Some people are afraid of heights....

I have issues with children...

I know.. it's odd.  But let me explain.

I wasn't super comfortable around little kids ever.  And yes, I know I was a teacher.  But I taught ten and twelve year olds.

Then I taught that disastrous last year.

I haven't been the same since.  The thought of having children terrifies me so much that I can't attend baby showers.  30 women chatting about babies, exchanging horror stories and kernels of wisdom.  It freaks me out.

I also have issues with large groups of children.  And I'm not entirely comfortable with being responsible for them either (I had a meltdown over being a mentor to a teen at church.  it wasn't my finest hour), though I have been known to watch my friend's daughter with the Spousal Equivalent in tow.  When my BFF's daughter turned one, I managed about a half hour of the party.  Why?  The kids were at a playground and not hanging around us.

Now my BFF has another daughter.  I'm going to go see them.  I may not stay long. I may not hold the baby.  But most of all, I'm going to get over myself, damnit!

Sometimes I wonder if teaching didn't cause some sort of PTSD.....