Tag Archives: Etiquette

Dec 11 2012

Vibe Vixen: Road Trip

Making the Best of a Holiday Road Trip

Posted by  on Dec 10, 2012
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If you’re road trippin’ with friends or family, there’s always a chance for boredom to set in. You know that feeling: you’ve played every song on Rhi’s Unapologetic at least 6 times, eaten all the snacks from the last pit stop, and you’ve heard every single ‘knock knock’ joke from your little cousin. You’re literally dying. We feel your pain, and we’ve complied a few tips to get you through the toughest road trips.
Play Good Music! Music is the glue that holds people together. Include music that will get you moving in your seat. Not only will it keep you up, it’ll make the drive interesting. Can’t decide which songs to play? Switch off being the DJ, so everyone can get a piece of the action. This way, you’ll hear different types of music, which will hopefully ignite…
Good Conversation. The makings of a good trip are laughs and intense conversations. Start with current events and entertainment news. If you’re with a group of old friends, reminisce about times you guys had before and the stories will pour out.
Play Games. Okay, we get it. Playing games seems childish, but it keeps a trip alive. Try Taboo, where it’s more mental than physical. If you have space, playing card games is a fun way to pass the time. But, leave your iPads and tablets at home—engaging everyone is what gets the people going.
Eat! The quickest way to ruin a trip is to have hungry and cranky folks around. Having non-perishable items like nuts, fruit, jerky is a great way to save cash on the road, and will keep you energized. Be sure to have water to keep you hydrated for the miles ahead.  – Afiya Augustine
Dec 11 2012

Vibe Vixen: The Rules of a Proper House Guest

The Rules of a Proper Houseguest

Posted by  on Dec 10, 2012
When I visit a friend or a family member’s home, I always try to be a great houseguest. Growing up, my mother was a stickler for being courteous, and after having a string of not-so-great guests of our own, I’ve come to learn what hosts appreciate and abhor. Follow these steps and I’ll you’ll always have a place to stay. – Afiya Augustine

Make Arrangements. The first and foremost important thing to do is call ahead. Do not arrive unannounced. Everyone has plans and it’s never good to infringe someone else’s. Make arrangements that are are comfortable for all parties involved.
Don’t Bring Additional Guests. It’s simple: if your friends aren’t invited, don’t’ bring them. Just because you were given the opportunity to stay, doesn’t mean you have the right to include others. It’s rude and selfish. Please don’t be that girl.

Be Tidy. Do make sure to keep your belongings in an orderly fashion. No host likes a guest who treats their home like the bottom of a laundry basket.
Don’t’ Be Judgmental. It’s bad for business. You’re a guest, not  Jesus. So what if they have an annoying cat, or the kitchen could be neater. Keep your comments to yourself.
Don’t Eat Everything. Be considerate when it comes to food and toiletries. No one likes a hog. Even better—offer to help pay for groceries. And if you’re up for it, ask to prepare the meal.
Give a Gift. It’s always nice if you can give a small gift when you arrive or right before leaving. A bottle of wine or flowers are great tokens of appreciation.

Nov 21 2011

Ms. Manners – Column

Ms. Manners Breakout On…Encountering The Homeless

As I stepped into the train this morning, I was accompanied by the faint smell of fermented stench, sweat and traces of vomit. I looked over and saw that a homeless man was laying across the three-seater row at the entrance of the train. Now while this man’s scent did make my nose do funny things, I DID NOT: Continue reading →

Nov 8 2011

Ms. Manners – Column

Ms. Manners…breaks out on playing MUSIC in PUBLIC

I’ve got one thing to say about this epidemic. Okay, maybe two.

(1) DO NOT PLAY YOUR MUSIC IN PUBLIC ENCLOSED AREAS. EVER. Now you’re probably wondering about the caps, italics, bold and underline, but that’s because I’m insanely serious about it. It is one of the most annoying and inconsiderate thing in the world, to come on a train or a bus or in an enclosed public area, and to have someone blasting their music from their blackberry speakers. I know for SURE those things came with headphones. It’s a personal media player for a reason. Plug the buds in your ear and enjoy. Do you think I want to hear “Love Faces,” at 8 o’clock in the morning or songs with enough cuss words to make a nun cry while I’m on the commute home? NO! No one does except you. PLUG IT UP. Continue reading →

Jun 14 2011

Ms. Manners is happening!

Hey guys…definitely haven’t forgot about this Ms. Manners blogging project. As it stands I figure I am going to be doing full length Ms. Manners articles focusing on one topic/subject with occasional “breakouts” which will follow something that doesn’t quite need a full article, or a more in-depth take on a specific rule/regulation.