Annie’s Mailbox: Young girl laughs at gift from son

Dear Annie: I recently took my 5-year-old son to a birthday party for a little girl who turned 7. We put together a birthday present of arts and crafts materials including stickers, stamps, Barbie coloring pages, glitter glue, etc. We thought it was a nice present. However, when the birthday girl opened it, she laughed, and the girl’s best friend commented, “Who would give someone that?”

My son was oblivious, but I was offended. Should I have said something? – Concerned Mom

Dear Mom: No. You’re talking about a young girl who is still learning how to respond properly to gifts. We hope she said “thank you,” and we trust her mother will give her pointers on polite and appropriate things to say. The best friend’s response was rude, but again, little kids need time to learn. The important thing is that you didn’t make a big deal out of it with your son. We think your gift was lovely.

Dear Annie: I’m responding to “L.H. in Montgomery.” I, too, am 82 years old and have been single for 23 years. A little over a year ago, I became reacquainted with a wonderful gentleman I’d met at a church 40 years ago. We will be getting married this fall.

Do not despair. There is always hope. – In Love in SoCal