Wronged wife blames the cellphone
My question is simple, but I bet a lot of people have this problem.
My brother had a surprise baby with his longtime friend, "Candace." They operated as a couple for a while after the baby was born, but then they split. They are very involved co-parents.
Our two families know each other well and see each other often.
My question is what to call my nephew's mother in casual conversation.
People who know the situation, know her by her name. But with co-workers, new friends, etc., there's no easy substitute for "sister-in-law" or "my brother's girlfriend." "My nephew's mother" sounds dismissive and clunky.
What would you suggest? Your insight would be much appreciated.
-- Well-Mannered
Dear Mannered: I disagree that "my nephew's mother" or "my nephew's mom" is either dismissive or clunky -- to me it seems perfectly descriptive, as well as correct.
Otherwise, you could describe "Candace" as, "my brother's ex," which (to me) seems even more dismissive. Both titles describe Candace only in terms of her relationship to your family, but, given your intent, I don't see many options.
Dear Amy: "Weirded Out" described his concern that his (normally non-drinking) girlfriend went out with some friends, and they all got drunk. You described her, favorably, as "getting drunk in good company," which you said was a "good idea."
Getting drunk is never a good idea!
-- Horrified
Dear Horrified: The sentence you (mis)quote reads: "This sounds like a case of getting drunk in good company, which, if you're going to do it, is the best way to go."
I stand by this assertion.
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(You can contact Amy Dickinson via email: askamy@amydickinson.com. Readers may send postal mail to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or "like" her on Facebook.)
