
Dear Sugar,
My mother got divorced from her husband of 16 years, a year and a half ago. He claimed he didn't love her anymore, and my mother was left wounded and angry. Together they have a wonderful 12-year-old son, my half-brother, who now takes turns staying with each of them.

How many times do you hear someone say that her mom drives her nuts? I hear it all the time, and truth be told, I've said it my fair share of times too. Now don't get me wrong, I love my mom; I'm very fortunate to have the relationship I do with her, but sometimes her over-protective nature and smothering affection can be a little too much.

Getting unsolicited advice, especially from our parents, can be more frustrating and intrusive than helpful. With more years and life experience under their belts, some of what they say must be true, which is why it’s always good to at least hear them out even if you find their know-it-all sentiment irritating.
My mom always told me to beware of charming men, and to this day I'm not convinced by a charmer until I see his genuine side — I think it's saved me a few heartaches!

About a year ago you ended your engagement to your fiance, who you had been with since high school. You tried to make it work, but in the end, too much had happened that you guys couldn’t repair. Now, six months later, you’ve met someone who you feel strongly about.