To the Young Mother

What has happened in Tiffany's life this year? New baby, new house, husband works crazy hours, her family has slowly moved farther away. 

I wish that I could have lived close to you this last year Tiffany. I would have watched Brooklyn while you packed to move or went to doctor's appointments. I would have brought you food when you were tired and 8 months pregnant. I would have hung out at the park with you to chat. Since I could not do those things for you, I found someone close by me that I could serve and help through some of those transitions in life.

I found a friend here in VA who was going through some of the same changes this year. She has moved twice in the last few months, has a 2 1/2 year old, and just had a new baby this month.

When she first moved into the ward earlier this year, I invited her to outings and befriended her... giving advice on preschools and home buying. I had her son over for a play date with Charly, while she moved the first time to their temporary home while they continued the home buying search. Her little boy even has soft curls just like Brooklyn. I was supposed to watch her son the day they closed on their house, but it was rescheduled and then I was unavailable for the new closing date.

So many people think to bring women food right after having a baby, but I like to take food when they are 8 or 9 months pregnant. Near the end of pregnancy, you are so tired and just burnt out. It would be nice to not have to cook. So, I took this friend a meal one night making 2 dishes from that cookbook you gave me when you were in Richmond.

Every time I would serve my friend, or even see her, I would think of Tiffany and how much I wish we could live closer together. One day, when we don't have the entire United States between us, I will bring you dinner when you are feeling worn out or plan play dates with Brooklyn so you can run errands. But for now I will serve those young mothers around me and swap parenting tips with you via Facebook.