I arrived at the kennels early and caught the owner harassed, lumbering and running late
" Can you hang on a minute!? " she called from the locked courtyard as she busied herself with collecting a collection of barking dogs.
" I've not stopped " she yelled "I haven't had time to even put my bra on!"
I burst out laughing and despite myself I looked to check.
Now I am on the London train, having suffered the irritation of the many already drunk racegoers going to the Chester races. I have on my best disapproving Miss Jean Brodie face on as you can see
Hey ho
" Can you hang on a minute!? " she called from the locked courtyard as she busied herself with collecting a collection of barking dogs.
" I've not stopped " she yelled "I haven't had time to even put my bra on!"
I burst out laughing and despite myself I looked to check.
Now I am on the London train, having suffered the irritation of the many already drunk racegoers going to the Chester races. I have on my best disapproving Miss Jean Brodie face on as you can see
Hey ho
How long does it take to put a bra on? Perhaps they should make a TV show to answer that question. I would certainly watch it.
ReplyDeleteWhy don't you put on a bra and see? And then wear the damn thing all day. That would be far more instructive than watching a TV show about the subject.
Delete(Sorry. I hate bras with the burning heat of the surface of the sun.)
So true !
DeleteTry to put one on with arthritic fingers and elbows. The pull on ones are no better. Then you start sweating....
I second you, ms. moon. that's one reason why I gave up on them 40 years ago.
DeleteI wish I could, but 38dd, no chance!
DeleteJacqui.... try 36 G..... hubby calls me G girl.....
DeleteWith your great success at weight loss, you don't need a bra!!! Enjoy London, I'm envious!
ReplyDeleteEnjoy your little break - and huge congratulations on the weight losses of the last 2 weeks. x
ReplyDeleteAnd was she telling the truth?
ReplyDeleteDo I want photos?
Delete'Is it inside out?' 'Is it the right way up?' 'Where's the bloody clasp?' 'Have I got three boobs?' Yes, I can see why she might not have had time.
ReplyDeleteI would have of course immediately looked, too.
ReplyDeleteThis is rich coming from you.
Deletebras are overrated; 40 years without one here. have a great time in london!
ReplyDeleteI would have been left speechless.
ReplyDeleteWhat does one say in response to that?
ReplyDeleteVery funny John! Have a good time in London!
ReplyDeleteRobin
What is so funny? Sorry lost on me.
ReplyDeleteI thought the bra comment was funny! Whats up crabby tits?
DeleteI'm going to add "what's up crabby tits?" to my arsenal. Thank you.
DeleteLost on me too, Rachel.
DeleteAs you know I can't say anything any more anywhere - so, what the hell. One thing I have noticed - and I do find it peculiar and somewhat tasteless - that it appears ok that gay men (not least John) get away with ridiculing women any straight guy would be savaged for.
Never mind. I will now be told by both Tom S and John that I lack humoUr. Sure.
U
Perhaps if this is all so dull and tasteless, you might be happier not reading and commenting here on Johns blog ?
DeleteAs a straight woman who wears bras, I found this funny and also having a few gay male friends, I know they would have a giggle too. Especially R who is famous in NYC for his drag shows.
THANK YOU, BROAD! I snorted coffee this morning reading john's blog.
DeleteThe thing is coming from a gay made it totally unfunny. If I make a blog post about a gay man's bollocks swinging in his shorts or a hair follicle showing at the top I am told I have offended the whole gay community.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteI wonder if it depends on how much you have to stuff into that bra, that dictates the amount of time it takes to put it on.
ReplyDeleteAnd if a bra takes so much time for her, what else was left off ?
I am full of questions today .. it seems.
A ploy . . . she wanted you to notice . . .
ReplyDeleteWhy would she want a queer to look at her tits?
ReplyDeleteHow crude you are.
DeleteThis comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteWhy delete it? He supported my comment before he deleted it.
DeleteIt was me not him ...and he wasnt happy
Deletehave a fun trip!
ReplyDeleteJust don't send anyone off to the Spanish Civil War!
ReplyDeleteI am the creme de la creme!
DeleteHave a great time with your honey.
ReplyDeleteJust booked the skygarden for breakfast tomorrow! How i love the internet !
DeleteI know ! My daughter booked all her hotels and transportation online ... even the car that picked her up :)
DeleteSo busy she hadn't had time to put her bra on. That\s priceless.
ReplyDeleteWhat's a bra?
ReplyDelete:)
DeleteAnd here I thought that was your pensive look...
ReplyDeleteI must say -- you look thinner
ReplyDeleteYour Miss Jean Brodie face is looking quite svelte, I have to say!
ReplyDeleteYes, you look properly cranky.
ReplyDeleteI like this saying from a greeting card I saw: "The best bra is a sweatshirt."
ReplyDeleteRAMEN!
Deleteanne marie, ... "ramen" ... giggling !
DeleteMy God John, your weigh loss has taken years off you and you do scrub up nice.
ReplyDeleteMy 86 year old mum took ages to answer the phone yesterday morning ... she told me she'd been putting her bra on.
Wow John, you look so spiv and slim when you're out! Enjoy your time away and your breakfast in heaven.
ReplyDeleteI would have checked immediately. Somehow I don't think the drunken racegoers will notice your disapproval, but it's worth a try.
ReplyDeleteHave a good day.
ReplyDeleteDear John, you have kept us in the dark - which is probably best when not wearing a bra. Has Notes from Abroad been promoted to be your social secretary? Not that I mind. She didn't just give me a ticking off, but Rachel too. Now, I know Rachel would rather drown than share a boat with me - which won't stop me from trying to rescue her; still, it's nice to be lumped together with her by the ever vigilant NfA.
ReplyDeleteSince you - it seems - will get away with anything why don't you ask Notes from Abroad whether the wire in her bra has come unstuck and is now digging her.
Hugs, hisses and kisses,
U
This comment has been removed by the author.
DeleteWhy don't we remind her that gay men do not fancy women?
DeleteNFA that is.
DeleteI agree with everything NFA said and I still think if we ignore negative and crude posters they will just go away and try to pick a fight somewhere else....shoo!
DeleteI was not trying to pick a fight in any shape or form, I was merely expressing my comment on the post just like the other commenters. My view differs from most here who think it totally funny and lovely that John thinks a woman speaking to him about a bra is funny and worthy of repeat.
DeleteI am not a Blogger myself. Simply because of the issues of other peoples perceptions and realities "misconstruing" conversations with it all ending in a verbal slagging-match, and ill-feelings. Instead, I have hidden in the shadows reading Going Gently and many of the other blogs of John's followers (including BitchontheBlog) over the years.
DeleteAs an expat who has lived for many years in Germany. Yes, the Germans are outspoken, yet rarely ever to the point of being insulting, rude or disrespectful to anyone with whom they had disagreements with. On the flip-side, also having lived a number of years in the U.S. I have experienced some Americans to be obnoxious and obtuse, while others very warm, friendly and respectful.
Cultural differences aside, some people have difficulty due to a brain-quirk or a character-trait that can manifest itself as a destructive, even abusive voice going on in their head - Often a bad idea to let that loose on other people on the principle of respect for others feelings.
In recent years, radical honesty has become something of a fashionable way-of-life in "promoting" trust and intimacy whether in platonic or romantic relationships.
Unfortunately, there are some people who are misusing the term 'radical honesty' to justify covert bullying, whilst being deliberately rude and belligerent to their own and others detriment, and at the same time ensuring alienation with their rather aggressive stance, whilst claiming this to be a moral virtue.
Being truthful implies that a person has some understanding of the complex issues of their own emotional intelligence and security, and that of the human psychology of the people they are responding too.
Some people are more emotionally vulnerable by nature. That doesn't mean they lack any emotional intelligence - Their emotional sensitivity and/or response of anger, frustration, anxiety, sadness, violence, deflection, etc, could be due to a myriad of factors that may not be known to anyone outside of their close friends and family. It's always best to be mindful of this. Offending people can so easily be done, especially in Blogland where people cannot see body language, facial expressions or hear voice intonations. An individual's perspective, interpretation, and how they feel at the time of reading also factor.
Not everyone will always agree with others opinions, and that's OK. Opinions are never wrong; they are different. It is often best to respect and defend everyone's right to voice them without the fear of rejection, humiliation and/or belittlement - Every opinion is valid.
This also means that people may expect you to not have feelings. They may forget that another will also wobble from their own weaknesses and insecurities - people are only human.
Ursula, you, yourself replied to a post regarding "A little lesson in emotional intelligence whilst asking politely not to dismiss the recipient's sentiment and clearly commenting on the validity of their feelings as of those of the sender. Also, evidencing your own sensitivities displayed in response to my own presence on blogs.
You, also politely asked that accusations the others ‘misconstruing’ the sender, might be better understood. Communicating, even with those close to us, is like a steeple chase: The odd hurdle will fall. No need to trip each other up on top of what is a tough race."
Yet it seems, this respect has been easily forgotten by yourself it seems in recent times. It is very easy to judge others without knowing or understanding what they are going through in life, unless having walked through similar experiences.
What does a person hope to gain with the truth? Do a person hope to help others to be better people? Ask for all the truth you want, but there's no need to make anyone else a better person. That is for them to be themselves.
By all means be honest, and let others know where you and they stand by not hiding your feelings. Do so with elegance, grace and integrity.
"Sonata"? Operatic more like it.
DeleteI read your comment several times, thought it over, to do it justice rather than jumping in feet first.
You have singled me out. Which is most flattering. Touched a nerve did I? So, by your admission, you "lurk". Why? Don't you have anything to say? Clicking on YOUR profile, there is nothing there - no handle whatsoever. If I were unkind which I am not (lucky you) I'd say "that just about sums it up". Nothing to add, little to take away.
You mention "radical honesty". Whats that? Honesty is honesty. Of course, sometimes honesty is employed to needlessly/tactlessly trod on someone's toes. I (honestly) do not believe I do that. What I do do, and maybe I should tone it down at times, is speak my mind. What you can't accuse me of is that I don't do so with your aforementioned "integrity".
It is not my responsibility how the other party reacts. Of course, eventually, as relationships/friendships evolve and you get to know the other person you learn not to push someone's personal buttons unnecessarily. However, that is a learning process. In the meantime let's cut each other some slack.
Are bloggers ninnies who can't withstand the slightest whiff of discord or a ribbing? If so, then maybe, yes, you'd be better off if I left the playground.
U
This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.
DeleteChris, it's good. When the cat is away buzzards will have a field day.
DeleteEven worser scenario: In absence of a buzzard, and the cat distracted by visiting a ballet in London, the mice will dance a merry dance. Till they can't resist the trappings of cheese (or, according to new scientific findings, go for chocolate or peanut butter instead).
U
Ursula,
DeleteA Sonata is a musical composition usually for solo instruments or a small ensemble where the music typically consists of 2 to 4 movements, each in a related key but with a unique musical character. So hardly operatic, more gently graceful.
Correct! My "profile" has nothing. If you had indeed read my comment several times, thought it over to do it justice so as not to jump in feet first, you would have seen that I had already explained why I was not a blogger. That does not mean that I have nothing to add or to be taken away.
You would also have read my explanation of what "Radical Honesty" is and the "personality trait" of speaking one's mind.
As to the evolution of friendships and knowing people well enough to respect boundaries, that was also covered.
Bloody hell! Im back!
DeleteWelcome back, John. I first need to attend to Sonata.
DeleteSonata, thank you so much for explaining to me what a sonata is. If you knew my background you'd now bite your own arm to stifle the scream at embarrassing yourself.
No matter. It happens to all of us from time to time. We embarrass ourselves. Main thing is to acknowledge it.
Let me take it from the top. Your previous to last comment - long even by my standards and I am wordy - was Wagnerian. Nothing wrong with it. On my blog people are positively invited to wax lyrically. Try it some time.
So that covers the first paragraph of your last reply to me. The other three paragraphs? Dear sweet Sonata. Why not take up the violin and play it? I am afraid - and I know it's harsh - but you haven't "covered" anything.
Let me make a suggestion. You stick to your harpsichord whilst I keep cutting through the crap.
U
Let me remind you that YOU dont have to deal with anything HERE!
DeleteJohn, no need to get your knickers in a twist.
DeleteU
Ursula,
DeleteWhy do YOU FEEL the need to attend/deal with me? Why is your behaviour so arrogant and narcissistic that you feel the pervasive need for such attention, as well as a distinct lack of empathy or concern for John and the other bloggers. So much so, that you attempt to bully and manipulate with articulate, intellectual diatribe in the disguise of "wax-lyrical" open and honest discussion.
YOUR blog is YOURS to do as you with as YOU please. You have generously invited others to be as open and forthright - Good for you. Do you feel/think that the boundaries of respect and politeness do not apply to you on other people's blogs?
However, that does not give YOU the same courtesy to do so on other peoples blogs. John has asked you Twice not to comment if you are going to be antagonistic towards others. So why have YOU not been respectful of John's wishes?
In YOUR attempt at patronizing and criticizing me, are YOU projecting YOUR inability yo accept criticism and disagreements, thus exhibiting "rag-like" reactions because YOU cannot control others thoughts or opinions, yet expecting compliance?
I have no need to "bite my own arm to stifle the scream at embarrassing myself." Why are YOU under some impression that I would feel embarrassed? Do YOU expect me to genuflect to YOURSELF because you maybe a classically trained musician? I have been playing the Violin, the Viola, the Cello AND the Piano since childhood.
Perhaps, again YOU project YOUR Wagnerian (or is it Avant-garde, Impressionist, Medieval) prose?
This interpersonal exploitation YOU have for others in blog-comment "discussions" in "cutting through the crap" is too achieve what exactly?
I will make a suggestion to YOU. Out of respect for John and the other Bloggers who follow Going Gently, perhaps we might take this "discussion" elsewhere?
Sonata (like yourself, cannot help my name...)
Sonata, I take it writing "you" repeatedly and in capital letters is the written equivalent of stabbing a finger at me. If it helps you letting off steam stab away.
DeleteYou ask why I "feel the need to attend" to you. You addressed me - more than once. I replied. It's polite. "Attend" - def. give attention to. Anyway, insert amused laugh, you are most attentive of me. Which is very sweet of you; watering my narcissus as it were.
Having a discussion is not being "antagonistic". Talking of which (antagonism - def. being openly hostile) you do appear a tad antagonistic in your "dealings" with me. Mirrors are useful. Particularly when we hold them up to ourselves.
I am afraid your forth paragraph doesn't make any sense. I dare you to substantiate any of your assertions. You won't be able to because they are machinations bred in the anger you feel towards me. That I am "expecting compliance" is conjecture. My "inability to accept criticism" is built on quicksand.
Paragraph Five: Congratulations on your many musical achievements. As an aside: You never feel embarrassed? Really? If so I pity you. Self awareness is painful but does help to take off the edges.
Thank you so very much to add to my list of "new speak". I am baffled and amused in equal measure: "Interpersonal exploitation"? Wow. I'll stick with cutting through the crap.
Your suggestion to take this discussion somewhere else is an excellent one and, so I believe, reflects what I hinted at namely to continue on my blog. I will write a post to give you an angle and then, maybe, we can take it from there. Your concern for John is most commendable though dare say he is most able to show me the door himself.
Ursula
Cough cough!
DeleteUrsula,
DeleteI have no need to let off steam by metaphorically "stabbing" at YOU. Why do you imply that I feel anger or hostility towards you? YOU do not know me at all to even suggest that I do. A few words does not prove what YOU think MY feelings are towards YOU. And yet, YOU clearly say that YOU speak YOUR mind, whilst continuing to trample over the feelings and boundaries with what is seemingly YOUR own lack essential emotional intelligence and impulse control needed to respect some bloggers fragility and trust.
I am very well versed in the self knowledge of emotional intelligence and self awareness.
I do not feel embarrassment by your "background" as I have no knowledge of it. Therefore, this lack of self awareness you claim that I have is completely unfounded, and, to quote YOUR words, built on quicksand.
Thank you for the dictionary definitions with regards to "Antagonistic and Attend". I am also very well versed in their meaning. YOUR condescending attitude blended with reactive sarcastic humour only highlights everything I have been saying.
In the meantime, I will continue this "discussion" on YOUR blog when I have another rare day to myself.
Sonata
My sincerest and heartfelt apologies to you John and your Readers. Any future "discussions" between Ursula and myself will be done elsewhere.
DeleteSonata
No need to apologize, Sonata. Given John's affable nature he probably won't have, but some of his readers will have "enjoyed" our exchange and been given much opportunity to tut tut.
DeleteFor the record - you do know who started it, don't you? On the other hand one may argue that there was no need for me to acknowledge your existence and gratify you with a reply or several.
U
This is totally over the top Sonata. Of all times to come in, this was nothing. I thought the repeating of the bra story unfunny and so did Ursula. No problem. Why you decided to launch in with an attack on Ursula over this beats me. I just read it through. Save your guns for the bigger things.
DeleteAll three of you behave....i havent read whats gone on...i cannot be arsed
DeleteMe neither....well, not all of it....FFS...why does a light hearted comment made by a bra less women...relayed to us by the receptor as a bit of light humour have to be turned into mini drama and bring out all the bitches on a blog???? Life is too short...lighten up folks....I didn't think her not wearing a bra was funny....but I thought her saying so was.....
DeleteCould've used that face on Monday on the Inverness to Edinburgh train. Normally a beautiful train ride through the best Highland scenery but this time interrupted by a very loud Asian gentleman talking extremely animatedly on his phone. It went on for a while since everyone was reluctant to challenge him until a very beautiful young blonde lady got up and told him in no uncertain terms to shut the fuck up or she would shove his phone up his posterior,sideways. The rest of the journey was a quasi-silent joy. Enjoy your mini-break.
ReplyDeleteHave to say John, you look as though you're morphing into the Prof! Hope you enjoy your getaway x
ReplyDeleteLove the pursed lips and the prissy expression. In my household that is known as a CBF: cat butt face.
ReplyDeletePoor dog minding lady..it is the female version of being 'caught short'...and as any large breasted lass knows bras are NOT comfortable, but necessary.
ReplyDeleteI hope she is not further embarrassed by reading her casualness about dressing being reported on the www!
If she does.. Im with her..let the girls be free 😊
Don't look at me like that! I'll behave myself, I promise!
ReplyDeleteyou don't look even a tiny bit scruffy!
ReplyDeleteI was at Chester Races yesterday and don't think any of the drunk race goers would have noticed any disapproving faces, many were already very drunk by the time they entered the course at 11am. Hope you are having a fabulous time X
ReplyDeleteI didn't realise that bras could generate so much debate - I've obviously led a very sheltered life!
ReplyDeleteWhy do race goers have to be p....ed out of their heads at 10 00am.It is the same on the York train on race days
ReplyDeleteI too, think that you have a 'Prof' face on there. If only you could have managed a 'Roger Moore' eyebrow the likeness would have been uncanny!
ReplyDeleteYou're looking very slim, John. But why the Prof face?
ReplyDeleteYou're in your prime.
ReplyDeleteA storm in a G cup me thinks
ReplyDeleteWho knew bras and tits could cause such a ruckus. I knew a 90 year old woman who use to answer her door in silk underpants and referred to look of her elderly tits as eggs in socks. She wasnt far off. But such fun to know.
ReplyDeleteYou just don't get it. Go back to sleep.
DeleteI am a bit sad for the dog handler lady, but hoping you have a great time!
ReplyDeleteWelcome To Casino online Please Click the website
ReplyDeletethank you
บà¸à¸¥à¸à¸à¸™à¹„ลน
gclub online
จีคลับ