Boys or girls?
Like many parents, I love to talk about my children. A conversation with someone to whom I’m newly introduced often begins with “Do you have children?” (Yes.) “How many?” (Two.) Then the natural and understandable follow-up question is usually “Boys or girls?”
Usually, I revel in the possibilities inherent in meeting someone new. However, at such moments, I pause and protest silently. Ugh! This is a question one should never ask someone you’re just meeting.