DEAR ABBY: My mother has plenty of money. In fact, she's obsessed with it. We keep telling her to spend it and enjoy life, but she doesn't listen. It's like money is her god.
The topper came on my daughter's birthday. My mother sent her a card with nothing in it! I never thought she'd be so tight she'd deprive her grandchild. Believe me, $10 wouldn't have hurt her at all.
Since talking to her only makes her angry, if you print this letter, maybe she'll see it, recognize herself and wise up. -- UPSET IN DULUTH
DEAR UPSET: Please keep in mind that no one is obligated to give birthday gifts. Gifts are voluntary. Many grandparents cease giving gifts when children fail to send thank-you notes.