Sadly, I hear stories and complaints from moms who lost friends without kids once they themselves became a mother. Whether for lack of understanding or time constraints, friendships definitely take a toll when kids enter the picture. I wanted to write this letter for those friends who have stuck by our sides and treat our kids like family. Friendships CAN last through motherhood, even if both women aren’t mothers.
Here’s proof!
Dear friend,
You’ve been a part of my life for years. I have very few “big moment” memories that don’t include you as the first person I called or texted to tell all the juicy details. From high school heartbreaks, standing next to me when I said, “I do,” to now loving on my kids with each visit, we’ve walked alongside each other through it all.
You don’t yet have kids of your own. That never crossed my mind as being an “issue” until I brought my daughter into my life and heard story after story about how moms lost their friends who didn’t have kids.
But that’s not you, and I’m grateful.
You could have run away when I barely had time to hang out or lacked brain function to make any decent conversation. You could have left when my texts back to you came hours later or only during naptime. You could have even complained about the fact I was no longer that great friend you used to have because my attention (when I wasn’t completely exhausted) was always on my family.
But, instead, you loved me through it, you celebrated as my family grew, and you’ve included my kids during our time together. When I send you videos of my day’s crazy antics — dance parties or funny faces — you tell me how much seeing my children make your day, and sometimes request videos on the hard days! When we would visit, you made sure you had entertainment for my kiddos, whether it be coloring crayons or new books for them to take home (also their FAVORITE book by the way)!
You have gone above and beyond as my friend, and I’m so thankful to not have to feel ashamed of my new identity as “mom” around you. I cannot wait to celebrate with you when you wear the title as well. Know your kids will be incredibly loved (and spoiled) by me as well.
Forever your friend.
Send this to your friend who has been with you on this journey of motherhood. She deserves some recognition! And tell us in the comments what YOUR friends do to support you as a mother!