If you've ever been in any city anywhere and taken public transportation, then you know about courtesy seats. Those are the seats for oldies, injured, preggos, and folks with small kids.
Lucky me, so many times people will graciously give up their seats for me on the crowded bus or subway car. I've actually become very good at predicting who will give up their seats for me and who won't. Obviously the old people are entitled to seats, I would never take it away from them.
The ONLY people who've given their seat to me (on several different occasions and locations) are middle-aged women. Those sweet, compassionate women know what's up.
I'll tell you who won't and who never have: Men. No man has ever offered their seat to me. And surprisingly..... young people! What's with these teenagers? They're oh so clever on how they avoid giving up their seats. Sometimes they pretend to be very invested into their smart phones that they simply do not notice the huge pregnant belly right in front of their face. Or, my personal favorite is the fake nap. Oh I'm so tired, I can't even open my eyes. Then, boom! It's their stop, they're wide awake, standing, and ready to exit the sliding door. Amaaaaaaazing.
One time I was taking the bus home and all the seats were filled and with about 5 people standing in the aisle. Next to me was an older lady, maybe in her early 70s. A seated middle-aged woman saw me and started to get out of her seat. Then, out of nowhere, the older woman blew past me, practically knocking me over, and plopped down into the seat. Then, the middle-aged woman kind of yelled at her and pointed at me. Then the older woman got up, grabbed my shoulder, and shoved me into the seat!
So.... pregnant wins over elderly? "Xiè xiè, ladies." That was bizarre.
Time is zooming...
October was great here. The weather cooled to a comfortable southern California temp in which we enjoyed the Shanghai Beer Festival. Josh premiered his delicious sparkling cider: It was phenomenal.
Also, my lovely gal pals threw me the fanciest baby shower downtown at the Bund! I got to experience my first high tea with great company and beautiful scenery. I was overwhelmed by the generosity and love from such sweet friends.
This month, we enjoyed a visit from one of my best friends (from high school who now lives in London) Jack and her boyfriend Pete. It had been almost two years since Jack and I had last seen each other. I think we can all agree that eating is the best part, right?
Josh and I are getting super excited about this little baby. I think I've gotten everything sorted and ready for the most part. This morning we went to the doctor. Everything looks good, and the doctor and nurses are used to our unconventional attitudes about medical procedures by now. The doctor was telling me (in an apprehensive, freaked out way) "The baby is really big. It's a big baby." Shyeah. you know better than to suggest a scheduled c-section to us, Dr. Liu!
So now we'll see..... will Baby D be born on Josh's birthday? Thanksgiving? Ahhhhh, he'll be here soon!
