Life Advice
/Health
Mom's Behavior Toward Daughter Hurts Relationship
DEAR HARRIETTE: Throughout my entire pregnancy, my mom treated me badly. I was 18 when I found out I was pregnant, and she was not happy. Not only was I not married, but I wasn't in a particularly stable relationship either. She held a grudge, probably out of shame or embarrassment. She barely spoke to me, and when she did, she was not kind.
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Mom's Emotional Distance Bothers Her Family
DEAR HARRIETTE: My mom has always been emotionally distant, and now that I'm an adult, I'm realizing just how much that's shaped our relationship. Growing up, she wasn't unkind. She made sure we were fed, clothed and cared for, but she rarely showed affection or talked about feelings. If I ever brought up something emotional or difficult, she ...Read more
Harriette Honors Her Mother After Her Passing
DEAR READERS: Many of you may know that I rarely use this space to make personal statements. I am writing today to tell you that my mother, Doris Irene Freeland Cole, has passed away at age 95. Many of you may have already experienced the loss of your mother, while plenty more continue to be blessed with a mother ready to share wisdom, love and ...Read more
Nanny Not Getting Fairly Compensated
DEAR HARRIETTE: I'm working as a nanny for a family I really enjoy. The position has been a good fit. The child is wonderful, the hours are manageable and I've developed a positive relationship with the rest of family. However, there's one issue that's starting to create some stress for me: Part of my responsibilities include driving the child ...Read more