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Tell Me About It: Cookie client wants kids to make the sale

 
Published Jan. 27, 2016

Q: I buy Girl Scout cookies to support my friends' kids and nieces. But I'm frustrated that the requests for my purchase always come in the form of an e-mail from the parents, or it's a form letter from Girl Scouts with the child's name in the subject. I've told the parents to please have their child e-mail me directly (or better, call me) and sell me the cookies! I feel like it's a large institution using children to raise money without the kids having any responsibility in the transaction. Should I just bite my tongue and buy the darn cookies, or keep pressing my cause?

Anonymous

A: Neither! From now on, just buy cookies only when the kids themselves do the work.

If you fear this imperils your Thin Mint supply (I won't judge), then keep an eye out for groups of Girl Scouts who set up tables near local businesses. These kids are walking the walk and earn all the business they get.

Husband's sticky fingers jeopardize family

My husband brings home supplies from work all the time. I'm talking everything from cleaning to medical supplies. It upsets me so much that he would jeopardize our livelihood on stuff he doesn't even need. He says he'll stop but he continues.

My son notices the items and it bothers him, but I am afraid he'll emulate his father. Stealing is so wrong.

I am resentful that I have to live in fear of him getting caught. His thefts are looking like hoarding and I am embarrassed to have people over. It makes me feel very isolated. What do you recommend?

Five-Finger Discounted

A: Please reverse that isolation and call the National Alliance on Mental Illness's Helpline, 800-950-6264.

You you need a plan to keep your family on the rails, and a way to talk to your son. Take care.