Stepmoms and Dads: Feeling Invisible? Wear a Name Tag!

ANSWER #1:  I WAS IN THE BATHROOM FOR A HALF HOUR

ANSWER #2:  NO ONE LOOKED FOR ME.  I thought I was going to die in there.  What a way to go?  That would have been tough to explain.  (Awkward, Again!)

Here’s a fun tip about being a Stepmom & Being Invisible!

Earlier this week, I wrote a blog about invisibility.  Seemed as though the stepmoms and stepdads recognized that special look that we all get when others want to ignore us.  This week, I want to give you a tip and share a story.

Years ago, I attended my husband’s high school reunion.  I didn’t want to go.  Reunions are tough for the date/spouse, but they are fertile ground for the second/third spouse.  I just knew I was a dead man and doomed to be tagged as the evil woman who broke up his marriage..  Let’s play out that scenario. By the way, my husband’s name is Bruce.

To Bruce:  “It’s so great to see you!  You look great!”

To Me: (Quizzical look followed by the panicked look) I know he’s married and it’s been a long time, but is that his  wife?  She looks different. 

To Bruce: “How are you?  (Bruce talks about his life and then introduces me)

To Me:  “Ooooh!  Nice to meet you” (Eye contact is gone)  I have to find out the story here.  I’ll have to ask around.  Wonder if he cheated with her and it broke up his marriage? 

I was ready this time.  Here is my tip.  Everyone was wearing name tags, so I created mine and here it is.

By making my name tag a game, people started laughing and it released the tension.  No need to look away.  I was making fun of myself.  The best part was that all the fun people at the reunion embraced me.  I went off with them and didn’t see Bruce the whole night.  I had a blast.

This isn’t the best advice for the kids’ events, but on adult outings, try it!