Couple’s future is clouded by question of having kids

DEAR ABBY: I’m a 19-year-old girl who’s been with my boyfriend for two years. We are a wonderful match and love each other very much. There’s just one flaw in our relationship that I hold lots of guilt over.

Friend won’t stop posting about breakup

SENSE & SENSITIVITY DEAR HARRIETTE: My friend has been broadcasting his recent breakup all over social media, and I’m concerned about him. I do not agree with the fact that he’s posting all of these things as he seems extremely hurt and is being unkind to his ex, who is also my friend.

Couple does battle over who handles houshold bill-paying

DEAR ABBY DEAR ABBY: My newly retired husband and I lead a nice life and are in good health. Our two girls are grown and established.

Observe these pet safety tips during July Fourth

With crowds of unfamiliar people and loud, scary noises, the Fourth of July can make even the most laid-back, four-legged family members apprehensive and unpredictable.

Daughter betrayed by mother struggles with reconnection

DEAR ABBY: I have an extensive history of childhood trauma. I was sexually abused by my stepfather for 15 years. When I turned him in, my family turned their backs on me. I was told it could have been handled within the family, and they blamed me for acting “sexy.”

Lesser-known disorder causes sudden increase in heart rate

There is a lesser-known, but common, heart disorder called paroxysmal supraventricular tachycardia (PSVT). Nearly two million Americans live with this alarming arrhythmia that can spike heart rate unexpectedly and suddenly from a normal 60-80 beats per minute (bpm) to more than 250.

Father wants to make conditional apology

DEAR HARRIETTE: I had an argument with my high school-aged son about something frivolous, and it devolved to the point where we both said hurtful things to each other. We have since put the argument behind us and acted normally, but without any real resolution or apologies from either side.

To prevent mold, keep houseplant leaves dry

Household plants can be a natural and efficient way to purify the air inside your home. But if your plants get sick — developing white or black mold spores on the outside of the leaves, for instance — they can actually contribute to an unhealthy air environment.

Mother-in-law’s nighttime attire causes consternation

DEAR ABBY: I have a wonderful mother-in-law whom I love very much. She frequently stays overnight in my home. I also have two young sons. My mother-in-law recently mentioned to me that she doesn’t wear underwear to bed and never has, including while staying at my house.

Vagus nerve plays a part in sensory, motor functions

Dear Doctor: One of the yoga teachers at our gym always goes on and on about the importance of the vagus nerve whenever we do deep-breathing exercises to relax. What is she talking about, and why is it important?