DEAR HARRIETTE: I am the first of my longtime friends to be a mother, and I am having difficulty making new friends who understand motherhood while keeping up with the old ones. I've kept the same friends for over a decade, and we've always reminisced on college (or even high school) together; we love partying and being silly. In the past few years, I really feel as though I've grown up. My professional life has gotten to where I want it to be, I got married and I gave birth just a few months ago. Some of my friends are engaged, but for the most part, they claim they are enjoying their youth. I realize that my friends have no idea what I am going through, working and being a first-time parent AND making sure my husband and I carve out some time for ourselves. I am trying to make some new friends who are mothers, but I feel like I'm betraying my old friends. I still want to see my old friends and have a good time, but I am torn because I have no way to talk about my life with people who understand. What should I do? -- Stuck in the Middle, Seattle
DEAR STUCK IN THE MIDDLE: Transitioning into this new station in life is naturally challenging. And you are doing the right thing by looking to connect with young married mothers who will have some sense of your daily life. This is important for your well-being. What's also wise is for you to understand who to talk to about what. Your friends from high school and college are not yet capable of talking to you about motherhood. Don't try to force that conversation with them, but you don't have to dump them, either. You will likely spend less time with them as you nurture your family. Do yourself a favor and stop feeling guilty. Do what you must to thrive, which includes expanding your friend pool.