Clare: What’s a non-crappy thing to do for New Year’s Eve 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

Clare,

I am looking for a good spot to ring in the new year with my husband. We’re young (for Palm Springs) and want a solid meal with a good atmosphere. I don’t want silly hats or horns. I don’t want a prix fixe either. We also don’t need to spend half a mortgage payment. – Last meal

Last meal,

I have two options for you. Make a reservation at your favorite local restaurant as late as they’ll let you – I’m thinking something along the lines of Rooster and Pig in Palm Springs. Or enjoy an evening in and be spared bad driving and the hangover juice they call bottomless champagne. Stop by Jensen’s and treat yourself to a decent slab of meat, hit Total Wine for a nice bottle of whatever you like and pick a solid playlist. Kiss 2017 goodbye for me!

Clare

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Clare,

My aunt emailed me on December 12 and told me that she was sending something for Christmas my way. I haven’t gotten anything in the mail (or via email) and I am wondering if/when I should reach out to her. I don’t want to seem like I expect something but I also want to let her know that what she sent did not arrive. What’s the right thing to say in a situation like this. – Giftless not tactless

Giftless not tactless,

Talking about gifts is inherently awkward but at the two week mark I think your aunt would want to know that your gift didn’t arrive. She may be able to get a free replacement depending on why it didn’t show. I wouldn’t bring it up more than once – and when you do, be sure to thank her for thinking of you during Christmas.

Clare

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Clare,

I just started dating a new girl and spent the night at her place for the first time. When I woke up I went to look in the bathroom cabinet for toothpaste and I saw that she had a prescription for antidepressants. I am not up for a relationship with someone that is emotionally needy right now. Is it wrong to stop seeing her after this discovery? – Chill pill

Chill pill,

I would let the girl know that you came across the pills when looking for toothpaste. Apologize for what must feel like a personal intrusion. You’re welcome to ask why she’s on the meds – but she may not want to talk to you about it given the fact that you’re not serious. Everyone has skeletons in their closet – or cabinet. Unless you’re looking for an excuse to stop seeing her, I’d not let this deter you.

Clare

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