ArcaMax

DEAR MISS MANNERS: At several gatherings with friends and family, the food is blessed by holding hands during a prayer -- after I have already washed mine in preparation for eating.

Holding hands defeats the purpose of washing them, but I don't know how to avoid it during the prayer. Refraining from holding hands, or immediately rewashing right...Read more

DEAR MISS MANNERS: My home has an open floor plan with the kitchen, living room and dining area all combined. This leads to guests meandering through the kitchen area while we're preparing food.

No approach I have used has been successful to deter this. How do I approach my dear aunt at Thanksgiving, who is a repeat offender? She hovers over ...Read more

DEAR MISS MANNERS: My 30-year-old cousin is getting married, and my relatives believe she is doing everything wrong. In fact, a growing list of the bride-to-be's "inappropriate" wedding choices has become the family's favorite topic, especially among the 65+ ladies (all discussed behind my cousin's back, of course).

The specific crimes my ...Read more

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I am a high school senior who usually sits with my friend Oliver in English class. I've known him for about a year and we get along very well and hang out outside of school since we only have one class together.

We don't actually talk much in this class. I've noticed he has difficulty focusing so he can't be distracted from ...Read more