BYO fish if your host doesn’t mind

Dear Annie: I am 49 years old and have been a “flexitarian” for 10 years, with fish being my primary protein source. My question is this: When I go to other people’s homes for dinner engagements, should they provide a fish entree (for me), should I be satisfied going vegetarian for the meal, or should I bring my own?

My friends usually provide for me, as do my in-laws. But my parents and siblings do not. Even at holiday gatherings, I bring my own entree while the others are eating prime beef.

When I entertain, I pay special attention to all of my guests’ diets from vegetarian to meat lovers, and I expect to get the same respect in return. Am I wrong? – M.F.

Dear M.F.: Most flexitarians are willing to try meat on occasion. We would consider you a pescetarian – one who eats fish but not meat. Those who know about your food choices should make some adjustment when they invite you. However, you cannot demand it. Your family members seem particularly unaccommodating, but they are entitled to serve what they wish. Most vegetarians and pescetarians can find plenty to eat in the side dishes. It is fine, however, to bring your own entree if your hosts do not object.

Dear Annie: May I add one more response to “Going Gray”? I am 55 years old and lost my lovely red hair due to chemotherapy. It grew back a dull brown, so I started to color it.

I later began dating Andy, who is 12 years younger and was already dyeing his hair and beard when we met. I never gave it a thought until he was admitted to the CCU with heart issues and the nurse said to him, “Gosh, it’s nice that your mother came with you.”

I knew I had a keeper when Andy let his hair go back to its natural and lovely gray. We married the following October. (I still color my hair.) – Julia