DEAR HARRIETTE: I recently lost my job and had to move out of my apartment. I currently live with my best friend and her husband. I am so grateful my friends opened their doors for me in my time of need. It has been six months since I lost my job, and my friend's husband is giving me hints that I should find a place because I am getting in the way of their relationship. The last thing I want to do is break up someone's home.
I called my parents to see if I could move back into their house, and they told me no and I should find a woman's shelter to move into until I can get my life together. I had a bad experience in a women's shelter many years ago. I am hurt and disappointed that my parents made a suggestion like that. I have a couple of dollars saved up, but I do not know how long it will last. I used to work in the accounting department at a popular hotel chain, and I am ready to work and have my own place again. -- Nowhere to turn, Virginia Beach, Va.
DEAR NOWHERE TO TURN: Comb your memory to see if you have any other friends who may take you in temporarily. If necessary, go to a shelter for a short time. Research to find the safest and cleanest ones in your area. Spend your days actively looking for a job, perhaps outside your field.