Dear Abby: Is late birth announcement just a gift grab?

Greetings, Abby

My first cousin sent me a note on Facebook. She expressed regret in it for the ten months of silence. “Send me your address so I can send you a birth announcement” was how it concluded. I didn’t even know Abby had been expecting.

The infant was born two months ago, according to her father, who I spoke with. This cousin is neither unmarried nor a teenager. She is married and works as a professional. Not only was I not informed, but her message merely mentioned that an announcement would be mailed, which is the main reason I am perplexed.

To be honest, I’m perplexed and don’t want to pretend to be suddenly interested in something I didn’t know about. Given that the notification was sent months after the child’s arrival, I can’t help but believe it was sent as a gift grab. What do you think? DEPARTED IN THE DARK

Greetings, Left:

What might have happened to your relative is a mystery. The fact that you were left out may not be the only aspect of this story. Your relatives might have been reluctant to disclose issues that arose during your cousin’s pregnancy or with her unborn child. Please refrain from taking offense unless there are facts to the contrary. You will have less regrets if you behave properly, offer a small gift for that infant, and provide a letter of encouragement.

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Abigail Van Buren, better known as Jeanne Phillips, is the author of Dear Abby. Her mother, Pauline Phillips, began the company. Get in touch with Dear Abby via P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069, or at www.DearAbby.com.

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