DEAR ABBY: My husband and I have been friends with another couple for 15 years. We would see each other once or twice a week, alternating between each other’s home and occasionally out to dinner, where we took turns paying the bill.
Three years ago, we bought our dream home, and since then, our friends have stopped inviting us over to theirs. We have invited them countless times as we enjoy their company, but they have stopped reciprocating. They are also less likely to pick up the tab when we go out.
Once, we went three months without seeing each other. I wanted to see how long it would be until they reached out. They never did, so I relented and invited them over. They happily accepted the invite, and we had the good time we always do.
We spare no expense on food, alcohol and desserts when they come over, which we are happy to do, but this has become extremely inequitable. It’s not a matter of money — they earn the same amount as we do.
We have fun together, but I’m seriously starting to resent them for not making an effort toward our friendship. I am starting to wonder if maybe they aren’t really good friends and I should just give up, which really saddens me. Have you any advice? — MOVED OUT OF FRIENDSHIP