DEAR ABBY: I am a full-time worker, part-time student and new wife to an incredible husband. We're in our mid-20s. I never learned to cook. The first meal I ever made was spaghetti. I hate cooking. I don't have the patience for it and neither does my husband. Should I be ashamed that I indulge in "box" dinners that take little time to prepare? I cook meat and vegetables to go along with them, but is it shameful when a wife doesn't cook everything from scratch? My husband doesn't mind, but I worry. - NEW WIFE
DEAR NEW WIFE: Because many couples both work, many husbands and wives take turns cooking or prepare dinner together. ("Honey, I'll do the salad and vegetables; you fix the chicken/fish/chops on the grill.") The problem with prepackaged meals is that many of them contain more sodium and/or other additives that are bad for one's health when consumed on a regular basis, so I think you do have cause for concern. The most important ingredient in a long marriage is a partner who lasts, so if you want yours to last, be vigilant about what you put in your stomachs.
DEAR ABBY: I'm 29 and have been with my fiancé, "Gary," for three years. When I brought up wedding ideas recently, Gary responded with, "There are things that have to be resolved before I can even think about getting married." He said I need a better-paying job so I can contribute to the renovations on the house, buy personal items and have a shorter commute. I'm hurt. I believe marriage is about committing to the person you love. I realize you can't live on love alone. Is Gary's request reasonable, or do you think he's just looking for an excuse not to get married? - LOVE ABOVE ALL
DEAR LOVE ABOVE ALL: It appears your fiancé has mapped out your future. This sounds less like a request than a demand. Because I believe in both love and practicality, I think it's important you and Gary have premarital counseling together to clarify whether you're on the same page regarding finances.
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