Boyfriend is playing reader for a fool
Dear Annie: I have been talking with this gentleman for almost four years; we’ve been in a long-distance relationship online. He claims that he mailed me a large sum of money, and so he has nothing now.
But I have not seen this box full of money that he supposedly sent. He keeps saying that it has to clear customs, and they need a large fee in order for it to go through. I don’t think that customs would be demanding large sums of money, and, anyway, it’s been months and months now. I told him if the box did not come within the 48 hours like he said that he and I were through. I am afraid it is fraud. What is your take on this?
Losing My Lover
Dear Losing My Lover:
I’m afraid you’re right. This is textbook fraud. He’s trying to play you for a fool. Don’t let him.
Dear Annie: I have been seeing this guy, “Roy,” for a year and a half. When we are together, all he wants to do is hook up. He comes to my house all the time, but he never invites me to his. I actually still have no idea where he lives: I know the vicinity, but no specifics. He says he wants to keep some parts of his life private. And he only calls and talks to me on the phone when he is heading to or from work, but never when he’s at home. He tells me he loves me, but I’m not buying it. What do you think?
Help Me
Dear Help Me: I think that there’s a 99% chance he’s married and a 100% chance he’s not worth your time. End it ASAP.
Dear Annie: The holidays are here and gifts are arriving. Once again, we’re getting boxes of chocolates, tins of mixed nuts, gourmet cheeses, fancy cookies and pastries. My husband and I eat a healthy diet, get regular exercise and are allergic to nuts and dairy. We’ve explained to people that these foods make us extremely sick and can even be life-threatening but still the same gifts come year after year. Their attitude seems to be: “Hey, it’s Christmas, for Pete’s sake. Lighten up and just enjoy. A little won’t hurt you.”
So, I write a note, thanking them for thinking of us and wishing them a happy holiday, and then donate everything to the local food bank and homeless shelter. If you or your readers have suggestions on other ways to handle this, we would appreciate hearing them.
You Really Shouldn’t Have
Dear You Really Shouldn’t Have:
Sorry to disappoint, but I have no real advice here. You’re already doing exactly what I’d suggest. .
Dear Annie: “Sincerely Confused” was concerned about the dogs that had attacked a couple of years ago. He or she said they “probably haven’t walked more than 15 feet outside (their) yard. “
If walking helped clear this person’s mind, then it would be worthwhile for them to get in the car and go to a place where they feel safe to walk. Walking is therapeutic.
Lynne, Avid Walker
Dear Lynne: You are right. Walking regularly has all kinds of benefits, both mental and physical.
Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators .com. To find out more about Annie Lane and read features by other Creators Syndicate columnists and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.