It’s often said that everything shifts when you step into parenthood. Before having kids, I heard the warnings, but I never fully grasped the extent of the transformation. Every aspect of my life—my hair, wardrobe, living space, dining habits, and even bathroom breaks—has drastically changed. It’s like I have two lives: BK (before kids) and AK (after kids).
- Bathroom Breaks
In my pre-kid life, using the bathroom was a peaceful moment of solitude. Now, it’s a chaotic scene where a little one clings to my legs, demanding my attention. - Nights Out and Drinks
Previously, three drinks were just the right amount for a fun night out. Now, if I venture out, I limit myself to one drink, or else I face a sleepless night and the dreaded morning-after headache. - Brunch Timing
Brunch used to commence at 11 a.m. Now, lunch often kicks off at that hour, a necessity when kids are involved. - Sleep Schedules
Before kids, I reveled in my late weekend sleep-ins. Now, weekends are indistinguishable from weekdays, with early wake-up calls and no reprieve since school isn’t in session. - Dining Decisions
Dining out was once about craving specific cuisines. Now, it’s all about finding a kid-friendly restaurant with a children’s menu and early hours. - Eating Habits
In my child-free days, I savored my meals, enjoying hot food at my own pace. Now, I grab bites whenever I can, often finishing my older child’s leftovers in a hurry. - Romantic Gestures
Wine and candlelit dinners defined romance before kids. Now, doing the dishes for my partner feels like the ultimate romantic gesture. - Socializing at Parties
Birthday bashes were once an excuse for adult fun. Now, they primarily involve mingling with my child’s friends’ parents—kiddie parties have become my social life. - Body Confidence
My pre-kid era meant rarely exposing myself in public. Now, my body has become a shared experience, and I’ve become accustomed to nursing in public (with a cover, of course). - Night Out Timing
Once, I’d only head out after 9 p.m. Now, I’m usually tucked in bed by that hour, after a long day of parenting. - Hair Color Choices
I used to dye my hair for fun. Now, it’s all about covering those grays that have appeared post-kids. - Hair Style Preferences
I used to ask my stylist for trendy cuts. Now, I simply request enough length to tie it back into a ponytail. - Wardrobe Changes
My clothing sizes used to range from slim to normal to oversized. Now, they reflect my current state: regular (my old larger clothes), maternity transition, and maternity. The elastic waistband has become my best friend. - Housing Decisions
I once chose my living space based on nearby nightlife. Now, my priorities center around school districts for my kids. - Home Decor
My apartment was once filled with travel souvenirs and art. Now, it’s dominated by toys, kids’ drawings, and the occasional dinosaur figurine. - Bulk Shopping
Before kids, bulk buying wasn’t necessary. Now, essentials like paper towels and cheese sticks are staples in my household, and I have a constant order in my Fresh Direct cart. - Neighborhood Parties
I used to join my neighbors’ late-night gatherings. Now, a raucous party next door prompts me to call the authorities. - Sickness and Parenting
Being ill was once a chance to relax. Now, when I’m sick, I still have to juggle caring for the kids and managing daily tasks, even when I feel awful. I wrote this while unknowingly battling Strep throat, all while cooking dinner and running errands because there are no days off for moms.
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In summary, life after kids is a whirlwind of changes that redefine everyday activities, relationships, and personal time. Embracing these changes can lead to a fulfilling, albeit chaotic, journey of parenthood.