My dad has been with his girlfriend, Jenifer, for eight years. Jennifer was like the sister I never had. She'd take me to the mall, take me to lunch, do my nails for me, do my hair, etc. But this last summer, after scoring two goals in my soccer game, I called my dad to give him the good news. When he started talking to me, it sounded like he was gonna get married to Jenifer, but instead he told me that Jenifer broke up with him.

I cried for a few days, and the worst part was, I didn't get to go to my dad's house for the summer. So this last Christmas, I found out that my father got a new girlfriend, and she seems pretty nice, although I haven't met her in person. I have no idea what to think of her, and I just don't want her to leave my dad at all, because of the pain Jenifer put him in.

Oh babes, I'm so sorry you're going through this. It's always tough when you need to step in your parents shoes and school them a little, after all, we're not done needing them, right? The good news is, you seem more than willing to step in and take a part in your dads new life, and, of course, we're here to help. Here's where you can start.

I know your scared to get involved with your dads new girlfriend because he was so upset after him and Jennifer broke up, but the thingis, if your dad is okay with it, you can be too! I'm sure your dad was really upset that Jennifer left but there was probably something goingon between them that just couldn't be worked out and it was really probably for the best. But, it's so cool that your dad has a new girlfriend and is ready to get back into the dating game!

Start by meeting her and taking it slow. Ask her some questions, find out what she likes, chill with her and your dad. Don't put any rush on it, and don't pressure yourself to like or dislike this new lady in your fathers life. Little by little you'll get to know her as well as you knew Jennifer! Most of all, keep an eye out for him. If you see him get sad, chat with him or do a father-daughter day, but if he is happy, be happy for him! There's a reason he's with this girlfriend and I'm sure when you meet her you'll see why. Good luck, chica!

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5/9/2009 7:00:00 AM