When I say I'm going away with my Mother’s Group, people look at me a little strange. No, I haven’t popped out a baby recently. And yes, after 21 years we still have a special bond that I’m sure will endure to our wrinkly years.

It was March 1994. We met at the baby clinic’s six-week baby/parent course. The rest, as they say, is history. We all come from different walks of life and varying ages. Leesa, the baby of the group, was 23, and Carole the “senior mum” was 30+. However, the most unique thing about this group is that we didn’t choose each other. We all shared the common bond of a new little baby bundle – and the pros and cons that came with it (most of which we had no idea about at the time!).

Over the years, we’ve celebrated many milestones and endured some sad times. Our bond has grown and the support we have for each other is immeasurable. Between the eight mums, we’ve given birth to a gaggle of 22 babies, including Carole’s Jeremy who, sadly, was stillborn. Adele has moved overseas and Kate has moved on, so our core group is now six, and ever stronger.

The mums and I celebrate our own birthdays with a catch-up dinner and, of course, an annual getaway. This year is Mornington Peninsula, to road-test some Girls Getaways options. I can hardly wait to share with you the results. I’m sure much pampering, giggling and champagne will endure.

Although most of the kids and dads didn’t necessarily retain the close friendships like us mums, we do have a family bond with one family – they’re like cousins to my children. Many holidays and celebrations have been shared.

I am truly blessed and eternally grateful to have these beautiful women in my life. Much love to Carole, Kim, Leesa, Margaret and Michelle.

Jen x