Welcome to Ask Clare, our advice column. Have a question, dilemma, or quandary? Send it to Clare in an email or on her Facebook page.
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Clare,
My wife is a cheapskate. I knew what I was getting into for the most part. I’ve adapted to a life with coupons galore and without soft, plush toilet paper. We just moved to the desert from NorCal though and she is not letting me turn the air down below 85 degrees. I wake up sweating and uncomfortable every night. I told her I want to keep the air at 75 and her eyes nearly popped out. We both work and earn a good living. How can I get her to cool down?
– Hot husband
Hot husband,
Summer in the valley sucks – it’s hot and it’s more expensive! Depending on the size of your home and how well insulated it is, your eyes may pop when you see the electric bill at 75 degrees. Tell your wife that you’re losing sleep and not okay with 85 degrees. Maybe meet her near the middle at a cool 79. Good luck – hopefully summer won’t scare you off.
– Clare
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Clare,
My little sister left her bag at my place. I found her purse the day after she was over at my apartment and looked in to figure out whose it was. I know my parents would be pissed about what I found inside. Frankly, I’m not thrilled about it either. Any suggestions on talking to her? I want to tell her that if she doesn’t get her act together, I’ll get my parents involved. She lives at home and they still support her.
– Big sis
Big sis,
Let your sister know you’ve got her bag and that you peeked inside. Don’t be too judgey and don’t bring your parents into your first discussion with her. Try to relate to her as a peer – not a parental figure. Your support may be what she needs.
– Clare
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Clare,
My boyfriend has become a complete hermit. Work has been stressful for him for the past few months since he got a new boss. We used to go to downtown Palm Springs on a regular basis and now he spends practically every night planted on the couch. I’ve tried inviting people over to our place but he complains afterwards. How can I get him out of this funk?
– Cabin fever
Cabin fever,
Have a talk with him about work and his happiness there. Let him know that it is affecting you and your relationship. It may be time to explore other work options – or at the very lest rethink his approach to work. Let him know you want your downtown date nights back.
– Clare
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