Moving forces choice between two sons
DEAR ABBY: My wife and I both recently retired. Our sons live in other states. Since my wife and I no longer have family here, we are going to move close to one of our sons. Our dilemma: They both want us to move near them.
We have decided where we would like to go and found a home to purchase. How do we tell our other son why we moved where we did? He’s going to be very hurt and feel that we favor his brother, which couldn’t be further from the truth.
How do we tell one we picked the other? — Nearby in California
DEAR NEARBY: Do not tell either brother that you picked the one you did. You chose a LOCATION.
Why did you arrive at the decision you did? Make a list of the reasons you made your choice and recite them when you are asked. Your reasons are valid ones, and this should not be couched in terms of one son being loved better than the other, which is childish.
DEAR ABBY: Seven years ago, I found out my husband hadn’t paid our mortgage and credit card bills for more than two years, and our home was in preforeclosure. Once the secret was out, we managed to save the house.
Problem is, I no longer trust my husband. My priority was to save our home, but now I am no longer sure I want to stay with him. Our 40th anniversary is this year, but I feel bitter and resentful about his irresponsible decisions. I want to leave, but I’m scared I am making the wrong decision. — Mixed Up in Massachusetts
DEAR MIXED UP: Because I have no idea why your husband behaved so irresponsibly, you need to hash this out with a licensed marriage and family therapist. You should also consult an attorney. IF you decide to stay, it is imperative that you be in a position to closely monitor any financial actions and obligations.
DEAR ABBY: I like to jump on our neighbors’ trampoline when they’re out of town. Normally it’s no big deal, but last weekend they returned home earlier than usual and caught me in the act. Now my wife is ashamed to show her face around the neighborhood.
I have a simple solution. If the neighbors don’t want me jumping on their trampoline, they should cough up the money for a privacy fence. Don’t you agree? — Bouncing into Trouble
DEAR BOUNCING: If you can’t keep your feet on the ground, it may be time to buy your own trampoline.
Your comment about a fence is sensible. If someone’s child were to play on that trampoline and be injured, your neighbor could wind up paying a lot more than the cost of a fence.
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www. Dearabby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.