Friend always tardy to events

Dear Annie: I have a friend who is always late. I don’t think I’ve ever gone to an outing with her when she hasn’t shown up 10 or 15 minutes late. She’s a lovely, caring person otherwise, but I can’t help but be put off by this seeming lack of consideration for other people’s time. It’s hard not to take it personally. She knows it’s a problem and has vowed to be more punctual. I’m not holding my breath for change. What gives? Why are some people always late?

Waiting Games

Dear Waiting Games: According to time management expert Diana DeLonzor, people who are chronically tardy tend to be optimists. They have unrealistic expectations of what they can get done in a set amount of time. Jeff Conte, an associate professor of psychology at San Diego State, says lateness is connected to deep-seated personality factors, making it a very hard habit to break. So your friend’s chronic tardiness is likely deeply embedded in her. Keeping all that in mind might make it easier not to take it personally when she’s late. DeLonzor’s book, “Never Be Late Again,” might make a good holiday gift for your friend.

Dear Annie: I have beautiful candy dishes for everyday use and for all the holidays. I love to fill them with expensive candy for looks.

I don’t keep them out all the time, but when I do put them out and fill them, I want the candy to stay. However, my husband just can’t get it. I have treats in the cupboards and freezer for him. He can have all he wants when I decide to change candy or put away the dishes, but he is always in the candy dishes.

Another problem is that I have to hide goodies from him, or he will eat it all in no time.

I am like a chipmunk, stashing food all over the house. It irritates me so much!

Weird, Stupid or Selfish?

Dear Weird, Stupid or Selfish?: You are simply frustrated that your husband eats any junk food that you buy. He’s not going to change. As you say, you are like a chipmunk and you just need to find more creative hiding places. As for filling the nice dishes, check local gift shops or craft stores for beautiful handblown glass “candies.” These would look even prettier than real candy and be less appealing to your husband.