Manners were spread by the King, but they are definitely not just for royalty!

Manners are the outward expression of what is on the inside of you- what is in your heart and mind.  You manners show others what kind of character you have.

Calling me Mrs. Fleming doesn’t mean I am old!

Until someone has given you permission to use his or her first name, you should always go with the last name unless you are in a casual situation such as a party.

Ships go out to sea, Soupspoons go away from me

You should dip soup away from yourself, while gently scraping the spoon against the back of the bowl to catch any drips.

How to stop being interrupted

Listen and you will not interrupt

Most interrupters don’t really realize what they are doing when they cut you off.

Hot Topic: Candle Etiquette

Candlelight can do wonders for any holiday gathering or party: it can soften the surroundings, relax guests, and set the mood for the entire event.  Beware, however, that using candlelight improperly can annoy your guests, create a fire hazard, and take away from your dinner conversation.  Brush up your hostess skills with my candle etiquette… Continue reading Hot Topic: Candle Etiquette

It’s too hot! What should I do?

  I am sorry to tell you that blowing on your food is not ok!  You should not blow on it before it goes into your mouth, and you should not fan your food with your mouth open after you have taken a bite of something that is too hot.  The best way to cool… Continue reading It’s too hot! What should I do?

To twirl or not to twirl: when is it good manners to use a fork?

  Is it ok to eat ribs or a T-bone steak with your fingers? Also, what is the proper way to eat spaghetti? It is not ok to eat any kind of steak with your fingers! However, it is OK to eat ribs with your fingers if the restaurant or dinner is casual. Most likely,… Continue reading To twirl or not to twirl: when is it good manners to use a fork?

In the Closet with Me

In the Closet with Me

A gay man’s coming out originally referred to his being formally presented to gay society and the enormous drag balls that followed were patterned on the debutante and masquerade balls of the prewar era. “Coming out” at that time referred to coming out of hiding and joining into a society of peers.