When I had my hair done, the stylist and her assistant spent the entire time talking over my head. There was no way I could ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: For my 40th birthday, my sister planned a bowling party. She is very organized, and pre-entered the names ...

At a bowling party for my 40th birthday, my dad brought his girlfriend. It didn’t take her long to try to take over the whole ...

But if they are talking pleasantries, you may smile or laugh or add something and see if it takes. There is a good chance ...

Dad’s girlfriend showed up to the letter writer’s bowling birthday party and took over. Dear Miss Manners: For my 40th ...

Do we have to invite them to join us at a restaurant at some point? If so, may we try to “dilute” them by inviting others?

No one knew what to say or how to stop her, since we don’t really even know her, and no one wanted her to be uncomfortable.

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I have a number of friends I regularly meet for meals out, as well as for friends’ birthdays. We’ve been ...

For decades, my group of friends has gotten together at restaurants, but we each pay our own checks. Is there anything wrong ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I have a good friend who is the polar opposite of me on politics, religion and almost every other subject. We are cognizant of these differences, and refrain from debate or ...

Dear Miss Manners: My husband and I, along with a friend, pre-purchased hard-to-get opera tickets. We’ve looked forward to attending for many months. However, we just learned that our companion ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I have a number of friends I regularly meet for meals out, as well as for friends’ birthdays. We’ve been friends for going on 40 years and first began socializing after ...