DEAR ABBY: Our friend, "Marie," a cook at a local restaurant, thinks nothing of eating off our plates. Not only does she eat from our plates when we dine in the establishment she works in, but also if we go out to another restaurant together. We have asked her to stop. Please help! -- PICKED OVER IN NEW ENGLAND
DEAR PICKED OVER: Because your friend seems unable to respect the boundaries you're trying to set, it's time to become proactive. The next time you're eating in Marie's presence, offer her a taste. Then put a small portion on your butter plate or saucer -- and HAND it to her.