A gentle rant :O)

Thirty six invitations, to fifty people, were sent out on January 15, 2008. They had a choice of answering either by e-mail, snail mail or telephone by February 15. Twenty of the 50 people have answered--10 only because I bumped into them and asked them if they were coming or not--six said yes.

Were they sent out too soon? I don't think so. Are people just lazy? Forgetful? Or is not answering their way of saying no? Alright, I know because of distance and other circumstances some wouldn't be coming but the gesture was made--why not respond?

A commitment has to be made to the restaurant--they have to know how many tables/chairs to set up. The price has to be figured and a deposit made. Sure some people due to a last minute emergency or just being forgetful won't show and a few will show saying, "But you know I wouldn't miss it, that I would be here."

Is it unreasonable to expect the courtesy of a reply? Where is Emily Post when you need her? What would Ms. Manners think? Is it just a 'male' thing not acknowledging an invitation?

Okay, that's end of 'rant' but I do know in 2012 the ladies will all reply, right ladies???