chronic bitchface

I know I said I wasn't going to post today but I've got time before the boy comes back from New York. I wanted to take this time to spread the awareness of what I now know is called Chronic Bitchface.

Illustrator and photographer Kris Atomic hit the nail on the head with this one. Chronic Bitchface is plight where one has to deal with numerous strangers and loved ones commenting on their bad mood or telling them to smile due to the look on their face, despite the fact that this individual is perfectly content or maybe even downright happy.

Illustration by Kris Atomic

As a sufferer of this condition I am beyond stoked that someone has finally addressed it! I was really starting to feel like I was the only one in the world who was dealing with this. I can be in the best mood, but while I'm walking down the street (esp. in the city) all I'm thinking about is getting from A to B, how I'm going to navigate around the family of ten that feels the need to walk side by side at a snail's pace while avoiding the woman who's practically spinning around on the curb because she seems to have no idea where she is, all without losing my stride. Yes, I walk with a purpose and I like to be able to get around people on the scenic route. And apparently this produces a bitchface.

Now I'm stuck with strangers approaching me and telling me to smile. Or friends saying they saw me on the other side of the street and I looked mad about something. This also occurs when I'm just working or concentrating on something. So if I don't walk around with a big fat cheese plastered on my face all the time, I must be miserable? What crazy logic is this? I'd prefer to not be approached by strangers. Why does my apparent bitchface make them approach me like a sad puppy? Why doesn't it scare them away? That would be a more practical bitchface. That's one I could get behind!

I swear, I am a very happy person, despite what my serious face might say! If I'm among friends and having a good time, I never stop smiling! Sorry that when I'm by myself, working, or just on a mission to get somewhere I don't look ecstatic about it. If any of you reading suffer with Chronic Bitchface, you are not alone. If you see someone who you think may have Chronic Bitchface, leave them alone!

This has been a public service announcement from Tenpenny Splendid.

;)

But in all seriousness, do any of you share this ailment with me? If so, you know the feeling of wanting to punch the next time some says, "Hey sweetie, you're too pretty to look so sad!" or "Smile darlin', it can't be that bad!"


So happy Friday everyone!! Hope you have a great punch-free weekend. ;)