*Blush*, because I'll use just about any excuse to strike up a conversation with a friendly looking stranger. But then I started thinking about how tiresome it gets, as the pregnancy progresses, when people seem to stop seeing me and only see the belly (and possibly, the other 3 children I'm wrangling at the time.) Case in point (actual recent conversation):
Friendly old lady: "Oh, so you're expecting aNOTher baby? Are ALL these babies yours?
me: "Yes. It's a boy, and he's due in September. We're really excited."
Old lady: "So you'll have two of each. How nice."
me in my head: Yes, I figured that one out on my own, actually.
me: "Yes. It will be fun for his big brother not to feel so outnumbered."
not so friendly old lady: (firmly)So you are done having children now. You won't be able to afford any more.
me: "Oh, I'm not worried. My husband has a great job."
me in my head: again, maybe I've done this math already?
even less friendly old lady: "It might not be so bad now, but wait until they get older! You'll have to buy yourself a new Frigidaire just to keep up! Go grocery shopping, and it'll be all gone 5 minutes later!"
me: (exit stage left. I wander off to find Jello.)
So. I vote that we begin a campaign to stop all frivolous ice-breaker questions--they always end up being tedious and/or judgmental. No commenting on somebody's crutches or pregnant belly or that weird rash on their face or why their pants are on backwards. Stumped? Here's a list of new ideas for that friendly person behind you in the checkout line:
"Hi! I see you like gum. I do, too. We should be friends."
"Remember The Truman Show? I wonder if they're watching us now."
"I'm going to the beach and I need a great book to read. What's the most life changing book you've read lately (that you wouldn't mind getting wet)?"
"I don't think it should be required by law for adults to wear their seat belts. We have the right to be stupid if we want to. Discuss."
See? Friendly people just need to get more creative.
