This month I am paying tribute to Mothers. The response to free copies of the book “A Few of Our Favorite Things” that was a part of the recent Speaking of Women’s Health (www.speakingofwomenshealth.com) event hosted at Wal-Mart has been very positive. The interest makes me want to share more about the contents of the book. Mothers, what are the health, wellness and empowerment topics on your mind? Are you concerned about relationships, weight issues, stress, transitions and/or the men in your life? There are 24 chapters in the book and these topics are included. Speaking of Women’s Health seeks to “educate women to make informed decisions about health, wellbeing and personal safety for themselves and their families.” I love books and enjoy gaining information or reading to reinforce what I already know. We do have a few copies left, call me to reserve one for your shelf or come by the Center for your copy. I continue to encourage all mothers to live each day doing what makes you come alive. Be strong. Be healthy. Be in charge. Please write me soon and tell me what health topics are on your mind.

Dear Dr. King: Approximately a year ago, I found pairs of women’s underwear in a box hidden in my husband’s closet. He told me that a friend had given them as a gag gift at his bachelor party. Last week I came home early and found him asleep wearing only a pair of lacy panties. He says that he is not gay but likes the way the material of women’s underwear feels against his skin. Any advice you can offer is appreciated. Name on file, Mountain Rest, S.C.

Dear Mountain Rest reader: I have met many gay people who are cross dressers right down to their undies. Your husband sounds more like a man who is sexually aroused by the erotic nature of skimpy lacy panties. He was after all “in the privacy of his own home” when you found him dressed erotically. To help rebuild trust, give me call for an appointment; I will be happy to meet with you two to clarify — mainly for you — how to determine if his behavior is indicative of homosexual tendencies.

Dear Dr. King: My father is 70 years old. Our family is separated in geography and stays in daily contact via e-mails. If one of his children has written something he does not like or disagree with, he stops sending them e-mails. Is this typical for a man of this age, or is there something we can do to help these child-like tantrums? D.B., Salem, S.C.

Dear D.B.: I am glad your senior Dad is into modern technology when his age and stage of life suggests that he is more than likely very traditional. I believe in respecting my elders. So before I label his behavior as child-like tantrums, I would like to read something which caused him to give his child cold and distant treatment. Some of the e-mail items sent to me are off-color, time consuming, incorrect and confusing. I wonder if your dad was offended, shocked, disturbed, confused and/or disoriented reading e-mails such that he needed time to process. Send me a sample and let me give you my opinion.

Dear Dr. King: How do you get through to a 29-year-old who does not want to grow up to be a man? P.W., Anderson, S.C.

Dear P.W.: A male age 29 may only be about 19 years old emotionally. With that in mind, the focus is not on him growing up to be a man but on him maturing in order to address issues appropriate for his age and social group. I believe in meeting people where they are, not where I believe they should be. Thus it is futile and frustrating expecting maturity and responsible behavior from someone who is not ready.

Dr. Debra A. King is a Licensed Professional Counselor and Professional Counselor Supervisor in the Upstate. You may reach her at askdrdebraking@aol.com or directorofthecommunitycenter@yahoo.com.