Retirement party plans thwarted by finances

DEAR HARRIETTE: My mom is gearing up for her next big step in life – RETIREMENT! She couldn’t be more excited, and my siblings and I are so happy for her.

So much has been going on in my own life, it didn’t cross my mind to plan a proper celebration for her. Earlier this week, my older sister reached out and asked if we should throw a shindig, invite all her friends and surprise my mom after she wo…