In need of some stronger bean dip

[drebay]

I have tried bean dipping and this lady is clueless.  
Scene:  
School bus stop waiting for our kids, so I am captive audience.  Other mom's family get food stamps and WIC.  She will rattle on about the electronic toys they buy since they don't spend money on food.  They have stuff that we cannot afford.  How can I shut her up stop her before I say something I don't want to?

[LibraryLady]

Start testifying to her (in a way).  Ask her if she has read the lastest Ron Hall book; how does she cook  chicken; any topic that can divert her from talking about what she has.  It won't happen overnight, but you are only held captive when you want to be.

Don't mean to be sanctimonious (sp?)

LL

[BeagleMommy]

"I just think it's so sad that families are too connected to technology.  Nothing bonds a family together like a home cooked meal."

Too snarky?  I thought so, but I couldn't resist. 

[drebay]

"I just think it's so sad that families are too connected to technology.  Nothing bonds a family together like a home cooked meal."

Too snarky?  I thought so, but I couldn't resist. 

Not too snarky at all.  I like it!

[wolfie]

Do you have to talk to her? How about just looking straight ahead and saying nothing at all?

[something.new.every.day]

I would take a book or something so you're not a "captive audience". 

Also, be polite but frosty. 

Her:  We just got a new laptop.
You:  That's nice.  (turn back to your book/Sodoku/whatever)

I'm wondering though, does she actually say that they buy electronics with the money they save on food?  Or do you just know that they don't buy food and that's how they afford electronics?  Because if she was blatantly admitting that they worked the system, that may be your "in" to voice your disapproval. 

[Shoo]

This kind of situation is so .... enraging to me, that I, in your shoes, would have to choose to say nothing at all, and avoid this person at all costs.  Otherwise, I'd say something regrettable.

[drebay]

I have even tried an MP3 player.  Yes, she states that since she didn't have to pay for food, they can get these things.  I am absolutely not against assistance if it is needed.  Is is just that in case, I don't think it is.  Unless, she is lying about the stuff.  I think I will try the MP3 plus a magazine.

[Mrs. Pilgrim]

Humorous suggestion (and c'mon, you know you'd love to say it):

"That's nice, dear.  Oh, by the way, I'm passing around a petition to tighten enforcement against welfare fraud.  Would you like to sign it?"