To My Friends with Kids: I Owe You an Apology

Adult human female anatomy diagram chartAt home insemination

Hey there! I hope you’re doing great.

I just wanted to reach out and apologize for my absence since you became a parent. It felt overwhelming, and I didn’t want to intrude. Honestly, I didn’t have much interest in your little ones back then, but now that I have a child of my own, my perspective has shifted. My self-interest has definitely made me a better friend. Let’s reconnect soon!

I regret not being around to witness your child’s journey. Socializing before sunset seemed like a chore, and I couldn’t wrap my head around the whole “bedtime” concept—it felt like a marketing ploy from some mattress company!

Remember how I’d bolt when your kid started crying? I’ve matured since then. Now, I actually empathize and want to learn from your experiences. Oh, your daughter thinks her lukewarm macaroni and cheese is too hot? That’s totally a relatable struggle; let’s crack open some Capri Suns and chat about our coping strategies.

I realize now that my disapproving look when you shared your toddler’s cute nickname for Grandma was uncalled for. We’re still figuring out what my daughter should call my mother-in-law, so this time, I’m all ears. You go with MeeMee for one and Nonna for the other? That’s absolutely adorable—please tell me more! Speaking of milestones, when did your kid say her first word? Mine is just busy choking on her fingers—should I be worried?

As friends, we’ve navigated some interesting waters together, perhaps not taking everything too seriously. We shared laughs about overly ambitious co-workers or quirky professors, but I’ve realized those moments were trivial compared to the seriousness with which many parents approach parenting. They schedule everything, even the time to craft schedules!

I’m in need of guidance now more than ever as I navigate this all-natural, BPA-free, family-friendly world. I could definitely use someone to roll their eyes with me the first time an adult asks me to sit “criss-cross applesauce,” and I hope you’re that person.

I’ve taken on the role of a stay-at-home dad, and with Jenny heading back to work this week, I’m feeling a little anxious about being alone with the baby. She looks at me like I should be doing something more—could it be Legos or something else entirely?

How about grabbing a bite to eat? We can choose anywhere you like, as long as there’s a baby changing station in the restroom. Lunch spots are way less crowded on Tuesdays at 10 AM, after all!

What are your plans this summer? Let’s stroll around a pond or find a shady spot in a parking lot until my baby calms down. That’s my go-to plan, with or without you. Not to brag, but my local library just got a Keurig, so if you’re looking for affordable coffee, I’m your guy! Or we could visit a petting zoo and poke fun at the sheep. I’m open to anything.

I know it’s been a while since we last chatted, but I promise there won’t be any awkward pauses in our conversation. I could easily fill an entire meal just discussing butt creams. Who decided on the color for Boudreaux’s butt paste? And what’s up with that other brand being so watery? The last thing our kids need is another runny mess, right? Look at that—we already have an inside joke!

I’ve come to realize my past mistakes and vow to be a better friend, at least until your kids hit their teenage years. Those years are a whole different ballgame!

If you’re looking for more parenting insights, check out this great resource on family planning. And for further reading, you may find this post on home insemination interesting.

In summary, let’s reconnect and navigate this parenting journey together. I’m eager to hear all about your experiences and share mine too!