THE SEXES

• Dealing with the 'How much did you pay?' inquiry
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- In her book, "Miss Manners' Guide to Domestic Tranquillity: The Authoritative Manual for Every Civilized Household, However Harried" (Three Rivers Press), Advance syndicated columnist Miss Manners (Judith Martin) advises how to cope with offensive "How much did you pay for that ...?" questions.

• THE THANKSGIVING GRILLING
STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- Thanksgiving is upon us -- which means it's time to brace ourselves for the nosy questions we'll be fielding from meddling relatives while gathered around the dinner table Thursday. Next up is the inquisition from snooping acquaintances and business associates while we make our rounds at the holiday parties.