Dear Abby: I am 54 and my lady friend is 51. We have been going together for eight months, during which time neither of us has dated anyone else.
Last month, I moved in with her. We agreed to live together for a year to find out if we were compatible. I gave her a pre-engagement ring to signify our commitment to each other, and she gladly accepted it. We share equally in the expenses of living together.
Now for the problem: She refuses to change the message on her answering machine, which is: “Hi, this is Marilyn (not her real name). I can’t come to the phone right now, but please leave your name and telephone number. I will get back to you as soon as possible.”
Abby, there is no mention of me whatsoever. I told her this was belittling to me in case my friends or family call. She keeps saying she will change it, but so far she has made no effort do so. Your comments and advice, please.
Mr. Nobody in Nevada
Dear Mr. Nobody: Your lady friend is obviously hesitant to indicate that you are a “couple” until she is sure you are. Be patient, give her a little more time, and when you’re ready to exchange the pre-engagement ring for a wedding ring, your lady friend will change the message on her answering machine. In the meantime, get your own telephone number and answering machine.
Dear Abby: While the British have long recognized short pants with knee-high socks as proper tropical uniform for dress occasions, and the U.S. Postal Service and others now follow this sensible lead, is it not time for Brooks Brothers, Armani and Haspel, etc., to promote a three-piece summer suit: lightweight jacket with matching Bermuda shorts and trousers?
Men could then consider temperature and comfort in choosing Bermudas with knee socks, or trousers and ankle socks, to wear with or without matching jacket.
What hotel or restaurant would not consider as appropriate men so attired for hot summer days?
J.F. O’Donnell, Washington, D.C.
Dear J.F.: It’s all right with me-my husband’s legs are better looking than mine-but not all men are that lucky. Then, too, hairy male legs could be a turnoff to others while dining. I’m for recommending that men keep their pants on.
Dear Abby: Thank you, thank you, for that beautiful “message” about our flag, which you published on the 4th of July. Sadly, it was the only reference to the flag in the newspaper that day-oh, excuse me, there was one other mention of the flag. It concerned the fact that a resident of San Rafael, Calif., was fined $50 for having flown a flag over his rented condominium. He received a note from the manager asking him, “Please be considerate of your neighbors and protect the value of your home by keeping your flag in the box”!
Flag-Waver in Bainbridge, Ga.
