5.20.2010

Culture Immersion

I realized from the first few people I told about being pregnant that I had joined a club of sorts. The Mommy Club, I guess. Especially now that the belly is prominent, random folks will ask me about when I'm due, what I'm having, where I'm having him, am I ready?, am I excited? (really people? the sarcastic mommy wants to say, "Not really"), etc.
It's a little odd, because somehow, despite my best efforts to appear friendly, folks generally don't strike up random conversations with me. Until now.
I kind of like it. And I'm sure once the little guy gets here, it will increase (just don't ask to hold him if you're a stranger...ain't happenin'). I have talked with ladies at the dentist office, folks in Target, a girl at the greek fast-food place, etc. Everyone has a nugget of advice, precaution--or a story (or horror story--thanks!). It seems that most are excited for me and my forthcoming initiation into their club.
It's all very comforting and exciting (mostly--did I tell you about the hygenist from hell? trapped in her chair while she told me all about how pregnancy almost killed her twice? yeah, that was awesome). But it's nice to feel like you belong and to think that there's a community of people rooting for you--those you know and those you'll meet in the check-out line at the grocery store. Despite the fact that I know nothing of their culture yet, they are ready to help me ease into the culture shock.
I can't speak to diaper brands, sleep techniques, Yo Gabba Gabba, or poop color yet. I don't know the lingo and haven't experience projectile vomiting. I haven't held my little guy and looked into his eyes and seen his dad or counted his toes and fingers...but I sure am excited about learning this culture!
40 days 'til due date. We can't wait to meet you, baby boy!

2 comments:

Gretchen said...

You know, I'm finding that the second level of club membership seems to happen once the child begins to walk and interact with others...all of a sudden you're at the park or another public place and all those people out there that you'd normally just politely ignore (there's a social psych term for this, but I can't remember it) - your kid is saying hi, staring, and wanting them to pick him/her up. What's that about? All of a sudden, you have to talk to these people...what a hardship ;)

Sara C. said...

As a person who was often approached because I always "looked familiar" I will say that it's truely an experience once baby has arrived. Everyone will talk with you and compare notes. Just remember it's all in good fun but people are still people.