The article features two advice letters from Slate’s Pay Dirt column addressing financial and personal conflicts within families. The first letter is from a woman who, after overcoming postpartum depression through horseback riding, wants to buy a horse despite her husband’s strong opposition. The columnist advises that since the woman can afford it and riding brings joy to her and their child, her husband’s veto—rooted in personal dislike rather than financial necessity—is controlling and unfair. She encourages the woman to assert her right to pursue a hobby that supports her mental health and family bonding.

The second letter involves siblings managing their late mother’s estate, which includes a house occupied by her hoarding long-term partner who is not contributing adequately to upkeep costs. The columnist recommends setting a formal landlord-tenant lease agreement to protect all parties and possibly motivate the partner to clean up, but also acknowledges that eviction may be necessary if the situation doesn’t improve. Consulting a real estate attorney is emphasized to handle the legal complexities humanely while safeguarding the inheritance.