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The iPod: Part thoughtful, part narcissistic [Updates]

By SusanUnPC on April 2, 2009 at 1:51 AM in G20, Michelle Obama, PM Gordon Brown, President Barack Obama

This is a lovely exchange here, with everyone looking quite lovely as well. Although I wonder what is in the Queen’s purse. And do see what the UK media are tittering about, below the fold.

It’s always ABC’s Jake Tapper who gets the essential details (h/t B). Besides a great many photos of the Queen’s visits to the U.S. in 1957 and 2007, there were these, because surely the Queen must be dying to hear and see “The One”:

Photos from President Obama’s Inauguration
Audio of then-state senator Obama’s speech at the 2004 Democratic National Convention, and
Audio of President Obama 2009 Inauguration Address

There was also this amusing exchange between Prince Philip and President Obama, via Mirror.co.Uk:

Prince Philip nearly put his foot in it on meeting Barack Obama last night.

The president told him: “I had breakfast with the Prime Minister. I had meetings with the Chinese, the Russians, David Cameron.”

The prince replied: “Can you tell the difference between them?” Observers said they believed he was referring to the meetings, not the people.

Prince Philip, as you may recall, is a bit infamous for not being terribly P.C.

We who partook of television news today were told countless times that one NEVER touches the Queen. Well … reports the BBC:

Michelle Obama has frequently displayed a down-to-earth approach during the trip.

On meeting the Queen, she followed formality by curtseying, but later, during a reception, she showed her more casual, affectionate side by putting her arm around Her Majesty to hug her.

It is reported that the Queen was so taken by Mrs Obama she even said: “Now we’ve met, will you please keep in touch?”

I’m sure.

Then there was the BIG question of the day: Would Michelle bare her arms? Everyone expected it wouldn’t quite be proper protocol. Nevertheless, as we all saw when she and the president arrived at 10 Downing Street for dinner, here she was:

Here’s one more photo from the BBC:
_45625263_tea_ap226b

I have a question. How did the president of the United States end up in the second row? And why is Brazil’s President Lula seated to the Queen’s right?

Lastly, here’s the serious stuff, with the “blame the U.S.” meme going strong, adopted by PM Gordon Brown because he’s teetering on the edge of an abyss and will use the ploy if it wins him a percentage point or two in the polls:

UPDATE: Here’s a CNN video about Michelle’s style. There are things I could say. I’ll recall a memory from my teen years: I vividly recall my mother, and her friends, emphasizing to me how to walk, and we girls would often practice with a book balanced on our heads.

so saddened

i realize meechelle and the skinny guy have no class and minimal training in basic etiquette, but isn’t the white house supposed to come with people who explain this stuff to them?

FrenchNail

They can’t even staff the Treasury Department, you think they took the time to staff the WH properly?

And in any event, they would not listen to any protocol recommandations because they are SOOO narcistic, both of them, that in their mind they make their own rules now. They REALLY believe they are at the very top of the world pyramid and that nothing can touch them.

And when excesses like what we are seeing right now during the G20 trip (500 person entourage, including personal trainer and full cocking staff, 2 planes, 5 helicopters, 200 secret services agents, the Beast and a full fleet of cars, plus tankers of American gas to run the all parage, and on and on…) are tolerated by the American public in these hard times, what else would they beleive.

barb

I wonder what Obama needs a full cocking staff for? Maybe he needs a lot of cock. I know it was a mistype, but it was funny to me.
http://noquarter foxyladi14

that.s cooking staff..on the other hand..you might be right..lol..

b mathews

how could they know anything about protocol? they only brought an entourage of 500 people!!

Anti-Harkonnen Freedom Fighter

NY NBC has a more bruising take on the touch of Chele:

First Lady Michelle Obama may have single-handedly brought shame upon the United States when she broke the most basic rule of etiquette in the Royal company of the Queen: never ever touch Her Majesty. Ever.

Despite exhaustive briefings on how to conduct herself around Queen Elizabeth II in advance of the Obama’s trip to Buckingham Palace, the First Lady seemingly threw protocol out of the window when she briefly put her arm around the Queen and touched her back.

But, unlike other dignitaries who have breached the policy in the past, Obama seems to have avoided the public humiliation associated with poor Buckingham Palace manners.

FrenchNail

I saw the tape of the whole thing. And she also nearly knocked over Prince Philips, physically shoving him out of the way to stand next to the Queen for the official photos.

Murray

FrenchNail – OH! That’s the first thing I noticed – ain’t NO WAY Meeeechelle ain’t gonna get her picture taken next to the Queen.

Embarassing. Beyond embarrasing.

And, the way the Obama’s stood a step IN FRONT of the Queen.

Makes me want to crawl under the rug.

b mathews

well mechele thinks she is the queen of america and doesnt have to show respect to anyone.

http://deleted Buzz Latte

Wouldn’t you love to be a mouse in the palace?

I get updates from the Queen’s you-tube channel. Believe me, they expect proper protocol.

No matter how the obots try to blow this off, it will go down in palace infamy as a insult to the crown and the country.

Is it that the Obama’s don’t have the common sense to seek advice in such matters or is it that they believe their arrogance is justified?

It’s simply mystification.
elise

While I’m ready to admit we, at times, are hard on some things Michelle does, this breach of protocol is unbelievable. I have even defended her from time to time, but this is truly appalling. Does she think the Queen is just a nice old lady? Thank God this is the Elizabeth the Second. Michele would have been missing her head right now with Elizabeth the First. Was she caught up in the moment or was this a deliberate malfeasance? Anyone meeting with the Queen is given proscribed behavior before the meeting and I believe it is the LAW not just some capricious rule to ignore at will. It isn’t up to Michele to decide. There are several surviving monarchies in the world and, whether or not the First Lady agrees with the concept, she will make enemies if she continues to disregard their customs.
DaddysDarlin

There is something very wrong with the British if they think for one second this fraud is anything like Jacki O. Why not ask the Americans what the Americans think of how the Obama’s are treating the people of this country, and what an embarrassment we find them to be especially the backwards way they touched the queen.
I think MO needs some etiquette classes, I find her a complete embarrassment.

jjsmoof

It’s not just the Brits i’m afraid. I was (forced) watching Entertainment Tonight (blech) and they went on and on with the Jackie O comparisons. It was all I could do to keep from hurling.

lilytoo

All these Jackie O comparisons are being made by people not alive when Jackie was in the White House. This is like having blind people compare colors.

They haven’t a first clue and those writing the bilge they are reading on air haven’t the first clue and those ordering these stories haven’t the first clue.

Makes me think the object is more about wrecking Jackie’s image, than raising Michele.

http://www.madinthemiddle.blogspot.com churl

It seems that we hillbillies have new, unlikely, role model in Ms.Obama. And I thought the rural folks were supposed to be the unsophisticated rubes, not the high and mighty from downtown Chicago.
http://deleted Buzz Latte

Jackie O spoke French fluently. She was polished and highly intelligent. What does Michelle speak fluently as a second language – Ebonics? Ghetto?

The woman is an effing disaster. The left wing and the lying media don’t get it that no one is fooled that doesn’t want to be fooled.

Jackie O was a treasure. Michelle is trash.

http://noquarter foxyladi14

JACKIE was a lady first..before she was first lady..
mo not so much..

MrX

Just like the DVD’s were the wrong format, I heard the iPod will require a special adapter because Obama couldn’t be bothered to have bought one that worked in Europe.

r2d2

Format is not an issue for iPods. Whether connected to a Windows PC or a Mac, or a 220 (Europe electricity standard) plug with a USB connection, the iPod works fine.
FrenchNail

Oh no… Are you kidding? This would really take the cake.
http://www.rabblerouserruminations.blogspot.com/ Rabble Rouser Reverend Amy

You know, I have been thinking abt this since Susan mentioned it to me – an iPod for the Queen of England. An IPOD!!!!! Can you really see the Queen walking around the Palace with her iPod in her purse, and earphones on????

This just continues to show the complete immaturity and juvenile behavior of the Obamas. They are CLASSLESS and CLUELESS.

OOPS – should have read CG’s comment first! Still, an iPod is NOT an acceptable State gift.

termo

Funny thing is I think the Queen already has an IPod. I wonder what is on it?

The comparisons to Jackie Kennedy are also so ridiculous. Michelle has no class and no sense of style at all. I know we are in rough economic times, but to attend the G-20 in off-the-rack J. Crew?

Boxer Mum 06

Does anyone know if J Crew PAYS her for wearing their clothes or if she is a large stock holder in that company? Way too much free publicity going their way.

barb

Just like the Queen couldn’t send a staffer to go buy her an Ipod. State gifts are more than housewarming presents, they are the gifts from one country to another. They should be important, rare, and speak volumes about the country’s heritage. I guess the Queen gave payback to the Obamas for banishing the Churchill bust to the basement, because all the Obamas got was a signed photo of the Queen and Prince Philip in a silver frame that they probably got it at a tourist shop. Can’t help but wonder what the Queen gave Jackie. Bet it wasn’t a little photo.

ziggy

And why is Brazil’s President Lula seated to the Queen’s right?

I’m not certain, but it looks as if he might be wondering where the nearest water closet is.
CG

Susan, you are so generous to call an ipod a thoughtful gift for a queen. You are being very fair-minded. After all the Obama’s couldn’t run down to the White House gift shop for that ipod.

Because we can never get enough, video and picture of Michelle’s arm around the queen…

Michelle works her magic

Michelle’s busy day

The Queen and Mrs. Obama: Did the First Lady Break Protocol?

Michelle Obama hugs the Queen

Packing Light – Lessons for all of us from Fashion & Style Icon Michelle

You can never have too many ipods, since the Queen bought herself a Royal Ipod in 2005. Giving the Queen an ipod loaded with video footage and photographs of the her 2007 United States visit to Richmond, Jamestown and Williamsburg, and the narcistic indulgences of precious Obama moments, as well as the two-disc CD, ‘Ultimate Broadway,’ is too funny to me however. Hopefully the Obamas’ favorite Jay-Z and Ludacris ditties were not included.

This effusive praise of Michelle is unwarranted and pretty amusing. If any of us dressed identically to Michelle it would be ho-hum.

DAB

The Obamas like to have it both ways i.e. act like the nice guy down the street while simultaneously putting on the dog by surrounding themselves with pretentious self-promotion and grandiosity.

I agree that anyone other than Michelle wearing those same duds would go unnoticed. With power comes attention though and fawning observers will revise any objectivity in order to conform to their own preconceptions.

As to the touching incident, it seems a little silly to Americans to make such a big deal of something like that but I feel that showing respect for other cultures and protocols is a sign of maturity and respect. Guess our first couple is a bit lacking in that department.

Murray

Touching – just TOUCHING? – (shaking head). While it is true that much of this is nit-picking, although Michelle should not have pawed the Queeen so much as she did -

You simply much watch the video, where Michelle literally knocks Prince Philip aside. Prince Philip gently touched Michelle’s elbow, in order to help to “place” her next to him for the photograph: The Royal Couple in the middle, the Obama’s on the outside, but Michelle ACTUALLY PUSHED HIM TO THE OUTSIDE, IN ORDER TO POSITION HERSELF NEXT TO THE QUEEN.
http://www.madinthemiddle.blogspot.com churl

I agree. In some counties, public urination is quite the norm, yet I’ve never heard of a foreign diplomat taking a leak on the White House lawn.

http://www.sonicninjakitty.wordpress.com Sonic Ninja Kitty

You would think the Queen already has photos and videos of her 2007 visit–or did she forget her camera that time?

The speeches are just too much. Maybe Obama thinks she needs a few tips on how to rule a country.

FLDemFem

She does. Bush gave them to her as a memento of her visit on the occasion of the 400th anniversary of the founding of Jamestown. They were collected and mounted in a leather-bound album embossed with the date, occasion and appropriate scroll work. I saw a pic of them when they were presented and they are lovely. And Her Majesty doesn’t have to squint to see them.

susan

This one is a VIDEO iPod. One report I heard said she wanted it. Who knows. I think that most of the reporting on this — aside from the always reliable Jake Tapper — is made-up baloney. There was a report on NBC’s Today show that was so nauseatingly cheereader-ish that I turned it off. Actually, maybe I should post it just so you can see the c.r.a.p. that people are hearing about Michelle. It’s small wonder that ordinary people think she must be doing great over there.

CG

Susan, BTW you are too funny, because I have always wondered what was in the Queen’s purse. We could have fun with that… She is never without purse.

politicalidentitycrisis

Gretchen Carlson on FOX and freinds this morning said that it depends on how the Queen holds her purse as a way to guess what she thought of the one. I had to leave for work before I could see the story. If anyone saw it, could we have an update?

http://www.sonicninjakitty.wordpress.com Sonic Ninja Kitty

If the purse is near the crook of her elbow everything is fine. If she lets it slip to her wrist, that signals her staff to “Get me out of here!”

With the Obamas it was midway.

politicalidentitycrisis

hahahaha! Yes, Queen, they make me feel uncertain, too!

Jackarooty

I asked my sister (a hardcore and die hard Anglophile since childhood) if she thought that the Queen would be carrying the ubiquitous purse even during the private meeting in Her Majesty’s private quarters and her email reply was a big bold YES!

I’m pretty sure that the Obamas were briefed on proper protocol when meeting the Queen. Barry gaffed when he shook her hand with both of his hands. Not that I’m in the habit of defending the Obamas but I think impulse overrules all rational explanation. During Her Majesty’s 2007 visit I remember seeing Dubya guiding her into the WH after his winking and birth year gaffe during the Ros Garden welcoming ceremony. He was struggling not to touch her back and he held his hand about 6 inches away.
For inquiring minds:
“As anyone who reads Majesty magazine knows, the Queen carries a comb, a handkerchief, a small gold compact, and a tube of lipstick in her handbag. The Queen does carry money on Sundays–a folded note of unknown denomination which she discreetly places in the collection plate. The Queen uses the handbag as a sort of security blanket, carrying it from room to room throughout her day *even within Buckingham Palace*, and that all tables and desks at the royal residences have special hooks to hold the handbag.”

FrenchNail

Thanks for the explanation on the bag. Makes perfect sense.

And she certainly needed her safety blanket while meeting those two idiots!!
Tuppence411

The Queen is a grandmother after all, so there just has to be a couple of cough drops in that purse. Or a couple of hard candies, half out of their wrappers from rolling around in there- covered in lint, tasting like her perfumed powder.

Ani

Thanks! What a good laugh to start the day.

lilytoo

I believe her Mum got her started on this habit. Part of the making them seem like everyone else thing.
andrew191

If I were the QOE, and I was told that I would be visited by an angry, America hating, Narcissistic bully (and her husband), I would probably stuff a can of mace and a pair of brass knuckles in my purse. Just in case. Ker-POWWWW!!
Jackarooty

Hmmm…I wonder if there is a hook in the Royal Bathrooms?

Ginger

Maybe they could have swung by the dollar store on the way to AF1 and picked up a few things to throw in the (gift?) bag.
ACPD

It takes some self-awareness to know what to look for in staffing. I don’t think these nouveau riche types, who live in our White House, know anything about style, class, protocol and diplomacy to be able to make the right staffing choices.

It’s too bad the Queen can’t take them aside and give them a few lessons on statesmanship and dignity. She is a person in her own right; but long ago she learned that she represents a country and her actions reflect on the country, not just on her. Our two “kids” still think “they” are the ones this is all about.

Ugh! What an embarrassment!
tango

I like how people here in America think it’s no big deal that Mrs. Obama touched the Queen. They excuse it as her being friendly even though it goes against tradition. But hey, what’s tradition if you’re young and hip? You don’t have to follow established rules because you’re just too cool for all that and others need to realize it.
Well I hoped the Obamas would always err on the side of caution and formality because they don’t want to take the chance of offended anyone. But I don’t think the Obamas care. I think they truly feel whatever they do is acceptable. I find it disengenous how other leaders who have touched the Queen previously are lambasted, but Mrs. Obama is given a free pass.

desgans

Quelle honte , cette M.O. est un éléphant dans un magasin de porcelaine ! beurkkk
http://www.sonicninjakitty.wordpress.com Sonic Ninja Kitty

This is a very good point. Aren’t we normally trying to dispel the image of the ‘ugly American’? And–if Bush/Laura had done this, wouldn’t the media skewer them for inappropriateness?

On Morning Joe today, they were all downplaying this action, saying that the Brits should “just get over it”. I wanted to scream at them–since when do you go over to another country as a guest and expect them to adapt to your traditions? It’s so backwards.

lilytoo

You know and I know that if Hillary did this in ’92, there would still be special cable channels dedicated to out rage about that event and only that event.24/7

Jackarooty

Lol! My sister sent me photos of our very dear girl Hillary chatting up Charles and Camilla and sis titled it “I Know Them Better!”

Also I heard Barnicle crank about “the touching” on Morning Joe as well as the royal gift to the Obamas. It is a standard gift to all visiting heads of state, a signed photograph of the Queen in a silver frame.

C.S.

Young and hip? More like middle aged and culturally ignorant. The Queen was just 27 when she inherited her position; if she wasn’t prepared, then she certainly got prepared fast so why can’t the nouveau riche couple representing the culture of the United States learn enough protocol to keep from embarrassing our country with gauche “ugly American” behavior.

They asked to be put in these positions requiring protocol and etiquette. And since Michelle turned up to meet the queen in a casual cardigan that Jackie Kennedy would never wear to a formal gathering comparing Mrs. Obama to her is a mistake. Mrs. Kennedy never turned up at an official event or met any official in a rhinestone covered cardigan. Check the photos.

susan

That is true. A cardigan connotes informality. Why does she never wear jackets??? I don’t like tight-fitting jackets myself, and frankly can’t get them on because of my back. BUT! There are wonderful soft fabrics and designs for jackets that make them quite comfortable.

Okay, I’ll take heat for this. But there are some unattractive parts of her, but she seems to be clueless as to how her clothing choices emphasize, rather than detract from, her “problem” areas.

It’s especially — especially! — noticeable in the last video in my story. That long purplish/dark pink-ish sheath gown she is wearing as she and Obama walk past the violinists and other musicians.

If I looked in a full-length mirror and saw that that dress emphasized the size of my stomach and posterior, I would not wear it — or (!) I’d have the designer create a soft jacket — even a sheer fabric — just so it hits midway down her hips. That would have taken one’s eyes off her protruding stomach, wide and square-ish hips, and large posterior.

I empathize with her since it’s a family trait — those square-ish hips. [And NO amount of exercise will rid one of that look, although losing weight does help quite a bit.] My tummy and posterior aren’t that large. But square-ish hips are not attractive if one is in a sheath or in jeans. I never wear jeans or tight pants unless (!) I have a light jacket or below-the-waist top on to disguise my hips. OR that J Crew outfit she wore to greet the Browns in the afternoon — the soft light green skirt and pretty cardigan — worked in that the cardigan came out over the skirt a bit, and that was a well-fitting skirt with a bit of a flair that detracts from the problem areas.

But I’m VERY conscious of what works and what doesn’t with my body type. Why she is so NOT aware is beyond me. And she MUST have advisers! I bet they tear their hair out privately because they know that she doesn’t SEE what she really looks like.

That inaugural gown had the same problem. I remember that night vividly. Many comments contained speculations that she was pregnant. Clearly not, but I can see why people thought that.

Well, I stepped outside the bounds of proper feminist speech, but I must say I don’t care. These things are important when one’s appearance is so critical, and one’s photos are going to be published everywhere in the world!!!

And such observations are all the more important in that the entire Obama phenomenon is based on appearances, not substance.
Scout

If I recall correctly, the soon-to-be 26 year old Queen was traveling in Kenya when she was notified of her fathers death. The speech she made then (I can’t recall where I saw it) was very moving and showed no reluctance to become the leader of her country. She probably has met more Presidents and world leaders than anyone else living today. She deserves profound respect, and unfortunately the Obamas did not quite deliver.

QUEENIE

I read somewhere that this past weekend the Obama’s had protocol classes..I guess it didn’t quite sink in!!

Understand ..Protocol is very inportant all over London..you can not even walk into the lobby of the Ritz without a jacket and tie in the afternoon to evening..no jeans allowed..and it is that way in many of the upscale hotels in London.

I look at MO and it makes me embarrassed..as a lifelong crew memeber of a Major airline..I look at this as just blind, blatant ignorance.

Time to pull out the Canadian buttons, hats and scarfs again .. while traveling abroad ..

Has this woman never heard of a suit..a proper suit???????? Why does she keep dressing like a teenage wannabe???????
politicalidentitycrisis

I have to admit, as much as I despise MEMEMEchelle, I am going to follow her new fashion trend. I agree the time is right to Bear arms as is our right under the Second Amendment. I’m so glad the media is on board with that and I certainly hope all Americans will decide the time is right to bear arms in these troubled, insecure times and with the Obafoons in charge!

yttik

LOL! Ah, now I understand why everyone is obsessed with her bare arms. It’s a fruedian slip. Their sub conscious is chanting, “buy spam, plant potatoes, bear arms!”

politicalidentitycrisis

I think it’s code. The MSM is not allowed to scare the crap out of us and let us know how truly bad it’s going to get so they are speaking in code. You have to pay attention these days and read between the lines.

barb

Although sleeveless dresses are fine for most occasions, it is a little gross for formal occasions. No matter how much of a lady you are there is going to be odor coming from your exposed armpits and that doesn’t fit well in a meeting of the world leaders. Especially if you are nervous. I’m a feminist and I don’t care a lot for about fashion dos or don’ts but I can’t help but be a little grossed out by the sleeveless. It is kind of like having unshaven bare legs, OK but still a little gross.

tango

The Obamas didn’t even know the State Department had a protocol office. Yep, that’s the experience America wanted.

http://www.newsweek.com/id/191421

If I was the Queen, I’d rather listen to 50Cent or Jay Z over any of Obamas speeches.

Also, it’s very sad and not much talked about but this whole trip is one big excess. All the lectures on financial responsibility and Obama is acting like a kid in the candy store when it comes to spending money on traveling. Taking over 500 people with them on this trip is outrageous. That even includes cooks – what, was Obama afraid he couldn’t find something to eat in Europe? In the process, they’ve managed to leave the Air Force short handed in regards to delivering supplies to Afghanistan. Ultimately costing the taxpayers even more money to hire contractors to do the job.

I sure would like to see the President practice what he lectures.

http://www.washingtontimes.com/news/2009/apr/02/inside-the-ring-89874599/
http://noquarterusa No-nonsense-Nancy

If those people love them so much then why don’t they just keep them? They don’t need to come back! I’m sure we could find someone else to be our Prez. Anyway, wasn’t he born a British subject?
prieur

for those who are not aware
the Queen has been captured on photos w/ earphones so yes she used walkman and what ensued…
so Ipod will be a nice gigt when she rides at Balmoral or at Windsor

barb

She already had one and the Obamas knew it. Go away Obot.

Peggy Sue

What struck me about the first vid was how tiny the Queen looks standing next to the President and Michelle. And then, how Michelle elbows Prince Philip out of the photograph. I’m sure the still photographers wanted a group shot but . . .

awkward, to say the least.

And I love that exchange between the prince and Obama: “Can you tell the difference between them?”

Wonder if Obama laughed or cracked a smile?
chris from Chicago

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http://www.sonicninjakitty.wordpress.com Sonic Ninja Kitty

I feel your pain!

Liz

In the first video, observe Michelle interrupting her husband and the Queen – then ending the meeting by elbowing Prince Phillip aside and touching the Queen. She’s just so classy.

beebop

Classy in the sense that she is always preaching about it to those beneath her and cozying up to those who are above her. Typical of the self loathing that I believe are the real issues she and Barry deal with daily. I don’t think they like themselves very much. I know … I know … most of you think he’s stuck on himself, but I rather than that 0mama is suffering from being deserted by both parents. Just one person’s opinion.

lilytoo

….always preaching about it to those beneath her and cozying up to those who are above her

good way to put it

You have a good point. People like that want and need constant assurance….hence Barry’s driving need for a crowd love fix

pm317

The iPod gift is saying to the Queen “hey look at me, I am so hip and young and modern and different and you old hag from a different generation and from a line of stuck up society fixtures from time immemorial wallowing in the riches you don’t deserve. I am not going to give you anything meaningful but some stupid toy the same as the one my 7 year old wants”
pm317

ugh.. the way they stood with their backs to camera obscuring the the Queen and her husband in that first video and the way MO pushed the royal husband to the side.. hilarious. The old couple look so frail in front of these two, made even more pronounced by their lack of grace.
chris from Chicago

Oh I could just not resist posting this..lol..lol.lol

http://www.plnewsforum.com/index.php/forums/viewthread/49855

Obama: Jockeying for position as “Groom of the Stool”?
The Groom of the Stool was a medieval English groom (i.e., a male servant) who, among other duties, had the task of cleaning the Monarch’s anus after a bowel movement.[1]

In the early years of Henry VIII’s reign, the title was awarded to minions of the King, court companions who spent time with him in the Privy chamber. These were the sons of noblemen or important members of the gentry. In time they came to act as virtual personal secretaries to the King, carrying out a variety of administrative tasks within his private rooms. The position was an especially prized one, as it allowed one unobstructed access to the King’s attention. David Starkey writes: “The Groom of the Stool had (to our eyes) the most menial tasks; his standing, though, was the highest… Clearly then, the royal body service must have been seen as entirely honorable, without a trace of the demeaning or the humiliating.”[2] Further, “the mere word of the Gentleman of the Privy Chamber was sufficient evidence in itself of the king’s will,” and the Groom of the Stool bore “the indefinable charisma of the monarchy.”[3]

Sir Henry Norreys, a Groom of the Stool under Henry VIII, was executed for an alleged affair with Anne Boleyn.

The office persisted into the nineteenth century and John Neeld, M.P. for Cricklade held the office of “Gentleman of the Privy Chamber” to Queen Victoria, for which he was elevated to a baronetcy in 1859.[4]

A similar position, the Porte-coton, existed at the French royal court. The position existed in a less scatological but much more senior form, the Groom of the Stole, until 1901. These were always important noblemen.

http://www.sonicninjakitty.wordpress.com Sonic Ninja Kitty

Hilarious! Just don’t let BO see this–he’ll be thinking “I’ve got to get me one of those!”

califlefty

Do we have such dolts in the White House that they TOTALLY MISSED an opportunity to impress the Queen with a thoughtful gift? Obama is from Hawaii, will you please take a look at the State Flag of Hawaii? Will you notice that the British Union Jack is part of that flag! Why? Because of the long historical relationship between Hawaii, Captain Cook and Britain. At the very least, a beautiful embroidered flag or a historical flag of Hawaii presented to the Queen to remind everyone of these ties, and that President Obama is a Hawaiian would have made so much sense. Instead, an ipod – truly idiotic. Let’s hope that if Obama ever visits Israel he doesn’t bring a Kentucky Ham.
pm317

Why does he smile his big toothy smile all the time? Even in that group photo, he is the only one with a big toothy smile. Do a toothpaste commercial and get it over with.
Rah-Rah

I haven’t read all of the comments, but to be fair:

The Queen touched Michelle first on the small of her back and that was a gesture of openness. To me, it was a very human moment. Should Michelle have ignored the touch and stood ramrod straight? I don’t know. Maybe. But I thought it was quite lovely and a show from Queen Elizabeth that is rarely exhibited. I’m cutting Michelle tons of slack on this one…

Also, I don’t particularly like the idea of Obama giving an iPOD with his speeches loaded on it to Queen Elizabeth (more about the speeches than the iPOD because she is technically savvy), but he ALSO gave her a rare book of songs by the great American songwriter Richard Rodgers. Now that’s a classy gift – and was, as I am reading, very much appreciated as Queen Elizabeth loves songs from that era of Broadway.

Anyway, I’m sure my comments will anger many as a sign of sudden support for Obama… whatever. I just choose my battles wisely and this outrage is all just a bunch of nonsense.

http://deleted Buzz Latte

How do you know the queen made such a gesture?

Rah-Rah

Here you go, Buzz Latte:

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/politics/G20/article6018322.ece

It is usually a breach of protocol to touch the Queen. But as the two women stood side by side, chatting about their height difference, she put her hand on the back of Mrs Obama, who did the same for a few moments. Before she departed, Mrs Obama told the Queen: “I really enjoyed our meeting.”

-Times of London

Dilbert

There was a palace photo on CNN a while ago that was taken from behind, showing the Queen standing with her arm around Michelle Obama’s waist.

andrew191

That’s OK Rah-Rah, few people saw Michelle and the QOE do a fist-bump either. And NOBODY saw the 0bamas, The Queen, and Prince Phillip later shooting hoops in the palace gym.
barb

How do you know it was a book of Richard Rodgers songs? I heard on the news that the songs were on the Ipod? I think a rare book of Rodgers songs would have been nice, but that is not what I heard.

Rah-Rah

good grief. you are mistaken beyond belief.
Rah-Rah

Here you go…

Obama and first lady Michelle Obama also presented the queen with a rare coffee table book of songs by composers Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart that Rodgers had signed in May 1952.

To bring the 240-plus page book to life, the iPod was loaded with dozens of classic show tunes, including several from “Camelot,” which was based on the King Arthur legend, and “My Fair Lady,” which was set in London.

The iPod also includes photos and video from the queen’s 2007 visit to Virginia and Washington, photos from Obama’s inauguration in January this year and audio of his inauguration address.

-New Zealand Herald News

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/technology/news/article.cfm?c_id=5&objectid=10564993

politicsisdirty

Leave the Obamas alone….

their status is still OJT (On the Job Trainees}
http://deleted Buzz Latte

An AP article by Jennifer Quinn completely screws everything around to make it sound like MicHELLe did a good thing getting the queen to break from protocol.

God, I’m so tired of these losers already.
Jackarooty

Rah-Rah…

I haven’t read all of the comments, but to be fair:

The Queen touched Michelle first on the small of her back and that was a gesture of openness. To me, it was a very human moment. Should Michelle have ignored the touch and stood ramrod straight? I don’t know. Maybe. But I thought it was quite lovely and a show from Queen Elizabeth that is rarely exhibited. I’m cutting Michelle tons of slack on this one…

I saw that too…

http://deleted Buzz Latte

News (ABC) now reporting that Michelle did a royal no-no.

Seems the Obuttheads need a few more lessons in etiquitte.

Rah-Rah

Buzz Latte:

After reading your Ebonics and ghetto comment up-post, I have to wonder what your agenda is…It seems to move way beyond the political.

http://deleted Buzz Latte

News (ABC) now reporting that Michelle did a royal no-no.

Seems the Obuttheads need a few more lessons in etiquette.

PaulRevere

Here it is in a nutshell:

They are LOW CLASS people who have now found themselves in a place of social status that they cheated, stole and lied their way into. Hence, they are completely out of their league and over their heads. They are posers and pretenders and think they are beyond reproach. The thing that the MSM “forgets” is that Jackie O. was GROOMED to be a sophisticate. MEEEEEEEchelle and Odrama are NOWHERE in Jackie O’s league. NOWHERE. IN. HER. LEAGUE.

I detest them with ever core of my being. They are a total embarassment to this country. And I think it is in their POOREST of taste to bring such an entourage with them. MEEEEEEEEchelle has EIGHT (!!!!) personal assistants with her. If this doesn’t stink of reparations I don’t know what does. They are a complete JOKE!
Jackarooty

Update for those who are interested:

http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/politics/G20/article6022502.ece
Kathy

I saw that the Queen gave the Obamas an autographed picture of herself. I take it as a not-so-subtle hint about what she thought of the classless, self-promoting, thoughtless gift given to Prime Minister Brown during his visit to Washington.

Jackarooty

It’s standard procedure for The Queen to give a silver framed signed photo of herself.

Ultramagnetic

1. The iPod is a video iPod. The one the Queen already has in not.

2. According to CBS the Queen Requested the videos of her last visit to the US.

3. Obama also gave the Queen a rare copy of a Rodgers and Hammerstein Songbook from 1951 signed by Rodgers. The Queen is a big fan of show tunes.

4. Prince Phillip had Michelle move next to the queen she did not PUSH him out of the way. As is custom for photos of the queen with heads of state Prince Phillip stayed out of that shot.

5. Buckingham Place issued a statement today that the hug was initiated BY THE QUEEN and as the event was not a formal state event no protocols were broken.

I just love coming to this site to see the level of hate people actually have in their hearts. Still amazes me that many people still think its 1955. Way to go Larry.

termo

You sure you got everything Axelrod dictated to you?

beebop

They just cut and paste from those silly email announcements that start: HELP HELP HELP …. apparently the vaunted 600,000+ email in support of the “budget” is really less than 100K. They had to “reach” out to get another 100+ and then photocopied them numerous times. ACORN must be running this ….

Donna Brazile

Ultra:

Keep coming back! We enjoy the hits.

Stop the lovefest!
Murray

Something has changed in the video. This is creepy. I saw the BBC video that French Nail refers to (see the second comment, above). It was NOT the same as this one listed by Jackarooty.

One of them has been edited.

Guess I’ll have to get a tinfoil hat.
http://deleted Buzz Latte

Cite your sources, BOT.

Because what is in the British news and on domestic TV at this moment aren’t agreeing with you.

Murray

Watch who you’re calling BOT, Buzz.

Just because I didn’t copy this morning’s early video of the event. As you can read from these postings, I’m not the only one who watched the video of Michelle pushing Prince Phillip out of her way.

Jackarooty’s video is not the same.
http://deleted Buzz Latte

Wasn’t meant for YOU Murray. If you look, it is part of the comments linked to the comment by Ultramagnetic. See the little gray box outlining the comments as a cluster?

Don’t worry you’ll get used to it and sometime the comments don’t go to the one you’ve responded to, so chill a bit.

The videos have been altered and the stories in America have all been turned into puff pieces in order not to tarnish Obama love.

It’s sickening.
Murray

Thx Buzz.
Yet I could never get used to being mistaken for a bot. Ewwww.
Forgive my knee-jerk oversensitivity.
Ginger

Passing these along…

*How many narcissists does it take to change a light bulb? One. He holds the bulb while the world revolves around him.

*What do a narcissist and a sperm have in common? Both have about a one in 3 million chance of becoming a human being.

*How does a narcissist sleep? First he lies on one side, then he lies on the other.

andrew191

How many flies does it take to screw in a light bulb? Only two! It’s just hard to figure out how they got in there.

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Chloe

I don’t know about you guys but I just can’t stand the way everyone (most) in the media fawn over them. It’s disgusting. Imagine for a moment if Hillary was President and she traveled with a entourage like this, I can assure you that their would be an investigation into it and it would end with GATE. I think Michelle looks like one angry woman. She just has no class, and to compare her to Jackie Please, they are not even in the same universe when it comes to style and class. I think they need the extra planes, to carry their ego’s. Didn’t Obama rip the bank executives a new one for their overspending and look what he does. He does think he is a KING for sure, and my friends that scares me.
Rob

Where’s the “whitey” tape?

beebop

In yer anus?

http://deleted Buzz Latte

Rob, honey. You need to go get your meds now.
NewOrleans

she showed her more casual, affectionate side by putting her arm around Her Majesty to hug her.

WTF? Affectionate side? Michelle Obama?

ROTLMAO! Apparently, to ‘important’ or wealthy people, she’s affectionate. To the rest of us bitter, clingy, downright mean racist Americans, her affection is lacking.

Perhaps she was just trying to sqeeze the Queen in an attempt to get the Queen to be as awestruck at her supposedly buff arms as the US media is.
Concerned Citizen

What’s in the Queen’s purse? A .22 Smith and Wesson revolver with pearl grips.