GENTLE READER: Funny. Miss Manners is more accustomed to being asked how to stay out of beauty salon conversations, not how ...

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).

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

My dad arrived late, while we were in the fourth frame, and unexpectedly brought his girlfriend, Tiffany. My mom, his ex-wife ...

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

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

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 ...

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 ...

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.

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?

GENTLE READER: Your confidence that you are not required to reciprocate in your apartment, though technically correct, ...