Dear Abby: I want my fat son-in-law to stop sitting in my chairs

DEAR ABBY: My friend “Alma” has a handicapped parking permit.I never asked her why she has it.

We regularly go for long walks, and she seems perfectly able-bodied.Alma did share with me once that she got the tag after an accident left her with some intermittent long-term pain.

She said most days she doesn’t need the accessible parking and doesn’t use it, but that when her pain flares up, it’s helpful to be able to utilize a handicapped parking space. However, I have been with Alma in situations where there is limited parking and she suggests using a handicapped space.I’m uncomfortable taking a space away from someone who may need it, but also uncomfortable questioning whether Alma needs it or if it’s just for convenience.

What is the proper etiquette here? — EMPATHETIC IN TEXASDEAR EMPATHETIC: The proper etiquette would be to tell your friend Alma (with a smile) that unless she’s having pain that day, you would prefer to park a little farther away in a regular parking spot.DEAR ABBY: I have a set of Chippendale-style dining chairs that are more than 100 years old.They are of sentimental value to me because I grew up with them.

Recently, at considerable expense, I had them repaired and reupholstered.My husband’s son-in-law, “Isaac,” whom I love very much, weighs between 450 and 500 pounds.

When the family is dining, he uses one of the chairs.They are not intended to hold such weight. My husband and I agree that we should buy a heavy-duty chair that can accommodate Isaac’s weight.

However, I don’t know how to convey to Isaac that the new chair is for him without causing offense or hurt feelings.Do you have a suggestion? — TREADING LIGHTLYDEAR TREADING: Your husband should explain the potential problem to his daughter so she can point out to her husband that a special dining room chair has been acquired for him to use at family dinners. DEAR ABBY: My son works two jobs and takes college classes.

His deadbeat girlfriend doesn’t ...