DEAR ABBY: In July of last year, my niece left her 1-month-old daughter with me, saying it would be for only a week. It is now well over a year later, and I am still taking care of her.
The baby's mother has seen her only three times in the year she's been with me. I've grown to love this little girl and think her mother's absence is unfair to her.
I have made the decision to try to gain legal custody of the child. Abby, do you think I'm wrong in doing so? -- LOVING AUNT IN THE BRONX
DEAR LOVING AUNT: Not at all. The child has been abandoned in your custody. By all means, consult a lawyer as soon as possible. It will be better for the child, and for you. Since you are acting as a parent, you should have the legal authority in case it becomes necessary.