LMAG,

Welcome back!!! You sound like you've really matured in the time you've been away. Life can certainly do that to you.

I saw myself in every word you wrote, and I know exactly what you're saying. It only took my father 3 months to find his girlfriend, who eventually became my stepmother. I had to struggle to get his affection. I didn't mind sharing him, but it always seemed that HER children were more important (she had 3 girls by 3 different husbands). The youngest was 9 and I babysat while they went out on dates. He was married to her for 15 years. It is a period in my life I'd like to forget completely.

Not to bogart your thread or anything, I just want you to know that I've been where you are and it's no fun trying to compete with your parent's love and affection. I'm just glad I had my friends to help me through it all. We're here for you, honey. I'll PM you with my phone number. Call me anytime and I can call you back. I've got free minutes.

Take care of yourself.

(((((((((((((((((((HUGS))))))))))))))))))))))))))

Donna