DEAR ABBY: My brother, "Dustin," has finally decided to marry his live-in girlfriend of four years, "Cameron." They are now planning their wedding, which will take place in four months.
My mother has just informed me that Dustin and Cameron have decided that their wedding will be "adults only" except for Dustin's son. (The boy is 8.) Abby, my brother didn't even have the courage to call me up and inform me of this.
I feel that since it will be an informal, small family event -- fewer than 20 people -- my two children should be allowed to attend. (They are 8 and 3.) Am I being unreasonable? I feel if there is a "no kids" rule, then there should be no kids -- period.
My husband has refused to attend unless our children are included. Should I go alone or not attend? -- FURIOUS IN VANCOUVER, WASH.
DEAR FURIOUS: The problem with getting messages via "Mother Central" is that they can be incomplete or garbled. Pick up the phone, call your brother and ask him about this. It is possible that your nephew is not going to be a "guest" at the wedding, but rather a member of the wedding party. Whatever answer you are given, respect it. Your husband can do as he wishes, but do not boycott the wedding to punish your brother. You could regret it later.