Woman doesn’t want drop-ins

Dear Abby: I lost my longtime job but have remained in contact with a few former coworkers, meeting for an occasional lunch or dinner. One woman in particular has been pushing to meet at my place. Abby, I’m not proud of where I live now, and I don’t want to have to explain this to her.

So far, I have sidestepped by saying that I prefer to get out of the house, but I’m worried that one day she will announce that she’s “in my neighborhood” and ask to drop by.

I’m really uncomfortable with that, but I don’t know an appropriate response that will keep our relationship cordial, because I do value the times we see each other. Any suggestions?

Downscale in Delaware JEANNE PHILLIPS DEAR ABBY

made matters worse. Unfortunately, the police can’t arrest someone for verbal abuse.

However, since the man was making a scene, the manager of the restaurant should have stepped in because he was disturbing the other diners.

Dear Abby: “Breaking With the Past” (Feb. 29) said she no longer wishes to “schlep” her parents’ wedding album to yet another location when she moves again. You wisely advised her not to dispose of it hastily.

Another option might be for her to preserve the photos in a digital format, and then return the album to her mother or give it away as you suggested.

That way, she can assure her sentimental mother that she still has the photos. In the future she may come to value these keepsakes because they may contain important information about family members, in addition to her parents.

Cathy in Oregon