Socialization...the big "S" word...the one that we all know we will have to explain to someone at some time.  I have a list of activities that my children are involved in ready to roll off the tip of my tongue: church, Awanas, piano lessons, soccer, gymnastics, park dates once a week, field trips, and play dates. My kids have way more social time than I did when I was a kid.

What is interesting is that we worry about creating opportunities for our children to socialize, but we don't often think about ourselves as parents.  Now when we are at soccer, gymnastics, park dates, field trips and play dates, there are many chances for us to talk with other parents.  We talk a lot about our kids and sometimes about ourselves if there is time.

We make friends with other homeschool parents, but a lot of times those friendships revolve around our children.  When our children grow apart due to different interests, our grown-up friendships often take a hit too. I think it is important for us to develop friendships independent of our children's lives. I know it is hard to do this when so much of our lives revolve around our children and our activities with them, but for our own peace of mind, I think it is necessary.

I have recently found a way to fill this need for myself. I am making friends at the Homeschoolblogger community. We talk about children and homeschooling sure, but I am making friends that I can talk with other things about too. And our friendships aren't dependent on whether or not our children are still friendly.  This has been a blessing for me. Posting on blogs also gives me an outlet for adult conversation.  Something that I am often in desparate need of. Here I have found people whose problems are bigger than my own, people who believe in prayer and the power of prayer, people who love their children and want the best for them, people who are supportive, caring, and fun.

Thanks HSB! You fill a great need for all of us and even help us grown-ups with that dreaded "S" word.