DEAR MISS MANNERS: I have a communication issue with my nieces and nephews, who are about to be college-age. They are my brother-in-law’s kids. Their grandmother (my partner’s mother) feeds them an inventory of our possessions, encouraging them to ask us for these items.

She has suggested that the nieces and nephews beg for my jewelry and musical instruments -- while I’m still using and enjoying them. For example, the kids asked for my jewelry and made it clear they wanted GOLD,

I have a communication issue with my nieces and nephews, who are about to be college-age. They are my brother-in-law’s kids. Their grandmother (my partner’s mother) feeds them an inventory of our possessions,