You brought an ice breaker and conversation starter. You probably saved the day for a lot of people who wouldn't know what to talk about otherwise. I've never had any negative comments or looks (that I'm aware of, anyway) when I break out my knitting.
I hope it was a temporary stress reliever for people. I've never gotten negative comments when I pull out my knitting eutger but I wouldn't know if I've received dirty looks. I'm always too busy looking at my knitting to notice.
Your socks came out great!!! I'm working on my very first pair right now and I hope they come out as well as yours. I'm about to begin the heel portion.