Before entering the world of parenthood, I held certain beliefs about children that were, in hindsight, quite naive. I imagined kids were merely an extension of my lifestyle—like adding a decorative plant to my home—believing they would seamlessly adapt to my existing routine. However, once I became a parent, my perspective shifted dramatically. My plants didn’t survive the chaos of daily life, and neither did my previous assumptions. Here are ten things I once said to my friends with children, along with insights I’ve gained since becoming a parent myself.
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Why don’t you answer the phone?
I’ve come to realize that as soon as I pick up the phone, my children appear from nowhere, demanding my attention with myriad needs. If I set the phone down, they vanish like magic, only to reemerge when I attempt another call. -
Can’t you just bring her along?
Sure, if you don’t mind witnessing a lengthy process of unloading, unpacking, and managing a toddler meltdown over nap time, only to pack up and leave shortly after arriving. Or you could enjoy a delightful hour of me chasing my child around while trying to have a conversation. -
Why don’t you visit anymore?
It’s simply more manageable to remain in my home—my refuge, my comfort zone. My sanity depends on sticking to a schedule, and even a minor disruption can send my day into disarray. -
Can’t you just hire a babysitter?
As if I can just grab one off the shelf at a store! Finding a sitter for three kids is a challenge, and finding one who can outsmart them is even harder. -
You’ve changed so much!
Let’s just say I’ve developed a unique bond with my circumstances, often referred to as Stockholm syndrome. -
Why don’t we hang out as we used to?
Because the kids have taken over my social life, and they aren’t keen on sharing. -
What’s so difficult about parenting?
Parenting can feel like multitasking on a whole new level. Try keeping a child entertained while managing snacks, diapers, and phone calls—all while negotiating with a tiny human who’s sprinting after the cat. -
Can I come over while the kids nap?
No, because 90% of my parenting experience is spent dreaming of some alone time. -
Why is 7 p.m. too late for outings?
7 p.m. is when my household transitions into bedtime routines, which is my moment of peace. I prefer to enjoy my quiet time at home rather than out at a bar or restaurant. -
Call me back in 10 minutes?
If “10 minutes” translates to an undetermined time frame of 5 to 12 weeks, then sure! It depends on how close it is to bedtime and whether my kids hear the phone ring.
To all my friends with kids, I sincerely apologize for my ignorance. And to my friends without children, hopefully, my responses clarify a few things. As for your houseplants—don’t forget to water them! I’ll connect with you in “10 minutes.”
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In summary, parenting is a complex, often chaotic experience that reshapes one’s perspective on life. What I once thought were simple questions now reveal the intricacies of managing family life and the reality of adapting to new challenges.
Keyphrase: parenting challenges
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