Let daughter figure out how to handle partner
Dear Annie: My 26-yearold daughter is in a serious relationship with a partner 10 years her senior. He comes to the partnership with an established home. What would you advise my daughter to expect or require going into this marriage-like arrangement? Should she expect to be put on the house deed as soon as they are married? What would be fair for all concerned? She is just beginning her career, so she is presently renting but saving for a home. Troubled Dad
Dear Troubled Dad: Whether to add her name to the deed is up to and between the two of them. I am sure your intention is to just ensure your daughter is squared away. But tread lightly here — because if her partner heard you showing such concern for his assets, he’d most likely be troubled himself.
Dear Annie: I recently moved into a large apartment complex in the heart of downtown. I was thrilled to snag a unit. There’s just one problem, and it’s an uncomfortable subject. A few nights a week, the couple who live upstairs are ... intimate. I wish I didn’t know this, but they make it impossible for me not to. I’ve lived here for two months now, and they’ve shown no signs of subsiding. How could I politely bring this to their attention without things becoming really awkward every time I run into them by the mailboxes? I Hear You Up There
Dear I Hear You Up There: The path of least awkwardness here would be to buy a sound machine and/or earplugs. (Really, I’m beginning to think all apartments should come with those. It would make the living easier.) If that doesn’t take care of it, then it’s time to let the neighbours know they have an involuntary audience. Though I’m usually a strong supporter of talking things out face-to-face, this is one circumstance in which a note is just fine. Keep it simple and upbeat; add warmth with a smiley face or exclamation points. I know that seems silly, but seemingly silly little things can make all the difference when it comes to getting along with neighbours.
Dear Annie: I don’t understand why everyone is in such a push to outlaw cellphone use while driving. Our focus should be on educating people that driving is a full-time job. A University of Maryland study showed that at 30 m.p.h., you have over 1,320 things occurring around you and in your car every mile you travel. It is up to all drivers to limit their distractions as much as possible. Retired Traffic Cop and Driver Safety Instructor
Dear Retired Traffic Cop: You make a great point.
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