REALLY?? Are we THAT busy?? SMH…

DEAR ABBY: Twice in the past month I have received thank-you notes for gifts I had given, but the wrong gift was mentioned. I usually spend a lot of time selecting just the right thing, and I take pride in my choices.

I understand how something like that could happen, but I’m not sure what to do about it. Should I just keep quiet about it, or say something to the person? What would I say? I don’t want to embarrass anyone, but I know I have received gifts in the past that will forever remind me of the giver. — PICKING OUT PRESENTS IN PENNSYLVANIA

DEAR PICKING OUT PRESENTS: I see nothing to be gained by not alerting the person to the mistake. If you were thanked for the wrong gift, so was another giver. If I had mixed up the gift cards, I would want to know — wouldn’t you? Do unto others …

New “Issues” for the Changing Times –

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Children Youth and Family, Gay Lesbian and Bisexual, Mother, Religious

DEAR ABBY: I’m 31 and the mother of three awesome children. At 29, I left my husband of nine years and came out of the closet. I have been in a stable two-year relationship with my girlfriend, and she recently moved in with us.

My oldest child has started asking if his friends can come and stay the night on a weekend. I let one child spend the night with him once. My sister asked me if I had told the child’s parent that I’m a lesbian living with a partner. When I said no, she got upset and said that because we live in a small, religious country town I should inform the child’s parent of my living situation.

I can see where she’s coming from, but I don’t feel it’s my responsibility to offer this personal information. We’re hardworking, law-abiding citizens, and I am a loving and protective mother. We aren’t felons who need to “disclose” our personal “crimes.” What do you think? — PROUD MAMA IN THE SOUTH

DEAR PROUD MAMA: I, too, can see where your sister is coming from, and I don’t like the direction. You are not under any obligation to announce your sexual orientation to anyone. In a small town — religious or not — word gets around quickly on its own. Trust me on that. However, if you are asked directly, you should be honest.

Mine was Svedka!!

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Dear Abby, Fuzzybutzz

DEAR ABBY: Too often we hear horrifying stories in the news about prescription drug addiction and overdoses. I’d like to offer hope to addicts who are still using.

There is life after drugs. For 10 years I was addicted to pain pills. My poor mother tried everything. She offered me trips or help in buying a new car if I would just go to rehab. I refused because I wasn’t ready. I finally hit rock bottom and went into rehab when I realized my daughter was pulling away from me. I had been spending our rent money on pills I’d buy on the streets.

After I was sober for a few days, I realized I liked the feeling. After the sixth day, I was “me” again, and I loved it. I have been sober for two years and am now entering school to become a patient tech. It’s exciting because I will be helping others. I believe this is what I was meant to do in life.

Everyone keeps saying I should tell my story, but to be honest, my story isn’t finished yet. Thank you for letting me share. — ENJOYING SOBRIETY IN FLORIDA

DEAR ENJOYING SOBRIETY: You’re welcome. You’re right that your story isn’t over yet, but from where I’m sitting it looks like the next chapter will be a happy and constructive one. I wish you success in your journey.

I love her

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Dear Abby

I love her

I grew up reading her, and I will never stop.  ♥