Together

This year's MOPS theme is "Together on Planet Mom." Don't get lost in the outer space metaphor. It doesn't matter if we're in the suburbs or on the moon: As moms we need each other. Whether it's an uncomfortable pregnancy, tiring nighttime feedings, the terrible toddler years or sending your sweetie to school, we all need a shoulder to cry on, someone to laugh with and an encouraging word.

Brian and I acquire children. Our second child joined the family in March 2008 through adoption. Six months later we got the twins: one by birth, one through adoption, 11 days apart in age. In over our heads, we never would have survived without the support of friends, family, each other and God. Numerous people helped us by bringing meals and diapers or babysitting our older girls ("older" was 2 years and 12 months old). Our lives have become a little more normal but the need for community will never end. We are so thankful not to face this journey alone.

Whether this is your first year at MOPS or your fifth, my prayer is that you too will find you are not alone. I hope that you make friends this year that will follow you for the course of your life. And when everyone else fails you, I pray that you experience the love that can only be found in our Father and friend, Jesus. Welcome to Planet Mom and MOPS!