Classic Ann Landers

Ann Landers
Sat, 08 Apr 2023 21:00:00 -0700
Lifestyle

Dear Ann Landers: I am a 20-year-old college student living with three other roommates the same age. One of our roommates, "Gloria," is causing a lot of problems for the rest of us. She is dating a married man. This isn't the first time she has been involved in an inappropriate relationship, but I didn't know about her entanglements until after we moved in together.

The man Gloria is dating now is a lot older and has kids in their late 20s. He doesn't hide his cheating. In fact, he wants us to invite him over to "hang out." Gloria bragged about their sexual relationship, and his wife found out about it. She has been calling our house to see whether her husband is here. Now Gloria demands that we not answer the phone or, if we do, that we lie to the man's wife.
Updated: Sun Apr 16, 2023

Dear Ann Landers: I am a 20-year-old college student living with three other roommates the same age. One of our roommates, "Gloria," is causing a lot of problems for the rest of us. She is dating a married man. This isn't the first time she has been involved in an inappropriate relationship, but I didn't know about her entanglements until after we moved in together.

The man Gloria is dating now is a lot older and has kids in their late 20s. He doesn't hide his cheating. In fact, he wants us to invite him over to "hang out." Gloria bragged about their sexual relationship, and his wife found out about it. She has been calling our house to see whether her husband is here. Now Gloria demands that we not answer the phone or, if we do, that we lie to the man's wife.

We have lost all respect for Gloria and would like to kick her out, but none of us has the guts. I feel horrible for this man's family and do not want to be caught in a confrontation with his wife. Please give us some suggestions on how to handle this situation. — Beside Ourselves in Oregon

Dear Oregon: Give Gloria notice — either she stops seeing that married man or she will have to move out at the end of the month. Be firm about it. Let her know that if she doesn't break off the relationship, you are packing her bags and she'll find them on the front porch — and keep your word.

Dear Ann Landers: I am raising my 7-year-old granddaughter because her parents are divorced.

I am concerned that the girl has an eating disorder. She eats no fruits or vegetables, and if I offer her something she doesn't like, she gags.

I realize children can be fussy eaters, but the reason I suspect a serious problem is because the girl's mother eats exactly the same way. My ex-daughter-in-law eats only at fast-food restaurants and limits herself to chicken and fish (fried, of course). She told me she NEVER has eaten a piece of fruit or a vegetable in her entire life. This woman is 29 years old. Her mother and brothers eat like this, too.

I'm at my wits' end to help my granddaughter eat a healthier diet. When I try to force nutritious food on her, she throws up. I am worried about her health, Ann, and need some advice. — Frustrated Grandma in Kentucky

Dear Grandma: The problem that needs attention is not what the child is eating but what is eating the child. She is using food as a weapon, and you need to learn how to deal with it.

I urge you to seek the guidance of a pediatrician who will recommend a therapist for this angry little girl. She needs help, and it's up to you to see that she gets it.