courtesy words to be used at special occasions

When we attend formal gatherings we are expected to be at our very best in clothes, words and deed. Earlier, we have gone through some of the things to do and avoid while at such gatherings. My dear boys and girls, when at parties where adults are also invited, make sure that you avoid talking loudly or shouting. When you have a message to tell a friend across the hall, go up to him or her and not shout out the message. That's a no-no. This also holds true about laughing. It is rude to laugh loudly while at a gatheing. Show your breeding while maintaining conversation with friends or other guests. Greet everyone with a smile and use the following words or expressions that exhibit good manners.

Good evening, ma'am/sir. (to those older than you) Otherwise, just say "Good evening" to everyone.

Thank you. (after a favor has been done to you like being served something)

Please. (when asked if you want something and you want to say yes)

Excuse me. (when you want to call the attention of someone )

You're welcome or It's a pleasure. (when someone says "Thank you" because you've done her or him a favor)

I am sorry. (when you have wronged someone like when you step on someone's shoes)

May I.......Could you please.........(in asking for favor)

b'day gifts for 14, 15, 16 yo

Moms sometimes find it hard to look for the perfect gift for their kids who are turning 14, or 15, 16. Of course, the usual questions to be asked are:

1. What does she want?

a. music

b. books

c. clothes (blouses, bags)

d. writing

e. accessories (jewelry, friendship bands)

f. cologne

2. What is it that she already has but still wants more? Does she have a hobby? Is she collecting something?

From observation, teens ages 14 to 16 love new things such as new blouses, wallets, bags, and they like to change the look of their cellphones. Those who love to read will appreciate a good book. And yes, any piece of jewelry like a bracelet, pair of earrings, or a necklace will also be appreciated.

Summer splash at Sea Forest

No, it wasn't a birthday party but the culminating activity of ABC Kiddie Learning Center which happened with a big splash at Sea Forest, between Sibulan and San Jose, Negros Oriental, Philippines. Photo shows Dewey, Chula, gramma, and right behind are Pia and mom Christina. Sea Forest is one of the best places to visit in Dumaguete City. It is where you, friends , and family can have loads of fun.

kids and make-up

As a general rule, make-up is not for kids. However, there are times when they are required to have some color on their faces when the occasion calls for it. For instance, if the kid is going to be performing on stage, then she will need a little color so that she will not appear deathly up there. Make-up for kids is done on necessity, and that is, to add or give color to the face for stage presentations.

However, there had been many cases of kids being made up a la Marilyn Monroe especially during kids' pageants. Ok, ok. It's a beauty pageant, but these are only kids! For God's sake, shaving their eyebrows and making them arched will turn them into hags!

Kids, no matter what presentation they are joining, should look their age. A small amount of blusher and a dab of lipstick will do just for the color effect.

Otherwise, please, do not tamper on their innocent faces.

Party etiquette

Here are a few basic things to guide us when attending parties.

1. When it is a formal party where guests were invited by an invitation card which you were not given, do not attend it even if another friend who received an invitation will bring you along.

2. If you are the host, greet guests as they come to the door. You should have a place for their personal items which they might want to leave.

3. As host, you need to introduce people.

4. If you are an invited guest, bring a gift for the host.

5. Use utensils from outside in. Used ones should never be placed back onto the table cloth. Rest them against the side of the plate.

6. Napkins should never be placed on the table until meal is over.

7. Never talk when your mouth is full.

8. Eat with mouth closed.

9. Never bring too much food to your mouth. Avoid making chewing sounds or utensils grating against your teeth.

10. Never pick your teeth in the open.

11. When leaving and the host walks you to the door, do not engage her in long conversation at the door.

12. Don't forget to thank the host and to tell her you have enjoyed the night.