Dear Annie:

I live alone with my five cats. Four years ago, my youngest son brought his girlfriend, "Emily," for a visit. Emily told me she was allergic to cats and needed a cat-free bedroom, so I gave her mine. My son occupied the other bedroom, which left me on the couch.

When I realized that Emily had no symptoms, I suspected she wasn't really allergic. But I bit my tongue and was a courteous hostess. The last night of their visit, we went out to a restaurant. Emily didn't offer to pay for my meal, which I thought was rude.

Two years ago, Emily finally admitted she's not allergic to cats. Unfortunately, my son married her and I am still seething over that visit. I know I should let this go, but I don't like being lied to and she's such a tightwad.－Fuming in the SouthwestDear Fuming:

Please let it go. Emily admitted she wasn't allergic, so the lie was to get her own bedroom－which your son, not you, should have offered. As for the tightwad label, we're not so sure. Many young people are unaware of the etiquette that says you should treat your hosts to a meal.

You are being exceptionally harsh. Find something to like about Emily before you destroy your relationship with your son.