DEAR ABBY: When I take something to a potluck, I assume any leftovers stay with the host unless they are offered to people to take home. Sometimes, there’s so much food at a potluck that some of the contributions are barely touched.

I have spent time and money preparing food and I hate to see it thrown away. Would it be weird, rude or socially uncool to ask to take my contribution home with me if it’s not perishable? -- HATES WASTE IN WASHINGTON

DEAR HATES WASTE: If your contribution to the potluck is barely touched, it would not be weird, rude or socially unacceptable to ask your hosts if you can take it home with you. But do offer to leave a portion for them if they wish.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline P

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