No, you shouldn't load them in the dishwasher like that Sean, because then they all spoon with their like kinds, and don't get as clean. /freak.

Who are you kidding? That tag doesn't close.

And yes, if you do it this way, you have to take pains to make sure they're sparsely distributed, in order for them to all get clean. Actually, I suppose it works either way, as long as all the silverware in one section is the same kind, and all pointed the same way.

worn with jackets (or over-dresses) that taper in at the waist and then immediately flare gently out over the belly & hips.

Ah. That's my problem; I've been wearing my pre-potbelly blouses. Got any good sources to recommend?

I second the jackets over flowy skirtl ook. I'm not a skirt person so I wear pants with slightly fitted button-down shirts and get my girliness out with jewelry and scarves.

Ah. That's my problem; I've been wearing my pre-potbelly blouses. Got any good sources to recommend?

Sadly, not really. I just scour eBay for anything labled 'princess seam' or 'fit & flare'. I *have* been looking at this jacket at Coldwater Creek: [link]

What looks good when you have a lump in the middle but are NOT pregnant?

Low waisted skirts and jeans; no zips or buttons at the front, always at the side. No clingy materials. Soft wool, like ballet cardigans that wrap around at the hips, rather than the waist.

Betsy, something like this. [link]

[link]

Or this Betsy.

Links for Betsy:

Newport News coat: [link]

Newport News flouncy blouse (which I have, and love): [link]

So, fitted tops/jackets for those of us who have tummies? I've been doing that completely wrong. I've shied away from fitted things because they end up too tight at the waist or too big at the bust/shoulders.

Seriously, I'm built like a wide, short column with no waist to speak of.

Ooh, I like that jacket Jilli. The whole military Victorian thing is in this season, apparently. They're stealing your style! Or more likely, borrowing it until next year.