Cheap friends won’t stop complaining

DEAR HARRIETTE: Two of my friends are extremely cheap, and it’s getting to the point where it’s hard to enjoy doing anything with them. We all live in New York City, and as you know, the cost of simply existing here is high.

New hobby causes roommate complaints

DEAR HARRIETTE: I started making pottery as a new hobby, and I love it, but my roommate keeps making jokes about how messy it is. She calls it a “mud factory” and even moves my supplies around without asking, which makes it hard for me to focus or enjoy my work.

Stay home from work when you’re sick

Hello again, dear readers! Welcome to a bonus letters column. This time, we’re focusing on two questions, one important and one just plain interesting, so let’s dive in.– A reader from San Diego is worried about the upcoming cold and flu season.

GDF-15, link to hyperemesis gravidarum

Dear Doctors: My daughter suffered from hyperemesis while she was pregnant two years ago, and it was truly a miserable pregnancy. Is there a way to prevent this for future pregnancies?

Daughter follows boyfriend down path

DEAR HARRIETTE: About a year ago, my daughter asked if I might hire her boyfriend, who has taken a nontraditional route after high school. Instead of pursuing college, he decided to explore a trade. He’s a bright kid and a fast learner, so she thought it might work if he were my apprentice.

DO JUST ONE THING

• If you’re on the fence about buying the newest expensive gadget, consider renting it for a week instead. Digital cameras, camcorders, iPads and gaming systems can be rented by the week at many national chains, like Rent-A-Center.

Club member steals photographer’s work

DEAR HARRIETTE: I recently joined a local photography club because I wanted to meet other photographers, improve my skills and share my work in a supportive environment.

Dry mouth more common in older adults

Dear Doctors: I’ve noticed as I’m getting older – I just turned 63 – that I have more episodes of dry mouth. I’m told this isn’t unusual for older people. Why would that be? Chewing gum helps, but I don’t enjoy it. Are there things I should eat or avoid that can help this go away?

Friend feels like friends want too many photos

DEAR HARRIETTE: My friends are always pulling out their phones to take photos whenever we hang out, whether it’s at dinner, a casual walk or even just hanging out at someone’s apartment.

Employee looking to come out of shell

DEAR HARRIETTE: I am currently in the middle of a career pivot. For many years, I worked in corporate offices behind the scenes in operations. I still do that now in a more creative industry. In this role, I get to show my personal interests, style and creative capabilities a lot more.