In the "Ask Amy" advice column, a reader expresses frustration with their partner's mean-spirited jokes, such as calling them an "old bag," which the partner believes to be funny. Amy consults comedian Josh Gondelman, who explains that humor at someone's expense is only funny if the audience (in this case, the partner) is amused. Since the reader is not, the joke is a failure. Gondelman suggests that the partner is being annoying and not considering the reader's feelings. Amy advises the reader to reassess their sensitivities, share the comedian's perspective with their partner, and disengage while the partner rethinks their approach to humor.
An only child, Bee, is considering reaching out to their estranged father's "theoretical" wife due to concerns about future legal complications with inheritance and estate planning. Bee's father has been married but out of contact with his wife for over six years and shows no interest in divorce. Bee is conflicted about whether to get involved or not, seeking advice from Amy on whether to pursue contact with the estranged wife for clarity on the situation. Amy suggests that Bee should first understand the inheritance laws and encourage their father to engage in estate planning before deciding to contact the wife.
A wife seeks advice from Amy Dickinson on how to support her husband who is hurt by his family's disapproval of her. Despite the in-laws' unkindness and passive-aggressive behavior, the wife wants to help her husband maintain a relationship with them for his and their children's sake. Amy suggests that the wife encourage her husband to discuss his feelings and consider attending a therapy session together to improve communication about the issue.
In her advice column, Amy Dickinson responds to a reader who is dreading their upcoming roller rink birthday party due to the disruptive behavior of a neighbor's family. Amy suggests not inviting the troublesome guests and providing a polite but firm explanation if asked. She also recommends considering hiring a security person for the event to enforce safety rules and alleviate the host's stress.
In her advice column, Amy Dickinson responds to a woman dreading her annual roller skating birthday party due to a neighbor's unruly kids causing chaos in previous years. Amy suggests not inviting the problematic family and being honest if they inquire, keeping the explanation simple unless pressed for details. She also recommends hiring a security person from the roller rink to enforce safety rules, taking the pressure off the host.
