Ask Amy: Not-quite-divorced couple enjoys ‘meeting up’

Amy Dickinson, Tribune Content Agency on Aug 19, 2021

– Upset Grandmother

Dear Upset: These adults are your son’s children. Evidently your son didn’t get the family memo about how important it is to appropriately express gratitude for a gift. You obviously lay the blame for this rudeness on your daughter-in-law, but you should share your frustration with your son. He’s their parent, too.

Otherwise, if you are truly tired of the frustration and that awful empty feeling when your generosity goes unnoticed, you should stop!

Keep in touch with your grandchildren but find another source for your generosity.

Dear Amy: This is not a request for help, but an acknowledgment of your up-to-the-moment facility with current jargon.

I frequently look up words or idioms you use in your column. Latest: “Imma.”

I am an author who takes some pride in being au courant with language and popular culture and still find that others (you) seem a step ahead!

Tricks? Young person or other source you use for inspiration?

Copious reading helps, of course, and I do that.

Thanks for doing what you do.

– April, in Anchor Bay, California

Dear April: Thank you for the supportive comments regarding my work.

Many readers, I’m sure, would disagree about my occasional use of idioms and slang. (I thank my indulgent editors.)

I have five young-adult children and am active on social media. All are influences.

My work on NPR’s comedy quiz show “Wait Wait, Don’t Tell Me” also inspires me to stay current.

Most importantly, I live in the world, love language, and am paying attention.

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(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.)