Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/609333
DILBERT ScottAdams PEARLSBEFORESWINE StephanPastis PICKLES BrianCrane BABYBLUES JerryScott&RickKirkman PHOEBEANDHERUNICORN DanaSimpson ZITS JerryScott&JimBorgman SHERMAN'SLAGOON JimToomey ARGYLESWEATER ScottHilburn BIZARRO DanPiraro DEARAMY»Mypartner "Mike" and I have been in a relationship for many years. We go to his mother "Peg's" house for holiday meals. She cooks dinner, which is very nice. However, she smokes cigarettes while doing so — before, during, and after — and after being in her home, one exits reeking of smoke. I have asthma. My partner has not asked his mother not to smoke around me because he thinks she would take of- fense. Honestly, she prob- ably just really wants to see her son and wouldn't miss me if I weren't there. When someone has in- vited you to her home, is it impolite to ask that per- son to not smoke while you're in it — or should I find somewhere else to celebrate the holiday? —Asthmatic DEAR ASTHMATIC » Your partner's mother isn't a random "someone" inviting you into her home. She is your de- facto mother-in-law, and rather than disappearing from holiday dinner, you should be brave enough to explain, giving her the opportunity to adjust. Say to her, "Peg, I en- joy coming to your house and I'm so grateful for your hospitality. I don't know if you are aware of this but I suffer from asthma. Being exposed to cigarette smoking makes it worse. Would you be willing to not smoke while I'm there? If not, I understand, but if that's the case I don't think I'll be able to come this year." Be aware that the wel- come mat points in both directions. Peg might en- joy a meal at your home. DEAR AMY » I am throw- ing a dinner party and I invited a couple I have socialized with for years. They observe kosher dietary laws. They told me I must buy kosher wine, and when I sug- gested they bring a bottle, they got huffy. They said that because I am the host it is my responsibil- ity to make sure everyone is accommodated. Does this also go as far as ordering a separate meal for them? Your thoughts? — Frustrated Hostess DEAR FRUSTRATED » Wow — the roles of Huffy and Demanding are usually played by family mem- bers, not friends, but regardless, a good host should try to accommo- da t e al l o f h er g u es ts . The opposite is also true: A good guest should be as low-maintenance as possible. These guests are failing; I assume you will do a better job. If the caterer is not able to provide a kosher meal then ask your guests for suggestions. If after all of your efforts you are not able to guarantee they will be served a kosher meal, tell them ahead of time. If you are serving wine to other guests and your local wine shop car- ries kosher wine, it would be thoughtful for you to provide it. You should do your best to be a good host — after that, guests' behav- ior (including demon- strating gratitude) should be taken into account when you contemplate future invitations. Holiday guest receives smoke and ashes for family dinner You can contact Amy Dickinson via email: askamy@tribpub.com and follow her on Twitter @askingamy. Amy Dickinson Ask Amy Sudoku Instructions:Theobjectistoplacethe numbers1to9intheemptysquaresso thateachrow,eachcolumnandeach 3x3boxcontainsthenumberonlyonce. AnswertoPreviousPuzzle CelebrityCipher ByLuisCampos Instructions:CelebrityCiphercryptogramsarecreatedfromquotationsbyfamouspeople, pastandpresent.Eachletterinthecipherstandsforanother. NEACrossword Sagittarius(Nov.23-Dec. 21) — You may crave excite- ment and adventure, but traveling or getting involved in a debate will turn out to be more than you bargained for. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Added responsibilities regarding the elderly or ill can be expected. Balance your time wisely and include someone you love to avoid complaints. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — Use your savvy communica- tion skills and get to the root of the problem in order to find a workable solution. Pisces (Feb. 20-March 20) — A one-sided relationship will set you back emotionally and financially. Don't share private information. Concentrate on creative endeavors. Aries (March 21-April 19) — Travel will provide you with adventure as well as cultural and spiritual knowledge. Social gatherings will help you connect with unique individuals. Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Don't let stubbornness stand between you and your dreams. Let bygones be by- gones and choose to approach whatever comes your way with optimism. Gemini (May 21-June 20) — You won't be able to please everyone, and the more you say, the harder it will be to please anyone. Keep your thoughts to yourself and go about your business. It's time to focus on self-improvement. Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Heated arguments will lead to unwanted changes. A drastic re- action will not make you happy or solve any of your problems. Emotional manipulation will only make matters worse. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — Your approach to emotional matters will impress some- one who can influence your reputation, status or position. A practical outlook and a concise plan will separate you from the competition. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Problems will surface if you deal with institutions or travel to unfamiliar places. Put off meet- ings or interviews until you are positive you can make a good impression. Preparation is key. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) — Do your best to improve your life, relationships and prospects. Your ability to see situations clearly will help you find balance and good, equitable solutions. Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) — Your mental agility and desire to do things differently will encourage creative endeavors. Take measures that will ensure positive change at home and work. Romance is favored. Horoscope By Eugenia Last TUESDAY, DEC. 1 TUESDAY,DECEMBER1,2015 REDBLUFFDAILYNEWS.COM |YOURDAILYBREAK | 3 B