I love this one -- and totally relate to a lot of it. I'm unequivocally the first of my local friends to have kids (I have two friends who live far that have kids but that is it!) and feel those friendship shifts deeply -- the 'loosening' of connections (rather than losing) is such a perfect way to put it. I've been ruminating over how to explain how these shifts have taken place, but find it incredible difficult to articulate. I very much see myself in that brief section here!
I also struggled with connecting with other parents but trying to sus out what we have in common besides parenting. I've formed a nice deal of surface level connections with folks, but do find myself longing for the stronger, more connected friendships you describe finding, that go beyond "we live in a similar area with kids of a similar age".
It's so hard to explain, especially as a person of action. I WANT all the loosening friendships to be as integrated as they used to be, and it's hard to explain why they just can't have as much space in this current chapter.
And +1 to connecting w/other parents. I feel like there are so many around me, but only a small amount that I feel a real opportunity with. And just showing up to a meet up with 20 local moms that I know nothing about feels weirdly inauthentic to me. I might be making this too complicated / getting in my own way - I wish it was easier / more natural. haha, I'm crossing my fingers for us!
I love this one -- and totally relate to a lot of it. I'm unequivocally the first of my local friends to have kids (I have two friends who live far that have kids but that is it!) and feel those friendship shifts deeply -- the 'loosening' of connections (rather than losing) is such a perfect way to put it. I've been ruminating over how to explain how these shifts have taken place, but find it incredible difficult to articulate. I very much see myself in that brief section here!
I also struggled with connecting with other parents but trying to sus out what we have in common besides parenting. I've formed a nice deal of surface level connections with folks, but do find myself longing for the stronger, more connected friendships you describe finding, that go beyond "we live in a similar area with kids of a similar age".
It's so hard to explain, especially as a person of action. I WANT all the loosening friendships to be as integrated as they used to be, and it's hard to explain why they just can't have as much space in this current chapter.
And +1 to connecting w/other parents. I feel like there are so many around me, but only a small amount that I feel a real opportunity with. And just showing up to a meet up with 20 local moms that I know nothing about feels weirdly inauthentic to me. I might be making this too complicated / getting in my own way - I wish it was easier / more natural. haha, I'm crossing my fingers for us!