DEAR ABBY: I have very eclectic tastes and have always prided myself on having things that are unique to me. However, I have one friend who constantly robs me of my individuality.
I have two cats -- and she acquired two cats. I got a hamster for my boyfriend -- and she got two hamsters for her husband and put them in a more elaborate cage. I bought a water dragon -- she got two and put them in a fancier tank. I bought a dragon print for my living room -- she bought three dragon prints. I am an avid gardener and mentioned that someday I would like to have a water garden. Well, guess what -- she now has a water garden. She constantly tries to outdo me. It goes on and on.
It infuriates me when our friends comment and praise her for HER style and taste. We are both in our 30s, but suddenly I feel I'm back in high school.
I don't want to be petty, but I feel like my identity is being stolen. What can I do to stop it? -- COPIED IN CONNECTICUT
DEAR COPIED: Tell your friend you're turning your living room into a shrine for Elvis -- then let her.