Making it all happen between coffee and wine

-Stathia Orwig

I'm a mom who needs a lot of coffee and the occasional glass of wine. Life is just crazy busy; I work, driving kids to school, homework, family, and extra-curricular activities, and we are going non-stop. I've been doing a lot of thinking on this topic and an idea came to me when I was talking with a mom at the studio. My brain started really thinking when another mom and I were talking about lessons and life: we need to have a mom get together for our studio mommas!

Now, why would I think about this when we are all already crazy busy? Well, many of you know that my daughter dances, so I started thinking of my new thought in this way: I have no idea about dance. We literally just pay for her to go, we see recitals, and we do what we are told. But, what does the future look like for her? How much time will it take? How does she balance all of the rest of her life (school and being well-rounded) and still dance? I have so many more questions, and very little answers except to just keep doing what we are doing and figure it out as it comes. If there was an opportunity to get together with other dance moms to get some of these answers, would I want to do it? Of course! When I run into other parents while at the dance studio, that's what we talk about! So, why not give us a reason to get together and figure some of these questions out (with a little guidance)? 

So, here's what I'm thinking- why not have a couple of different times when we moms can get together to discuss being a music parent (for newbies and those who have been around for a while)? Topics could include, but are not limited to

• how to get my child to practice without me asking
• how not to let my child quit taking lessons
• what instrument should my child play?
• how long do I make my child keep taking lessons
• give MSS thoughts about how to improve- what do you need for your child
• What does music lessons help with? Why are they important? (more than Google will tell you)

These are just a small handful of ideas I have come up with! I think what's neat is that I have a unique understanding of parenting (with 2 kids of my own who are 14 1/2 and almost 12 years) and experience to help. However, I am far from having all of the answers! I think that coming together to exchange ideas only helps each of us and will give you the guidance you are wanting. On the plus side, you will get to know other moms and make "music mom" friendships! That's worth a little night out, right? 

So, look for an invitation in January from me. If you have ideas, send them to me! If you know me, you know I'm always wanting to help and improve. Start your list now and be on the lookout!