On date nights, post-baby.

For a lot of people, I think, one big fear during pregnancy is losing who you are or losing your social life once baby comes. I'm not going to lie and say it doesn't change. Because it does change. As time has gone on, though, I would say this change has been for the better for Chris and me.

Before Meredith was born, Chris and I loved going out for dinner or driving around our city. We enjoyed exploring our area, but I wouldn't say we were great at it. We would hop in the car and make plans from there, often starting off in the same direction we always started in. We had a rotation of restaurants at which we'd dine. We were happy with that. I think this was probably rooted in the belief that we could do whatever we wanted, whenever we wanted. This was pretty much true, but that freedom almost made us lazy. We could always try a new place another weekend.

 

Now? Not so much. We are blessed with free grandparent babysitting every other Saturday night. It is truly amazing. But, nights out sans baby are never going to be as frequent as they were pre-baby. As a result, we cherish our time as just the two of us. We take time to plan where we are going to eat and what we want to do. Never have I enjoyed date nights as much.

This past weekend we spent the evening in Harvard Square. We ate at Border Cafe (ok, so we still have some favorite restaurants). Then we did some shopping. Oh, blissful shopping without a baby! After that we got to see some stellar live music.

tim gearan

As I sat listening to the music I just kept thinking how wonderful life post-baby is. Sure I have less alone time. Chris and I can't just go out on our own on a whim, but the time we do have together? We treasure it. Now almost a year later, I think we are better for it. We don't take our dates and outings for granted, but instead suck the marrow out them.