think that when bumping into an ex-colleague in town, she could ask how I am rather than if I've passed my driving test yet!

[onthepier]

I worked with this lady around 10 years ago, she doesn't live locally now so I tend to bump into her around every 2 or 3 years, no more than that!

We got on well as colleagues, and the last few times I've seen her I've been pleased to have the chance to chat, but she always opens with the same question, "Are you driving yet?" When I say no, (she knew I was taking lessons and failed a few tests when we worked together, really struggled with the whole thing to be honest!), her response is "Oh my god, how ever do you get around? How do you manage this, that, shopping, the kids?" When I say I'm perfectly happy with public transport and paying out for taxis isn't a problem because I don't pay to run a car, she starts the eye rolling and head shaking!

When I saw her yesterday I was with my dc's on our way to the cinema. I commented on how lovely her dd was but she barely glanced at my two or asked anything about me. It was just the driving, and she made it very clear she felt sorry for us and couldn't understand our lifestyle! I was annoyed she was negative in front of the children, and she asked them if I was going to make them walk back from the cinema! It's three miles, we caught a bus there from outside the school and I'd already pre-ordered a taxi for when it finished. When my ds said this she said "I'll leave you to it", in a most resigned way.

If it's a lifestyle that suits us what business is it of other people's? I feel like avoiding her next time I see her although I've always quite liked this lady. I wouldn't dream of commenting negatively on someone else's lifestyle choice!

[Blackduck]

My bil always used to ask this question too until the time dp said 'and its no to the next three questions you are going to ask'
The 3 being
Is Blackduck driving yet?
Are you getting married?
Are you having children?

[Fimbo]

I don't drive either. Never really got on with lessons. I walk mostly, people look at me as if I had two heads.

I get the "have you not passed your test yet" routine too, usually from the local librarian.

[Firawla]

she sounds like a weirdo, bit obsessed isn't she?? how is it any of her business anyway? it's quite rude. yanbu

[Firawla]

oh & me and dh don't drive either - we manage. its not the end of the world! (i do want him to learn though)