I don't understand the part about the hands on the lap....so it is considered rude if I don't keep my hands on the table at all times

Thanks for all the responses! Well instead of dinner we met at his sister's house for merienda (roscon de reyes y chocolate). It went well I think. His ENTIRE family was there, despite the fact that his nephew had an emergency appendectomy only two days prior. His sisters and brothers-in-law were so nice and talkative. They brought out a family photo album right away. His mother is 74, but looks about 60. I was taken aback at how beautiful and "in fashion" she was. His father was very sweet, but kept offering me cigarettes the whole time. Everyone was shocked that all americans don't smoke in their homes. I could understand everything, but had a little trouble with his mother and father just because they slurred their words a bit more. He was exhausted by the end of the night because he translated so much for me. The little spanish I spoke was well not impressive, but his family told me I have a good accent and to keep learning. So all in all, I think it went as well as it could have gone. Now, I'll have to remember Fernando's dinner tips b/c that is next on the agenda!

Good llewilli! I'm glad you enjoyed it That kind of social meetings are always tricky hehehe.

Booklady, I forgot that last rule

Ninas, it is considered rude if you don't keep your hands on the table specially while you are eating. I know it is different in the States...

Anyway, don't torture yourself with these rules. The best is to do as you see others do, and in case of trouble you may always excuse yourself explaining it is different in your country

When in Rome do as romans

Fernando

ooh thanks.........