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How to Start a Movie Club for Moms: A Scientific Perspective

by Amy Mumper

May 17, 2009

Hypothesis

Moms can and should have time for themselves.  One way to do this is to gather many mom friends and start a Movie Club.

Observation

While selling all my baby toys in a yard sale this weekend, I remembered  how amazing those early days were.  And so confusing.  And scary.  And so long ago.  My priorities rearranged before my eyes.  But, I did hold onto my "old self" by one tiny thread called Movie Club.  As I gave my bassinet away at the very end of the day, I hoped for each of the moms I'd sold to that they, too, could hold onto a little part of themselves. 

Hopefully, they'll be blessed as I was to have one friend who said, "If I start a movie club, would you come?"

Then they'll say "Halleluiah, yes I will!" as I did... when my first child was just two weeks old.

I recall pumping my breasts with a hand pump in between the movie (Gosford Park) and dinner (LaRosa's).  But, by golly, I did it.  I'm still meeting with friends to go to the movies.  Thank you God, for them.  Thank you God for broadening my horizons and expanding my perspective through my interaction with them.

Those are my observations.

Procedure

To prove the hypothesis that "Moms can and should have time for themselves", you must proceed as my friend did and adhere to the following scientific guidelines:

• 1. Find interested parties with various perspectives on the world. No more than 6.
• 2. Said interested parties should be comfortable discussing their own viewpoints while being open minded enough to hear from others.
• 3. Establish a firm time once a month to meet to see movies and have dinner afterwards to discuss the movie.
• 4. Purchase a journal to record each moviegoer's summary of their reaction to the movie.
• 5. Come to consensus on a rating system for movies.
• 6. In the fall, listen for Oscar buzz about movies and try to see them, even if they sound dumb.
• 7. Hold vigil for the Oscar nominations (usually late January)
• 8. Nominate one member of The Movie Club to host the Oscar party -and wear those old bridesmaid dresses you never thought you'd wear again- to the host's house on Oscar Night.

Analysis

After evaluating The Movie Club system for over seven years, I am pleased with my very scientific results that all involved have been fulfilled and exercised a part of their brains that may have otherwise rotted.

Women involved in The Movie Club look forward to meeting each month.  All women come away with food for thought on real, current events that challenge their world view.

Evaluation

Yes, women can have time for themselves.  Yes, women should have time for themselves.  The Movie Club is a proven scientific tool with which to accomplish this goal.

Conclusion

Start one today.

"Holiday events around" town OR "Be Creative"

by Amy Mumper

December 09, 2008

Yesterday, we took a look at books, toys and activities to help you celebrate Hanukkah . Today, we look at a few more opportunities around town. From the free to the more expensive to flat-out creative, we take a look: You know what? Forget the 'good writing form' - allow me to begin with the flat-out creative: "With the economy..." how many times have you heard  Read more...