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The Spokesman-Review Newspaper
Spokane, Washington  Est. May 19, 1883

Budget so you can live independently

Kathy Mitchell

Dear Annie: I am a 24-year-old college graduate and have found a job that I love. I am not yet confident enough in my finances to rent an apartment, so I’m living with my parents while saving money and building credit.

The problem is, my father is stressing me out. He constantly yells at me, eavesdrops on personal conversations with my mother and expresses his dissatisfaction with my life. He thinks I should be making more money, but I love my job and am certain my hours will improve when the economy rebounds. I don’t want to ruin my savings by moving out and paying all that rent, but Dad’s constant criticism is depressing. What should I do? – New Adult

Dear Adult: It’s time to move out. Your independence and peace of mind are worth a little rent, maybe with multiple roommates. You also can talk calmly with your father and explain how his constant negativity affects you. We think one reason he eavesdrops on your conversations with Mom is because he feels left out. His criticism is the only way he knows how to stay involved in your life.

Dear Annie: I have a response to “Hurt by Gossip,” whose in-laws can’t keep a secret and repeat everything she tells them to everybody.

The next time “Hurt” is tempted to share something with the in-laws, she should ask herself, “Is this something I would be comfortable posting on Facebook?” If the answer is no, she shouldn’t tell the in-laws, either. – Mrs. Beans

Annie’s Mailbox is written by Kathy Mitchell and Marcy Sugar, longtime editors of the Ann Landers column. Please email your questions to anniesmailbox@ comcast.net, or write to: Annie’s Mailbox, c/o Creators Syndicate, 737 3rd Street, Hermosa Beach, CA 90254.