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A big birthday with an even bigger price tag

Dear Annie: My younger sister is turning 30 and has planned a birthday dinner at a trendy rooftop restaurant where the tasting menu is $165 per person -- not including drinks, tax or tip. She also wants us to split the cost of a professional photographer "to capture the moment for all of ...

How to water African violets

Dear Heloise: African violets often look droopy and tired without the right light or amount of water. If your plant struggles in a desk or shadowy corner, move it to an east-facing window. These plants thrive in mild morning light but dislike the hot afternoon sun from west windows. Place the ...

Get rid of moldy smells in purses

Dear Heloise: I have a black leather purse, which I stored in its fabric bag. But when I pulled it out this year, it had a terrible moldy smell. I read that baking soda and/or lemon zest would help get rid of the odor, but neither helped. Any ideas on how to get rid of the odor? — Mel G., via ...

Our marriage is great, but our love has gone quiet

Dear Annie: I have been married for 22 years to a good man. He is faithful, hardworking and, by most people's standards, a wonderful husband. He has never given me any reason to doubt his loyalty, and he has always taken his responsibilities seriously. From the outside, we look like a solid, ...

When a friend’s ‘help’ feels like a put-down

Dear Annie: I'm having a problem that feels small, but it's starting to make me dread seeing someone I care about. One of my closest friends has gotten into the habit of "correcting" me in public. If I tell a story, she interrupts to adjust a detail. If I mention a restaurant, she jumps in ...