One of my favourite things about being a mum is watching my children’s personalities develop. I find it so interesting to see how different they are, especially as they have been brought up exactly the same.
One character trait that my girls definitely share is shyness. James, on the other hand, is far from shy. He will happily chat with others, older or younger. (Although now he is eight, he prefers boys, girls seem to be another species at the moment) He will instigate games and is a natural leader, he loves being included and wants to have his voice and opinions heard.
Lily, Amy, and Ava are a lot like me. They have their own close friendship groups and are very confident & happy in familiar places, but otherwise can be very shy.
A Birthday Party
We took Amy to a school friends birthday party recently. We arrived a little late and we were expecting soft play, and it was a disco party instead. Simon decided to take the others to soft play while I stayed with Amy. Amy stuck to me like glue. I said all the usual reassuring things, chatted to a few of her friends, and she stood by my side, holding onto me and pressing little her body against mine, watching the party games. Each time I suggested she join in, she shook her head and pulled me closer.
Twenty uncomfortable minutes later I asked if she wanted to go check on her Dad. I could almost feel the relief and the tension in the body fade as we left the party and headed towards soft play. She gave her dad a cuddle, and the happy, care-free Amy we know and love ran off to play.
Motherhood: An Emotional Rollercoaster
Motherhood really does make you feel such a crazy mix of emotions. I felt so sad that Amy had felt so shy she hadn’t wanted to join in with her friends because I know she absolutely loves music and dancing. I felt guilty that we left the party early, and without saying goodbye; I had planned have a chat to Amy away from the crowds and loud music, and then return. As soon as we left and she instantly settled, and I knew leaving was the right thing to do.
I think as a parent we naturally adopt a ‘fix-it’ mentality, and it although confidence is absolutely something I want to encourage, It has to come in her own time. And she is confident in her own way; when she feels safe with her family and friends.
Shes very much like me, I have a small circle of friends, and I am very much an home-bird. I am much happier away from crowds; and that’s okay – its part of who we are.
Amy – proudly completing the monkey bars for the first time.
Ava – “Look at me, Mummy! I am doing a really good job of climbing”
Amy: Messy hair, and not a care in the world
Lily: Who looks very grown up all of a sudden with her new toothless smile.
James – Who is looking more grown-up each day.
Linking Up With Donna for Living Arrows
