Months ago when visiting my inlaws my FIL saw me wearing socks with flip flops. (Yes I know that is an unreasonable fashion faux pas in itself but I was cold and needed to quickly run outside!) FIL joked that I was a Geisha, a Japanese entertainer of men, and I didnt care much for the joke but didn’t think much of it or make a big deal of it because I knew he was thinking my shoes looked Japanese in style. I just decided it was a silly joke and let it go. Completely forgot about it.
Now, 3 or 4, months later, he texted to arrange a time and then called me while on holiday abroad about something he would like to do with the grandchildren when he returns. I had no problem with most that call. But then when saying goodbye he said, “We really miss you all” (normal enough) and then “I will be looking for some sandals to buy for my Blond Geisha, ok?”
It just felt like such a weird thing to say. I couldn’t remember the joke he had made only once or twice months ago so it felt totally out of the blue. I brushed it off like “yeah, I’m sure those would look bizarre” and changed topic. But it left me feeling weird. I kept wondering why he said it and after reflecting I think the earlier joke must be the connection for him. It feels inappropriate and I hope it’s just him not thinking things through. What do you think?