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

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

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.

In today's Miss Manners column, advice columnist Judith Martin is asked how to get a young couple to send a "thank you" note.

DEAR MISS MANNERS: For my 40th birthday, my sister planned a bowling party. She is very organized, and pre-entered the names of all 12 guests into the lanes (two lanes, six people at each).

So Miss Manners suggests you save yourself a search for pre-printed matter, get out a plain piece of paper (or one with just ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I was invited to a shower for a friend’s daughter’s wedding. It was called a “suitcase” shower, meaning ...

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?

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

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: Because of a chronic illness, I have to go to a clinic in an urban setting three to four times per week.