Properly Patriotic

As a frequent attendee of Little League games, I often hear the national anthem being played from the loudspeaker as I walk between fields. Although I know to place my hand over my heart when I'm participating in a game or program featuring this ceremony, I've never been clear what to do in other circumstances. (After getting the evil eye from a military serviceman once [my honest apologies], I decided I'd better learn the proper American etiquette.)

Whenever you hear the National Anthem, wherever you are:

• Stop and stand at attention
• Face the flag, or if you can't see the flag, face the source of the music
• Remove your hat
• Place your hand over your heart

Here's the official United States Flag Code:
"During rendition of the national anthem when the flag is displayed, all present except those in uniform should stand at attention facing the flag with the right hand over the heart. Men not in uniform should remove their headdress with their right hand and hold it at the left shoulder, the hand being over the heart. Persons in uniform should render the military salute at the first note of the anthem and retain this position until the last note. When the flag is not displayed, those present should face toward the music and act in the same manner they would if the flag were displayed there. "

Good Manners Guide

Thank you notes have you stumped?

We make being polite extra easy with our Good Manners Guide. Use it now to write the perfect thank you note. The full guide is included FREE with all Eti-Kits from funproperlydone.com

How to Write the Perfect Thank You Note
Dear ________,
1. Thank you for ___________.
2. (Describe what you like the most about it).
3. (Make a comment that's specific to the giver).

An example:
Dear Joey,
Thank you for the gumball machine. I love to put money in things. I'll bring you a treat from it at our next baseball game.
From, David

Another example:
Dear Landon,
Thank you for coming to my birthday party. You are the best piñata hitter around! I'm glad we're friends.
From, Brooke

The perfect Thank You Note may be as lengthy or as brief as you wish, as long as the three essentials are covered. You'll appreciate your friends and gifts more by writing these notes—and your friends will certainly appreciate your thoughtfulness, too!