We all see aspects of ourselves in our kids, but Abby’s shyness stirs up emotions in me that are hard to describe. When she’s around others, especially people she doesn’t know, often she’ll wrap her arms around me and tuck her head under my arm, chin down. She’s terrified and, no matter how much we might think her fears are irrational, they are palpably real to her. I know, all too well, because that’s how I was. When I was in 6th grade my parents made the decision to move from the tiny … [Read more...]