Navigating Mom Friendships: A Journey of Support, Understanding, and Connection

As I sit down to reflect on my journey as a mother and the friendships that have shaped it, I can't help but feel immense gratitude for the connections I've made along the way. From the highs of motherhood to the struggles and uncertainties, having a supportive network of mom friends has been nothing short of invaluable.

Let me introduce myself. My name is Grace Mihalich, I am a visual creator and maker by nature, with a background in art and a former career as a high school art teacher.

However, my most cherished role is that of a stay-at-home mom to my two beautiful daughters, Blaise and Fina. My husband is an assistant basketball coach at the University of Pennsylvania, his schedule is busy and he travels often, but we navigate it together as a team.

When I look back on my journey into motherhood, I'm reminded of the importance of finding connections with other women. The transition into parenthood can feel overwhelming and isolating, especially without a strong support system. For me, the inspiration to share my thoughts on mom friendships stemmed from my own experiences of feeling a bit intimidated when it came to making new friends as an adult. 

When I first became a mom in 2020 I was lucky to be surrounded by family. The birth of my cousin's daughter happened just six weeks after mine, and the timing created a lifeline of support and companionship especially during the uncertainty of the pandemic. Together, we formed our own little bubble of understanding and shared experiences, which eased the anxieties of those early months.

However, as the seasons changed and I returned home to Philadelphia, I found myself dealing with feelings of isolation once again. It was during this time that I realized the importance of actively seeking out new friendships and connections. Whether it was reaching out to old friends or making new ones at the playground, each interaction brought a sense of belonging and wholeness.

As I reflect on the unique dynamics of mom friendships, I can't help but marvel at these women….  These are the friends with whom I've shared the rawest moments of motherhood—the joys, the challenges, and everything in between. From navigating miscarriage to celebrating the chaos of raising toddlers, their unwavering support has been a constant source of strength.

And while the juggle of motherhood often leaves little time for socializing, I've come to realize that investing in these relationships is worth every moment. Whether it's a shared laugh over tantrums or a heart-to-heart conversation over coffee, these connections nourish the soul in ways that nothing else can.

To all the parents out there who may be struggling to find connection with other moms, my advice is simple: don't be shy. Take that first step, introduce yourself, and be open to the magic of new friendships. 

Whether you're bonding over shared experiences or simply enjoying each other's company, the journey of motherhood is always better when shared with others by your side.

So here's to the mom friends who have lifted me up, cheered me on, and made this journey a little less daunting. You are the unsung heroes of motherhood, and I am forever grateful for your presence in my life. Together, we navigate the highs and lows with grace, understanding, and an unwavering sense of camaraderie.

BIO: Grace Mihalich is a Philly mom and lifestyle blogger who loves fun outfits and thrift stores. A full time stay-at-home mom who loves to be out of the house on adventures with her girls. Connect with Grace on Instagram.