DEAR ABBY: My son, "Frank," is happily married. His wife, "Irene," seems to idolize her extended family. Every occasion we celebrate at their home includes Irene's parents, her "Uncle Craig" and "Aunt Lucy" and her cousins.
The problem is, while I was shopping at a mall recently, I encountered Uncle Craig with his arm around a revealingly dressed young woman. His hand was under the back waistband of her jeans. He acknowledged me with a red-faced nod and kept walking.
I haven't disclosed what I saw to anyone other than my husband, but ever since that encounter, we've avoided the celebrations at Frank and Irene's because we know Craig and Lucy will be there. We're running out of excuses, but I don't think Frank and Irene would believe me if I told them the truth.
I have three grandchildren under the age of 9, and I really miss seeing them. What should I do? -- SAW TOO MUCH IN NEWARK
DEAR S.T.M.: Don't allow the fact that you caught Uncle Craig with his hand in the cookie jar (or whatever) to separate you from your grandchildren. Go to the family get-togethers and enjoy yourselves. Be civil to Uncle Craig, but keep your distance. Time wounds all heels, and I'm sure this one will be no exception.