Whether you’re a seasoned mom, a new mom, a mom-to-be or happily childfree, you’re sure to encounter the effects of parenthood on your friendships. Girlfriend-in-Chief Dawn was interviewed recently for an article in today’s Chicago Tribune that explores how to keep friendships strong despite the changes that come when one friend has a baby. You can keep your friendships alive, as long as you’re armed with dedication and understanding. Here’s an excerpt from the article:

3 tips for navigating a complicated friendship:

Take a class together. “Something that is ongoing so you don’t just meet once for coffee,” says GirlfriendCelebrations.com founder Dawn Bertuca. “It’s something you can look forward to and something you’ll continue to develop in common that has nothing to do with whether you have children or not.”

Remember birthdays. Parents often let their own birthdays come and go without fanfare, but friends without kids often still have the time (and disposable income) to toast their big day. Don’t assume your friend has adopted your birthday policy. In either case, your friend will appreciate a card or phone call from his or her pal.

Listen. “It’s important to remember not to talk about your kids all night,” Bertuca says. “On the other hand if you don’t have kids, be patient and let your friend talk about their kids a little bit.”

There’s much more HERE so click on over and read the entire article by Tribune Newspapers Reporter Heidi Stevens.

Read the rest of this entry »

All right, girlfriends, the leadership of America is changing. As our first African-American president takes center stage on January 20th, 2009, the moment will be history in the making. While listening to the inaugural speech, girlfriends all across America will be hoping for a brighter tomorrow. Are you planning on watching our 44th president make American history? Who will you share the moment with?

Happily, we can all take part in this exciting occasion, even if we’re not traveling to Washington or attending a fancy ball. Simply invite the girls over and dream of a better American future with your support network by your side. Powerful moments can be even more poignant when shared. Plus, GirlfriendCelebrations has some quick-and-easy ideas to help you make this historic occasion even more fun. Inauguration Day is on its way and your last-minute party planning should start today! Read the rest of this entry »

Good Sunday morning, girlfriends! The Chicago Tribune today is running this article by Heidi Stevens, titled “No Friend to Turn To,” on the front page of its lifestyle section. As we (and the Trib) reported way back in 2006, Americans say they have fewer close friends today than they did 20 years ago. The Chicago Tribune developed a little quiz (in the article linked above) to help you evaluate the state of your friendships. Check it out! We thought it was particularly interesting that the article says social ties outside your own family are important. So if you’re one to say, “my husband is my best friend,” you are likely missing out some really good stuff–the chance to get healthier and live longer due to friendship. A spouse (or boyfriend) is no substitute for a good girlfriend! 

Read the rest of this entry »