DEAR ABBY: What is the protocol when parents dine out with their successful, married adult children and their spouses? As parents, are we expected to pay for their meals and costly alcoholic beverages for the rest of our lives? Or is it fair for these adult children -- all of whom have well-paying jobs -- to split the bill and tip with us?
We feel each couple at the table should chip in and pay their share of the costs -- whether it's our adult kids or contemporaries -- but we have been criticized for it. It has reached the point that my husband and I split an entree to keep our restaurant bill within reason.
We're approaching retirement age. Shouldn't it be our choice whether we "treat" others to a meal or not? -- PUZZLED IN LOUISIANA
DEAR PUZZLED: Of course the choice should be yours. However, you created this "monster," so it is up to you to set the record straight. The way to do that is to make clear to your successful adult children before their next bite that you are all adults now and that as adults they will be responsible for paying their part of the tab.