Young divorcee is reluctant to talk about her marriage.
Dear Abby:
When I was 18, I married someone who I loved very much. Not even six months into the marriage, he cheated on me.
I am now 20, divorced and finally feel ready to move on.
But how do I go about dating at my age being a divorcee? I don’t know how to talk about it. I have friends who don’t even know I was married. — Divorcee In Illinois
Dear Divorcee:
I see no reason why you have to mention it. If you are asked, however, be honest about your status. All you need to say is that you married, very briefly, at the age of 18, and it didn’t work out.
Dear Abby:
I want to know more about my ancestors so I can tell stories about them to my kids. The thing is, my boyfriend doesn’t like the idea, and anytime I say or do something, he criticizes me about it. He’s also very controlling and manipulative. He feels it’s his way or the highway. That’s why I want out — for the sake of my life and the kids. I have no money and nowhere to go. What should I do? — Crying In Western Washington
Dear Crying:
I agree the situation you describe isn’t healthy for you or the children. If you have no family to help, you will have to work toward independence in small steps. Contact the National Domestic Violence Hotline (thehotline.org or 800-799-7233) for suggestions on how to disengage from your abuser without any of you being harmed. Then find a job so and start saving your money.
Dear Abby:
We keep a stick of butter on a butter dish and replace it when it’s used up. However, when my wife uses it, instead of cutting off thin slices, she scrapes her knife across the entire top of the butter cube, gradually whittling it down. Not only do I find it unsightly, but I also think it’s unsanitary.
When I’ve mentioned it to her, she has strongly disagreed. I’m reluctant to bring it up anymore. I have tried using a different stick of butter, which I keep in the refrigerator and unwrap every time I want to use it, but she criticizes me for it.
What do you think about this habit of hers? — Butter Wars In California
Dear Butter Wars:
Because you have expressed to her more than once that you find what she’s doing unappetizing, she should respect your wishes. However, if she continues, she should look the other way when you use your own butter stick.