Dear Abby:

I’m a 67-year-old man with two sisters. Recently, I went to my sister Mitzi’s house to install some blinds. While I was there, I got a call from my girlfriend, with whom I’ve been for nine months since my wife passed away last year. My girlfriend and I previously borrowed money, and that led to discussions about my sister, Carolyn.

A few days later, Carolyn called me, really upset because she found out I shared our financial matters with my girlfriend. Apparently, Mitzi recorded our conversation on her ring camera without my knowledge. Now both my sisters are angry with me. This all came up when I mentioned to Mitzi that I regretted verbally abusing my ex-husband many years ago, which led to his arrest for domestic violence and other crimes.

Mitzi had no right to share that recording, and she wasn’t even part of the conversation. Now my girlfriend is concerned because she wanted to build a relationship with my sisters. I think Carolyn might hold a grudge against her. What should I do? – Lots of drama in New York

Dear Drama:

This situation stems from you doing a favor for Mitzi by installing blinds. Unless you’ve made some odd comments, there’s no reason you shouldn’t discuss financial matters openly. If your sisters continue to make a fuss, remember you are not just their handyman but also someone who deserves respect. You also need to let them know that you expect them to treat your girlfriend well.

Dear Abby:

I know a single mother of a 4-year-old girl who is struggling with depression and has a circadian rhythm disorder. They don’t go to bed until 4 a.m. or 6 a.m. and then sleep until the afternoon. Because of this, the little girl doesn’t have any daytime activities. During the winter, she’s only watching TV for an hour or two daily.

The mother is reluctant to send her daughter to kindergarten because of their sleep pattern, which is detrimental to the child’s development. When the little girl eventually goes to school, her rhythms will be out of sync. Is this something to classify as negligence? My dad, who is also my friend, agrees this is concerning. Any suggestions? – Ohio State Bystanders

Dear Bystander:

Yes, this situation can be viewed as neglectful. The child is missing out on vital social and intellectual experiences. The father should step in and assert himself, possibly seeking support from grandparents. There are treatments for both circadian rhythm issues and depression, and the mother should be encouraged to seek help for her daughter, if not for her own sake.