http://www.creakyjoints.org daily 1 2009-02-18T21:00:20Z http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/dear-ms-meniscus.. Have a question for Ms. Meniscus? Submit it anonymously here. No publisher admin 2009-06-01T16:30:20Z Survey http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-flaky-friend I have this friend who keeps taking advantage of me and all our other friends. He blows people off, he's constantly late, you can never count on him for anything -- yet he weasels his way into commitments no one wants to make with him. How do I keep from losing my mind? -- Mad Matt No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice friends 2008-10-06T22:56:34Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-distant-son My son and I used to have conversations all night long -- giggling and telling jokes, he telling me about his day, his dreams, the future. But we don't talk anymore. One day it just stopped. What can I do to bring that back? -- Mary in Maine No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice family 2008-10-06T22:56:54Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-lonely-single-arthritic Despite having a total hip replacement, and obvious joint deformities of the hands, I am a dance teacher and hide things very well. I never let anyone get too close and now I'm terrified of ending up alone. What do I do? -- J in Jasper No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice dating support 2008-10-06T23:15:05Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-deaf-rheumatologist I feel like my rheumatologist is not listening to my concerns -- he's so determined to quickly get me in and out of the office, we barely cover any of my concerns. I have expressed this to him, but without any change. What do I do? -- Nancy in New York No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus friends advice doctors and nurses rheumatoid 2008-10-10T04:12:21Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/table-talk Dear Ms. Meniscus, My boyfriend and I cannot agree on a kitchen table. What do we do? -- Tammie in Tallahassee No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice dating 2008-10-14T05:19:03Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/stuck-in-a-rut Dear Ms. Meniscus, My life is not moving forward. I'm stuck in a job I don't like. What should I do? -- Holly in Hawaii No publisher msmeniscus careers and work advice life ms. meniscus 2008-10-14T19:47:22Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/learning-to-let-go Dear Ms. Meniscus, My ex-boyfriend has a new girlfriend he's been seeing for six months now. We live near each other, but I don't want to run into them. I like the idea of him as he was -- without her. I find myself ducking around corners anytime they're near. What do I do? -- Brooke in Boulder No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus life advice dating 2008-10-14T19:51:49Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/picking-habits Dear Ms. Meniscus, I find myself nitpicking my girlfriend sometimes, and I don't even mean to do it ... I don't want to do it ... and it hurts her feelings. I resolve myself not to do it again, but I do. How can I stop? -- Paul in Pierre No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice emotions dating 2008-10-14T19:53:41Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/golden-days Dear Ms. Meniscus, I have been sad since the day "Golden Girls" went off the air. Is there any hope for a new series? -- Sad Selma No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus advice television 2008-10-14T19:55:11Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/sizing-it-up Dear Ms. Meniscus, Another student at our school won't stop complaining about the size of his room. I don't mind the rooms and think, with enough talking, he'll feel the same. But I don't have much time before school starts. What should I do? -Mopey in Montreal No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus advice education juvenile 2008-10-14T19:55:46Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/only-time-will-tell Dear Ms. Meniscus, I just know that one day my boyfriend will share the same political convictions I do. But when I say that, he gets angry. Should I just keep quiet about what I know will happen? -Oni in Orlando No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus life family advice politics dating 2008-10-14T19:56:08Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/music-to-your-ears Dear Ms. Meniscus, My boyfriend hates my taste in music. If he would just listen to it with an open mind, I think he'd find grunge rock very soothing. What do I do? -Tennessee Sammie No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice dating 2008-10-14T19:56:29Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/friends-and-lovers Dear Ms. Meniscus, I feel frustrated. My friends are not warming to my boyfriend and it's getting annoying. What should I do? -Tara in Tempe No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice dating friends 2008-10-14T19:56:55Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/just-a-matter-of-trust Dear Ms. Meniscus, My best friend just told me she's attracted to my husband. What do I do? -Run-down Rhoda No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus family advice dating friends 2008-10-14T19:57:19Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/movin-matters Dear Ms. Meniscus, A really good friend of mine is sad, like, all the time. He seems to be getting worse. Recently he moved away from home and I'm only able to talk to him over the phone, or online. How can I help? -Boise Bill No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice friends 2008-10-14T19:57:39Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/stink-patrol Dear Ms. Meniscus, Why does my girlfriend get mad when I don't wash my clothes? -Confused in New Jersey No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice dating 2008-10-14T19:58:04Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/music-man Dear Ms. Meniscus, My girlfriend wants me to go see Mamma Mia with her. MAMMA MIA. What do I do?! -Really Scurred No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice dating 2008-10-14T19:58:44Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/sexual-healing Dear Ms. Meniscus, My girlfriend doesn't want to have sex anymore. And she says I'm weird and want it too much. What do I do? -Frustrated in Philly No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus support dating 2008-10-14T19:59:21Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/important-firsts Dear Ms. Meniscus, My boyfriend and I just celebrated our first anniversary -- that is, we were supposed to. However, instead of the romantic dinner I hoped for, we ordered take-out. Am I unreasonable to expect more? -Underwhelmed in the UK No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus family advice dating 2008-10-14T19:59:43Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/meet-the-in-laws Dear Ms. Meniscus, Last week I met my girlfriend's family for the first time. And they hated me. What do I do? -- Depressed Down Under No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus life family advice dating friends 2008-10-14T20:57:12Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/from-a-distance Dear Ms. Meniscus, My boyfriend is studying abroad in Canada and I think he's cheating on me. What do I do? -- Frustrated in France No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice dating support 2008-10-14T20:56:43Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/all-chewed-up Dear Ms. Meniscus, I have been married for 20 years and my husband eats very loudly all the time. I have tried turning up the TV during dinner to block out the sound and I can still hear him chewing. I have turned on music and have even asked him to try and quiet his audible chewing. He does nothing to reduce his chewing noise and I'm ready to divorce him over it. What can I do? -Irritated Wife No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus family advice emotions partner event dating support 2008-10-14T21:00:08Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/dont-cheat-yourself Dear Ms. Meniscus, Hi, I am in a relationship with a man who is 20 years older than me. I love him very much and he shows me so much love and appreciation. There is nothing that I can complain about him. He is attentive and loving. Now, as I am feeling stronger for him, I begin feeling doubts. When he does not call me for a few hours, I feel he is out with someone else. He texts me sweet things but I want to call him but do not want to check up on him. Please help me. Should I be worried about anything? I feel all men cheat. Thanks. -Cindy No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice partner event emotions 2008-10-14T21:02:50Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/one-date-at-a-time Dear Ms. Meniscus, Ok so my ex boyfriend and I broke up 4 years ago.I still love him but he is in another relationship and seems happy. I still haven't moved on because I'm scared to get my heart broken again so I have my guard up! I mean I have hooked up with other guys but they just used me to have drunken sex with and that hurts me. What is wrong with me? Guys don't want to date me they just want to use me and I don't want that! I need advice! Is it me? Am I trying too hard? Help please?! -The Queen No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice emotions dating 2008-10-14T21:06:40Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/fyi-on-your-ldr Dear Ms. Meniscus, School just ended and quite a few of my friends are switching schools. One of my best friends and the guy I've liked on and off since 4th grade is moving away to a boarding school quite a few states away. What should I do? - Soccer Chick No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus life education advice dating 2008-10-14T22:14:01Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/it-makes-the-heart-grow-fonder Dear Ms. Meniscus, I recently took a job which forces me to be away from my boyfriend for several months. I work a TON, but when I'm not working, all I want to do is talk to him -- like we do when we're together. I call a lot. How do I keep from bugging him? - Blue in Buffalo Grove No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus life advice emotions careers and work dating 2008-10-14T22:10:52Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/iraq-ing-my-brain Dear Ms. Meniscus, My son is currently serving in Iraq. I miss him terribly. He's been gone now for the better part of four years. Though I'm incredibly proud of him, is it selfish of me to want him home? - Virginia Soldier's Momma No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus life family advice emotions careers and work support 2008-10-14T22:16:46Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/quiet-time Dear Ms. Meniscus, Sometimes I get really sad or frustrated and my boyfriend doesn't understand ... he just keeps prodding and asking me, "What's wrong?" All I want is some alone, quiet time. How do I get it? -Mary in Mississippi No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice emotions dating 2008-10-14T22:21:14Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/cheery-dispensation Dear Ms. Meniscus, I'm a very happy gal. Sometimes, though, my boyfriend and I fight. He'll be down about something and says I'm "insensitive" to his feelings. What is going on? - Ecstatic in Akron No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice dating 2008-10-14T22:33:03Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/in-the-red Dear Ms. Meniscus, People make me so angry at times: on the road, at the grocery store, at work. Instead of expressing my frustration, I keep it all inside -- like I'm supposed to. Wouldn't it be better to just let it out, even once? - Pete in Phoenix No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus life advice emotions careers and work support 2008-10-14T22:33:31Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/sibling-chivalry Dear Ms. Meniscus, My little sister is driving me crazy. She wants to follow me everywhere. But I don't want her to. What do I do? - Connor in South Carolina No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus juvenile family advice life emotions 2008-10-14T22:48:25Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/taking-advantage-...-of-time Dear Ms. Meniscus, My boyfriend has moved away for the summer for a job and I miss him terribly so. All I want is for him to come back. I can't stop thinking about him. - Missing Love in Connecticut No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice emotions dating 2008-10-14T22:45:25Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-employee-benefits Dear Ms. Meniscus, I have been driving a 40-minute, one-way commute to work for two years. Now, however, I was just offered a job at the office two blocks from my apartment. What should I do? - Al with the Pouty Car No publisher msmeniscus careers and work advice life ms. meniscus 2008-10-14T22:48:05Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-remote-control-controller My husband refuses to let me hold the remote when we're watching TV. What should I do? -- Mary in Mississippi No publisher msmeniscus 2008-10-21T14:37:05Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-friend-who-bails My friend keeps bailing on me when we make plans together. I had to eat dinner alone -- again -- the other night because of this. What do I do? -- Sam in Salem No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice friends 2008-10-21T02:18:58Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-noisy-chewer My sister chews so loudly at the breakfast table, I feel like my head is going to explode. How do I make it stop? -- Nathan in Newark No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice family 2008-10-21T02:21:04Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/a-crushing-problem Dear Ms. Meniscus, I have this huge crush on a boy. How do I get him to notice me? - Kendra in Kentucky No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice emotions dating sex and intimacy 2008-10-21T14:41:21Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/kissing-class Dear Ms. Meniscus, I really like my boyfriend, but he has some problems kissing. For example, he starts with his mouth wide open and then keeps it open. What can I do to reform him? - Desperate in LA No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice dating sex and intimacy 2008-10-21T14:50:28Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/ex-on-a-rampage Dear Ms. Meniscus, My new boyfriend's ex-girlfriend of three years will do anything to get him back -- even take our closest friends away. What can I do to stop her? - Amanda in Allegheny No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus advice dating friends 2008-10-21T14:50:54Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/rules-of-engagement Dear Ms. Meniscus, I am having trouble with my fiance. We have been together for almost six years, but lately we argue. A lot. I am not sure about my feelings for him, but I am scared of being alone. What can I do? -Kasey in Concordia No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus life family advice emotions partner event dating 2008-10-21T14:49:30Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/trust-and-marriage Dear Ms. Meniscus, My wife of almost eight years told me the other day that she had been lying to me about her past. She was the first woman I had ever been with, and had told me I was her first as well. I have to say initially it hurt imagining that, but the real problem for me is the honesty. I am not sure that I can trust her any more. How do I know she is not lying about being faithful in our marriage? I am having a real hard time forgiving her. How can I get over this? -Agonized Amir No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus family advice partner event dating 2008-10-21T14:54:00Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/friend-lover-roommate Dear Ms. Meniscus, I am moving in with a friend from college. We became really close friends over a short period of time -- too close actually. Now that we are moving in though, I am beginning to dread it. The clinginess is more than I can handle: calls throughout the day, "What are you doing?" and "Where are you at?" The need to be around each other 24/7. Knowing that we have both moved on from each other, but still having that spirit about us, living together I'm afraid is going to be more than I can handle and I don't know what I should do about it. -Sleepless in Scranton No publisher msmeniscus 2008-10-21T14:57:19Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/boyfriend-requirements Dear Ms. Meniscus, I'm an adult who has overbearing parents! They feel that I can do better than my boyfriend because he doesn't have a college degree (little do they know that he is graduating this summer with his associates degree). My dad doesn't have a college degree, so who is he to tell me who to date? -Karla in Kansas No publisher msmeniscus 2008-10-21T15:01:21Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/fight-for-his-wife Dear Ms. Meniscus, I have been dating a Christian man who has his own Gospel Group. He told me he had been divorced about six months, separated for almost a year. After dating for almost three months, his wife (!) told me that she found out about ME, which made HER ask for a divorce. He allowed me to fall in love with him BEFORE telling me he was still MARRIED. I have never been married and am a very loving person. I am having such a hard time walking away because of course he starts saying everything I want to hear. PLEASE tell me how to gain the courage and strength to WALK AWAY. -Chipped Crystal No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus life family advice emotions partner event dating 2008-10-21T15:09:06Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/gay-ing-it-up Dear Ms. Meniscus, I'm gay and when I came out a few years ago, it was terrifying and I was so scared of losing all of my friends. But most of them were really cool about it. Things have quieted down, and I even have a boyfriend now. But it's my parents -- I haven't told them yet. And I don't know how to. They're very conservative and, though I was afraid to lose my friends, I'm REALLY afraid to lose my parents. What do I do? -Determined in Dover No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus life education family advice mentoring dating friends support 2008-10-21T15:08:42Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-warring-siblings My sister and I have been raging back and forth at each other over this year's presidential election. Does this mean we'll be fighting forever? -- Tommy in Tupelo No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus advice family politics 2008-11-05T00:31:43Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/a-relationships-downward-spiral My boyfriend and I moved in together a few months ago and things just aren't the way they were before. There is no conversation, no affection (although I try my hardest) and he just seems so uninterested. I need some advice on how to get back on track because we are losing each other. -- Sally in San Diego No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus life advice emotions dating 2008-11-05T00:31:10Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-cell-phone I really want a phone but my dad is refusing -- saying it's going to be expensive! What shall I do? -- Megan in Montana No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus advice family money 2008-11-05T00:34:19Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/separated-from-love My girlfriend is studying out of the country right now and I won't see her until Christmas. Being without her ... it's awful. Is this normal? -- Blue Billy No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus communication advice emotions dating 2008-11-18T23:31:53Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/attack-of-the-dry-skin-season As winter sets in, my skin gets very ashy. What do I do to stop it? -- Dave in Denver No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus advice personal hygiene and appearance 2008-11-18T23:40:54Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-winter-blues As the weather turns colder, I can't help but feel sad. This happens every year, and I don't know what to do. -- Nikki in Naperville No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus medication communication advice treatments emotions doctors and nurses support depression 2008-11-18T23:40:10Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-end-of-year-rush Projects at work keep piling up around with only one directive: get them all done before we leave for the holidays. Some days I feel so overwhelmed I have trouble breathing. How do I get through this? -- Marsha in Madison No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus advice careers and work fear, anxiety, and stress communication 2008-12-01T23:00:37Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-overbearing-family As Christmas nears, I feel like my family is pulling me in a million directions -- presents, travel plans, you name it. I'm overextended as it is. What can I do? -- Billy in Brisbane No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus fear, anxiety, and stress family communication advice holidays money 2008-12-01T23:04:19Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/overwhelmed-by-the-guilt-arthritis-brings After working all day, when I get home, I can barely move. I know my husband -- kind and supportive as he has been with my arthritis -- gets tired of cooking or doing things for himself. But I am in so much pain, it's not worth the walk across the room to even eat. I am getting very depressed and find myself pushing him away, thinking he does not deserve this. How do you get over the guilt of what this disease does to you and your family? -- Guilty Sarah No publisher msmeniscus relationships knees life pain fear, anxiety, and stress family ms. meniscus advice depression 2008-12-01T23:09:28Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-selfish-sister My sister cannot think of anyone but herself. The whole world revolves around her needs, her moods, and her schedule. It drives me crazy, but other family members placate her. What do I do? -- John in Jefferson City No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus advice life family fear, anxiety, and stress 2008-12-16T21:11:23Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-know-it-all-big-brother My older brother thinks he knows everything and every time he comes home he won't stop telling me what to do. How can I make him stop? -- Tommy in Tulsa No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus advice life family fear, anxiety, and stress 2008-12-16T21:13:16Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-annoying-younger-brother My younger brother is a total prat and annoying the you-know-what out of me. I've only been home from school for a day and I think I'm going to lose it. What do I do? -- Annoyed Ashley No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus advice life family fear, anxiety, and stress 2008-12-16T21:15:02Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-canine-boss Our one-year-old puppy already runs the house -- commanding attention in any situation. If he wants to be held, he won't stop "talking" to you until he gets his way. And darn it if he isn't so gosh darn cute when he does it! Is this normal for a dog to overtake our lives like this? -- Trenika in Tampa No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus life family communication advice pets 2008-12-30T22:38:10Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-finicky-boyfriend My boyfriend keeps showing up late for dates or asking to change plans at the last minute. It's driving me mad. What can I do? -- Laura in London No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus life communication advice dating 2008-12-30T22:39:51Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-passive-aggressive-mother-in-law My boyfriend and I have limited vacation time and decided to spend this year's holidays with my family. His mother has been working overtime to guilt us into extending our vacation and visiting them. What should I do? -- Stressed Stacy No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus family communication advice holidays dating travel 2008-12-30T22:41:30Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-mean-mother-in-law My mother-in-law had the audacity to tell me my choice of clothing makes me look matronly and boring -- two traits that were sure to cause problems in my marriage. To be honest, I wanted to punch her in the face. The gall! What should I do? -- Matronly Mary No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus pain fear, anxiety, and stress family advice emotions 2009-01-14T06:18:37Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-wandering-musician I have been studying to be a musician ever since I was in elementary school. But now I've decided to be a nurse, and I'm not sure what to do. -- Kimberly in Kansas No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus life advice future music education unpredictability 2009-01-14T10:33:14Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-rude-diners I was at dinner the other night and fellow patrons were saying the rudest things about my friends and I. I confronted them about this as we were leaving, and felt all the worse for doing so. What should I have done? -- David in Delaware No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus pain advice emotions friends 2009-01-14T06:20:58Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-other-guy I'm dating this great girl and have fallen head-over-heels for her. But she's also dating another guy. I care for her so much, but it eats me up inside thinking of her spending time with someone else. What should I do? -- Rob in Rhode Island No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus life communication advice dating 2009-01-27T20:36:57Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-fearful-friend I have had the hugest crush on this friend of mine for several months now, and it's getting worse. Normally I'm the center of the party. But when he enters the room, I find it increasingly difficult to breathe, let alone string two words together. What do I do? -- Talkative Todd No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus life pain fear, anxiety, and stress communication advice future dating unpredictability 2009-01-28T03:41:34Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-best-mate My friend Stacie is my best mate in the world, and I think I've fallen in love with her. I want to explore the possibility of dating, but fear she'll simply take the mickey out of me at the thought. What can I do? -- Dirk in Devonshire No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus life fear, anxiety, and stress advice future dating friends unpredictability 2009-01-27T20:44:16Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-misunderstood-one I try to be funny with my friends: tell jokes and be the life of the party and all. But lately, everyone seems to be getting ticked off at me for the things that I say. What do I do? -- Silly Steve No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus humor communication advice friends 2009-02-09T16:49:11Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-promiscuous-one My friends give me a hard time about the number of girls that I date and talk it up as if I were some sort of male slut. What do I say to them? -- Bed-Hopping Ben? No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus life communication advice guilt dating 2009-02-09T16:52:06Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-negative-one My friends all complain that I'm too negative all the time and that I don't know how to be happy. Personally, I feel quite happy. Why don't they think so, too? -- "Sad" Stephanie No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus communication advice depression friends happiness 2009-02-09T16:51:05Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-picky-drinker I hate the taste of water, but I know it's good for me. How can I grow to like it? -- Finicky Phyllis No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus activity and exercise advice diet water 2009-02-24T21:05:11Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/worn-out Lately, I've just felt tired and exhausted all the time. Is something wrong with me? -- Rustic Ryan No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus life fear, anxiety, and stress triggers advice weather sleep depression energy seasonal affective disorder 2009-02-24T21:04:11Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/sick-and-scared I've been sick with a cough and severe congestion for over a week now. I don't want to schedule a doctor's appointment because it's always a pain and they may not see me until another week or so ... but I don't know if I can last that long. I'm miserable. What can I do? -- Ill Ashley No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus medication fear, anxiety, and stress family advice treatments doctors and nurses diagnosis friends support 2009-02-24T20:59:50Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-inconsistent-mother One minute my mom is presenting me with lavish gifts, the next criticising me for my lack of thrift. What is going on here? -- Bob in Bloomington No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus family money advice menopause 2009-03-10T21:44:33Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/a-mothers-ill-effect My mother is very judgmental and it's causing problems for my girlfriend, who came from a very supportive, non-criticising family. How do I fix this? -- Mulling Michael No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus life family advice emotions dating 2009-03-10T21:46:59Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/a-mothers-smothering My mother has a death grip on my life and is digging her claws in deeper. Not surprisingly, I'm miserable. What do I do? -- Overwhelmed Ollie No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus life family advice depression happiness 2009-03-10T21:48:57Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-mourning-daughter My mum passed away about a year ago. She was such a joy, always the life of the party. So much has felt empty since that time, and I oftentimes find myself lost in remembrance, in sorrow. Friends have said I need to move on, but I don't even know in which direction to point my compass. -- Callie in Cardiff No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus life death family advice happiness friends energy depression 2009-03-24T12:26:46Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-french-boyfriend My boyfriend had to return to France, where's he from (we met while he studied here in America). I miss him terribly and can't stop thinking about him. The distance and uncertainty are hurting our relationship. I'm scared I might lose him. I feel lost most days. What should I do? -- Annoyed Adam No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus love advice france dating travel 2009-03-24T12:29:44Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-undecided-student I'm nearing the end of my freshman year in college and I still don't know what I want to do. Pressure is coming at me from all sides. I don't know what to do. -- Billy in Birmingham No publisher msmeniscus school, colleges and university ms. meniscus life family advice future education friends 2009-03-24T13:14:45Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-bathroom-accidents My boyfriend and I are in our early 20s and just adopted a dog -- our first. We love him to death, but he's having bathroom accidents in the apartment. How do we correct this? -- Charlie in Chicago No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus advice pets 2009-04-07T22:42:37Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-flaky-skin Our poor dog has terrible dandruff. What can we do? -- Tammy in Toronto No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus advice pets skin 2009-04-07T22:45:04Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-yucky-medicine We have to give our dog liquid Benadryl to curb his reverse sneezing episodes, but he hates taking it and fights us. I'm worried we'll hurt him. Is there any other way? -- Becky in Bakersfield No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus advice pets 2009-04-07T22:46:53Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-disrespectful-interloper My friend keeps promising me that he'll take care of this errand for me (in fact, the only reason I didn't take care of it two weeks ago was because he insisted he'd do it). Now I'm coming up against a deadline and don't know what to do. -- Austin in Austin No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus life advice respect friends 2009-04-22T02:59:46Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-indecisive-one I fully expect that when we graduate high school, many of us friends will grow apart -- and that's OK. I have this friend, though, that bugged me, bugged me, bugged me to keep in touch and not let things change. I've tried several times, but haven't heard a peep ... except when she contacts me every few months complaining about how we're growing apart. How do I stop this? -- Lucy in Logansport No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus life advice respect friends 2009-04-22T03:02:13Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-abuser A bud of mine and I became good friends in college because he helped me through a really sad time. Now, however, he blows me off frequently at the last minute, always disrespects my wishes when it comes to hanging out, and seems to have more fun with new friends he's made ... who happen to socialize on a slightly higher level than his old friends ever could. What do I do? -- Pat in Purchase No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus life advice respect friends 2009-04-22T03:04:56Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-thank-you-card I send gifts to my son and daughter-in-law, but get no thank you cards in return. To me, this is very rude, and saddening. What do I say? -- Sad Susan No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus life family communication advice 2009-05-05T20:50:58Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-missing-food My roommate keeps eating my food and it's driving me mad. What do I do? -- Lilly in Lubbock No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus food communication advice friends 2009-05-20T07:28:20Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-missed-appointments My friend breaks our plans all the time. I've confronted her about this, but she thinks I'm making a mess out of nothing. What should I do? -- Rita in Rohnert Park No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus communication advice respect friends 2009-05-20T07:28:01Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-perpetual-victim No one in my family supports me. My husband and children will defend everyone under the sun, no matter their fault -- except for me. I give, and I give, and I give ... and get nothing in return. -- Luisa in Lexington No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus life family communication advice parenting and children respect 2009-06-16T21:03:48Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-ungrateful-children My husband and I have always believed in an allowance for our children -- we didn't want them to be distracted from school by jobs. But now that they're college students, all they want to do is spend our money like crazy. Why do they do this? -- Betty in Birmingham No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus family communication advice parenting and children marriage support 2009-06-16T21:02:49Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-new-co-worker I was promised that I'd be the only trainer in my club. Now another woman is being brought on board. I'm so angry I could quit. What do I do? -- Perturbed Patty No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus fear, anxiety, and stress communication advice careers and work future 2009-06-16T21:00:07Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-sick-mother My mother's nursing home does not feel she needs a doctor to check in on her. On the phone, my mother tells me she is certain something is wrong. What do I do? -- Jennifer in Jasper No publisher msmeniscus aging family health-care and insurance ms. meniscus advice doctors and nurses diagnosis 2009-08-25T20:28:43Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-hard-of-hearing Family and friends come to me with tech help, but they won't listen to my recommendations. Oftentimes they ignore my advice and turn to someone else ... but then call me up later to clean up the mess their "tech friend" created. What do I do? -- Mad Mark No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus family communication advice respect friends 2009-08-25T20:27:39Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/what-shes-really-saying When I'm talking to my sister, I feel like she's not really telling me what she's thinking. I'll notice an uptick in her voice, or a facial smirk. I'll repeat the question, and ask if something's on her mind, but to no avail. What do I do? -- Confused Carl No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus honesty family communication advice 2009-08-25T20:26:51Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/weak-air-conditioner I just moved into a new townhouse for the school year and it's stifling hot in my upstairs bedroom! We have central air -- and it's cool enough downstairs. But I can't sleep in the heat. What should I do? -- Isabella in Indianapolis No publisher msmeniscus school, colleges and university ms. meniscus life advice comfort air conditioning 2009-08-25T20:26:04Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-roommate-stalker My roommate is driving me crazy -- he doesn't tell me when he's coming or going, or what he's doing. What do I do? -- Mary in Mississippi No publisher msmeniscus relationships ms. meniscus life advice roommates 2009-10-05T20:07:48Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-lazy-students Part of my volunteer job entails supporting college students. However, these kids ignore any and all requests and delight in putting tasks off for a future date. What do I do? -- Frustrated Fred No publisher msmeniscus school, colleges and university ms. meniscus activity and exercise fear, anxiety, and stress advice 2009-10-10T05:42:12Z Web page http://www.creakyjoints.org/columns/ms.-meniscus/the-unexpected-divorce My brother recently filed for divorce from his wife after 43 years of marriage. It seemed kind of sudden and came a few months after he was in a hiking accident where he fell and severely bumped his head. I am wondering if it might have affected him. Why else would he suddenly want a divorce? -- Bucko in Boise No publisher msmeniscus ms. meniscus life family divorce advice marriage support happiness 2009-10-26T16:17:48Z Web page