When I am invited to my cousin's home for holiday dinner, she always bakes large quantities of numerous desserts. The desserts are usually sitting out on a counter for a few hours before dinner. For many years I have always 'sneaked' one cookie before dinner. I do this in view of my cousin, who 'mock scolds' me. I never sample a dessert (such as a cake) that would be visibly altered by what I remove. I would never do such a thing with other than family... My daughter thinks this is horribly rude. I see it as amusing (since it is an annual 'ritual') and only as a compliment to my cousin, who is an excellent chef/baker.
What do you think?