Parenting is hard, whether you have one kid or seventeen, whether you have multiples or not. Granted, I have no other yardstick to measure my experience except for where twins are concerned, but I figure the ideas and general principles remain the same no matter what your multiplicity (or singleton) status may be.

After my twins arrived, and my husband returned to work after three glorious weeks at home bonding with our new family, I seemed to lack a close-knit support system to help me through those rough patches. And, let's be honest, most weeks were one, long, scaly, ugly, rough patch. Since my family lives over an hour away, an international border and part of the north Atlantic separates us from my in-laws and none of my friends at the time had children, what's a stressed-out, teetering on the edge new Momma of twins to do?

The idea came to me late one evening. I'd find the local Moms of Multiples group! Sure! Joining will be easy, my kids will meet other twins for playdates, I'll have a Mom's night out once in a while, it'll be perfect!

Much to my dismay, no Moms/Parents/Grandparents/Caretakers of multiples group existed remotely near me. The closest chapter met well over an hour away from here. I felt flooded with disappointment and fear. How was I to survive, on my own, with a husband who worked all day and traveled occasionally, and maintain my sanity as I raised two babies?

When a much calmer head prevailed, I got my wits about me, realized I was a resourceful gal, and decided to start my own. And, I'm here to tell you, it's easier than you think.

First, check out the National Organization of Mothers of Twins Clubs (NOMTC) to ensure there isn't already a group that serves your area, as there are more than 400 groups in the US. If you don't find one, like me, contact NOMTC and indicate you'd like to start a Moms/Parents of multiples club of your own. In a flash, they'll send along all the necessary paperwork, including some helpful literature on exactly how to start your own club.

Now, it's time to find your new members! But, where? I found many parents of twins and multiples at the same places I ventured to daily: the mall, doctor's offices, church, playgrounds, anywhere Moms congregate! Keep a few flyers or cards with you that explain what you're trying to do, and get the word out! Before long, emails and calls will pour in as interest sparks with other parents. Who knows, you may have to turn people away!

The bottom line is, having an extra support system, especially with fellow parents in the trenches with you, can only help. Who knows, you could meet some new friends or even find yourself with an evening out! Good luck and happy clubbing!

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