DEAR MISS MANNERS: My ex-husband and I both remarried other partners, and he has children with his new wife. We all get along beautifully, spending vacations, holidays and other events together.
When introducing their children to my friends (or whomever), what “title” should I give them? The explanation that they are my ex-husband’s children just seems unfair because they are more than that to us. Any suggestions?
GENTLE READER: Use their names.
The idea that you have to define every relationship in all of its particulars is one that has always bewildered Miss Manners. It is no one’s business -- and usually only of true interest to the parties involved. How you treat your ex-husband’s children will presumably speak more to your relationship with them than any lengthy explanation. And it will become self-evident to the friends who are interested enough to find out.