99.9 the Q

12/01/2025

Tasha in Hyannis writes:
I loves my best friend — we’ve known each other since college, talk all the time, and have been through a lot together. But lately, I’m starting to feel like our friendship is completely one-sided.

Every time we talk, it’s the same pattern: she launches into another long rant about work drama, dating disasters, or family issues, and I listen for an hour or more. But the second I try to share something — even just a small thing — she changes the subject or has to “run.”

I’m feeling unpaid therapist instead of an equal partner in the friendship.

So what’s the right way to handle it? Do I bring it up directly — “I feel like I’m always listening and never being heard” — or is there a gentler way to say it without sounding accusatory?

11/30/2025

“Erin” in Plymouth writes:

My boyfriend and I have been together for two years, and neither of us was religious at all — until he got into a pretty scary car accident a few months ago. He felt that it was a miracle that he walked away from this when he could have been killed. Ever since then, he’s felt like that was some kind of sign, and now he goes to church every Sunday and talks a lot more about faith.

I respect that this has become important to him, and I’ve been clear that I don’t share those beliefs. That’s never been an issue between us… until recently. He’s started saying that when we have kids someday, he wants to raise them in the church — something that was never part of our plans before.

Now I’m not sure what to do.

Do I stick around and hope this is a phase because of the accident that settles over time, or do I take this seriously as a core difference about our future and move on before we get more deeply committed?

11/27/2025

11/26/2025

Today ...

11/25/2025

Missy from Barnstable writes:

I love my sister — she’s generous, she has a big heart, and she truly loves giving gifts. The issue is she makes way more money than I do, and every Christmas she goes all-out with these luxury-level presents for everyone. Designer bags for our mom, high-end electronics for the kids, and something equally pricey for me and my husband.

Meanwhile, I’m carefully budgeting and doing my best to give something thoughtful, but it feels awful handing over my modest gifts next to hers. No one’s asked me to match her, but the comparison is impossible to ignore.

I’ve thought about suggesting a spending cap so things feel more balanced — but I’m afraid I’ll ruin the fun because everyone loves her extravagant gifts. Is there any way to bring this up without sounding jealous, cheap, or ungrateful? I’d love to finally address it at Thanksgiving while everyone’s together, but I’m scared of how it’ll land.

11/25/2025

Kristina checks in with couples counselor Fel Romano on when is the best time to breakup around the holidays..

11/25/2025

Tuesday’s Tail from The MSPCA Cape Cod brought to you by Agway of Cape Cod is Fred the cat:

If you’re looking to add a little sass and a lot of sweetness to your life, look no further than Fred! This 3 year old kiddo has been worried at the shelter, but given time and patience to adjust, he’s sure to show you his silly and playful sides! Fred has a positive but limited history with dogs, so may be able to go home with a mellow dog companion that has some cat experience under their belt.

Fred has tested positive for Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV), a bloodborne illness in cats that may weaken their immune system over time. Some cats with FIV may not show symptoms, but it will be important to establish ongoing care with a vet after adoption to ensure that this kiddo is feeling his best.

Stop by our Cape Cod Adoption Center to meet Fred – Fiv+. We have open adoption hours Tuesday-Sunday from 1pm-4pm - no appointment needed to speak to a staff person regarding available pets.

You are welcome to enter our cat rooms during open hours. Staff and volunteers will be happy to assist you!

Visit www.mspca.org/petresources to learn how to prepare for a successful first few weeks at home with a your adopted pet!

11/24/2025

Kristina’s friend needs some advice.

He’s been with his girlfriend for nine years, but the romantic side of their relationship has been fading for a long time. He cares about her deeply as a friend, but he knows the relationship is nearing its end.

In the past 12 weeks, she’s suffered so much loss. First her mother, then her father, and most recently, her brother. He’s been supporting her through all of it, even though he knows he doesn’t see a long-term future together romantically.

Now the problem: they have a big Christmas trip to Bali booked, something they’ve planned for almost a year. He’s torn between staying through the holidays to avoid adding to her heartbreak… and the fear that going on a romantic vacation when he’s planning to end things afterward would be misleading and ultimately more painful.

What should he do?

11/24/2025

Coming up ...

11/24/2025

“Alyssa” in Hyannis writes:

I’ve been job-hunting quietly for months because I just can’t stand the culture in my office anymore. It’s all cliques, gossip, and petty drama — honestly, it feels like being back in high school. I’m tired of tiptoeing around people and I don’t feel like myself there.

Luckily, I found what seems like a great job. But here’s where I’m stuck: my manager pulled me into a meeting totally out of the blue and offered me a raise. And it’s a good one — more than I’d be making if I left for the new position right now.

The problem is… the raise doesn’t magically fix the toxic dynamic. The same people and the same energy are still there. So now I’m torn. Do I stay for the stability and the bigger paycheck, or do I take the job which seems to offer a better workplace culture?

11/19/2025

A great opportunity to save is coming this weekend for the kiddos.