I think you addressed the issue of introducing you properly. We all come from different walks of life and sometimes are not familiar with the proper way to handle certain things. I pray that more people in this world would show more respect for others! We can't agree with everyone on everything but should respect people for their views and what they bring in to this world.

I'm a bit confused. You appear offended if not addressed with the title "Countess" in front of your name. These titles are outdated and meaningless anymore, aren't they? And, I believe the peasants ran to the U.S. to get away from people with titles, so why should we care? You seem to feel superior and expect respect that is not required nor warranted. Were you like this before you married the Count, or did it come with the title?

The title does not make the person. Wouldn't you rather be known as a mother, wife, friend.....? I understand wanting respect and agree we should all be respectful. Bethanny was the one being respectful when she introduced you to the driver. She was introducing two people and putting them on the same level vs. putting him on a lower level and introducing you as someone superior to him. I know if someone introduced you to me using your title I would feel like I was somehow lower on the food chain.

It is sad that we live in a world where we can't agree about manners. It brings just more chaos into a world that is already too chaotic. The old saying "familiarity breeds contempt" is so true. Years ago when it became fashionable for my children's friends to call me by my first name rather than Mrs......I regretted that the pleasant boundaries regarding age and gender were disappearing. I guess throwing the baby out with the bath water was the result of social progress. Everything is so course and unpleasant now. I love Lu Ann and her extraordinary diplomatic style. It is quite obvious who has the class and who doesn't.