Stay at home mom on a budget

Aliya - posted on 01/14/2010

Join a moms group. Do you have a local Las Madres group, or La Leche League? Both are great for play dates, stroller walks, and just making mommy friends, which is tough and brings with it all the anxieties of being the new mom on the block. Another great free place is your local library. Usually there is a toddler story time or other kid events...you might meet moms with babies as well as toddlers. I've found that lots of moms hit the malls with the stroller when the weather is bad. It's a great place to get out, get a good walk in, and possibly run some random errands. My local mall has a Target, and I've discovered I can get cat food, cleaning supplies, even over the counter meds like infant Tylenol for cheaper than the grocery store. I also met some great moms at the hospital sponsored breastfeeding support group, held by a lactation consultant. Most hospitals aren't letting kids under16 in now since the whole swine flew thing has hit, but some hospitals simply relocated the meeting place to keep things running. That's all I can think of for now... I totally understand how you're feeling. Good luck, and let me know how the search for intellectual, if not just plain ole stimulation, connection goes.

Bec - posted on 01/14/2010

Hi Kellie. I feel exactly the same way you do! Though, I am returning to work 4 days a week soon so won't have to worry about feeling 'house bound'. Have you tried joining a mother's group? Or do you have any friends that have babies? I go to the local swimming pool once a week with a few friends and it only costs $4.00! My little boy loves the water and I enjoy the adult conversation. The Birch Carrol & Coyle cinemas also do a 'babes in arms' movie session every Wednesday. You can take your baby into the cinema with you, along with lots of other mums. It only costs $8.00 (they do this at Chermside in Brisbane, not sure where you live). Just a few ideas that won't cost you an arm and a leg. Hope this has helped!

Kim - posted on 01/12/2010

Find some friends in the area to meet up with. Maybe you could alternate who would have people over that week? Also, I take my son out for walks (even just to the mall so I can walk around inside). Another thing is going to the local library for story time. Ours has it 3 times a week.

Kim - posted on 01/12/2010

Find some friends in the area to meet up with. Maybe you could alternate who would have people over that week? Also, I take my son out for walks (even just to the mall so I can walk around inside). Another thing is going to the local library for story time. Ours has it 3 times a week.

Kim - posted on 01/12/2010

Find some friends in the area to meet up with. Maybe you could alternate who would have people over that week? Also, I take my son out for walks (even just to the mall so I can walk around inside). Another thing is going to the local library for story time. Ours has it 3 times a week.