Mum's Lament

I have absolutely loved my transition from single gal to wife and mum. But, one thing I have struggled with is how it has impacted my pre-existing relationships.

Clearly, I have less available time than before. That makes sense! I have two new people that I am committed to investing in. I love spending time with Devin & Cody. However, I struggle with not seeing all of the wonderful people in my life that I used to have time for - coffee, games nights, trivia at MoHo, etc.

I suppose part of the issue is that I moved 45 minutes away from where I used to live. That, alone, causes more scheduling issues than before. It's not as simple as saying "stop by for a coffee after dinner tonight". In addition to that, I wasn't tuned into how consuming parenting can be. After school we are focused on practicing piano, multiplication drills, practicing for spelling tests, memory work and completing an additional reading program to help him where he struggles. If there's time we might play a family game or go for a bike ride.

I love this aspect of my "new" life and wouldn't trade it for the world. But, some days I feel like I'm not living up to my own expectations for my friendships. I feel defeated when I realize whole seasons have passed between seeing a particular friend. Or realizing the last time I saw another friend was when she told me she was pregnant...now she has a new little bundle in her arms.

This is a season. I keep telling myself that. I am savoring the moments I have with Cody because I know one day he will be grown up and moved away and I'll long for the days we practiced the 7 times table! I am blessed beyond measure to have him and Devin in my life. But, sometimes it's good for the soul to let your thoughts flow through your fingertips and express themselves. The conflicted feelings always sort themselves out and I know most of my friends are in the same spot, so they understand.