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DILBERT ScottAdams PEARLSBEFORESWINE StephanPastis PICKLES BrianCrane BABYBLUES JerryScott&RickKirkman GETFUZZY DarbyConley ZITS JerryScott&JimBorgman SHERMAN'SLAGOON JimToomey ARGYLESWEATER ScottHilburn BIZARRO DanPiraro DEARAMY»Ouradult daughter is intelligent, but her choice in a boy- friend has us worried. She has a college de- gree and has always been a hard worker. Her moth- er and I have stressed the importance of education in today's working world. Her boyfriend graduated from high school but lacks interest and motivation to improve his educa- tion and chances of get- ting a better-paying job. They have been dating for almost a year and they seem to be getting more serious. Our concern is that he is looking for someone to support him (he is sev- eral years older than our daughter). Our daughter is in her mid-20s. How can we express our concerns without her going on the defensive, thus push- ing her closer to her boyfriend? —WorriedParents DEAR PARENTS » Before figuring out how to ex- press your concerns, you should determine why you have concerns — and why your concerns should make a difference to your daughter's dating life. Although he is work- ing, you don't like the level of his ambition or achievement. No doubt, you feel she could do better. But rather than focus on his faults as you per- ceive them, you should consider what about him appeals to your daughter. Is he gentle, kind and sweet? Does he treat her well? Is he respectful and helpful? Does he cheer her on? (If you're not sure what qualities draw her to him, ask her an open- ended question: "What are the things you like the most about him?") If the answer is "yes" to any of the above ques- tions, then you needn't confront your daughter about her guy's deficits. DEAR AMY » I am the mother of three children who enjoy going to my mom and stepfather's house to spend the night. The issue is that my stepfather smokes in their home and vehicle. I have spoken to them and stated that my husband and I do not want our children around smoking. I asked that he not smoke in the home and car when our chil- dren are there. My children have come home and told us that he continues to smoke in their presence. My children also tell us that they don't eat at times when they are there, and do not take baths after playing out- side with pets. I do know that the couple's cleanliness is not the greatest. Their dog has been ill with untreat- ed illnesses. Due to all these factors I have decided not to let my children in the home. Am I overreacting? — Protective Mother DEAR MOTHER » You are the parent and you get to decide the condi- tions under which your children will spend the night. Given what you report, your choice seems appropriate. You cannot control your parents' behavior. Parents do not approve of their daughter's boyfriend You can contact Amy Dickinson via email: askamy@tribune.com and follow her on Twitter @askingamy. Amy Dickinson Ask Amy Sudoku Instructions:Theobjectistoplacethe numbers1to9intheemptysquaresso thateachrow,eachcolumnandeach 3x3boxcontainsthenumberonlyonce. AnswertoPreviousPuzzle CelebrityCipher ByLuisCampos Instructions:CelebrityCiphercryptogramsarecreatedfromquotationsbyfamouspeople, pastandpresent.Eachletterinthecipherstandsforanother. NEACrossword Sagittarius(Nov.23-Dec. 21) — Someone close to you will need help. Your outgoing per- sonality will capture attention and give you the push you need to finish what you start. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — You'll have trouble getting the facts from business and personal partners. It's best to verify the credentials of people you plan to associate with. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — Gifts and money are heading in your direction. If you let your imagination take over, you will please the ones you love. Pisces (Feb. 20-March 20) — Be precise when giving instructions in order to avoid wrong impressions. Problems and anger will result if you are misunderstood. Aries (March 21-April 19) — You will be able to win others to your side. A romantic liaison at an appealing destination will strengthen your bond with someone special. Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Get your financial security in place. Have a discussion about your monetary situation with your financial adviser. Include family members who will be influenced by your decisions. Gemini (May 21-June 20) — Professional gains are possible if you take the time to do an in-depth search before mov- ing forward. Highlighting your versatility will attract someone who is willing to help. Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Suspicious or jealous behavior will lead to a rift with someone. Be honest about your feelings and give whomever you are dealing with a chance to be heard before you jump to conclusions. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — An unexpected encounter with an old friend will bring back fond memories. Loosen up, have some fun and find a place where you can enjoy friends, co-work- ers or relatives. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — A minor mishap at home will remind you to be more careful. You'll have trouble keeping mat- ters in perspective. Someone you trust will have the answers you are looking for. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) — Attend a community event that all family members will enjoy. A pleasure trip or some judicious pampering will help take care of the stress you have been experiencing. Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) — Follow up on an interesting job prospect. Your high energy will make it easier to take care of business and complete your to-do list. Hard work will lead to satisfaction. Horoscope By Eugenia Last WEDNESDAY, DEC. 17 | YOURDAILYBREAK | REDBLUFFDAILYNEWS.COM WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 17, 2014 6 B