My first summer as a new mom didn’t really feel like summer. I had been staying home nearly a year and so, as I watched moms with older kids reframe their schedules and lament the loss of alone time that …
The MOPS 2019-20 Theme
This idea of life to the full isn’t about striving for more. It’s not about striving at all. It is about recognizing that life isn’t a bunch of goals to achieve, or people to please; but an invitation …
The Strange Novelty of the New
If you like novelty, we live in a wonderful city for it; Washington, D.C. blooms with it. The patriotic stuff abounds, one-of-a-kind odes to the wonders of mankind, our favorites of which are Air and Space Museum and the U.S. …
How “Dancing With the Stars” Helped Me Wear Shorts Today
Today was a milestone. I don’t remember the last time I wore a pair of shorts out of the confines of my backyard, but today, I rocked shorts at a popular lake on a holiday. Not too long ago, not …
Slingshot Fun
“We have to reinvent fun back into our American society or we are going to serious ourselves to death.” – Alice Cooper https://vimeo.com/271905836 The MOPS International staff taking a much-needed fun break from the work day. See Mandy Arioto …
Calls for Submissions – June Theme: FUN
Submissions Deadline: Friday, June 8 FUN. When was the last time you truly engaged in it? Whether it be organized play in the form of an adult sports league (or even just an organized game night) or impromptu play where your …
DIY Polaroid® Photo Frame
Remember the good ol’ days of Polaroid® film? We’re bringing back this vintage staple with a fun and easy-to-make photo frame to capture your very own #thisismotherhood moments. MATERIALS 8.5” x 11” paper or cardstock Markers, crayons or paint Ruler …
Magic in the Mundane
Years ago, I had a dreamlike idea of what motherhood would look like. It looked like the time I babysat a 3-year-old boy at the park and we threw sticks over the side of a bridge, laughing hysterically. It looked …
8 Ways to Make “Special Time” With Young Children More Meaningful
In the hustle bustle of stressful family life, it can be great to spend special one-on-one time with each child. Kids adore the attention, the fun and the indulgence of having one parent all to themselves. It can also be …