DEAR ABBY: I work as a waitress in a coffee shop. Occasionally, my parents come in for breakfast. I enjoy their coming in to eat and visit, but something has been bothering me. When my dad pays for his breakfast, he never leaves -- or even offers -- a tip!
Usually when friends or family try to tip me, I refuse it and tell them I'm just glad they came in. But often they'll leave a tip anyway.
Dad, on the other hand, takes his change and leaves.
Does he not understand that I'm taxed on all food sales and "assumed" tips made for the day? Am I being silly for thinking this way, or is he being stingy by not offering a tip? -- HURT IN HUNTINGTON BEACH
DEAR HURT: Either your dad is a skinflint, or he has taken you at your word when you said it wasn't necessary to leave a tip. Rather than writing me about it, please discuss the matter with him. And if he still doesn't leave a tip, then have another server wait on him while you "visit" with him in between waiting on other customers.