DEAR ABBY: How long should a new wife wait to be introduced to her husband's adult child because the adult child doesn't know what to say to his young children about who I am? -- WAITING IN THE WEST
DEAR WAITING: You should have been introduced to your husband's family long before you became the new wife, which would have been far easier for all concerned. What the young children should be told is: "I have wonderful news! 'Pop-pop' got married to a very nice lady. He was so sad when he was by himself, and now he isn't alone anymore. Isn't that great?" The news should be delivered with a big smile and maybe even ice cream to celebrate.