Clare: What should I plan for a Bachelorette Party in Palm Springs?

Welcome to Ask Clare, our advice column.  Have a question, dilemma, or quandary?  Send it to Clare in an email or on her Facebook page

We start this week with a question from Twitter:

Jade,

Well, my friend, you are in luck. Thunder From Down Under is going to be in town in January. If that doesn’t fit your schedule – or your appetite, there are plenty of great options. Renting a house near downtown could be great, especially if you have several out-of-towners. Be careful though – noise ordinance is pretty strictly enforced after 10 p.m. Plan pool by day, check out the new wine bar for pre-dinner drinks, do dinner downtown – and of course brunch. Never forget brunch – especially if it is at Wilma and Frieda’s (2018 to welcome a downtown location).

Clare

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Clare,

Around the holidays I inevitably end up with things that I absolutely have no want or need for. I feel obligated to hang on to these things in the event that someone comes to my home and asks if I still have their Star Wars chess set or sand art. What do you recommend as a tactful way to handle this situation? – Gifted

Gifted,

I would donate unwanted items or very carefully re-gift them if you have a suitable recipient or an upcoming White Elephant exchange. If someone comes to your house looking for their gift on display just let them know that you’re not sure where it is at the moment – but you so appreciate it.

Clare

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Clare,

I just can’t stop giving advice to those around me. I have a feeling you relate to this. The trouble is that right after I open my mouth, I get a frustrated look. I feel like so many times people complain to me about their problems, there is a clear and easy answer. When and where is it appropriate to chime in? – Always Answering

Always Answering,

Sometimes people, especially those close to you, just want to vent. Think of it like a rhetorical question. Also – often times people are inclined to do the opposite of whatever you may suggest. Alas, this is human nature. I give advice when directly asked – you may want to try that and see how it goes for a while. It may be hard at first but you may glean some important information if you lend an ear rather than run your mouth.

Clare

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