I grew up in a city bustling with college students and full of many opportunities. I had dozens of girls my age right in my neighborhood and life was practically perfect. After graduating high school, I moved around and lived in three other big cities (being a student, working as a boat instructor and working as a nanny). I met people from all over the globe.

I have what you would call an "adventurous spirit," so when my husband and I relocated to a very small town due to his job, I guess you could say I had culture-shock. The town we live in has one market complete with pricey groceries, a few gas stations, one decent restaurant and a lot of people who are related to each other. It's been an interesting experience.

Because there are so many elements to living in a small town that I am not accustomed to, life has been challenging. We've lived here almost three years, and it still doesn't quite feel like home.

However, about a year ago, I saw on my friend's blog that she was nominated to be president of a "Mothers Club" and I instantly wrote her an email asking all about it. She gave me some wonderful advice, and after talking to her multiple times, I gained the courage to start a mothers club of my own. Since my friend gave me such great advice, today I'd like to do the same for you.

Q: What exactly is a "Mothers Club?"

A

My friend's mothers club website sums it up well. A group of mothers "Who have the common goals of sharing resources, building friendships, and having fun. We offer each other support, validation and encouragement in all aspects of parenting. We are here for our children, each other, and ourselves." From there I learned that mothers clubs can have whatever activities you and your members are interested in.

In the mothers club that I started, we have a book club, craft night for moms, a monthly field trip (last month we went to our local fire station and it was a huge hit with the moms and kids alike), walking group and music and movement for the little ones.

Q: How does it work?

A

Mothers interested will pay a predetermined annual fee (ranging from $15-$45) and that will give them access to all activities offered through the mothers club.

I love this about the mothers club because it offers so much flexibility. Before starting this club, I would often talk to mothers about getting together, or starting a book club and I would usually hear the following words, "I'm just too busy." With the commitment of paying a fee and flexibility in the activities offered, you should have something for everyone. Some mothers in my mothers club are only involved with the book club, others have come to every activity we've had.

Q: How can I get the word out?

A

Think about where mothers in your town go most and target those areas. I have tried just about everything to get the word out for mine. Facebook, blogs, fliers around town and in bigger stores; I even passed them out at the library and for a big children's dance review that was going on.

Once you have the desire to start a mothers club in your area, things will likely start falling into place. Talk to moms you know and pitch your idea to them to see what they think. Chances are, they will be excited about socializing with other moms.

An article posted on the Power of Moms website, summarizes the importance of "building a strong support system," which is exactly what a mothers club is all about.

If you're like me and wish you had a few more mothers to relate to, think about starting a mothers club. It may be slightly out of your comfort zone (it certainly was out of mine) but when word gets out, it will spread quickly and you'll find yourself with a wonderful support system with others going through some of the same things that you are.