Dealing with Cheap Friends

My husband and I have friends who are extremely cheap. We love them but they often cause issues when it comes to recommendations. For example, we referred our trusted gardener to them but they didn't pay. Similar situations have happened with other services. How can we avoid giving them recommendations without ruining our friendship? It's embarrassing and makes us judge them. - Cheap Friends

Handling the Situation

Next time they ask for a recommendation, you could play it cool and say you don't know anyone. But if they know you do, it might make things awkward. You could also pass along a name but warn the person. For instance, if they need a housekeeper, give them your contact but mention they're busy and you've heard complaints. This way, you're still referring but giving a heads-up. Of course, news might get back to them, but it could be an opportunity to confront the problem directly. The most grown-up thing to do would be to bring up the gardener situation. Tell them you don't want to get caught in the middle again and urge them to search on their own. - Dear Cheap Friends

Holiday Blues as a Single Sibling

The holidays are tough for single people. Seeing all the cozy couples getting top-of-the-line gifts can make you feel left out. But you can show up for yourself. Save up and treat yourself, go on a vacation, create your own tradition like hosting a party or making dinner reservations with single friends. Splurge on a fancy advent calendar. The more you focus on yourself, the less the green-eyed monster will appear. - Green-Eyed Grinch

Dealing with a Failing Car

My 2015 Honda CR-V needs a new catalytic converter due for inspection by mid-December. Replacing it will cost a few thousand dollars. I was hoping to keep the car for a few more years. Should I spend this much on an old car? There's a zero percent financing deal for both gas and hybrid models. Gas prices are unpredictable. The hybrid might not save much now but could be a good choice in the future. It's a tough decision. - Bad Cat

It's not silly to worry about future costs. Consider how much you'd pay monthly and if you can afford it. Honda CR-Vs are known for longevity. You could keep the car and save up for a replacement. But there's a risk it might not last. Generally, it's smarter to run an old car into the ground than take the depreciation hit of a new car. The hybrid deal is tempting if you can afford it. Gas prices fluctuate, so a hybrid could be useful. Just make sure you can handle the payment. - Kristin

Dealing with a Stealing Niece

I caught my 13-year-old niece stealing from my wallet and son's piggy bank. She cried and apologized but has been doing it for weeks. I told my sister and she grounded her for a week but I don't think it's enough. - Classic Prudie