Group gives moms break, social time

Tiki Bell spends her days chasing her five children. Once a month her routine changes when she joins others with Bonners Ferry Moms of Preschoolers group.

“It gives me a break to be with other moms and really to be with adults,” said Bell, whose children range from 7 months to 15 years old. “A lot of times, when you are home with your babies, it is an awesome time, but it is great to have some adult conversation.”

The group is for mothers with children up to 5 years old. It meets once a month during the school year to discuss issues.

“It’s helpful to be able to relate with other moms that are going through the same problems,” said Bell, a single mom who’s been a member on and off for 10 years.

Lisa Noble, a mother of two and the group coordinator, enjoys MOPs for social reasons as well.

“It’s my opportunity to get some much needed mom time,” said Noble, who has been involved with the group for seven years. “It’s a chance to have conversations with other women I can relate to.”

The group hosts monthly speakers.

“I try to find something that is pertinent for our group,” said Noble.

Speakers range from marriage counselors to master gardeners.

Bonners Ferry MOPS group is a branch of the Sandpoint MOPS group. Members can bring their children, who are watched by home-schooled teenagers.

“We are a ministry,” said Noble. “Our goal is meet every mothers’ need to the glory of Jesus Christ.”

MOPS is hosted by Bonners Ferry Lutheran Church and sponsored by First Christian Church in Sandpoint.

“It is for any mom, in any stage of life,” said Bell. This includes moms that home school, teenage moms and single mothers.

“We only meet during the school year,” said Noble. “We try to continue our friendships through play dates throughout the summer.”

For more information about MOPS, call Noble at 267-1964.