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I have been making plans to attend a memorial service out of town for my uncle who recently passed away. I was unable to attend the funeral. Last night my daughter-in-law and son told me their baby shower is planned for the same day and the invitation were being sent the next day. Is it appropriate to ask that the baby show be moved to another date?
How unfortunate to be faced with this situation. You should let your daughter-in-law know about the scheduling conflict as soon as possible without explicitly asking her to change the date. Explain about the service and why you feel you should attend but also be clear that you would like to be part of the shower. If they are able to change the date they will know that is your preference and may. At the same time, you are not the shower host and there could be any number of factors that could make rescheduling impossible so I would not set this up as an expectation for yourself or the couple.
My father-in-law recently passed away. My mother-in-law wants to send printed announcements to the people they only correspond with occasionally (i.e. Christmas cards). What information should be included in this announcement? Funeral services have already been held.
It would be better if your mother-in-law writes notes to those she wishes to inform of her husband’s passing:
Dear Jack and Johnnie,
I want to let you know that George passed away March 3rd after suffering a heart attack at home. His funeral was on the 6th at our church and he was buried in the church cemetary.
George often spoke fondly of his days in the military with you, Jack, and I wanted you to know this before too much time passed. I hope you’ll stay in touch as I would enjoy hearing news of your family.
Love,
Ellen
No mention should be made of charitable contributions, etc. unless asked for it. My condolences to your family.
This is an etiquette question. Due to budget shortfalls, I was laid off 6 months ago from a job I held for 20 years and was happy at. My position was combined with two others and a woman named Janice was hired. I helped train her and we got along fine, but I never wanted to be friendly with her or see her socially. I am close to my old boss and three weeks ago she invited me and my partner to her place for dinner in two weeks along with another couple we like. I was really looking forward to going, until today when she announced that she invited Janice as well. I don’t feel like spending an evening with Janice and don’t know what to do. Please help.
Sal, I can understand your feelings in this situation. If you really feel you would not enjoy the dinner now, call your old boss and simply say, “I am so thankful you wanted to include me in your plans for that evening, but I am simply not up yet to putting on a happy face with my successor.” Surely your old boss will understand. You might offer to have your old boss and the other couple you enjoy to your home for a simple dinner soon. Best wishes to you for a bright and happy future. Graceandhonor
Thoughtful advice – as usual.