On Mar 21, 6:02*pm, Michel Boucher > wrote:
> Becca > wrote :
>
> > You are a patient stepfather, Michel, I hope she appreciates you.
>
> There are times we get along but they have never been plentiful. *My
> daughter gets along very well with my wife, something that surprised her
> friends who couldn't stand their step-mothers.

I was blessed to marry a man who was on good terms with his ex. She
instructed the boys to obey me as they would her when they were with
us. I get along with both my stepsons, and they adore their little
sister.

You can't force yourself on stepchildren. You have to let them learn
who you are and you have to learn who they are and develop a
relationship from that vantage. It doesn't always work. But when
you're the adult, it's your responsibility to make it work. Michel
sounds like he's done a lot in that vein, and been infinitely patient
with this young woman. And it sounds like she's lucky to have a
boyfriend who is equally responsible and patient. And so's Michel.
<G>

What will your celebratory meal be, when it's just you and the wife
again?

maxine in ri