Slow payment for bookkeeping is costing family
DEAR ABBY » I take care of my daughter-in-law’s taxes and have for the past 15 years. I have never charged her for it. I told her I would be her fulltime bookkeeper and charge her $300 a month, but it’s like getting blood from a turnip. I have to beg her each month for my pay.
My husband said I should stop doing it for her. What should I do? — Good with Figures
in Florida
DEAR GOOD » Your daughter-in-law may resent the fact that you want payment for keeping her finances in order, but It’s time to tell her that dunning her for money every month has become too stressful. Suggest that she set up an automatic fund transfer to your account to cover the monthly fee. However, your husband has the right idea and it might be better for both of you if she hired someone else.
DEAR ABBY » I am 41, divorced for the second time, and I have fallen madly in love with a wonderful man. He got out of a 12-year relationship six months ago. Until just last week he still had ties with her, but he finally washed his hands of her. The only thing is, he lied to her to avoid a confrontation.
It hurts me deeply, and it has forced a wedge between us. He doesn’t understand why it hurts me so much, and he doesn’t seem to care. Any advice would be greatly appreciated. — Heartbroken
in Tennessee
DEAR HEARTBROKEN » I wish you had revealed what this gentleman is afraid to tell his ex. His unwillingness or inability to tell the truth is a serious character flaw and not something you should ignore.