DEAR MISS MANNERS: A family member wants to throw a housewarming party for me at HER house to celebrate my new home that is being built. Is this appropriate?
GENTLE READER: It was always Miss Manners' belief that one threw a housewarming party to welcome a few intimate friends to see the new house. As that house will not be able to attend, what is the purpose of the party?
She hopes the answer is not "Presents!" which are properly incidental and absolutely not required. The only events at which the guest of honor is not expected to participate are baby showers and funerals.