Ask Amy: Can't get used to messy airport travelers

DEAR AMY: Last week my husband and I did some traveling by plane. We had several layovers, so we sat and waited for several hours in various airports. Amy, we were amazed at how sloppy some people have become. And some people are downright vulgar. So much naked flesh! Surely these people were cold on their flights. We decided that at least 80 percent of the travelers looked disgusting. Some were quite laughable. I told my husband I hoped we had some money invested in flip-flops, as they seemed to be the choice for most travelers. What has happened to pride in one's appearance? I'm sure most of these people would say they dressed for comfort, but you can be comfortable and still look decent. It was so refreshing to see airline personnel looking neat and clean. Thank you for letting me sound off.

--MSH

DEAR MSH: After you have disrobed and been frisked to get through security and herded from gate to gate dragging your wheelie bag while you chase after your delayed plane - flip-flops, sweatpants and halter tops start to seem like a wise choice.

Unlike you, I don't think people look any worse than they ever have - you're simply in proximity to a wider variety of the hoi polloi. I suggest you try harder to embrace the experience.

DEAR AMY: I was seriously offended and disappointed by your response to "Experienced." When she wrote, "I can't wait to see who I have to fend off when I'm 40," you replied, "The answer to who you'll have to fend off when you're 40 is . . . practically no one." I found this response to be mean and inconsiderate!

--Disappointed

DEAR DISAPPOINTED:Scores of angry "cougars" pounced on me. I was making a joke. I may be the only middle-age woman who finds this "cougar" nonsense embarrassing.