Jamie Lauren Sutton

We Big Apple residents are not always on our best behavior...so let's try to do better this Thankgsiving, shall we? Below, five rules to live by this week:

Dear Ms. Demeanor,

We have post-Sandy houseguests staying with us while their building is being repaired -- 2 kids (boys), 2 parents, and another unrelated female. It is getting pretty crowded to say the least but we are happy to accommodate.

The problem is that it is getting pretty expensive already. We are going through staples and toiletries at an alarming rate.  So far no one has offered to help defray the costs (or go the grocery store to help us replenish). 

Dear Ms. Demeanor,

My neighbor has a tendency to stop by unannounced just to say hi (or have an impromptu playdate between our kids). I feel like I can never relax in my apartment in case she's coming.  What should I do?

Signed, Jerri S. 

Dear Jerri,

Your neighbor has Kramer Syndrome and you are the one suffering from it.  Kramer Syndrome is found in every country, at all socioeconomic levels, wherever humans habitate in close proximity to other humans.

Dear Ms. Demeanor,

I have a small dog we shall call Ursula.  She is my baby - I love her as much as I love my two older daughters who have left the nest.  My work schedule changed and we have to hire a dog walker for her afternoon walk.  

I think we should get a nanny cam to check up on the dog walker who comes with excellent references but who is still a veritable stranger to us (and to Ursula).  My husband thinks I should have my head examined.  

Dear Ms. Demeanor,

I was just asked by a work colleague to write him a letter of recommendation for a co-op board. He knows I am active on my board and thinks I 'know what the boards want to hear' (his words).  

Trouble is I don't particularly like the guy and I personally wouldn't want him as a neighbor. He is one of those people who is always complaining about everything and everyone.

 How do I say no without seeming like a total ass?  I still have to work with the guy.

Dear Ms. Demeanor,

How long is too long to hold an elevator?  I swear some people in my building jump out and say, "Whoops forgot to shave my legs!  Hold it for me!" and come back 10 minutes later. 

When is okay to just let the door close and be done with it?

Signed,
Holden Vader
 
Dear Holden,

Building elevator etiquette can be tricky because the faces you see outside while the door closes will be faces you see again and again.