On "Knowing"

I get asked all the time.

Usually by complete strangers, or new acquaintances, or people I don't know well at all.

They all want to know, and seem to act as though I should.



Do I know whether my baby is a boy or a girl?



It's sometimes very hard for me to swallow my snarky replies. In fact, sometimes I don't (but I usually try to be polite...).

"Do you know what you're having?"
Me: "Yep! Pretty sure it's a baby!"

or

"Is it a boy or a girl?"
Me: "One of those!"

or

"So... what is it?"
Me: "It ain't a puppy!"



I understand that most people do find out at an ultrasound (at least, it seems like "most people" to me). And I'm certainly not judging those who do-- if you want to, fine! Do it! I've never had the opportunity, so I've never even considered the possibility.

But I'm glad of that, because I really do love the surprise. Sometimes I feel like I'm just dying to know-- but I'll find out soon enough and when I do it will be so much fun! When Jonah was born, I absolutely loved the moment that I "caught" him myself and held him and it seemed like several minutes went by before I even checked! No one announced it for me-- I got to find out for myself. It was fantastic.

I don't ever want to spoil that moment.

I understand if others want to know ahead of time. But somehow, I still find it surprising that it's that commonplace to "find out" and that it even seems to be expected! I guess it just doesn't seem to me that I should know yet. It seems... unnatural. And I like natural. I'm all crunchy and granola and stuff, you know.

Yes, I will admit that I also find the question just slightly invasive. Why is that the first thing that a complete stranger asks me? But then, I have personal space issues anyway. I'm also not a big fan of random hands on my belly, but I guess I just have to grin and bear it.

I guess I just have to keep telling people that I am relishing the anticipation.