Mike, a reader, wrote to us asking for suggestions on what to do when his girlfriend’s kids constantly throwing away good food. He does not want this to be the last straw in their relationship. We got a letter from Mike. Mike, 36, gave us a story that may relate with many. He opened his letter and said, “Hello!” I’ve seen so many others write to you for help and clarity, so I decided to be courageous and share my story.”

He went on to explain what occurred to him: “I’ve been dating a woman for almost three years. She has two children, which I adore. But what has bothered me is that we deal with money in different ways. He went on to say, “She has always suffered financially, which I don’t mind since I understand how difficult it must be to be a single mother of two. So I offered to help her pay for her groceries.

I’ve noticed since the beginning of our relationship that she lets her children do whatever they want. I witnessed food deteriorating in her pantry several times.”Mike continues with his narrative, stating, “Recently, we went to the supermarket, and the kids picked tons of cookies.” When we arrived at her house, I noticed in her cabinet cookies with bugs on them. I flipped out. When the kids walked outside to play, I told her about what was happening, but she said I was overreacting.”

He told us about his huge plans: “Although this has upset me in the past, it is getting increasingly unbearable since I want to ask her and her children to move in with me. I do not want this type of behavior in our home. I grew up poor, so buying and squandering food is a huge red sign for me. “What should I do?”