Annie Lane

Dear Annie: Please remind your readers how important it is to RSVP. My 6-year-old granddaughter was so excited about her birthday party and having her friends come over. My daughter sent invitations with instructions to RSVP. My granddaughter’s best friend’s mom said she would come but would need to leave early. Fine.

Then, 30 minutes before the party, she texted my daughter saying they wouldn’t be coming. My granddaughter cried and cried. Four other friends’ parents didn’t even bother to RSVP and didn’t come either. Don’t these people know how hurtful this is to the little ones? Two friends did come to the party, but a day that was supposed to be so happy was a day of tears. — Upset Grandma

Dear Upset Grandma: I will remind readers about the importance of RSVPs for birthday parties — if you will remind your granddaughter how many people love her. Instead of focusing on those who did not come, point out to her who did come to enjoy her party and celebrate her special day. Your granddaughter had a birthday surrounded by two friends, as well as a loving and caring grandma. Sadly, life is filled with people canceling on plans at the last minute, and we can’t control that.

What we can control is how we respond to it, and how we respond to our own invitation requests.

Editor’s note: “Ask Me Anything: A Year of Advice From Dear Annie” is out now! Annie Lane’s debut book — featuring favorite columns on love, friendship, family and etiquette — is available as a paperback and e-book. Visit http://www.creatorspublishing.com for more information. Send your questions for Annie Lane to dearannie@creators.com.