[heebiejeebies]

It takes a lot to throw me for a loop, but something a "friend" of mine has done really takes the cake as far as I'm concerned. You read and let me know if I'm overreacting.

A friend of mine from high school/college lives out of state. I don't get to see her very often, but I make a point of sending her birthday cards, Christmas cards, e-mails, etc. For the first few years of her son's life I even sent him birthday cards. She, however, occasionally (and I use that word loosely) remembers me in turn.

About two months ago I got an e-mail from her out of the blue. It started out all friendly with her updating me on her job, her husband's school year (he and I are both teachers), and her son. I was really impressed until she launched into this sales pitch for a product she's decided to start selling in her spare time. Now, I really wouldn't have minded if some of my other friends had pulled this - they at least get in touch with me on a semi-regular basis - but I thought this was rude. I responded as politely as I could because I'm not one for confrontation. I thought that would be the end of it, but it gets better.

She came home over the holidays. Another e-mail letting me know that her mom is throwing a party so she can sell this stuff while she's home, and I'm invited. She gives me all the details: time, place, etc. She even gives me her cell phone number so I can call to let her know if I can come. As an afterthought she adds that if I can't make the party I can come by and see her before she leaves; she "really" wants to get together.

Question: Am I being overly picky? Should I say something to her and let her know I feel kind of used? (Quite honestly I don't think it would make a difference.) Has anything like this happened to you, and what did you do about it?

I think I feel better just getting it off my chest. Thanks.