FAN-tastic!

Finally, another Super Bowl weekend is here! Unless you've been placed in quarantine or are already in Indianapolis, you'll be watching the game on television surrounded by family and friends like the rest of the football-loving world. And just in time, some super-sized tips for scoring big Sunday as a guest or host: Don't arrive empty handed! Thankfully mini-marts are there when kitchen-challenged guests need them. If a quadruple layer of bean dip or pigs in a blanket are too complicated for your culinary skills, grab some bags of chips and ice at the corner market. The person throwing the party will appreciate the gesture.
I often blog about a hostess gift. Super Bowl gatherings get a pass. Just bring food, your food, the supermarket's food, food. Period. And beverages. Always, always appreciated.
Remember, it is JUST a game! If, God willing, the Giants beat the Patriots, and Tom Brady is your idol, don't take it personally. Don't sulk, use profanities or throw things. Unless you want to be thrown out. If people in neighboring states can hear you curse, tone it down, and cut yourself off!
If the gathering is on your home turf, above all else, make everyone feel welcome. On the patio, in the den, kitchen and anywhere else people will gather to view the game. Relax and have fun with your guests. Be discreet about picking up used cups and plates.
Enjoy yourself and the company of friends, moderate (these are four very long quarters including the commercials) and don't forget to thank the person who invited you....or the guest who accepted the invitation.
This is a winning gameplan for a super Sunday of Super Bowl fun.
Afterall, it really DOES 'Manner A lot'.

BAKERSFIELD LIFE & Super Sunday

Thank you blog followers and readers for your positive response to the debut of this blog's companion column, It Manners A Lot, which premiered in last Saturday's February issue of Bakersfield Life Magazine. I look forward to having you along on this journey as we help polish social graces.
If you have not yet seen the latest issue of Bakersfield Life, it is available at newsstands throughout Bakersfield and Kern County, as well as online. Visit bakersfieldlife.com. We are working on the next issue and tackling the subject of dating. Young or old, modern or old-fashioned, who hasn't had a dating experience to remember, or one we'd rather forget?
I 'd enjoy hearing from you. Please feel free to post here or e-mail me at itmannersalot@hotmail.com with your questions and thoughts.
Lastly, several weeks ago KGET 17News featured this blog as well as a local children's etiquette course taught by Iris Doyle in a story. You can learn more about Iris' programs and contact her at her website simply-manners.com.
Finally, as we head into Super Bowl weekend, I know many of you will be enjoying good food and good times with family and friends, whether your team is playing Sunday or not. Here's some football finger- food for thought: If you are the guest at someone else's home or apartment, DO take something. Super Bowl Sunday is the mother ship of potluck days. Even if it is something you grabbed at the market on your way over, the host or hostess, and especially their guests will appreciate it. The pre-game, actual game with commercials and half-time entertainment are long enough. Don't overstay your welcome. And don't scare people with your enthusiasm for the plays.
Win or lose, remember when it is over, to thank them for their hospitality.
And if the football revelry is on your home turf, have fun while making sure your guests are enjoying themselves. I will be discreetly picking up used plates and napkins as I go, so as not to make my guests feel as though they need to abandon the game to help me clean up.
I also make sure the game is on in EVERY room (restrooms included) so visitors don't miss a second of the action.
The best gift a host or hostess can receive is a guest's genuine appreciation for having had a wonderful time. Make your guests feel welcome and send them home wishing to return again soon. Afterall, it does 'manner', a lot!
Happy Super Bowl Weekend! GO PACKERS!!