Happy homebody is not interested in weeknight get-togethers with friends

Dear Abby: I’m struggling with a situation with my friends and colleagues.

I have a routine I stick to which keeps my priorities in check. I get done with work, go home, have dinner, work out and spend quality time with my puppy. Lately, people keep inviting me to weeknight happy hours and gettogethers, but more often than not, I don’t want to go. I’m conflicted because I feel obligated to go and be a “good friend,” but if I do, I’m left feeling resentful because my routine has been interrupted. I’m also not one of those people who WANTS to be invited to everything and truly wouldn’t be hurt to be excluded altogether. Please help. — Time For Myself In The East

Dear Abby: A couple of years ago, I gave a friend a nice birthday gift that was for the whole family. It was a one-of-a-kind item I thought they would really enjoy. I had researched and read up on it and then had the piece custom designed. They said they loved the item when it arrived, but I have never seen them use it. When I ask where it is, they tell me it’s still wrapped up in a box under the bed because they don’t have room for it.

Would it be OK to ask if I could buy it back?

— Not Sure In New York

Dear Not Sure: Not knowing your friends, I can’t predict what their reaction to your proposal would be. However, because the item is not being used, I don’t think it would be out of line to ask the question. Go for it.