Miss Manners: My mother complains about the practical gifts we give her instead of cash

Dear Miss Manners: We face an awkward situation with my mom. She is chronically unwise with her money, taking frequent international vacations that leave her without enough money for necessary items.

We are not willing to give her the monthly allowance she wants because it would be a hardship to us, and also because if she followed a budget, she would have everything she needs, plus a little extra for fun — living at least as well as we do.