Every week, I envision Friday night as the perfect opportunity to catch up on chores. In my mind, my partner will prepare dinner while I tackle the laundry mountain, and we’ll have some peaceful moments to tidy up while the kids play nicely.
But in reality? We usually wind up ordering takeout, and I’m left attempting to sort through a chaotic pile of laundry while my kids run amok, shouting and perfecting their wrestling moves on one another.
Friday nights before parenthood were a different story. My partner and I would dress up, head out to our favorite spots, and stay out late, dancing the night away without a care in the world. Somehow, we’d wake up the next day feeling refreshed, not hungover.
Once children enter the picture, Friday nights transform dramatically. Here’s how:
Our Wardrobe Has Shifted
Gone are the sophisticated dresses and polished shoes. Instead, we’re in our “laundry attire,” which consists of whatever is left clean after a week of spills and messes. You’ll find us in stained shirts and well-worn yoga pants, completely unbothered by our appearance. And yes, braless is the new norm.
Staying In Is the New Going Out
Heading out becomes a challenge when you have little ones who can’t sit still. Restaurants are more hassle than they’re worth; you spend most of the meal reminding your kids to sit down while they create a mess that requires a hefty tip for the cleanup.
Our Dinner Choices Are Limited
After a long week, cooking is the last thing on our minds. Delivery options are limited, especially when you’re on a budget and catering to picky eaters. Pizza has become a staple of our Friday night routine, as it’s quick and easy.
Late Nights Feel Like a Distant Memory
Once upon a time, staying out past midnight was a regular occurrence. Now, the thought of being awake past 10 p.m. is exhausting. We used to dance until dawn; now, I hesitate to start a movie if it’s after 9.
Partying Is a Thing of the Past
Not only do we feel perpetually tired, but drinking has consequences we didn’t anticipate. The more I indulge, the more likely I am to be jolted awake by a rambunctious child at dawn.
We’ve Outgrown the Nightclubs
Have you been to one lately? We attempted to visit a nightclub a while back with a sitter lined up, but it was a complete miss. With loud, unruly crowds everywhere, why not just stay home and save the money?
Even when I attempt to arrange family game nights or movie marathons, things rarely go as envisioned. Game nights turn into bickering and requests for screen time, while movie nights are filled with chaos and kids bouncing off the walls. It’s madness, but it’s our wonderful madness, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything.
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In summary, while Friday nights have transformed significantly since the days of carefree outings, the beautiful chaos of family life makes every moment worth it.