DEAR SOMEONE ELSE’S MOM: When I was a kid in the 60s, I remember my mother drilled into us that no gift should go unacknowledged, even if it meant calling Great-aunt Carol, who was blind and nearly totally deaf!

I can’t tell you the last time any of my grown nieces and nephews or any of their kids did more than confirm they received a gift I sent them. I usually send checks, so I know when they get cashed, but I have yet to get even a thank you email or text, much less a thank you note in the mail.

I know this holiday season will be no different, and I know I can’t say anything to my nieces and nephews, nor would I, but could you please remind your readers how much such a little thing as a thank you note can mean? --- WHAT HAPPENED TO MANNERS?

DEAR WHAT HAPPENED TO MANNERS?: I think many people feel as you do, especially since in the age of constant, immediate communication it doesn’t take much time or effort to officially register appreciation for a gift. Neglecting to do so gives the appearance that the recipient believed they deserved what you sent them.

So, I join with you in hoping people of all ages will take the time to send their thanks for gifts received, not only just during the holidays, but all the syear through.

DEAR READERS AND LETTER WRITERS: This holiday season has been unlike any most of us have ever known. Traditions have had to be abandoned or creatively revised. Much-anticipated visits have been cancelled or put on indefinite hold. Grandparents will be missing first Christmases with new grandbabies. What may be last Christmases will be observed in solitude. None of this is easy, but hopefully, things will get back to a more normal state in 2021; and as generally happens, in a few years’ time, much of what has been endured will become stories to share with those too young to remember or yet to be born.

To all my readers (even the grouches!), letter writers, and their loved ones, I send best wishes for a Merry Christmas, and prayers for a brighter New Year.

DEAR SOMEONE ELSE’S MOM: I know it seems to be pretty standard these days for everyone to blab about their sex lives, especially younger people. But I am just not at all comfortable having my daughters talking to me about theirs. If they needed relationship advice or emotional support over a new relationship or the end of one, I’m there. It’s the bedroom details I just am squeamish about, and I’m afraid if I shut down the conversations about that, they’ll think I am not available for the kind of talks I am more than willing to have with them.

How do I draw the line without closing the door? --- TMI SUFFERER

DEAR TMI SUFFERER: Since your daughters apparently have no issues being completely candid with you, then it might be your turn to clearly and directly let them know your feelings about your comfort level when it comes to discussing details about their sex lives.

As you say, young people are used to sharing just about every detail of their life, but as a parent, you’re well within your rights to set limits and still be there for your daughters as a comforter and sounding board.