Mothering is a 24/7 job. In addition to the “on call” nature of motherhood, many women pull double-duty with a career of their own, all the while keeping up with household chores, social calendars and family gathering.
In honor of those who do it all, a group of island ladies is diligently organizing Oak Harbor’s first-ever Mom’s Nite Out, in conjunction with hundred of other events across the nation that will take place Thursday, May 6.
Oak Harbor’s National Mom’s Nite Out will take place in Hayes Hall at Skagit Valley College from 5 to 8:30 p.m. and will feature women entrepreneurs, nonprofit organizations, 10-minute “info bite” sessions, door prizes and raffles. The event aims to get worn-out moms out of the house for a fun reprieve, practical education and socialization.
The “info-bite” schedule is available online at www.familytimeandmoney.com. Outlines of each presentation will be posted on the site following the event for those who can’t make the celebration.
More than a dozen exhibitors will offer a wide range of topics from health and wellness to beauty and fashion, said organizer Amy Hannold.
Unwind with a free five-minute chair massage, learn a few exercise tips from Thrive Community Fitness, create crafty and creative projects with Stampin’ Up, savor the end product from food and cooking demonstrations, and catch up on spring’s latest fashions as local women strut new styles from Maurices clothing store.
The brainchild of Maria Bailey, internationally known mom expert and author of “The Ultimate Mom,” this nation-wide celebration of motherhood began in 2009. In one year’s time, the movement expects to “unite over 150 social media groups, companies, local playgroups, mommy bloggers and mother social networks in giving moms a well-deserved night off,” according to the event’s official Web site, www.momsniteout.com.
In place of admission to the Oak Harbor event on May 6, guests are asked to give a donation of canned food or toiletry-type essentials such as toothpaste, soap, diapers, tissues, etc. The items will go to the North Whidbey Help House, Pregnancy Care Clinic and Helping Hands to support Oak Harbor families.
Exhibit and booth space may still be available. For more information or to volunteer, call Amy Hannold, 675-2338 or visit www.familytimeandmoney.com.
