Phone tag.

What mom doesn’t play?

Life is busy and motherhood is busier.

And finding time to chat with our friends seems to get harder and harder to do.

So do we just give up and lose touch?

Hopefully not.

We need each other.

Who else would we talk to about the laundry and the diapers and the fact that we’re running on one hour of sleep? And who else would understand?

Besides, it feels good to talk to a friend, even if it’s just for a few minutes.

So here are some tips to make sure we still do that. They’re nothing earth-shattering or revolutionary. Just some ideas for us girlfriends to stay connected…

1. Don’t wait for the “perfect” time. Sure, if I haven’t talked to a friend in a while, I’d love to wait for “just the right time” to call so we’ll have an hour to catch up. But what if that time never comes? (and usually, it doesn’t) Stop waiting and call anyway. It’s better to say a quick “hi” and “I miss you” than to not talk at all.

2. Use email or social networking tools. I’ve got friends and family who live in different time zones and sometimes when I think to call them, it’s too late or too early. Sending a quick note in email or Facebook, rather than going longer without connecting, lets them know I’m thinking about them.

3. Leave a message. As sad as it sounds, sometimes voicemail may be the only way we can catch each other. Instead of simply saying, “Call me back when you get a chance,” how about leaving some detail? I’m amazed at how many back-and-forth conversations I’ve had, strictly through voicemail. But if it keeps us connected, that’s what counts.

4. Send cards. This may sound old-fashioned, but who doesn’t like to get a card in the mail? The next time you think of someone, write them a quick note and mail it. Keep a box of cards in the closet or pantry to make it easier to do. It can mean a lot to the person on the receiving end.

5. Get together. Recently, a friend and I made plans to meet for coffee. The day before we were supposed to get together, we both had something come up. But instead of cancelling, we decided to meet anyway. It was only for forty-five minutes, and it went by way too fast, but it was enough time for a hug, a few laughs, and a tasty mocha.

Yes, it takes effort to keep relationships strong. But it’s these relationships that make our lives rich. So even if we have to play a little tag in between the naps and homework and carpool and career, let’s keep playing. Because in the end, it’s the friendships that last over the years and the close family ties that we’ll win.