DEAR ABBY: I have a set of china I inherited from my mother. I don't have children, and my niece and nephew (brother's side) are estranged from the family. My brother has been raising his now 14-year-old granddaughter from infancy. Have you any ideas on what to do with the dishes? -- UNSURE IN CALIFORNIA
DEAR UNSURE: Yes, I do. In the past I have received letters from frustrated readers telling me they offered treasured family items -- china, crystal, antique furniture -- to young relatives, only to have them refused because "they weren't their style." Because the china has sentimental value for you, why don't you start using it? However, if it isn't your style either, consider selling or donating it.