I used to think I was an introvert. I guess I still am, in that I like parties but I also like to leave after an hour or two, or at least have several really long bathroom breaks so I can get some quiet, alone time. And I’m quite content to have an evening to myself to just think, or read, or write; before the Captain was born, I wasn’t working and going to the movies by myself became a common and pleasurable occurrence.

Lately I’ve been noticing, however, that being around other adults is actually fun and, surprisingly, rejuvenating. A couple of weeks ago, I was super tired at the end of the day, but I hadn’t been out of the house in 72 hours, so I dragged my butt to writer’s group even though it was the last thing I wanted to do. And even though it was a sort of working meeting, not exactly a social encounter, I felt awesome afterwards — really energetic and happy.

This morning, my friend Andrea came over with her two young sons for a play date, and we chatted for almost two hours while our kids played happily together, and I’m amazed at how awesome I feel. Usually around lunchtime I’m ready to call it quits for the day — I barely have enough energy to get Gal Smiley into bed for a nap before I collapse on the couch, drooling into a pillow while the Captain watches a video and helps himself to cupcakes on the counter. But today, I feel kind of Wonder Womanish — pumped up and enthusiastic and ready to actually play with my children. It’s amazing! I can only assume that I feel great due to the lengthy adult conversation and social interaction.

Who knew having friends could be this much fun?