DEAR ABBY: Six weeks ago, I co-hosted a baby shower for a friend I'll call Angela. Her mother agreed to split the cost and I put everything on my credit card. I ended up spending more than $1,200 for food, flowers, cake, decorations, favors, etc.
I have yet to receive one dime from Angela's mother. Had I known I would end up bearing the entire cost, I would never have spent so freely.
I feel awkward "demanding" the money. Angela and I have been friends since grammar school, and I don't want to put a strain on our special relationship -- especially since she's due to deliver twins any day now. What should I do? Please advise. -- FINANCIALLY STRAINED IN PORTLAND
DEAR STRAINED: Have you sent Angela's mother an itemized accounting of what she owes? If you have and she hasn't responded, then you now know that she is irresponsible and unreliable. She should have settled with you long ago -- without prompting. For the sake of your long-time friendship with Angela, however, be prepared to write it off as tuition in the school of experience.