DEAR MISS MANNERS: I have several nieces and nephews I adore. While they were growing up, I always sent a birthday card, even if there was no family birthday celebration.

I would add a check for a modest financial gift up until their 21st birthday, after which I would simply send a card and a text. Some nieces and nephews now have children of their own, so I send cards and money to them.

None of my siblings or siblings-in-law send birthday cards, to my knowledge, unless there’s a party. I guess I do this because I want to let my nieces and nephews know I love them and they are important to me. I want to make them feel a little special on their birthday, and express a closeness to my extended family. It makes me feel good to do so.

Now, though, it occurs to me that it’s possible these c

See Full Page