How do you navigate being the poorest one in your friendship group

[Coolbreezee]

Single mum, DD is 9 months. Went through a lot whilst pregnant, escaped a horrible situation and relocated (I moved into my dad's spare room!). I now live in a very expensive area that I would NEVER have been able to afford. I count my blessings every day as it's a wonderful place to bring up a baby. I am starting to feel settled and am making friends (I am finding my feet again and am the happiest I've been in years). One thing that has started to play on my mind though, ...I guess it's just figuring out how best to navigate it.

My mum circled is made up of neurosurgeons, high flying lawyers etc. (in other words really successful and inspiring women!). Last week I was secretly grateful that a couple didn't turn up our baby class because I really couldn't afford to go out for another coffee! I love have mum friends and being part of the group but I just don't know if I can keep up. I've been invited to 4 birthday parties (£10 birthday present each and that is less than the others would spend but almost my weekly food shop) and a couple of other ticketed events. On the one hand I don't want DD to miss out and also I enjoy being part of the group. What would you do to make sure this doesn't become a problem?

You shouldn't have to lie, but if it makes you feel more comfortable you could say you're on a cleanse and ask for a glass of tap water? I have plenty of very well off friends that are often doing cleanses/fasts etc.

At that age the social side is more for you than for your baby. I only have contact with one of the mums from our baby class.

I made more effort when DD was in nursery and turned 2/3 as they then start to navigate to a more smaller circle of children to play along side.

It's more difficult in winter as it's easier to go to a cafe but I spent lots of times in the park/playground with a water bottle and some homemade cookies to keep costs down when DD was a bit older.

Maybe only go for 50% of the invites, it is actually exhausting to be too socially, especially if you are a single mum and may want just to sit down in your pjs when your baby is in bed.