He thinks his wife's in love with her cellphone

DEAR ABBY: My wife and I have been married 17 years. Lately, though, I have felt that our sexual and emotional intimacy has been lacking. I spoke to her about it. She has responded, and things are improving.

Still, she spends most of her time on her cellphone. At bedtime, she stays on her phone or laptop until after I have gone to bed. When she comes to bed, she ignores me and goes straight to sleep.

Has she fallen in love with her cellphone? I would just like to be able to talk to her or hold her for a minute before we go to sleep. Any suggestions other than throwing her phone out the window?

- Abandoned Husband in Utah

DEAR ABANDONED: You say your wife has responded and things are hopeful. That means she is at least receptive to working on your marital relationship. The problems that cellphones cause in relationships is that in some cases people have become literally addicted. In cases like this, a licensed therapist should be consulted.

DEAR ABBY: Six months ago, I decided to go through a chemical-dependence program as an outpatient. Someone I was barely acquainted with was also in the same program. At a meeting a few months ago, I mentioned to the group that I also attend a meeting in another town closer to my home. Next thing I know, this man is attending the same meeting. I am active in service work and plan to attend a regional meeting at a resort over a weekend. Guess who has suddenly decided to do the same?

I'm nervous about being around this man. I'm considering not attending any meetings because he's creeping me out. How should I handle this?

- Sober and Creeped Out

DEAR CREEPED OUT: If there is a group moderator or contact, discuss this with that person. Look around for another group. Even if you will have to travel a bit farther, it will be worth the effort. One of the hallmarks of 12-step programs is anonymity - and it should be respected.