Word travels fast

As many of you have read, Karen is visiting family in our hometown of Knoxville, TN. On Monday, she ran into an old lesbian friend of ours. This friend already knew we were pregnant! I guess word travels fast since we just found out ourselves over the weekend.

What was interesting about the conversation between Karen and this friend was that this person said, "I guess you and Wendy are trying to live the 'straight life' in Portland." She couldn't imagine why we wanted to have a baby when (and I quote), "Neither of you like children."

Well.

First of all, I found that incredibly rude (a simple "congratulations" would have sufficed). Second of all, Karen answered her in the witty, articulate, non-confrontational way that only Karen can do. Bravo Karen!

I don't feel the need to defend myself, but this conversation got me to thinking. What I concluded was that some people see others the way the see themselves. What I mean is that so many lesbians we knew in TN were older than us, somewhat set in their ways, and really didn't want children for themselves. And by being associated with this group, some of the characteristics were latched on to me as well.

But I've always enjoyed children. And for many, many years I've dreamed about what it would be like to carry a child of my own.

I started walking down memory lane by looking through my older photos. I found two that I wanted to share:
This is a picture of me in my 20's (check out the long locks and mascara!) cradling baby Issac. I remember beaming when others would say how happy I looked with a baby in my arms and how I looked like "a natural Mom".

This second photo is from a special scrapbook that I have of my favorite small pieces of art, postcards and photographs. The photo was given to me by Jeanne R. in 1997. It sat framed on my desk or nightstand for many years before it got added to the special scrapbook. I'm not sure if this is supposed to be Mary and Baby Jesus or simply a statue of mother and child, but I've treasured it for a long time.

Reviewing my photo album and thinking of the friends who've had children and who've let me joyfully babysit for an hour or two (or a day) over the years was a good reality check in answer to the accusation "You never liked children".

Lastly, I believe two lesbians having a baby together is a VERY gay proud thing to do and is a far departure from trying to live a "straight or closeted life". Already in this conception process, my partner and I have stood as proud lesbians before doctors, nurses, attorneys and others.

So there.