A Confession...(sort of)....

So here's my confession: A couple nights ago Elaina was playing at the neighbors, Lewis was playing at home, and I dashed to the grocery store for a few items I needed for supper. (One of my New Year's resolutions is to do better at meal planning and having what I need on hand!) Anyway, it was cold and snowy, and I spotted a parking place somewhat near the door. As I pulled into the spot, I groaned when I saw the sign with a stork and the words "Reserved for Expectant Mothers." I started to back out and find another spot, but then in a little act of defiance, pulled back in and went in to grab what I needed. I did wonder as I was putting my groceries into the van if the lady who drove by eyeing my spot was reading the 'reserved' sign and questioning my 'condition.' I also imagined what the high school girl who was gathering carts might be thinking about my (somewhat) flat stomach and my 40-ish appearance.

This scenario has happened to me once before, and I had the same reaction, but I was probably 10 years younger then. I remember thinking some of the same questions I had this week. Why are they giving special priviledges to expectant mothers? Why not mothers or fathers of toddlers? (My nieces who are currently the mothers of toddlers might help confirm this, but in my memory, getting from the car to the store is a lot easier with a baby in your tummy than with 2 or 3 toddlers in tow.) And why babies or toddlers at all? How about putting up a reserved sign near the door that reads, "For those who've had a rough day and just need a break!" Or "You just need 3 things, and you'll only be a minute."

We know that handicapped parking is totally valid, and the occasional "Reserved for Senior Citizens" signs do help those who are elderly but not actually handicapped. But I'm thinking that there are other worthy categories, and it might be fun to create a few and hang them as signs in parking lots. (The idea of it reminds me of those fun harmless pranks from college days!)