Ask Amy: Daughter wants to clean up after messy mom
Of course, I'll be invited. I don't want to go.
Friends have told me that I am being petty. Am I?
Petty in Maryland
Dear Petty: You don’t seem petty, as much as worn out. And I don’t blame you. A natural consequence of this lack of appreciation is that you will be less inspired to keep giving.
My only caution here is that baby showers are intended as celebrations centered on a new baby, who is obviously innocent.
I think it is also time to contact the recipients of these gifts to tell them, “I believe I’ve been generous to you, and I’ve always been happy to celebrate your milestones with gifts. But you have never acknowledged or thanked me for a gift. I’m not sure why this is, but it is quite discouraging.”
Dear Amy: “Tom, in Los Angeles” expressed extreme distress in where this country is headed. I have to say, I was shocked (pleasantly) by your response. Your first line got me: “I think you should celebrate the freedom we each have to either launch an insurrection, or go to the movies.”
A Fan
Dear Fan: Thank you. I’m a huge movie buff – but I also love a good insurrection. Onward!
========
(You can email Amy Dickinson at askamy@amydickinson.com or send a letter to Ask Amy, P.O. Box 194, Freeville, NY 13068. You can also follow her on Twitter @askingamy or Facebook.)
