Gabriela Rivera shares her journey from Panama to Michigan, revealing how she built community as a homeschooling mom and barre instructor without extended family nearby. Her story demonstrates that intentional friendship-building requires the same strategic approach many apply to business development.

• Originally from Panama where both parents typically work, Gabriela discovered the possibility of staying home with children in America
• Became exposed to homeschooling through a church family during college, drawn to the freedom and creativity it offered
• Teaches bar fitness classes 4-5 hours per week, finding it energizing and community-building rather than draining
• Approaches friendship strategically by setting goals: going to a park to meet one mom, getting a phone number, following up
• Avoids small talk by asking deeper questions that quickly reveal whether meaningful connection is possible
• Seeks three types of relationships: younger moms to mentor, peers in the same life stage, and older women who offer wisdom
• Delivered her first baby during the pandemic when family couldn't travel to support her
• Recommends the book "Breath as Prayer" for new moms dealing with anxiety

If you've ever felt lonely in motherhood, take the first step to build your village. Don't wait for someone to invite you – be the one who reaches out, sets the date, and pursues your people. Your community is out there, it just takes time and intentionality.

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