MEETING THE PARENTS

***FIVE THINGS YOU SHOULD NOT DO WHEN MEETING THE PARENTS***

There comes a time in every relationship when you have to bite the bullet and meet the parents. And nine times out of ten, it happens around the holidays. Everyone's parents are different, but here are five universal tips to help you make a good first impression . . .

#1.) DON'T BE PICKY. Where there's a family and a holiday, there's usually a big meal. And if you're a picky eater, you'll just have to grin and bear it. Take a bit of everything and just eat what you can . . . even if it's that green Jell-O stuff you hate.

#2.) DON'T GET DRUNK. The urge to calm your nerves with a few drinks can be enticing . . . but when you're meeting the parents for the first time, you don't want to come off like a lush. Remember, they're sizing you up.

#3.) BE POLITE. Even if her baby brother is egging you on, refrain from burping the alphabet, telling your best dirty joke, or demonstrating how to tie a cherry stem in a knot with your tongue. There's a thin line between being entertaining and downright creepy.

#4.) DON'T BE A SUCK-UP. Do you REALLY like his mom's poly-blend Christmas sweater? Does Dad's butterfly collection TRULY blow you away? Think twice before you start doling out insincere compliments. If you fake it, chances are they'll know.

#5.) DON'T BE A SNOB. So your family winters in Palm Springs. But maybe HIS family doesn't know the word "winter" can be used as a verb. And don't brag about last year's free-range pheasant while munching on his mom's Butterball. It's just plain rude. (CNN.com)