What a ceremonious welcome it was for the Commander in Chief and the First Lady's stately visit to London. Queen Elizabeth II really went all out for the occasion. There were cannons firing away a salute when the first couple rolled up in the armored car. Buckingham Palace was trimmed in red white and blue and adorned with the Presidential seal. The honor guard were dressed in their finest lavishly colored uniforms. There were marching horses with calvery men riding on them, looking almost like Roman soldiers in their shining armor and protective polished head gear gleaming in the sun as they paraded before the viewing stand begging for approval. They played the Star Spangled Banner and didn't miss a note. There were brightly colored flags tossing about in the London breeze. It was a welcome that would rival any that I have ever seen and would surely be hard to top.
Later in the day President Bush of Texas addressed the many dignitaries, distinguished guests and the royal family. Thats when I edged up on my chair and took a deep breath, hoping that he would give an astounding speech and impress the Britts. I'll bet he hadn't gotten ten words out of his mouth before he said it. "First of all, he said, me and my wife would like to thank you for the tremendous welcome that we have received.
I couldn't beleive he actually said that. Everyone knows that you always place yourself last when you are referring to two people. Its one of the first things we all learn in English class. Also, you do not say "me" unless you are referring to more than two people and again, the me would be last. My wife and I, would have sounded so much better. Later in his speech Mr. Bush admonished the English people, telling them that just about everything that we Americans have, has come from them. The Queen was probably thinking to herself, yes and look what you have done with it, you're ruining our beautiful language.
Don't get me wrong. I like G.W. and have not been more proud of our first lady since Jackie Kennedy. Though Barbara Bush, Nancy Reagan, and Roselyn Carter were very gracious first ladies as well. But please, please, Mr. President, before you try to impress us with your Spanish speaking skills, why not polish up on your English a bit first. Especially when addressing the Queen of England.