Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/267928
5B Thursday, February 27, 2014 – Daily News DILBERT Scott Adams PEARLS BEFORE SWINE Stephan Pastis PICKLES Brian Crane BABY BLUES Jerry Scott & Rick Kirkman GET FUZZY Darby Conley ZITS Jerry Scott & Jim Borgman SHERMAN'S LAGOON Jim Toomey ARGYLE SWEATER Scott Hilburn BIZARRO Dan Piraro DEAR CAROLYN » After a year-and-a-half relation- ship that many expected was going to be long term, we broke up and I was surprised to find that many of our friends were not surprised, claiming that they "supported our relationship" but thought we were too different and they didn't want to say anything while we were in the relationship. Now, four months later, I'm in a wonderful relationship that has the potential of being very long term. I understand it's the "honeymoon" phase, but I know when I've found something good. Everyone thinks he is an amazing guy, but I don't get any sort of enthusiastic reaction from friends and family, which I believe could be because of my past relationship. Is there anything I could say to these people that would help them understand that I would prefer they would be as happy and support- ive as they were for my previous relationship? — The Reaction Factor DEAR REACTION FACTOR » Nope. It's not worth it nor is it your place. It's possible they think it's too soon after your breakup, it's possible they think it's another mistake, it's possible this is what ap- proval actually looks like (since, remember, the last approval you experienced was fake). None of this matters now. What does matter is that you proceed with this relationship at a pace that reflects good judg- ment and incorporates your experience, recent and otherwise. If you and he progress to the point where friends and family (and you) can reasonably expect to know this guy well and you're still get- ting a lukewarm recep- tion, then ask one or two particularly trustworthy people what they think. Otherwise, please stop scanning the crowd for re- actions. Forget what they think — how do you feel? DEAR CAROLYN » As the first in our group to have a baby, I'm left wondering about proper protocol on when to bring him along. I've tried to just guess and been wrong about people's preferences in every way: we left him home, hosts asked why; we stayed home because we couldn't get a sitter, host wished we had come instead; we brought him only to real- ize that wasn't the host's intention. I often email and ask, but is there a better way to handle it? I'm not trying to impose my baby on anyone else, but if I can bring him, I'd often prefer that. — First Friend with Baby DEAR FIRST FRIEND » "Should I bring the baby, or call a sitter?" That suggests you're fine with either option, where, "OK if I bring the baby?" sounds like a preference and might come across as pressure. You might be misunder- stood from time-to-time, or told what people think you want to hear versus the truth, but if overall you're respectful of hosts'/orga- nizers' wishes, you'll get a straight answer. Friends show little support for this budding relationshp Carolyn Hax Ask Carolyn Email Carolyn Hax at tellme@washpost.com, follow her on Facebook at www.facebook.com/ carolyn.hax or chat with her online at noon Eastern time each Friday at www.washingtonpost.com. Sudoku Instructions: The object is to place the numbers 1 to 9 in the empty squares so that each row, each column and each 3x3 box contains the number only once. Answer to Previous Puzzle Celebrity Cipher By Luis Campos Instructions: Celebrity Cipher cryptograms are created from quotations by famous people, past and present. Each letter in the cipher stands for another. NEA Crossword Pisces (Feb. 20-March 20) — Don't let uncertainty stop you from making changes. Personal growth requires you to take one step at a time. Once you consider the pros and cons, you won't be afraid to move forward. Aries (March 21-April 19) — You will become involved in an interesting new relationship. Unusual rewards will come your way as a result of offering your services to a worthy cause. Taurus (April 20-May 20) — By concentrating on love and the fun things in life, you will feel good about your future. Don't let negative people drag you down. Gemini (May 21-June 20) — Opportunities are coming your way. Indecisiveness or hesita- tion will end up being costly. Cancer (June 21-July 22) — You will make substantial progress if you listen to advice given to you. With the relevant information, you will be able to take control of the situation and forge ahead with confidence. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — Money matters will weigh heavily on your mind. Pay off outstanding debts and remind others of what they owe you. You will be able to relax once you have a clean slate. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — By making some inexpensive and simple changes around the home, you can reduce your stress and calm your nerves. A comfortable environment is es- sential to your well-being. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) — Don't feel as if life is pass- ing you by. Find an activity that motivates you to participate. Being active will renew your energy and help you rediscover your passion for living. Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) — Someone may be withholding information. Ask direct ques- tions that will reveal hidden se- crets. Once that is determined, an answer will be found that will satisfy everyone. Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) — Attend meetings or social gatherings conducive to learn- ing valuable information about something you aspire to. An expert will provide you with a practical plan for advancement. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Positive changes lie ahead. Discuss your future and your dreams with your loved ones. Now is an opportune time to seal contracts, close deals and finish up any incomplete assignments. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — You will be overwhelmed by the tasks expected of you. Dis- cipline and courage will help you live up to your obligations. Be proud of your accomplishments. Horoscope By Bernice Bede Osol THURSDAY, FEB. 27