ArcaMax

DEAR MISS MANNERS: How does one diplomatically, yet adamantly, state that guests should not bring a dish to supplement your holiday event?

I'm frequently asked, "What can I bring?" I always reply, "Your good cheer and appetite, please!" Inevitably, friends will show up with their award-winning dish and promptly put it on the serving line.

...Read more

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I know you're going to think this is a made-up letter, but I assure you it's not. (But then, I'd say that even if it were, wouldn't I?)

When one has been invited to stay overnight in a home without indoor plumbing, but is provided with a chamber pot (no lid) under the bed, what does one do with it the next morning? Leave it? ...Read more

DEAR MISS MANNERS: My pet dachshund is slightly overweight. The vet said he should lose 3 pounds. When we are out walking, people will occasionally make hurtful remarks about him, like "He really likes his food, doesn't he?" or "His belly is really dragging."

His belly is not dragging on the sidewalk. It makes me sad to see a sweet little dog ...Read more

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I took a long cross-country flight, during which I was assigned the middle seat. The gentleman seated by the window insisted on asking me about my relationship with Jesus, showing me photos on his cellphone and trying to engage me in conversation, while I was very pointedly trying to watch a movie.

The flight was full, so ...Read more

DEAR MISS MANNERS: For the past 15 years or so, my wife and I have been hosting a potluck feast for Thanksgiving, with about 30 friends and family joining us at our house.

In our invitation, we announce that we're supplying the turkey, soft drinks, booze and a few other staples, and ask others to bring an appetizer, side dish, dessert, etc. We ...Read more