DEAR ABBY: I have been friends with a certain gentleman for 45 years. I'll call him "Paul." I had been very friendly with his wife, who passed away eight years ago. She was a good-hearted soul and I thanked her for everything she ever did for me -- or gave me. There was only one problem. She never stopped reminding me of what she had given me.
Now Paul is doing the same thing! Six years ago, he gave me a basket of artificial flowers for Easter and told me he had paid $35 for it. Every time he saw me after that, he asked me if I was enjoying the flowers that he paid $35 for.
Paul also sent me a Christmas card that played "Silent Night" when you opened it. Abby, would you believe that in July he asked me if the Christmas card he gave me was still playing "Silent Night"?
Abby, what on earth is this man's problem? -- HAD IT IN CARLSBAD, N.M.
DEAR HAD IT: It's anybody's guess. Perhaps he doesn't want you to forget the amount of money and effort he's invested in your friendship. At least you'll never have to worry about Paul's memory. He can remind the elephants.