Fear of the Fly

The warm weather lately has made it possible for us to venture out into the neighborhood and enjoy our backyard. Though the road in front of our house is a little busy at certain times of the day, for the most part I can take the kids up front and not worry too much … well as much as when we lived in the other house. It has been interesting, in this neighborhood everyone is very sociable and has come up to me to introduce themselves. If I am in the front yard that means that I have already prepared myself for such social scripts because I have had that happen often enough — it still startles me for a second or two and takes me some time to try to get words, it is challenging to remember to shake their hand if they put it out, or my name, the kid’s names, and that I have a husband, what’s his name!??

I try to remember or pullout those scripts quickly, but sometimes the words get jumbled, many times.

It’s ok; people either do not notice or make some sort of small talk waiting for me to answer. I am usually distracted because I am watching the kids. People tend to be forgiving of social awkwardness or slight prolonged silence when you are taking care of your children. It is a good thing for me to have my kids around because they keep me grounded and focused for the most part. Several of the neighbors have popped over to introduce themselves as I was teaching the kids to ride bikes. As I took them around the neighborhood to cul-da-sacs to practice everyone has been friendly and kind. We happened upon a brother and sister who are close in age to our kids. The mother saw us riding bikes and came out to introduce herself and her children. Her kids did not come running up to socialize, but the mom was excited because she said there are not very many kids in the neighborhood.

I hope we can make friends with them. 



Continued ... Fear of the Fly