Girlfriend uneasy with boyfriend’s ex

DEAR HARRIETTE: My boyfriend and I have been dating for almost a year now, and for the most part, things have been going really well.He’s kind and supportive, and he makes me feel valued. There’s one thing that’s been bothering me more and more lately: how often he talks about his ex.

Alopecia does not affect actual hair follicle

Dear Doctors: At about 26 years old, my father became sick and lost all of his hair. Not only did he lose hair on his head, he had no eyebrows, eyelashes or beard and even lost the hair on his arms and legs. Do you have any idea what might have caused that?

Trump bashing is the only game in town

The Democratic National Committee is holding its summer meeting in Minneapolis.There is a lot to talk about.The party, of course, is suffering through a major slide in popularity. A Wall Street Journal poll a few weeks ago found that voters’ approval of the party is its lowest in 35 years.

How the doctors write their column

Dear Doctors: I’m puzzled by people whose doctors diagnose a problem but write to you to answer their questions. I believe you publish these questions and your answers to educate your readers.

Brother’s new wife puts pressure on husband

DEAR HARRIETTE: My younger brother got married last year. This is his first marriage, and he’s in his 50s. In some ways, I think getting married later can be a bit easier: You know what you want, you know your boundaries and you are likely more established (professionally and financially).

World War I shaped Tolkien and Lewis

ABritish soldier began writing “The Fall of Gondolin” while in a hospital bed, stricken by “trench disease” from the lethal front lines of World War I.

DO JUST ONE THING

• Here’s a simple way to help keep your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer: Check your ductwork. Many newer homes have ductwork with dampers that are adjustable, and when they are installed, they are often marked with two words: summer and winter.

Employee considers taking new job offer

DEAR HARRIETTE: I recently received a job offer from another company that comes with a significantly higher salary than what I’m currently making. The role is in a field I’ve been wanting to move into for years, and while it’s a little intimidating, it genuinely excites me.

Get acquainted with John Buchan

Sparkling wine flowed, hors d’oeuvres were passed, speeches were given. There were panel discussions, an archives tour, a reception and dinner. I wasn’t there, and you weren’t either. Nor was anyone you know. And the occasion?

Ideal conditions for blood pressure readings

Dear Doctors: I have read that for an accurate blood pressure reading, you should first sit in a comfortable chair with no talking or distractions for at least five minutes. But my doctors all slap on a cuff, ask questions the whole time, then exclaim that I have high blood pressure.