Just last week on our many flights home from Hawaii to D.C., an elderly man who was escorting a few special needs adults said "And I see you are expecting?" I was wearing an empire waisted shirt and I had been traveling all night so probably wasn't doing a good job sucking in. But still....
Then just tonight at a 4th of July barbeque I attended with my in-laws in Northern Virginia, an elderly woman (who happens to be suffering from terminal cancer, thus, I can't get too mad...) said - in front of a ton of people: "And I see you are expecting? When are you due?!" HUH??? I was wearing a splurge purchase Sophie Max empire waisted silk top that I adore. But now, it is tucked back in my suitcase to be thrown into the maternity clothing pile when we get to Louisiana.
Needless to say, I excused myself after coldly and pointedly answering her questions that followed and went into the driveway to call my sister and bawl. I have had it with people having so little social awareness! I want to put a sign on my forehead that reads: "I gained and lost 53 pounds because I had a baby. What's your excuse for being fat?!" Maybe that will deter some future rude comments that do a lot more damage than people realize.
The woman tonight came up and apologized profusely to me and my mother in law but the damage was done. I was embarrassed because she'd done it in front of so many people and I was feeling pretty cute in my Seven jeans capris and cute shirt. Guess that outfit is heading to the back of my closet now....
Even if a woman appears to be past her due date and possibly even in labor, do not ask her when she is due or what she's having or what the name of her baby is going to be, etc. There is no reason for anyone to risk offending or embarrassing another person like I have been in the past two weeks. I run 3-4 miles at least 4-5 times a week and have been very proud of my weight loss from my pregnancy with Noah. But one stupid a** comment from some stupid a** person can undo all that pride and self-confidence in a nano second.
