DEAR ABBY: We are a married couple in our 60s and have no close family. Before retirement, we would playfully tease each other that when we retired, we’d turn our spare bedroom into a “fun fantasy adult room.” Fast forward — we now have our special room, and we’re having a blast.
Well, we got a call from distant relatives who will be heading our way, and they asked to stay with us for a few days. How do we explain that we have no room for them without causing problems? — DISCREET IN WASHINGTON
DEAR DISCREET: Be honest — to a degree. After telling them that you are unable to accommodate them, explain that because you have turned the spare bedroom into an “entertainment center,” it is no longer set up for guests, but you’d love to see them while they’re in town and take them OUT for dinner
Just remember that if you are asked, you do not have to reveal what kind of games you are playing in there.
DEAR ABBY: I’m curious to know your thoughts regarding this dating situation: If a person has a prosthetic and the device isn’t obvious, when and how would you recommend it be disclosed to the dating partner? Is it “too much information” to reveal on a first date?
Would it be all right to wait a couple of dates, see how they go, and then reveal the fact? Please help, if you can. — CURIOUS IN LYNCHBURG
DEAR CURIOUS: I see no reason to reveal something like this on a first — or even second — date, and certainly not with a virtual stranger. “Prosthetics” of various kinds are common, but few people are willing to discuss the fact that their appearance has been enhanced with false teeth, caps and veneers, breast implants, Botox or a hair transplant.
People are more than a prosthetic, so new acquaintances should get to know the person before receiving that information.
DEAR ABBY: This politically divisive year has fueled a debate in our family. I like to put a political sticker on my car, on a magnet. That way I can remove it when I want.
One of my relatives won’t ride in my car if I have my sticker on. I say it’s my car and I can put what I want on it. He says I should be “sensitive to others’ feelings” when they are in the car. What do you think? — POLITICALLY STUMPED
DEAR POLITICALLY STUMPED: You have a right to exercise your freedom of expression. If your relative prefers not to ride in a car with a bumper sticker advertising “the other” political party, then he or she should feel free to arrange for alternative transportation.
Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at http://www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.
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