Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/541130
DILBERT ScottAdams PEARLSBEFORESWINE StephanPastis PICKLES BrianCrane BABYBLUES JerryScott&RickKirkman PHOEBEANDHERUNICORN DanaSimpson ZITS JerryScott&JimBorgman SHERMAN'SLAGOON JimToomey ARGYLESWEATER ScottHilburn BIZARRO DanPiraro DEARAMY»I'mstrug- gling with how to address financial issues with my partner. When he first moved in, I was assured that it would be a partnership. He made no efforts to contribute to the monthly maintenance and only after arguing about it did he take over paying for the cable/ Wi-Fi. While I endure stress to save, my partner clearly stated that this wasn't his problem. Yes, I own the apart- ment, but how did I get stuck with 99 percent of the responsibility? If we were renting somewhere, would I get stuck with the majority of the bills? I feel taken ad- vantage of. When I try to discuss this, he complains about how I make more money than he does. Mind you, my "lifestyle" includes wearing the same two pairs of jeans and sneakers that are 10 years old and saving for occasional dinners out. I feel like I'm enabling someone who can't get his finances together, and then I get attacked for being a jerk when I bring it up. How should I bring this up? What can I do? —FrustratedEnabler DEAR ENABLER » Before your guy moved in with you, you say you "were assured" it would be a partnership. Who, exactly, assured you? Was this an assumption on your part? You would gain clarity by seeing an accountant together. You should each bring your pay stubs, monthly bills, expenses, and a credit report. There should be transparency regarding income and debts and he should con- tribute in proportion to his income. I assume he would re- fuse to participate in this process, because making you feel bad makes eco- nomic sense for him. Your real issue is not financial but relational. If you are not able to work together to arrive at an equitable partnership, you should consider find- ing another roommate. DEAR AMY » I have a close friend who is not a good driver. In the past, passengers have tried to gently remark about her unsafe driving, which she does not take well. My husband and I share a car, which she has asked to borrow. We are running out of excuses to not let her borrow it. How do I have a frank conversation to let her know that we're just not comfortable lending it to her? — Car Poor DEAR CAR POOR » For many of us, our vehicle is our most valuable — and indispensable — pos- session. It is entirely reasonable not to lend out your car (certainly if you already share it with another person). You should deliver your policy before she asks you again: "I want you to know that Steve and I are stretched with sharing our vehicle and we won't be able to lend it to you. Because of your driving history we don't feel comfortable risking it. If something happened to our car, we'd be in bad shape." Domestic partnership needs shared accountability to work 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 Cancer(June21-July22)— Positive changes lie ahead. With determination, you will be able to handle emotional issues that have been holding you back. Love is in the stars. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — Gossip will surface if you are extravagant or flamboyant. Use your energy wisely and plan to enjoy unusual events or activi- ties with people you know. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Your contribution will lead to an enlightening encounter. Friends you make when doing things you enjoy will have a profound influ- ence on your future. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) — Make sure you do your home- work. Until you have all the facts in place, you are likely to overreact. Ask pertinent ques- tions until you have no doubt about moving forward. Scorpio (Oct. 24-Nov. 22) — You may be bored with what's going on around you. Take a trip or join a group that deals with historical, religious or philosophical topics and expand your knowledge. Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) — Your intuitive insight will lead to financial gains. Invest wisely and seek the help of those in the know to help you make the right choices. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Your sensitive nature will cause you to worry excessively about other people's problems. Offer sympathy, but don't feel that you have to pay for others' mistakes. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — Poor diet or lack of sleep will sap your energy. If you look after your health, you will be able to rise to any challenge that comes your way. Pisces (Feb. 20-March 20) — A passionate evening will develop if you get together with someone who shares your interests. Clear any distractions so that you can devote your undivided attention to your date or partner. Aries (March 21-April 19) — A misunderstanding will cause hurt feelings. Be clear about what your intentions and expec- tations are so that there will be no regrettable mishaps. Taurus (April 20-May 20) — Your competitive nature and sense of fun will make you a popular choice for any team. A friendly challenge with rela- tives or neighbors will help keep everyone's spirits high. Gemini (May 21-June 20) — If you have been pushing yourself too hard, your health will suffer. Slow down and treat yourself to a little fun with friends and family, or savor a little independent leisure time. Horoscope By Eugenia Last TUESDAY, JULY 14 TUESDAY,JULY14,2015 REDBLUFFDAILYNEWS.COM |YOURDAILYBREAK | 3 B