There are a few things I’ve let slip lately, especially after that episode. I’m slowly getting my blog mojo back…. the upcoming Nuffnang Blogopolis Conference in Melbourne this weekend has certainly got me excited about blogging again.
Something else I’ve let slip is my Finishing School classes which I realize was a HUGE mistake (Lottie will be so disappointed in me). These classes gave me the confidence I hadn’t felt in years. As I haven’t been playing lately my confidence has plummeted. You can find me working in my PJ’s on most days, and heaven help me if the doorbell rings (like it did just then!). I am ashamed. Since I’ve got to leave the house soon I thought it’s time to get back into it. I’m going to review my posts from A-K to remind me how good I can feel and start putting these back into practice again. And as I haven’t looked at Finishing School for months I have a bit of catching up to do! So, for today, here is the letter L.
The challenge set by Lottie is to give a little thought to being ladylike.
Hmmmm ladylike. Me? I think not. This prompt reminded me of a photo my mother took of me when I was a kid. I was tired after a long day at school and fell asleep in the chair in a rather unladylike pose. She even wrote “very ladylike” as the comment in the photo album. So in a self fulfilling prophecy kind of way I guess ladylike is one thing I’m not.
Oh I know how to put on the appearance of being “all proper like” when I’m around such company. I guess it’s one of the advantages of being shy. You can suss out the situation and adjust accordingly. The only problem is, that can all quickly go out the window after one too many. I went to a party last year with VIPP’s – very important posh people. I think it was nerves, (also I think my drink was spiked…that’s another tale) and I did have a couple of wines. At the beginning I was trying to put on the airs and graces, engaging in polite conversation. By the end of the night I was being called a bogan. This I found to be both humiliating and insulting (even though I admit there is a bit of bogan in me… and everyone else too!). So yes, being a lady can definitely get you more respect.
My language is one thing I always have to work hard at controlling when I’m around company. I am myself around Hub’s family but I do not swear in front of them. This is from a lesson I learned very early on when I accidentally let slip the F word when I saw a spider and was caught out by my MIL. She was not happy. I learned my lesson. Do not swear in front of her.
My posture is another area that is lacking in the being ladylike department. When I’m wearing heels I do walk a little taller (after all, I’m only 5 foot 
) but I am definitely a sloucher when I sit….. at least I no longer sit as I did in that photo!
So all that practice I did as a child walking up and down the hall with a book on my head and saying “How now brown cow” hasn’t really paid off has it. The following scene, from one of my all time favorite movies, may also pose a question… which is more fun?
Be sure to check out Lottie’s blog for all the Finishing School details and for some fabulous vintage fashion ideas.
See you in Melbourne!
I’m actually not at all disappointed in you, just super pleased you’re back, and hopefully I can say this without sounding patronizing – proud. It always takes a tremendous amount of courage to go back to something. So, welcome back hon. I’m so glad to see you and hope you stick around. L -x-
PS – I really hate the Australian use of the word Bogan. It’s too close to my son’s name – Brogan. He is NOT a bogan
Thanks Lottie. I’m trying to finish all the (many many many) things I start, particularly those that make me feel good… and I really enjoy your finishing school.