Issue link: https://www.epageflip.net/i/590997
DILBERT ScottAdams PEARLSBEFORESWINE StephanPastis PICKLES BrianCrane BABYBLUES JerryScott&RickKirkman PHOEBEANDHERUNICORN DanaSimpson ZITS JerryScott&JimBorgman SHERMAN'SLAGOON JimToomey ARGYLESWEATER ScottHilburn BIZARRO DanPiraro DEARAMY»Fallhas begun, and the holiday season is approaching. I am a recovering hoarder, and I'm digging myself out from all the stuff I own. I feel like if anyone gives me more "stuff," I'll want to scream. I want to know if it is polite to send the follow- ing letter to loved ones: "Dear Loved One, I am glad you care enough about me to gift me at Christmas. However, I need to get rid of many of my possessions.I don't want to upset you, but I don't want you to waste your money on something I'll have to give away. I don't need any more clothes, jewelry, books or knickknacks. I have too many already. I can't use any soap unless it's un- scented for sensitive skin. Otherwise, it will break me out. I can't have sugar anymore. If you still want to give a gift, please ask me what I need or give me something I can use." Can you give me your opinion? —Recovering DEAR RECOVERING » First of all — hooray for you! You are tackling a chal- lenging life change, and you are wise to be proac- tive about the holidays. My suggestion is that you keep your letter very brief, explaining your situation but eliminat- ing your list, which is a little snarky. In your note, say that you would truly celebrate if your friends and family members contributed to a worthy cause. Let their generosity to others be their gift. DEAR AMY » My lifelong best friend was recently dumped by her fianc e. He has been mentally and emotionally abusive throughout their relation- ship. This behavior has only escalated since the breakup. They are still living together while she waits for her apartment. She demands all my time. She doesn't want to spend time at home be- cause he's there, but she doesn't have any other friends she can turn to. I am also frustrated by the fact that she expects me to be at her beck and call. She has asked my hon- est opinion, and I gave it to her but do not want to keep repeating it. I have encouraged her to find new hobbies, join clubs, make new friends and see a good therapist all to no avail because she's too heartbroken. This is causing tremen- dous stress on me and my husband, who has been supportive but misses his wife. I don't know how to handle this with her. — Overtaxed Friend DEAR OVERTAXED » Never stop giving your hon- est opinion, but telling your depressed friend to join clubs and see a therapist is only going to overwhelm her. During this period of extreme need, it might be best if you reassure her that you will continue to be in her corner, but on something of a schedule that is more predictable. Can you two meet for a side-by-side session on a treadmill before or after work a few times a week? Exercising together will benefit both of you and will regulate your contact. Recovering hoarder tries to say no to this season's gifts You can contact Amy Dickinson via email: askamy@tribpub.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 Scorpio(Oct.24-Nov. 22) — Damage control will be needed if you go over budget. Cut back on entertainment and devote more money to house- hold funds. Sagittarius (Nov. 23-Dec. 21) — Your emotions will be close to the surface. Think clearly and strive to see the positive instead of the negative. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) — Deception is evident. Make sure that your valuables are in a safe location and don't reveal the extent of your assets to pry- ing individuals. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 19) — A day trip will calm your nerves and motivate you to re- think your plans. A long chat will help you put whatever adversity you face in perspective. Pisces (Feb. 20-March 20) — Think before you speak. Something you tell someone in confidence will end up public knowledge. Your reputation will come under scrutiny if you have been indiscreet. Aries (March 21-April 19) — Shake up your routine and consider relieving your boredom by taking on a unique challenge. Share your ideas with someone you want to collaborate with. Taurus (April 20-May 20) — A tempting career offer will be fleeting. Prepare to act quickly when offered a change in direc- tion. Overspending on household items will cause tension with someone you live with. Gemini (May 21-June 20) — Do whatever it takes to increase your popularity. Come up with a variety of challenging activities for yourself and your friends. In- tellectual and physical contests will allow you to step into the spotlight. Cancer (June 21-July 22) — Don't let personal issues cause you to lose focus professionally. Your productivity will suffer if your mind is caught up in emo- tional situations. Protect your livelihood and your heart. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) — You'll be given a chance to develop an idea. Don't let indecision or anxiety prevent you from giving your best effort. You have what it takes to be a success. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) — Consider the effect an emotional upheaval will have on those around you. Don't make a change prematurely. You'll find a workable solution if you bide your time. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 23) — Getting involved in an enjoyable pastime will help you relieve stress. Reading, listening to music or embarking on a day trip will take your mind off any troubling matter you face. Horoscope By Eugenia Last SATURDAY, OCT. 24 | YOURDAILYBREAK | REDBLUFFDAILYNEWS.COM SATURDAY, OCTOBER 24, 2015 4 B