8 Surefire Ways to Drive Your Childless Friends Insane

Even as a mom, this one drives me nuts. Times it's OK to use the word "we" in reference to yourself and your child/children:

• "We went out to dinner at that new Italian place."
• "My parents said we should come visit them for the holidays."
• "We spent four hours in the car yesterday."

Times it's really not OK to use "we" in reference to yourself and your children:

• "We're finally potty training!"
• "We're super into Thomas the Tank Engine these days."
• "We would love to join you, but we tend to get fussy around 4 o'clock.

Got it?

We're willing to bet that thanks to social media, your friends already know what your kids look like — no matter how frequently or infrequently you see them in person. So if you're getting together for coffee, lunch, whatever, don't turn it into a viewing party.

No "ouchies," no "sippies," no "milky." Just no.

If the third date that she just went on is what's on her mind, give her a chance to talk about it. The fact that motherhood has become the focal point of your life doesn't lessen the importance of what your friend has going on. Be a great listener, give advice if she's asking for it, and always be supportive.

Current events? Clueless! Seen any good movies lately? Who has the time!? Don't isolate yourself in mommy mode. Be prepared to be part of a multidimensional conversation, not one that's all about bedtime and the carpool line. (Added bonus: you'll probably really enjoy it!)