Beautifully written and nicely explored. I really like your style. When children come along friendships can be tough for all involved.

From a different perspective- I am childfree, and when my friends have children I am firstly really happy for them (if that’s what they want) and then if I am honest I feel sad. Sad at my inevitable loss, at our loss. As our friendship change, which I understand. I am more than happy to be flexible and make most of the effort but often my parent friends seek other mum friends as they understand them and they can immerse themselves in their parent world.

Kindred spirits are hard to come by. Friendships need investment, effort, gestures and communication just like a romantic relationship.

Never underestimate your non parents friends, they love you dearly. I truly value the parent friends in my life that have remained. It takes compromise on both parts.