What the ...?

The British have a different way of saying things, different expressions, terminology, accent and so on. I'm cool with that and enjoy learning new ways to use English. The following came home with Emily from Preschool a few days back.


I read it once, and laughed. I read it again and laughed so hard, I almost had to go upstairs and change into my spare pair of underwear.

1. Spare underwear? I have spare cans of tomato soup that I wouldn't mind sharing with someone. I'm not bothered if my neighbor comes over to ask for a cup of sugar...but underwear? First, why does anyone have a stockpile of unused underwear lying around? Second, if it is not new- why would the school want or accept it? I've gone to a lot of charity shops, but never seen an underwear rack.

"Let's see, I've only worn these a few times, I'm sure the kids will love 'em!"

"So what did you do at school today Emily?" 'We played dress up.'
"Really?" 'Yep, We all stripped down and tried on underwear from the dress up box...'

2. Maybe it's not for the kids? It didn't specify the size required. I can only hope it is not a horrible perk provided to the workers. "Well, no raise again this year, but did get a 6-pack of underwear. Hey, this pair looks almost new!"

3. Perhaps this underwear is to have on hand for inevitable accidents that little kids have. But don't people wash and return the 'loaner undies'.? (Although our children have required them at times, just writing the words 'loaner undies' makes me shiver). So why is the school running short?

"Look what I got at school today! They gave us each an apple and a pair of fairy underwear. This pair is even still stretchy!"

This notice from school brought much joy and laughter to our home, hopefully it does to yours as well. And next time you are ready to throw out some old undies, think of all the uses they may have... for your local preschool anyway.