That's impair not impare!

Stand back, everybody! I am the ONLY person who can rightfully answer this question because I am a lawyer and I am also one half of an interracial couple! So my credentials are good.

When I married a man of a different race back in 1975, I expected a lot of flack: funny looks, comments, spray paint on our driveway, etc. But in 25 years -- NOTHING! Nobody really seems to be interested in any aspect of our marriage, and we've lived and traveled all over the U.S. and the world. I was surprised but pleased.

Humor aside, all I can offer is this -- if you don't care about what other people are thinking about you, they won't be able to hurt you -- if they're even thinking about you at all! Enjoy your vacation.

Darla, as a DC resident, I'd suggest you decide on the beach YOU want and just go. If one or two look at you guys, okay ... you can handle that, can't you?. If it's a real major concern for you, why not try a gay beach, such as Rehobeth (south of the boardwalk). But if I were you, I'd be very careful not to allow my imagination to run amok. Most of us are trying to make the US a less prejudiced place to live and play ... if you're willing to relax and just have a good time at the beach, you will adding immensely to that change. Go, and have fun, and stop worrying so much.

Darla,

This really should be a non issue. Who cares what other people think. I think someone's race is only a problem if they have a problem with it! Just go somewhere and have fun. Key West is a great place to relax and have fun. Beautiful beaches, crystal clear water. Good luck choosing a place!

Stand back, you say, Emily. Only you can speak to this issue ... in part because you are a lawyer? In part because you're in a mixed marriage? What else would warrant that the rest of us butt out? Besides that little bit of arrogance, for which you can be forgiven, your answer was a good one and ought to be reassuring to Darla. I live in DC ... we are overrun with atty. types. But I do like your perspective on the other issue.

Sorry that I came across as arrogant... I was just trying to be humorous because everybody else was having fun with the "lawyer" side of the queston and I only meant my comment to be in the same spirit. However, I'm glad that you agreed with my perspective, because that part of my answer to Darla truly was heart-felt.

Darla,
I was born, raised, and still live in the South. I have met more blatantly open prejudicial people from Yankee states than from Southern states.

With that said, Southern beaches vs Northern beaches vs foreign beaches shouldn't matter a whole bunch. The poster who entered a biracial marriage 25 years ago would have raised more eyebrows - but that was 25 years ago.

If you expect problems, you will probably find them. Someone looking your way wondering where you bought your cool swimsuit will probably piss you off because you've decided that they're discusted that you're in a biracial relationship. Get over it. It's no big deal anymore. If you think so, just go to the local Wal-Mart and see how many white grandparents are with and doting on their biracial grandchildren.

This isn't even worth worrying about.

Hi, Emily - actually I was teasing you a little bit, but I did like your answer and advice. I realize some posters believe there's nothing to be concerned about, and maybe that is largely true for most, but just as I'm feeling better (and I am from Atlanta and saw a lot in the 50's and 60's), I stumble across an interview with someone like Senator Robert Byrd, and here he is on national TV, using the N word, and telling us the race issue is largely behind us. Thanks, Bob. See the Post last week (page A2). Have a good day, and thanks for the good thoughts.

There are lots of oddities to stare at when at the beach--an interacial couple is boring compared to all the men in speedos and women in t-backs (many of whom should definitely cover up more than less).

I probably should just stay out of this , but there is something about this post that strikes me as curious. Had you never visited a beach by yourself before you were married? Why is his being a lawyer important? Why would you waste your time replying Geoff and Nature boy? I'd almost wonder if you were more concerned that you wouldn't be noticed than that you would.

Darla,

It is expensive and along way from DC, but I'd recommend Hawaii. I bet people won't even notice that you are an interracial couple, much less stare. You would certainly not stick out. Good luck, and have fun at the beach!