DEAR MISS MANNERS: My siblings and I are struggling with entertaining members of the extended family -- our children's in-laws, and, from time to time, our siblings' spouses, who are used to a "camping style" lifestyle.
Must we adhere to their level of such informality at OUR houses when entertaining them?
In an effort to accommodate them, we completely scale back on the crystal and sterling and opt for stainless and regular glass, everyday china and only glasses we need, but like to draw the line at ketchup bottles, plastic bowls, etc., at the dinner table.
Our children say that our more formal (we call it proper!) way of dining makes their in-laws and spouses uncomfortable, even at holiday time. The in-laws say, and I quote, "I'm not even going to try and compete with you!" when we go to their homes.
This is NOT a competition -- it's just how we were raised! Cloth napkins, salad fork, dinner fork, nice table setting, serving pieces for food, etc.
So is "dumbing down" necessary, or is there a way to make it known to our children that their in-laws should not be uncomfortable with our lifestyle, just as we are not uncomfortable with theirs in our respective homes?
GENTLE READER: The importance that many people attach to "being comfortable" is matched only by their high-minded horror at hypocrisy. But Miss Manners fears that pointing out the hypocrisy of using etiquette as a cover for making you do what they want all the time will get you nowhere. Better to explain that you are more comfortable with silver and cloth napkins in your own home, and turn a deaf ear to any muttered accusations of being "old-fashioned."
She is curious why you would normally set out glasses you don't need. Are some members of the family particularly clumsy?