DEAR ABBY: Thank you for many years of sensible, down-to-earth answers to problems that may or may not have entered my life -- they were enlightening anyway. Now for my silly problem. My husband and I (70ish) recently took a trip in our RV and stopped at a favorite restaurant in Pennsylvania that serves "family style." In other words, platters of food are on the table for all to share.
Upon leaving, I visited the ladies room, and since the woman attendant was bustling around the lavatories, I skipped washing my hands, intending to do so in the RV. I was shocked when the attendant stopped me and asked if I was entering the dining room. I said, "No, I'm leaving." It was very embarrassing, to say the least. I've heard of "potty parity" -- what is this? "Potty police"? Is this custom prevalent? -- RED-FACED IN CONNECTICUT
DEAR RED-FACED: I've never heard of it, but the attendant must be a mother. And once a mother, always a mother. Old habits die hard.