Couple differs on when to start family

DEAR ABBY: I have been in a strong relationship with my girlfriend for five years.

I have told her I don’t want to get married and have kids until I have attained some level of success. She understands my desire to be a good provider, but she’s 29 and worried about her biological clock.

I work full time, take night classes and I’m trying to put myself on a promising career path. Is my request unreasonable? — Ambitious Guy in San Diego

DEAR AMBITIOUS: It would be wonderful if there was a blueprint for success in life and marriage, but too often, “life” intervenes. You and your girlfriend should have a serious discussion about the future.

If she wants to start a family right away and you feel you can’t afford it, neither of you will be happy. If she’s willing to wait another few years, then it’s important you agree about what needs to be in place financially.

DEAR ABBY: My parents like to visit us and bring along their little dog, “Truffle.” We are happy to have them, but my parents allow Truffle on the furniture. We have a dog and love her to pieces, but we feel furniture is for humans. Because our family likes to sprawl on the couch at times, it’s not as pleasant once a pet has been lying there.

My husband has voiced this concern but has been ignored. We are going to visit my parents soon, and I’m wondering how to handle this. — Off the Couch in Colorado

DEAR OFF THE COUCH: If you and your husband prefer that animals stay off the furniture in your home, that’s your privilege.if your parents choose to ignore your request, they should stay in a pet-friendly hotel or leave Truffle at home.

HOWEVER, when you visit in their home, their rules should apply. And if your husband doesn’t want to sit or lie on their couch because of the animal hair or the odor, he should sit on a dining chair, take a washable cover or stay home.

DEAR ABBY: I’ve had an online friend for three years. We met on a dating/flirt app and recently met in person. We aren’t currently dating, but it’s inevitable at this point.

He’s funny, down-to-earth and good-looking as hell! What he doesn’t know is that prior to meeting him, I had a relationship with a woman, and I think I’m in love with her. I broke things off with her. I want to reach out to her, but I want him and me to get closer as well. What should I do? — Girl With Options in Maine

DEAR G.W.O.: What you should do is be honest with both of them and let the scenario play out naturally.

Dear Abby is written by Abigail Van Buren, also known as Jeanne Phillips, and was founded by her mother, Pauline Phillips. Contact Dear Abby at www. Dearabby.com or P.O. Box 69440, Los Angeles, CA 90069.