DEAR MISS MANNERS: My fiance and I decided early on that I would change my last name to his. The funny coincidence is that my first and middle name are the exact same as his little sister (with whom I have a good relationship).
We also receive our e-mail from the same provider, so if I were to change my e-mail address to my new married name, our e-mail addresses would be exactly the same. I also don't care for numbers or nicknames for e-mail addresses.
Being the planner that I am, I am wondering how to handle my e-mail name change, when she already has the e-mail. Can you please advise us of the proper way to handle this?
GENTLE READER: "Us"? You are not thinking, Miss Manners hopes, of suggesting to your sister-in-law that she yield her e-mail address. As in, "Move over, dear, it's my name now."
That would not be a safe way to begin your new family life. Besides, why would you want to clog up your in-box with her mail? Even after you do her the courtesy of choosing another configuration of your name for your e-mail (for example, adding your maiden name between your middle name and your surname) or another server, It is more likely that she will be the one to have the burden of receiving your mail.
DEAR MISS MANNERS: What is the correct way to wear a signet ring? Should the initials be readable if someone shakes your hand or should it be readable to the wearer?
GENTLE READER: Considering how many people post reading matter for the general public on their clothing and their flesh, you may be surprised to hear that you are not supposed to be a walking bulletin board. The ring should face you. If others wish to know your initials, Miss Manners suggest that they read them on your briefcase.
DEAR MISS MANNERS: ?When I was a child, I had a fairly bad stutter. Fortunately, I have pretty much grown out of it, but sometimes I still stutter, most often when I'm standing in line trying to order something and feel like I'm holding everyone up. What amazes me is how often the person I'm speaking to (or trying to order coffee from) will imitate the problem. I think they're trying to show some kind of good-natured kidding, but being mocked, even in jest, makes me more anxious and more prone to stuttering.
I know the proper response is to ignore the jibe, but as I get older and crankier, I'm less patient with these morons. On the other hand, when I'm caught up in this stuttering loop, I'm not really in a position to be able to respond snappily. Is there any way out of this?
GENTLE READER: You should have no trouble with the proper response, which is to ignore the person, rather than ignoring what you call a jibe, but what Miss Manners would call a blatant insult. That is to walk away and, when you are ready, to complain to the manager.
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