In the town of Oceanside, I have watched a group of about 12 young/new mothers, with their new precious gifts tucked snugly in their strollers. They meet early in the morning just below my fifth-floor veranda when I am having my morning coffee. I come to Oceanside often and have watched them meet and take off down the back street at a good clip. Every time I see them, I think what a wonder routine that is. It isn’t very often I encounter anything that has no downside to it.

Everything about the group is positive. The new mothers need the exercise to get their normal non-pregnant body back in shape. The baby gets used to a moving environment around them. They will adapt to life more easily and not be frightened by it. The community has healthier mothers and children as residents.

The social comradery is also of great importance for the mothers. A new mother stuck at home, especially now with our lock down, has good reason to get depressed. It is a time that she needs her friends around her for support.

I smile as I watch them trotting down the street. I’m not too sure why, but I get a very warm feeling around my heart as I watch them. The babies are very fortunate to have mothers that are so committed to good health. Not only for themselves, but so they will live long and healthy lives to take care of them.

I said there was no downside. It depends on who you are, I guess. I feel a little sorry for the husbands that get up in the morning and have to make their own coffee, because momma is walking the baby. It’s OK though. Men are tough, they can handle it.