Helena Jr.

Brian sometimes complains, but is getting used to the fact that Eli is just like me. Seems strange for a boy to share more traits with his mom than his dad, but things could be worse- he did like me enough to marry me. We're still having a hard time finding a similarity between the boys besides Eli's slightly Asian eyes. The little boy and I, on the other hand, share many characteristics, in appearance and personality:

1. Cautious- Eli and I are both very careful to avoid bodily injury. We have many examples, but I refuse sledding and Eli won't go down a slide alone.
   
2. Organized- We are both pretty tidy and Eli doesn't mind doing "clean up" and will even throw away trash when he finds it.
3. Attached- When I was 13 I cried and cried when my sister left after a month-long visit. I even teared up when Brian left in August for 8 days. When Eli finds someone (only women) he likes-say the mom of a playmate- he cries when they leave and runs to the window to watch them go.
4. Prepared- When I had to write a paper (on the eve of it's due date) I would have already organized notes, sources, and my thoughts before slowly writing the one-and-only draft, which I often wouldn't even proofread before turning in. Eli walked later than some (14 months), waiting until he had the skills to take on this new ability safely.
5. Pets- We both prefer cats.
   
6. Looks- Apparently he has my ears, nose, and lips.
   
7. My Favorite- His shoulder dimples.

Maybe when Eli gets older he'll be more like his dad. Until then, I'll gloat.