Happy host declines help in kitchen with a poem
DEAR ABBY » I have seen letters in your column from people upset that their guests don’t help them after dinner. I am the opposite. I held onto a poem you printed years ago and had it perma-plaqued and posted on a kitchen cabinet.
For more than 20 years, my husband and I hosted a dinner every Sunday after church. I set the table for 10, but we often had more. When guests offered to help, I handed them a copy of that poem. Could you print it again for your readers? — Faithful follower
in Massachusetts
DEAR FOLLOWER » Gladly. That poem has been requested many times over the years. It resonates with hosts who are territorial about their space when entertaining. It is included in my booklet “Keepers,” which is a collection of poems, essays and letters readers have told me they clipped and saved to reread until they were yellowed with age and fell apart. You were clever to permaplaque yours. “Keepers” is both witty and philosophical. It covers many subjects including children, parenting, animals, aging, death, forgiveness and more. It can be ordered by sending your name and address, plus check or money order for $8 (U.S. funds) to Dear Abby Keepers Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 610540447. Shipping and handling are included in the price. It’s a quick and easy read as well as an inexpensive gift for newlyweds, pet lovers, new parents and anyone grieving or recovering from an illness.
STAY OUT
OF MY KITCHEN by Susan Sawyer
Please stay away from my
kitchen
From my dishwashing,
cooking and such;
You were kind to have
offered to pitch in
But thanks, no, thank you
so much!
Please don’t think me
ungracious
When I ask that you leave
me alone;
For my kitchen’s not any
too spacious
And my routine is strictly
my own.
Tell you what: You stay
out of my kitchen
With its sodden, hot,
lackluster lures —
When you’re here, stay
out of my kitchen
And I promise to stay out
of yours!
DEAR ABBY » I had weightloss surgery six months ago. I haven’t had the dramatic transformation that some people experience.
I’ve only lost about 50 pounds.
My problem is, friends who know I had the operation keep asking me how much weight I lost. I think it’s a rude question and none of their business. I understand people are curious, especially since they haven’t seen me in person because of COVID restrictions. How do I answer without saying, “None of your business”?
— Losing in New Jersey
DEAR LOSING » Your friends may just be curious and want to congratulate you on a big loss, and 50 pounds is one. That said, you do not have to answer every question that is asked. All you need to say is, “I’ll let you guess once you see me again.” If they ask for a hint, stick to your guns and change the subject. Then consider this: They may be gauging the success of your surgery for themselves.
DEAR READERS » Today’s the day for the wearing of the green. A very happy St. Patrick’s Day to you all!
— Love, Abby
Good advice for everyone — teens to seniors — is in “The Anger in All of Us and How to Deal With It.” To order, send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 to: Dear Abby, Anger Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 610540447. (Shipping and handling are included in the price.)