Pricey Abby: I’ve a set of Chippendale-style eating chairs which might be greater than 100 years outdated. They’re of sentimental worth to me as a result of I grew up with them. Not too long ago, at appreciable expense, I had them repaired and reupholstered. My husband’s son-in-law, “Isaac,” whom I like very a lot, weighs between 450 and 500 kilos. When the household is eating, he makes use of one of many chairs. They aren’t supposed to carry such weight.
My husband and I agree that we must always purchase a heavy-duty chair that may accommodate Isaac’s weight. Nevertheless, I don’t know the way to convey to Isaac that the brand new chair is for him with out inflicting offense or damage emotions. Do you have got a suggestion? — Treading Frivolously
Pricey Treading: Your husband ought to clarify the potential downside to his daughter so SHE can level out to her husband {that a} particular eating room chair has been acquired for him to make use of at household dinners.
Pricey Abby: My pal “Alma” has a handicapped parking allow. I by no means requested her why she has it. We commonly go for lengthy walks, and she or he appears completely able-bodied. Alma did share with me as soon as that she received the tag after an accident left her with some intermittent long-term ache. She stated most days she doesn’t want the accessible parking and doesn’t use it, however that when her ache flares up, it’s useful to have the ability to make the most of a handicapped parking area.
Nevertheless, I’ve been with Alma in conditions the place there may be restricted parking and she or he suggests utilizing a handicapped area. I’m uncomfortable taking an area away from somebody who might have it, but additionally uncomfortable questioning whether or not Alma wants it or if it’s only for comfort. What’s the correct etiquette right here? — Empathetic in Texas
Pricey Empathetic: The correct etiquette can be to inform your pal Alma (with a smile) that except she’s having ache that day, you would favor to park a little bit farther away in an everyday parking spot.
Pricey Abby: My son works two jobs and takes faculty courses. His deadbeat girlfriend doesn’t work. They broke up briefly, and she or he moved in with one other man, however he refused to assist her, so she received again with my son once more. She is aware of I’ve her quantity, so we don’t get alongside, which places a pressure on my relationship with my son. He deserves a greater life associate, however he doesn’t see it that method. Is there something I can do to wake him up? — Plain As Day in Washington
Pricey Plain: Your son is younger and hasn’t had time to achieve a lot expertise about romantic relationships. If he didn’t decide up on the truth that his girlfriend left him as a result of she thought she had discovered one other meal ticket, and that she returned solely when the man refused to assist her, nothing you’ll be able to say (that you simply haven’t already stated, I’m certain) will dissuade him from having to study a painful lesson on his personal.
Pricey Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, often known as Jeanne Phillips, and was based by her mom, Pauline Phillips. Contact Pricey Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Field 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
