Divided by a common language
#1
Divided by a common language
I had my first real NZ-English misunderstanding today. I was seeing a sick cat and on asking if the cat had exhibited any peculiar behaviour the following conversation ensued:
Kiwi: We have had the builders in and she [the cat] has taken to lying amongst the bats in the roof now it's exposed.
Me: That's very strange, I wonder why she'd do that [you can see where this is going]
Kiwi: Well I suppose they are warm and fluffy
Me: Yes they probably are but it still seems a little odd that your cat would decide to do this
Kiwi, looking at me very oddly by now: Is there anything she can catch from the bats?
Me: Not that I know of in NZ, back in the UK bats are known to carry rabies but as far as I know it's not an issue here but I may well be wrong
Kiwi burst into laughter and said 'Batts, pink insulating batts, did you really think I had native bats in my roof that my cat cuddles up to?'
I had to admit that yes, that was my first thought and that I was seriously considering whether her cat was clinically insane After wiping away the tears of laughter I had to try and be all professional again...
Kiwi: We have had the builders in and she [the cat] has taken to lying amongst the bats in the roof now it's exposed.
Me: That's very strange, I wonder why she'd do that [you can see where this is going]
Kiwi: Well I suppose they are warm and fluffy
Me: Yes they probably are but it still seems a little odd that your cat would decide to do this
Kiwi, looking at me very oddly by now: Is there anything she can catch from the bats?
Me: Not that I know of in NZ, back in the UK bats are known to carry rabies but as far as I know it's not an issue here but I may well be wrong
Kiwi burst into laughter and said 'Batts, pink insulating batts, did you really think I had native bats in my roof that my cat cuddles up to?'
I had to admit that yes, that was my first thought and that I was seriously considering whether her cat was clinically insane After wiping away the tears of laughter I had to try and be all professional again...
#2
Re: Divided by a common language
love it Sue!, gave OH & I a good laugh & cheered up a grey dismal sunday morning!!
#6
Re: Divided by a common language
I found it very bizarre too that their cat would be curling up with bats!