Not to sound like an inspirational fridge magnet or coffee mug, but friends are essential to life. We all need a group of compadres to keep us grounded, remind us that we're going to be OK, and to take on spontaneous Target trips. And the older I get, the more important those friendships become, especially with children in the picture. Because every mom needs a mom squad, and not just because they always have an extra packet of wipes for the day you forget yours.
I want to be sure I mention that being a mom doesn't mean all of your friends have to be moms, too. Some of my closest friends don't have children. But there is something incredibly special and powerful about the bond between mothers and it's what makes your mom squad so essential to your well being. Sure, you friend may understand that it's hard work taking care of a kid, but your mom squad are the ones fist pumping when you tell them that you managed to run the dishwasher and clean up the toys before passing out at 8 p.m. Your mom squad friends are the ones you text when it's 3:30 a.m. and your boobs hurt and there's nothing good on TV. Your mom squad? They are the ones showing up to take care of your kids while you're battling the flu on the couch. It doesn't matter where you meet them, how long you've known them, or what all else you have in common — you're all moms and that's a bond that can cement some really great friendships. So next time you think you can hack it on your own, remember these seven reasons why every mom needs a mom squad, and start hooking yours up immediately. (Hey, Gymboree class is a great place to start.)