DEAR ABBY: My son, "Justin," attends every birthday party he's invited to. I respond in advance and purchase nice gifts. When Justin's birthday came, 10 children said they were coming, but not one showed up. It broke my son's heart, and mine.
Abby, how would you handle this? -- UPSET MOM IN MANCHESTER, N.J.
DEAR UPSET MOM: I'd call each and every one of the parents involved and ask if they were aware their child had accepted your son's birthday party invitation. Let them know that 10 children did -- and no one showed up, which is very hurtful. Then stop talking and listen.