This week we decided to venture out to a local baby group. Before I had Izzy I often said that I did not want to force friendships just because I had a baby. Why should I make friends with other mothers just because we have children in common? I have friendships of many years' standing, surely having a baby will work around those?

I have to admit now that my view was purely selfish and also not very good for baby.

So on Thursday, after making many excuses of why I shouldn't go - it's too windy out, I shouldn't take baby out in the cold, there is plenty of stuff to do at home etc - I was encouraged by two friends via Facebook messages to get out there.

When I got there I felt a bit lost. Izzy was asleep and there was only one other mum there. The group gradually filled out with about 10-15 other mums and their little ones. Baby massage and singalong was on offer and I accepted any help offered.

It soon became clear that I had to let go of Izzy and lay her down among other babies and socialise myself. This was difficult at first, I've been talking baby talk most days and the only social interaction I've been getting is with hubby and my sister. That is often laced with tired babble on my part.

By the end of the group Izzy got restless but I think it did me a world of good. I managed to speak to other mums about their birth experiences and with Izzy being one of the youngest find out what I can expect next. It also encouraged me to put Izzy down to socialise and in turn offer her a sense of independence amongst children of her own age.

So all you new mums, come interact with us! It's scary at first but resocialisation is good for your sanity.