Having a baby is such a life changing experience. It is love at first sight, and nothing is ever the same. For me, it was a tough transition at first. So many of our friends are single, or married with no children. They were all still going to happy hours, concerts, and other fun things - while I was home taking care of Henry. It really was hard because I wanted to get out of the house and relax every once in a while, but I also didn't want to leave Henry - I hate missing his bedtime routine and kissing him goodnight. I just felt so torn. Lately it is easier. I would rather be with Henry than anything else. He is 6 months old and is so fun to hang out with.
Last weekend we had a backyard cookout. It was Henry's 6 month birthday and we wanted to make an effort to see our friends. We made a bunch of food - I thought that it ended up being a great time. But it did bring me to one realization: now that we have a child, I feel like we really don't have that much in common with those friends anymore. It makes me sad, but I think it is true. Is it time to move to the suburbs and make friends with all of the soccer moms out there? I wish that our single and childless friends were more understanding about the way our lives have changed since Henry arrived. He is our priority now. He will always come first. They will never really understand that until they have children of their own...
I can relate to this post in so many ways... it is so true and very honest. It is hard to maintain friendships after big changes (especially kids), but it is great that you make an effort to stay in touch. You don't have to move to the suburbs, but it helps to find other mommies who have common interests. Keeping a strong social life and staying friends after kids is a learned talent... when you figure out how to do this, share your secret! We all want to know how to make it happen. :)
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