DEAR ABBY: My husband, "Hugh," is wonderful in every way except one. He is extremely controlling when it comes to money, particularly on what we spend on gifts for my grown children and our baby grandson.
Not only does Hugh set the dollar limit for birthday and Christmas gifts, but he insists on deciding WHAT we give them. An example: My grandson's first birthday is coming up. Hugh told me we're buying the child a $100 savings bond and will continue to do it every year.
This is certainly not a "fun" gift! I had planned on spending between $100 and $150 on toys and clothes for him -- tangible gifts for him to open. I'm not arguing the fact that Hugh's suggestion is sensible and the boy may appreciate it someday, but it's just not exciting.
Hugh and I make $140,000 a year between us. I work full time, so I think I should be able to do what I want, within reason. What do you think? -- WHERE'S THE FUN IN UPSTATE NEW YORK
DEAR WHERE'S THE FUN: For a child's first few birthdays, most little ones are far more interested in getting their hands into the cake and frosting than opening "exciting" gifts. Until your grandson is a little older, a few small, inexpensive toys in colorful paper he can rip open should be sufficient. While it may be galling to be "told" by your husband what you can or cannot give to your offspring, in this case, I think you should listen to your pennywise husband.