Ask Miki: How do I handle bragging friend?

Dear Miki:My best friend is always bragging about her jewelry, clothes, cars, new promotion and latest hunk. She knows fully well I'm struggling to recover from a divorce and bankruptcy that left my checking account and self esteem adding up to a big fat zero.I really don't want to hurt her feelings or appear jealous, but I'm beginning to resent her bubbling over with joy.What can I do to preserve our friendship?~ "Poor Pal"Dear P.P.:Put things into perspective. Maybe she's still chattering on about things you and her used to enjoy sharing when things were better in your life and now, she doesn't know what else to say.On the other hand, if you feel she is deliberately rubbing salt in your wounds, she was never your friend. Dear Miki:Married twice and single for years, I am reaching "senior" status before understanding it. I always thought relationships were like pulling the handle on a slot machine, each time there is great hope and anticipation as though it were the first time. Do you agree few really learn from their previous relationships as we have too much personal baggage within us, and we are what we are?~ "Louis Vuitton"Dear L. V.:Nothing precludes finding those with compatible luggage making a full set that ultimately ends up a light carry-on in life. Good luck to you.Dear Miki:Two months ago, I met a guy through an online dating service. He's a perfect gentleman, and fabulous conversationalist. I can't believe some lucky gal hasn't grabbed this handsome guy before me! The only thing is I have yet to meet his family or any of his friends. From the little I can glean, he's from an affluent family. I know you're thinking he's married, but we've spent many evenings at his beautifully appointed apartment where he graciously whips up gourmet dinners. There's no evidence of another woman anywhere. Believe me, I've looked in the medicine cabinet, desk drawers, night stands and closets – nothing. So what's up?~ Sleuth Dear Sleuth:Your answer lies somewhere between he's caught you snooping and doesn't want family or friends subjected to your behavior, or he's a serial killer who likes to wine and dine and sees no need for anyone knowing you for such a short time. Dear Miki: Given your worldly background, I'd like to know if you have ever forgiven infidelity. ~ El Dorado Hills ResidentDear EDH Resident:No, I still feel guilty after all these years.Dear readers:There is no cartoon this week as I passed on my cold and supply of tissue to Mike Brown.Miki Garcia can be reached at askmikigarcia@yahoo.com.