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A front-row seat to a midlife spiral

Dear Annie: My friend of 20 years confessed to having a crush on her executive coach, which then developed into a flirtation, which then became a sexting affair. I have always known she is unhappy in her marriage, but I cannot condone cheating and have told her so. She’s also started vaping, pierced her nose, talked about buying a new car (she just bought her last one two years ago) and even had an addition put on her house so she could have her own room away from her family. I’ve told her she’s exhibiting signs of a mid-life crisis. She told me she’s fine and that working ...

Having a phone for emergencies

Dear Heloise: As my grandchildren have gotten older, it occurred to me that their parents had gotten rid of their old landline. Today, many homes rely only on cellphones. Also, parents are wary of giving their young ones cellphones. This means that when young children are safely left at home without adult supervision for short periods, there is no way for them to call for help in an emergency. Parents might consider having a separate cellphone in the house to replace the old landline and teach youngsters how to use it if needed. Thank you for all your hints. -- Diane Hobbs, A ...

Getting phased out of my friend group

Dear Annie: I am 52 and I have a good life on paper. I am married, I work full-time, and I have two teenagers who keep me busy. But lately I have felt oddly lonely, and I am not sure if I am being overly sensitive or finally noticing something I have ignored for years. I have a close group of friends from our kids’ elementary school days. We still do birthdays, group texts and the occasional dinner. Here is the issue: They have started doing a lot more without me, and I usually find out after the fact. It is never one big, obvious exclusion. It is the little things. A photo pops up ...

Using dry-erase markers on mirrors

Dear Heloise: A lot of people use white boards to make lists and notes. But did you know that you can use dry-erase markers on your bathroom mirror? It’s easy to jot notes on the mirror while you’re getting ready for the day, and more than likely, you will be back in that same bathroom throughout the day to see your notes. Additionally, you can write inspirational notes to yourself on the shower wall above where the water hits. -- Karen McV., via email ANTI-DAMPNESS PACKETS Dear Heloise: I read Erika B.’s hint about storing vitamins in the refrigerator. I use the ...

Struggling to revive our once-burning flame

Dear Annie: My husband and I have been together for more than 30 years. In the beginning, we were the couple who couldn’t keep our hands off each other. We smiled easily, held hands without thinking, and felt lucky just to be in the same room after a long day. Somewhere between raising three kids, becoming grandparents, and moving into our mid-50s, that warmth faded. We still love each other, and neither of us wants to leave. But our marriage feels quiet in a way that scares me. We rarely touch. I honestly can’t remember the last time we laughed together. We sit side by side in the ...

Cleaning hard-to-reach areas

Dear Heloise: When cleaning small or hard-to-reach areas, I rely on a handheld vacuum with a brush attachment. Using the brush helps loosen dust, while the vacuum captures it so that it doesn’t get stirred up and settle elsewhere. I use this method for baseboards, corners, shelves, and other nooks and crannies where dust tends to collect. It’s also perfect for cleaning computer keyboards and laptop keys, where crumbs and dust can build up quickly. This approach keeps messes to a minimum and makes quick cleanups much easier. Thanks for all the helpful tips; I enjoy reading them ...