DEAR ABBY: My husband and I host Christmas at our home. We have always served the meals buffet-style. Please tell me how to address the problem of relatives who move down the serving line constantly licking their fingers and then touching the utensils of all the other dishes. This may not be a concern to everyone, but to us it is unsanitary and unappetizing.
While we're on the subject, whatever happened to people washing their hands before they eat? Please hurry with your answer. The holidays are almost here, and I need a solution. -- PICKY IN WASHINGTON
DEAR PICKY: While it's advisable for people to wash their hands before eating, not everyone does -- and unless you want to assume the role of "Mommy" and pass out anti-bacterial hand wipes as people get in line, you may have to accept that some of your guests won't do it.
As to how to handle the "contaminated" utensils, consider serving the food cafeteria-style, with you and your spouse doling it out to each of your guests. This should eliminate the "ick" factor.