To be really honest with my friend about childcare

[mincepiewithbrandy]

I'm probably going to get flamed for this but here goes!!
My friend has recently fallen out with her friend who provides a LOT of childcare for her. They are no longer speaking.
She has a cycling hobby (that she sees as a necessity) that involves being out at least twice a day for an hour or two, she pops out when her DH gets home and asks whoever she can for help to watch her DD when she goes a second time.

I'm seeing her in a couple of weeks and I know she's going to ask me to help as I've just handed my notice to be a SAHM and she's recently moved to a 5 minute drive away from us.

She's hinted many times before and I've previously breezed past it but I don't think I'll be so lucky this time!!
The thing is I don't mind if it's an emergency type situation- I would definitely be there for anyone in a situation like that, BUT I don't want to be tied down looking after someone else's child on a regular basis. If I say yes to one day occasionally, she's a lovely CF sometimes!
Thing is I don't know what to say?
I don't have any reason other than, I don't want to.
Part of the reason for me handing my notice is my previous pregnancy was hard and complicated and as we're ttc, I don't want to put myself under any pressure. Thanks in advance!

Ha ha Kitty!!! I’d love to say that..Not sure that would go down too well!

I definitely think there’s more to it than just a hobby but who am I to comment really. Her DD is 10 months old.

@paxillin Thank you, you’ve hit the nail on the head there!! Definitely no room for movement of my DD will be affected by a grown adults unreasonable leisure requirements.

Thanks again all- wish me luck! I’ll update if there’s any further repercussions!!!

Don't mention you'll help out in emergencies - as some CF just hear that as a yes or have an emergency every week.

Just say no - that won't work.

If she has an emergency she can ask then.

i said
oh god no. i barely tolerate my own kids i cant stand other peoples

I actually think this is genius and needs to be quoted on every CF childcare thread form now on

I'd love to know if she asked!

I've never wanted Monday to come quickly enough!