Desperately seeking – a younger mate

I am 60 years old and a widower. My three children are all grown up and have their own careers. I am quite well off and could make any woman comfortable. My problem is, I am not interested in women who are friends of my demised wife, who was five years younger than I am. I get so entertained and excited when my 30-year-old daughter brings her lady friends to our house. I truly enjoy chatting with them and in fact, I am attracted to a couple of them, but I do not know how to tell my daughter. I know she will find it ridiculous as they are half my age. But I look young for my age and am physically fit, as I exercise and play golf. How should I tell my daughter that I like her friends. Or should I just ask them out behind my daughter’s back? – Mr. Lonely

Your daughter will find out sooner or later so it is better if it comes from you. Tell her that you are a lonely man and that you miss her mother so much, but the period of mourning is over and life must go on for you. Ask her to match you up with her friends that she would approve of. This way, you are taking her into your confidence and she will feel good that her father is confiding in her.

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I used to be a headwaiter of a successful dimsum fast food in SM Megamall and Makati. I was introduced to a woman who owns an old boutique in Greenbelt and now transferred to Glorietta. She was putting up a similar dimsum fast food and she "pirated" me. She offered me an attractive package to organize her restaurant – from the hiring of cooks, waiters and basically the whole concept. I did everything to the best of my ability and the opening was a huge success. To my dismay, this woman now tells me that I am too expensive and my job can be done by her people for a cheaper salary. I have a contract for two years and I know it is legally enforceable, but I do not have the money for a legal suit, and this woman I know has all the connections. I have a family to support and I cannot go back to my old job. Please help me. – Mr. Desperate

You have two options: The first one is to go to DOLE (Department of Labor and Employment) and present your case. Show them your contract with this employer who is reneging on her commitment. They will help you so that your employer will have no option but to respect your contract for two years. Your second option is to get a lawyer who will help you with your lawsuit on a contingent basis. Meaning, that you will pay him if and when he wins the case for you. If you look in the Yellow Pages, chances are you will find a lawyer who will be willing to help you.

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am truly in love with my girlfriend, but had to break up with her because we can’t seem to find a solution on sleeping together over the weekend. I end up so exhausted when she’s with me. I always end up at the edge of the bed, and without a blanket, as she pulls the blanket to herself and occupies the whole bed with her spread-eagle position. Her snoring drives me crazy, too. How do I solve this? I do love her. – Mr. Martyr

Sharing the same bed with someone, cuddling throughout the night, is not as romantic and cozy as it may seem. Many couples experience the same problem that you have – blanket tug-of-war, being edged to the side of the bed, snoring – all these are common problems, not just yours. One good solution is getting a king-size bed. The larger the bed, the better chance a couple has at having a good night’s sleep. And have two of everything – two blankets, two sets of sheets, pillows. etc.

Another solution is getting two twin beds. You can cuddle up on one, and when it is time to sleep, each to his/her own bed. Sleeping is so private and personal such that some people need to do it alone in order to feel rested.

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Mail your question to Mayenne Carmona Stargate, sixth floor, Jaka Bldg, Ayala Ave. Makati City.