Her purchases don't help alcoholic husband

DEAR ABBY: It happened again today! I was buying several bottles of wine and a six-pack of beer along with my other groceries. While I was standing in the checkout line, someone behind me said the predictable, "I wish I was going home with you!"

I'm married to an alcoholic, and it makes me so sad that people think a lot of alcohol is "fun." It's a tragedy for our family to see a great husband, father and grandfather slip into a stupor each day.

I'm asking those out and about to think before you comment, because alcohol is not something to celebrate.

- Wife of an Alcoholic Down South

DEAR WIFE: Why are you buying large quantities of liquor for your alcoholic husband? When you do, you enable him to feed his addiction. If I ever heard of someone who should attend Al-Anon meetings, it is you.

If you would prefer a secular organization, an alternative program to contact would be SMART Recovery. If there isn't a meeting in your area, you can attend one online. Go to www.smartrecovery.org and click on Online Meetings and Activities to register.

DEAR ABBY: On behalf of my fellow museum docents, I'm asking you to educate your readers about how to behave when they visit our nation's historic buildings. The most important rule is: Do not touch anything! Next, do not lean against the walls or doorways because this, too, may damage original paint, wood finishes or carved details.

If ropes are blocking access to part of the room, do not go beyond them. If a door is closed or only half open, do not move it. As a courtesy to your guide and other visitors, cellphones should be turned off. Please visit, but while you're with us, follow our guidelines and help us preserve and protect these glimpses into the past. - Docent in Portland, Ore.

DEAR DOCENT: May I add one more tip to your list: It is always a good idea to ask permission before using a camera with a flashbulb.