Exhibitionist mother upsets daughter, friends
Dear Abby: I have been dating my boyfriend, “Adam,” for three years. Although we are young, we are serious about our relationship. Not too long after we started dating, Adam began staying over at my house on most weekends. I live with my mom, who is 47.
For the past year when Adam comes to visit, my mom has been coming out of her bedroom in her bra and panties, for the most part exposed. I have tried talking to her about it, letting her know how uncomfortable Adam and I and some of my friends are about it. I hoped she would understand, but she continues with the flirting and underdressing. What can I do about this? Desperate In Maine Dear Desperate: You may be desperate, but not as desperate as it appears your mother is. Because talking to her hasn’t helped, accept that she is not going to change her behaviour. Have Adam stay over less often. When you meet with your friends, do it at someone else’s house. And if you can afford to move elsewhere, you should consider it. Dear Abby: I am a 16-yearold girl from Serbia. I have been in U.S. for two years and I’m studying English in an ESL class. I read your column and could use some help to solve my problem because I am very upset. I have known my best friend, “Vanessa,” for a year and a half. She is my age and we were very close. She had to leave school because her family moved. I’m so afraid I am going to lose her. Can you help me? Sad In Buffalo Dear Sad: You are obviously doing well in your ESL studies, and for that I congratulate you. Because you and Vanessa no longer live close does not mean that you can’t still be friends. Although she has moved to a different geographical location, you can maintain a friendship because she is as near as your phone or computer.
Because you want to still be a part of her life, keep her updated on what is going on in your life and ask her to do the same. Dear Abby is written by Jeanne Phillips, daughter of Pauline Phillips, the original Dear Abby. Write Abby at www.DearAbby.com or c/o The Ottawa Citizen, Box 5020, Ottawa, K2C 3M4. For a reply, send a self-addressed envelope. Abby covers postage. Include name and phone number if you want your letter published.