[Stormster]

Our neighbor invited us over for a little late Christmas party. He is a single guy and he wanted to invite us along with his other neighbor, a couple with older kids he thought we would like. Before the holiday when he invited us he was so sweet, being so inclusive of E and saying the lights will still be up for E and how he wanted E to always enjoy being there to see his house decorated for Christmas etc.

Well Friday he called to "confirm" but he changed the night from Saturday to Sunday and told me it would just be appetizers etc....fine, we were free tonight.

But then he adds "will you be bringing E?" ummmm yeah! And then says "sooooo will you be bringing a playpen or something?" I told him no, we don't even use a playpen anymore, haven't in months but he's a big boy now and will be happy to walk around, play on the floor etc. I mean it's not even a sit down dinner so what's the big deal? And wasn't the whole point to invite the family? What about little E knowing his Uncle "neighbor" and enjoying his house during the holidays?

I have such an issue with feeling offended when we are not welcome with our imperfect, slightly clumsy toddler who yeah, may spill something but we are careful. It's not like he even KNOWS him very well. He's really only seen him in his car seat! He sounded kind of annoyed that we were bringing him! I was so touched by the initial invitation but now I don't even want to go.

I'm in a cruddy mood now. I guess I have to go but I almost tempted to get a sitter. I don't feel E is wanted there and now I'm going to feel kind of self conscious. Why do i get the feeling this is not the last time I'll be in this situation?