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Maintaining love across a political divide

Dear Annie: I never imagined I would be writing to you about this, but I’m at a loss and worried sick. One of my adult sons has become deeply involved in far-right political activism. What began as strong opinions has hardened into something extreme and all-consuming. His social media is a nonstop stream of posts about the latest controversies, many of them angry. Politics now seems to define his entire identity. It’s all he wants to discuss. Family gatherings feel tense, and I find myself walking on eggshells, afraid that a casual comment will turn into a lecture or argument. If ...

Optimizing a small fridge space

Dear Heloise: I cook for one and have a fridge with a smallish freezer. Here’s a few things I do: -- A box of frozen fish filets for sandwiches was half-empty, so I wrapped each one in wax paper and put them in a zipclose freezer bag with the baking instructions, of course. -- I purchased 2-quart containers of soup from church and made soup from scratch. I put a bowlful of soup in individual freezer bags. Each week, I was able to enjoy homemade soup. -- I also bought blueberries on sale and bagged them in small bunches. -- Joyce Maurer, via email PROPER DISHWASHING ...

When love defies logic

Dear Annie: I’ve always been someone who struggles between my head and my heart. I see things that I want so badly and my heart aches for them, but I know better when those things don’t mesh well with my life. Like denying my favorite piece of chocolate cake because it’s bad for my diet. Normally, this is one of my best traits. I was very good at buckling down in school and work throughout my life, and when all of my friends wanted to go out to a party, I was always the one to stay in and study. Except now I’m feeling a crushing sense of unhappiness because I’m in love with ...

Regional Calendar

The Independent calendar lists upcoming meetings, facility hours and events in and around Marshall. To have your group’s events listed, email the information to news@marshallindependent.com or submit the information to our virtual newsroom. Today Marshall Sunrise Rotary, 7 a.m., Marshall Area YMCA. Household Hazardous Waste Facility, open 8 a.m.-4:30 p.m., Public Works Building, Marshall. SW MN Arts Council Gallery, 9 a.m.-noon and 1-4 p.m., 509 West Main Street, Marshall. Lyon County Museum, 10 a.m.-4 p.m., 301 W. Lyon St., Marshall. Marshall-Lyon County Library hours, 10 ...

Good weather for ice fishing

Anglers are hoping for a good weekend out at area lakes, as annual ice fishing tournaments return to Canby and Lake Benton. Although the competition doesn’t start until Friday in Canby and Saturday in Lake Benton, organizers said some people have already picked out spots for their ...

No compromise when it comes to the dogs

Dear Annie: I’m one of those people who talks to her dogs like they’re little roommates. I don’t mean baby-talk nonstop, but yes, I tell them, “Good morning.” Yes, I apologize if I step over them. And yes, I know exactly which squeaky toy means “play” versus “comfort.” I have two dogs: Daisy, who’s 12 and moves like an old lady in slippers, and Moose, who’s 5 and believes every delivery driver is his best friend. They were with me through my hardest years -- including a time when I’d come home to a silent house and feel my throat tighten before I even took my ...