The Anti-Rachel

Having a child has forced me to learn and do a lot of things I was never big on doing. Like changing dirty diapers, foregoing sleep and just generally being forced to be unselfish. There really is not time or energy when you are a parent (a new parent at least) to be selfish.

As Remy grows and becomes more of a little person, with distinct likes, dislikes and a Texas sized personality, we are discovering what makes him tick. With the exception of his apparent love of books and driving Remy is nothing like me. For starters, he is incredibly social. There is not one person he has met who he has disliked. After looking them over and making sure everything is kosher he launches into a babbling conversation, flashes his best smiles and generally tries to win their hearts. When he sets eyes on a child anywhere near his age he immediately walks or crawls as fast as he can to get to them in hopes they will play or interact with him. This is difficult for me because I am naturally shy and tend to avoid eye contact with people that I might know just to avoid an awkward conversation and I most definitely do not start conversations with complete strangers. That is just not me. Since Remy is so social I have been forced to talk to strangers in stores, at church, at the park. Man its a stretch for me!

Perhaps the funniest difference between Remy and I, is that he loves to be outside. Which is pretty typical for a boy I think, but anyone who knows me knows that I don't do outside. I will always pick a book or a movie over going outside and doing some physical activity or sitting in the fickle Minnesota weather (either its too humid to breathe or too cold!). Although this had changed a little since I met Nic, I still tend to gravitate towards the indoors. Remy is distinctly unhappy if we are home and in the house. Not only is he not with people, he is not outside where he can explore, get dirty and run off some energy. So I have learned to sit outside in a not perfectly controlled climate and I have learned to really like some outdoor activities, like biking as a family or going to the park and playing on the slide and swings with Remy.
I think its interesting that Remy has actually expanded my world instead of restricting it. Sure I have not seen a movie in the theater since I had him, nor have I been to a concert or amusement park. But those were things I already knew I liked and already had done (and will probably do again someday) but instead of feeling restricted I have had my world get bigger and I have been forced to go beyond my comfort zone.

I am sure the future will bring many new adventures with Remy and probably even more distinct likes and dislikes, after all, he is at least part me!