Pregnancy.org

Should celebrity Kelly Rutherford lose custody?

Ok - generally, I am not a celebrity news stalker (although I'll admit some of the blogs here have been fun to follow!) This morning, however, I found myself outraged over a news report of celebrity mom, Kelly Rutherford (of "Gossip Girl" fame), losing custody of her two children ages 3 and 5 to her ex-husband -- who lives in MONACO! (That's SIX THOUSAND MILES away from mom!) The two have been battling over custody following their divorce in 2009. The judge awarded joint custody but stated that the kids must remain in Monaco.

I kept waiting to hear how she abused... neglected (maybe due to her career?) the kids. From all accounts, however, she has been as actively involved as possible.

These two kids... both born IN the United States and American citizens, have now been exiled to be raised in a foreign country. Nothing against Monaco. I'm sure that it is a lovely place.

The judge's reasoning appears to be centered on his belief that it is "easier" for Kelly to travel to Monaco to visit the kids whenever she'd like. Her ex cannot reenter the U.S. as his Visa was revoked.

I could get on board with the judge maybe ordering Kelly to insure that the kids are able to travel (with an escort -- her or a nanny) to visit their dad at whatever schedule is considered "reasonable" or the "norm" for other, non-celeb parents in similar international custody arrangements. My feelings (strong that they are!) are not based upon the fact that Kelly is a mom vs. a dad either. If she was the one banished from the country, and the father was the U.S. citizen, I'd be arguing just as passionately.

My feelings are for the KIDS... Hermes and Helena... both U.S. citizens that now are unable to be raised in the country of their birthright.

What are your thoughts? Should Kelly lose physical custody of her kids or continue to appeal?

From me to Kelly -- don't give up!

Show conversation

Maternity Clothes?

I was laughing earlier tonight about some of the comments within a debate on a new maternity line being touted by celebs. (The consensus appeared to be rather unanimous at last check -- against!) The comments, however, got me to thinking of my own maternity clothing choices.

For our formerly pregnant moms, how did you handle your maternity wardrobe choices? Were you one to invest wholeheartedly in specific maternity wear or did you opt solely for a few select pieces? Did you instead opt for larger (normal clothing) sizes -- or rob your partners closet for loose fitting shirts? Were your choices shaped from outside sources (such as demands for a work environment or for "appearance" sake? Curious minds want to know!! Share your experience within the comments. (Also, don't forget to friend the page by clicking on the blue star while you're here!) Drop me a note if you need assistance at missyj@pregnancy.org!

Show conversation