COMMENTARY | Pictures and rumors of Jessica Simpson and her supposed baby bump are all over the internet (the most recent found on MSN), but she is keeping quiet for the time being. Regardless, I, for one, am quite happy for her.
I recognize Jessica has her share of detracters, and I have counted myself among them at times. It has been a rough ride with Ms. Simpson. Many of us first got to know her well during the television show “Newlyweds” with Nick Lachey. Jessica was the ditzy blonde, or was she acting brilliantly? We may never know, but one thing is for sure, she become a household name because of it. I doubt anyone who watched will ever forget the mindbender she encountered with Chicken of the Sea tuna (but seriously, it is kind of confusing, no?).
When Jessica and Nick split up, I was decidedly on Team Nick. Maybe it’s because I’m from Cincinnati and he is a hometown boy, but I don’t think so. What grown woman could help but turn a little green when faced with the lovely Jessica as Daisy Duke, in her Daisy Dukes. I looked like that once, years ago, pre-kids. Someday Jessica, I thought to myself, the way you look in those cutoffs will most likely be but a fond memory to you as well. I didn’t mean to wish her weight troubles, but it seemed that is what she got.
Before we knew it, Daisy was gone and pictures of Jessica sporting mom jeans were splashed all over the tabloids. President Obama jokingly referenced the media coverage of her weight during an interview. Even the most self confident woman would feel a little pinch of pain with that sort of negative attention. Many women could relate to her struggle with her weight, and I’m sure I am not the only one who found myself suddenly wanting to give her a hug instead of a jab.
And now it seems Jessica is on the verge of motherhood. It may not be officially confirmed, but anyone who watches their weight knows she wouldn’t go out with a tight fitting top on her big belly if not justified by pregnancy. So enjoy these days, Jessica, when you can eat happily without worrying about being judged. Congratulations on embarking on a new chapter in your life. Daisy Dukes may be behind you, but the joyous adventure of motherhood lies ahead!