Every Wednesday morning, bright-eyed toddlers and their watchful mothers roll in casually to the Link.

Soon the gym is ringing with the sound of bouncing balls, tipping tricycles and happy laughter.

"It's just really nice to hang out," said Jamie Purcell, organizer of the Mama Meet Up and mother of a 16-month-old girl. "Everyone is responsible for themselves, and it's just sort of a free form, organized drop-in."

Mothers like Purcell come to Mama Meet Up to find support. They bring toys and snacks, grab a cup of coffee and watch their little ones play while swapping stories and lending advice.

The meet-up started when a small group of mothers introduced themselves at a library storytime. They organized a get-together at the mall play area once a week, and in May they were able to move the operation to the Link facility at 353 W. A St.

"Parenthood and staying at home is really isolating," she said. "It's hard to meet the needs of stay at home parents. But here it's neutral territory, and everyone's here for the same reason."

Purcell and her daughter frequent the mall, the public library, the Nicolaysen and, in nice weather, parks and swimming pools. But she hopes that the Mama Meet Up will grow to become a "Mama Mecca," where parents and young children can form a special community.

Over the last two months, their community has grown and even a few dedicated dads have been added to the ranks.

Dan Callahan and his 2-year-old son, William, started coming to the meet-up two weeks ago after reading about it in the paper. He said the best part about the weekly get-together is simply the chance for William to interact with other kids.

"He's an only child, and there are no other kids in our neighborhood," Callahan said. "He's going to start preschool in September, and he has to get used to other kids."

Callahan owns his own home inspection business, which he runs from home. He said it's easy to work and raise his child because of the flexibility of his job. Callahan's wife works as manager at the University of Wyoming outreach office.

When asked what it's like to be with so many mothers, he laughed and said, "It's been a little different. But it's worked for two weeks, and they haven't tortured me too bad yet."

Purcell said the Mama Meet Up will continue to meet every Wednesday morning from 10 a.m to noon. They also meet at Washington Park on Mondays at 1 p.m.

Reach Riane Menardi at (307) 258-2869 or riane.menardi@trib.com

For more info

Contact Jamie Purcell at (307) 234-6056