mama group with my dear friend Kim, of Your Green Baby? We started the group a few months back (took a tiny break for the summer) and we're starting back up again next week. I can't wait to see how much everyone's tots have grown!

Finding community as a parent is so important -- especially when you're a new mom. Sometimes just sharing your struggles (and successes!) is the best way to grow as a mother. I always feel so refreshed and empowered after spending time with other mothers. We're a powerful bunch, and we're better as a collective -- supporting one another through the tough times and wonderful moments that motherhood brings our way.

Baby & You is a family-friend place, created for moms, dads & anyone with kiddos in their lives -- it's all about joining in the conversation, sharing advice and learning from others. There's also a section for exclusive savings from Loblaw's Inc., and a weekly flyer link for coupons specific to your local area. I'm also told there'll be a fab new deal from my beloved Joe Fresh in the next month -- count me in!

Two Canadian mom bloggers have joined in the fun as well: Lisa, from Growing You Baby, takes on the Baby Talk, while Jody, from Mommy Moments, adds her expertise to Mom Talk. Pop by for a visit and see what they have to say! You can also join in on Twitter, by following the #BabyAndYou hashtag.

How do you connect with other moms? Online? Local groups? Coffee klatch? I'd love to hear about what works for you, or where you've found the most support.

Disclosure: I am participating in the Baby and You program by Mom Central Canada on behalf of Loblaw Companies. I received compensation as a thank you for my participation. As always, the opinions on this blog are my own.