Before experiencing parenthood firsthand, many individuals might have found themselves scoffing at friends who frequently canceled plans citing reasons like, “the babysitter canceled,” or colleagues who couldn’t participate in office gatherings due to their baby keeping them up all night. However, now that you have a little one, you understand that sitters do indeed cancel, and a sleepless infant is a valid reason to skip those social obligations. The fatigue of parenting can be overwhelming, leading to scenarios where you might unwittingly use your baby’s needs as an excuse to opt-out of certain activities. Below are seven occasions where I’ve definitely taken a step back, utilizing my baby as a reason to abstain.
1. Brunch
While some people relish the idea of brunch, I am not one of them. I prefer to enjoy multiple meals throughout the day without enduring long waits at popular eateries. When I discovered that brunch times coincided with my infant’s morning nap, I felt a sense of relief. Although friends might not accept “not a fan” as a sufficient reason, no one can dispute the importance of a baby’s nap schedule. Brunch plans canceled!
2. Sleepover Bachelorette Parties
Bachelorette parties can be a lot of fun—at least for the initial hours. However, the chaotic return to the shared hotel room often leads to regrettable moments. My baby nursed for an extended period, making it essential for me to be present for both evening and morning feedings. This provided me with a perfect excuse to leave the party early, allowing me to return to the comfort of my own bed.
3. Extended Family Visits
Having a new baby often brings out long-distant relatives eager to visit. While these gatherings can be delightful, they sometimes drag on longer than anticipated. When my son struggled to nap, I admittedly used his crankiness as an excuse to leave early on several occasions. When that wasn’t possible, I’d take advantage of the situation and sneak off for a nap myself.
4. Maintaining a Tidy Home
Before heading to the hospital for delivery, I wish I had taken a moment to appreciate the cleanliness of my home; it has never returned to that state since. Thankfully, friends and family have been understanding. Whenever visitors express concern about the dishes piling up or the laundry overflowing, I simply point to the baby and carry on with my day.
5. Destination Weddings
Destination weddings can be enjoyable but often come with significant costs and logistical challenges, especially with a baby in tow. Although my child is generally a good traveler, flying can be tricky, which has led us to decline such invitations. We’ve made it clear that traveling with an infant can be quite the ordeal.
6. Endless Conversations
We’ve all been trapped in lengthy conversations, whether it’s a well-meaning relative or a young family member showcasing their latest talents. Pre-parenthood, I would endure these chats in full. Now, however, I often use my child as a reason to end the conversation, especially if they happen to be engaging in questionable behavior, like trying to eat the dog’s food.
7. Unwanted Commitments
While I typically avoid overcommitting, there are times I’ve agreed to plans that I later dread. Cancelling at the last minute is generally frowned upon, but a timely call explaining my inability to secure childcare feels acceptable. Occasionally, opting for a cozy evening at home with sweatpants and pizza is simply too tempting.
While babies are undeniably charming and cuddly, they can also serve as a convenient excuse to bypass various obligations. Embrace the opportunity wisely! For more insights into family planning and home insemination, check out our blog post here. Additionally, for those exploring fertility options, Make a Mom offers valuable resources. If you’re interested in comprehensive information about pregnancy, visit this excellent resource on IVF.
Summary:
This article humorously explores the various ways new parents can use their babies as valid excuses to avoid social obligations and responsibilities. From brunch to extended family visits, the challenges of parenting often provide a legitimate reason to opt-out of certain activities. Embracing these moments can make the parenting journey more manageable while still allowing for bonding time with the little one.