Booking error causes strain in friendship

Booking error causes strain in friendship

Mar 19, 2026

DEAR HARRIETTE: My friend and I are going on a trip to Iceland. The other day, we were looking at dates to book our flights; we decided on a seven-day trip, and my friend decided to book her flight on the spot while I held off to double-check my work schedule and compare prices. After she booked her flight, she realized that she booked it for a day earlier than what we decided on. She then told me it’s not that big of a deal and that I should just book my flight a day earlier. The problem is that flying a day earlier would cost me significantly more money, and I would also have to rearrange some work commitments. I suggested that she try to change her flight instead, since she was the one who made the mistake, but she said the change fee would be expensive and it would be easier if I just adjusted my plans. I don’t think it’s fair that I should have to spend extra money because of her booking error. At the same time, I don’t want to come across as inflexible or cheap. This trip is supposed to be fun, and we’ve both been looking forward to exploring Iceland together for months. Should I book the original dates and meet my friend there or fly in a day early? – Travel Blues DEAR TRAVEL BLUES: You have choices.

DO JUST ONE THING

DO JUST ONE THING

Mar 19, 2026

• It may be sold in some health food stores, but be cautious about burning incense sticks in your home. Recent studies suggest that burning incense can be as harmful to your health as smoking cigarettes. Of the 64 toxins identified in incense smoke, two have been classified as “highly toxic,” according to the journal Environmental Chemistry Letters. Because incense sticks are largely unregulated, there’s often no clear way of knowing exactly what’s in the package you’re buying.

Reader dislikes friend’s partner

Reader dislikes friend’s partner

Mar 13, 2026

DEAR HARRIETTE: One of my closest friends has been in an off-and-on relationship with someone I don’t think is the best for them. I do not often give my opinion on my friends’ partners, as it is not my place to critique their relationships, but I have seen this person make my friend feel awful on one too many occasions for me to be OK with their partnership. My friend has spent years working on their emotional development, but this relationship often leaves them feeling like they haven’t done enough. I want to tell them to call this quits for good; however, I do not want to overstep my place as a friend. How do I tell my friend to get out without seeming judgmental or disapproving? – Leave Him DEAR LEAVE HIM: Unfortunately, you cannot get your friend to leave this person. Your words may have little impact on your friend as long their partner’s presence is in their blood, so to speak. If your friend asks for your opinion, be ready to share it, but don’t volunteer your thoughts without permission.

Elizabeth Ko, M.D.

Carbs are the key to lowering blood sugar

Mar 13, 2026

Dear Doctors: I am a 66-year-old woman, and my blood test from a physical exam shows that my blood sugar is getting higher. I am not in prediabetes yet, but I really don’t want to get there.

DO JUST ONE THING

DO JUST ONE THING

Feb 26, 2026

• If you love to craft with kids, it’s important to stock up on supplies that are free of harsh chemicals. Many products like ink pads, markers and craft paints can contain asthma-triggering chemicals or have high levels of volatile organic compounds. The basic rule of thumb is, if the product has a smell, it’s likely chemical-based. How do you avoid these products? Look for labels that say “nontoxic” or “water-based” for the cleanest options. And search online for ways to make DIY paints, play dough and even slime using all-natural ingredients.

Reader shocked to learn of mom’s first marriage

Reader shocked to learn of mom’s first marriage

Feb 26, 2026

DEAR HARRIETTE: Last week, my mom told me that she was married and divorced before she met my dad. I am 35 years old, and she just shared this with me now. I was surprised because she has never mentioned this before. I had no idea there had been another marriage, and it feels weird that something so big was hidden from me for my whole life. She mentioned it casually, almost like it wasn’t a big deal, but to me it is. I keep wondering why she never told me before. I wonder if she was ashamed or if she just didn’t think it mattered because she didn’t have any kids from the marriage and hasn’t talked to her ex-husband in over 40 years.

Salary speculation causes social awkwardness

Salary speculation causes social awkwardness

Feb 21, 2026

DEAR HARRIETTE: I feel awkward when people ask me how much money I make. I recently got a new job at a large tech company as a vice president, and now many of my friends and family keep asking me how much I make. In my opinion, it’s always rude to ask how much money someone makes, so I always tell people that I’m not going to give them that information. The problem is that when I say that, people get visibly uncomfortable or make jokes about it. Some will say things like, “Oh, it must be a lot if you won’t tell us,” or “Must be nice!” Others push even harder and try to guess the number out loud.

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