I am going to go against the tide here and say I DO have expectations with regards to values and morals etc For example I expect him to be truthful, respectful (to those deserving of respect), well behaved at school, caring towards his family and friends etc. I fully intend to model/teach these values but don't think its a bad thing to want or expect these things from and for my child (or any future children)
Good point & I totally agree

I think there's a difference between an expectation that is narrow and controlling and a more general attitude as to what you'd like to see. I can't say I wouldn't be disappointed if my child grew up to be an unemployed, dope-smoking, school drop-out with little enthusiasm for life and no plans for the future, because that would be lying. Or, as Epacris pointed out, if she decided to pollute the earth, destroy the forests, or run an arms dealership, I'd be even more horrified!
...and yeah to that too

WRT activities such as swimming , dancing etc - I don't think there is anythign wrong with giving them an opportunity to develop interests or talents. DD1 has danced for four years now, and is very good, grand finaled at Nationals last year but this year is likely her last - she's 'over it'. So I have to go, ok, you don't want to do it anymore - no worries, is there something else you'd like to do?
So, I gve them an opportunity to try things but I don't expect that they will stick with it, no matter how good they are... does that make sense?

I hope that they will grow into people I like and have things in common with, but I have no expectation that that will actually happen. ITMS.
yep, that makes perfect sense. I have hopes for our children but try not toimpose those as expectations.