My First Post: Bob

I asked my sister to ask her kids for ideas for blog topics. They suggested that I write about my nieces and nephews, which is perfect, because they are, in fact, my target audience. I have written, not about them specifically, but about my experiences getting to know them all.

ROBERT LAPALME

I moved to BC in 1997. Not too long after I moved, I got a phone call saying that my brother and his girlfriend were expecting a baby. WHAT?!?!? How could he be the first one to be a parent? My sister and I were both far more responsible and mature than he was. And his girlfriend? She was the one who had taught me how to cut loose and have fun. And boy she knew how to cut loose and have fun! These people were going to be parents?? YIKES! Nonetheless, I was very excited for them and loved getting to know “Pregnant Laura”. Looked like she might be able to pull this off after all. As for my brother, well, that had yet to be seen.I was working for VIA Rail at the time, so I was back in Winnipeg fairly often. As much as I loved my family, I can’t deny that I was always excited to get back on the train and head back west, to my new home. Working on the train was perfect. Swoosh in, have fun during my time off, and whizz off into the sunset. Literally. I remember the first time I held my nephew, Robert. I usually had an overnight stay in Winnipeg but the train was really late that day, and I only had a few hours, not even enough time to change out of my uniform. But I was overcome with joy at holding this brand new little addition to our family. When my sister drove me back to the train station, I started to cry. Crying in front of anyone is a very rare occurrence for me. But it was the first time that I really didn’t want to leave. I remember Pauline crying as well. Not because she didn’t want me to leave either, but because she was witnessing a rare event. I know, they all think I’m made of stone.Over the next couple of years, I had several occasions to come back to Winnipeg and hang out with my new little nephew. He absolutely loved me. At least, I thought he did. Then one day something happened that I will never forget. It was the first time that Pauline and I were visiting at the same time. Pauline and I look very much alike, or so we’ve been told an awful lot. The bewilderment on little Bob’s eyes when he realized that there were 2 of us! It was priceless. We all laughed so hard, and I wish we could have captured that moment on film. I then realized why Bob had taken to me so easily, even though I hadn’t been around much.Bob is now 17 years old. He’s a cadet. He drives. He works at the Keg. He is a responsible, handsome little bugger who turned out really well despite my fears, when Denis and Laura decided to become parents. Good job guys!

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