DEAR MISS MANNERS: Is it poor manners to drink water while you are eating? I have a small esophagus and choke very easily, so I take a drink after most bites that require chewing. My daughter's boyfriend told my grandson that I have "bad manners," which I felt was rude and out of line.
GENTLE READER: Yes, it was. And poor judgment, besides, to confide in your grandson. Miss Manners assures you that drinking water frequently is infinitely preferable to choking.