UK, Ireland / All That Manners Business [I'm Polish, moved to UK as an au pair.] [87]


Not true :) If someone asks me how I'm feeling, and I'm feeling like crap, I tell them I'm feeling crap!!


Never liked small talk - it's banal


Absolutely right. However, I would add that she's rather insular too.


Don't buy her the chocolates - it will just feed (no pun intended) her obvious feeling of superiority over you, or give her the impression that you're trying to suck-up to her.

Just tell her how you feel about your relationship with her. She'll probably do one of 2 things: she'll respond to your concerns and explain how she feels . . . or . . . she'll just ignore you and carry on as before. If she does the latter, there's nothing you can say or do to change the situation - better that you can work around the situation. Generally, this means having as little contact with her as possible.


Not entirely true. I am very happy to say that I don't conform to that stereotype, nor do my friends & contemporaries. My girlfriend is Polish and is not afraid of saying what she feels to my face, be it good or bad, a trait I like very much - so refreshing :)


Given the amount of airtime that coronation street & eastenders get during the day and evening this probably isn't the best of topics to discuss - she'll probably switch on the TV so she can catch up on the episodes she's missed!!! The weather is usually a safe bet ;)

Based on what you have written it would seem that you are in a no-win situation. Your boyfriend's mother has decided that she doesn't like you - I don't think she's jealous of your relationship with her son - some people are like that.

Instead, think of ways you can work around being in close proximity to her - out of sight is out of mind! Finally, if she refuses to accept you as you are that's her problem - enjoy your relationship with your boyfriend as best you can.

News / Should we change the rules to let Poles join the British Army? [119]


Just a minor correction Torny: ". . the gurkhas are truly great soldiers . . " The Gurkha Regiment is still in existence today and serving both in Iraq & Afghanistan.

and another minor correction


Sorry, but The Gurkha Regiment has been a part of the British Army for nearly 200 years. Moreover, as a regiment, they have won more VCs than any other regiment within the British Army.

As for the Polish contribution during WW II: I was based at RAF Northolt for a few years and can confirm that their contribution is acknowledged in the form of a memorial at the south- east corner of the base adjacent to the A40.

In principle, I have nothing against Polish nationals joining the British forces. As very few Gurkhas can actually speak English - they rely on senior NCOs & Officers to translate instructions - I don't see the inability to speak English as an impediment to joining-up

Life / Compulsory National Service in Poland [26]

I remember when I was in the RAF, the only time we got DF beer & smokes was when we were on overseas posting, deployment or did a beer run on the Op Banner to Germany - although drinking on base was cheaper than in the local boozers. :)

Travel / Poor Edward in Kraków [28]

Thanks PE - made an enjoyable read. I hope to go next year sometime . . . but I'll be going with my Polish Girl!!! :)

PS Be sure to get the photos up soon ;)