People notice a baby
Carrying a baby around transformed many of my public interactions. I didn't expect the power of this effect. Many people do a double take, smile, or tug at their friend’s or significant other’s sleeve and point. People notice you on the street when they never would have otherwise.
I’ve even had a number of older ladies or moms say something like, “oh what a cute baby!” and start talking to me like they’ve known me for years. They’ve told me what their kids were like and asked questions about my parenting experience.
It was a bit weird at first to have strangers come up to you and strike up conversations about something that feels like your personal life. Now, I welcome it. It’s nice to share a small connection with someone, even a total stranger, about such a meaningful part of life.