Etiquette Boss: Ice cream etiquette

Ice cream etiquette

Summer is here, and ice cream, Italian ices and a host of other cold desserts are consumed in public to help provide relief from the humidity and heat.

Whether you are seven, 17 or 70, you can enjoy an ice cream cone. Actually, it is one of the few foods that can be acceptably eaten in public. The cone cup and spoon do not have the same enjoyment levels. Let us revisit our childhood and enjoy an ice cream cone this summer.

However, even with cones, there is a correct and incorrect way to eat them. I see many children eating dripping cones, and occasionally losing the ice cream to the sidewalk.

If you are at home, place a mini marshmallow first into the bottom of the cone. That should prevent the ice cream from dripping through the bottom. Teach children to hold the cone at a slight angle instead of straight up.

Small children usually hold a cone straight up to their faces, then bring it in for a lick from the bottom to its top. If the ice cream is soft or the day very hot, it melts fast and can result in messy fingers and clothing. Very young children may not be able to control the slight angle, so that is a judgement call depending on the age of the child.

Lick the cone in short, quick laps around the cone instead of long licks up and down the cone. Circular licks cause the height of the ice cream to sink into the cone; thus allowing more time to finish, while also helping to prevent overflow. Enjoy!

BEAUTY IN YOUR KITCHEN: Luxurious Eye Lashes

As we mature, our eye lashes tend to get thinner. We can help to restore and strengthen them by placing a small bottle of olive or castor oil next to our bed. Just before sleeping, tip to release a drop or two and slowly rub the eye lash roots.

In France, an expensive formula is made by adding a sliver of lemon peel to the oil. The humble petroleum jelly works well and others claim that a drop or two from the vitamin D capsule, applied in the same manner, works best. Have fun with them and see which works best for you.

Phillipa Morrish is the president of Etiquette Training International.