Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www.DearAbby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.

I’ll admit we were hard on Willa growing up, but we always said she could live at home while going to school. She’s a hard worker, and we have told her how proud we are of her accomplishments. She’s going to school, works two jobs and has never needed anything from us.

In today's column, Abby hears from a parent who wishes they were closer to their adult daughter but isn't sure how to make it happen.