My home has an open floor plan with the kitchen, living room and dining area all combined. This leads to guests meandering through the kitchen area while we’re making food.

I am the stepmother to two great young men. Their father and I have been together since they were teenagers. When they were young, it was a difficult but necessary position for me to be in when it ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I was in an upscale restaurant and the 20-something server totally messed up. The appetizers never arrived, our order was incorrect, etc. The young woman gave a half-hearted apology ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I live in a great neighborhood with wonderful neighbors. A few of the ladies in my cul-de-sac have become close: looking out for each other, picking up delivered packages if they’re ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I am a writer and editor by profession, so I read books with a critical eye. I bought a book written by an acquaintance of several years ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I am a writer and editor by profession, so I read books with a critical eye. I bought a book written by an acquaintance of several years ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I am always looking to meet new people and make new friends. But for the last five years or so, I have noticed that people only want to talk about themselves — their travels, home ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: My daughter acted poorly and distanced herself from one of her good friends. This is the second time in a few years she has done this. Miss Manners: What to do when the eulogies run ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I have seen a close relative in the news for something nefarious. I know they must be upset by the reports, and I sincerely feel bad for them, as I know this action was out of ...

Read all of Slate’s stories about the 25 Greatest Picture Books of the Past 25 Years. On Oct. 8, 2010, the New York Times ran a story on its front page: “Picture Books No Longer a Staple for Children.

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I was in a subway station waiting for my train, standing near a column, when a gentleman emerged from the other side of the column. Related Articles Miss Manners: I want to sit with ...

DEAR MISS MANNERS: I was in a subway station waiting for my train, standing near a column, when a gentleman emerged from the other side of the column. Miss Manners: What to do when the eulogies run ...