Step children

[Doug]

I don't have a stepdaughter, but I do have a young "Bonus Granddaughter". She is from my DIL's previous marriage. I do my absolute best to make her believe that she is every bit as important to me as my biological granddaughter. On our first "date" we went to the state fair, and whatever ride she wanted to go on, I accompanied her. I first let her ride on my lap while driving the garden tractor around, but this summer she has graduated to driving it on her own with me nearby.

I am planning a weekend trip with just the two of us to visit my childhood home and hit some fishing spots, as well as letting her drive me around some more.

The question of cuddling has never come up, but I don't shy away from physical contact when it occurs.

Bottom line, I want her to feel like she can count on me to be there for her as if I were her biological grandfather, and whatever she is comfortable with is where the limits are for me, even if I might otherwise feel uncomfortable or self conscious. Her comfort is more important to me than mine is where this is concerned.

[IntimateMoment]

I don't have a stepdaughter, but I do have a young "Bonus Granddaughter". She is from my DIL's previous marriage. I do my absolute best to make her believe that she is every bit as important to me as my biological granddaughter. On our first "date" we went to the state fair, and whatever ride she wanted to go on, I accompanied her. I first let her ride on my lap while driving the garden tractor around, but this summer she has graduated to driving it on her own with me nearby.

I am planning a weekend trip with just the two of us to visit my childhood home and hit some fishing spots, as well as letting her drive me around some more.

The question of cuddling has never come up, but I don't shy away from physical contact when it occurs.

Bottom line, I want her to feel like she can count on me to be there for her as if I were her biological grandfather, and whatever she is comfortable with is where the limits are for me, even if I might otherwise feel uncomfortable or self conscious. Her comfort is more important to me than mine is where this is concerned.

Well said.