Another pregnancy is unwelcome surprise to stepdad

Dear Abby: My wife of 10 years keeps all kinds of secrets from me. We let her adult daughter, “Maude,” move in. Maude is 35 and has one daughter. I recently found out that Maude is pregnant again. I heard they had decided to “surprise me” with the news. (The father is the same guy as before.) I’m tired of being the third wheel, and I think it’s time for me to call it quits. What do you think? — Stay Or Go In Connecticut

Dear Stay Or Go: I’m glad you asked. What I think is that you are outnumbered. Maude should be living on her own or with the father of her children. If I am reading between the lines correctly, you have allowed yourself to be stuck with the financial burden that Maude and her irresponsible boyfriend should be carrying. I also think it’s time you gave your wife an ultimatum — either Maude and her daughter move out or you will. Whichever option she chooses, your situation will improve.

Dear Abby: I’m a stay-athome mother. My husband works Monday to Friday, 10 hours a day. We have been married nearly four years. My problem is we never have alone time. I feel if it continues, we will just fall apart.

On weekends, we sit home, and it’s claustrophobic. We have only one vehicle, which he needs to use, so during the week, I’m stuck at home. Being home 24/7 is driving me nuts. We never get out and have family time or a date night. I tell him we need it, but he doesn’t seem to care. Could you guide me on what to do? — In Need Of Couples’ Time

Dear In Need: Stop telling your husband “we” need a date night and say instead, “I need this! If you want our marriage to survive, you will take me out of here so we can spend time without the kid (or kids) because I feel like I’m going nuts.”

A date night every few weeks or once a month isn’t too much to ask for. If he is worried about the expense, make sure he knows a hamburger, a sandwich, a drive alone with him is what you need. But if he still doesn’t seem to care, then your problem is greater than cabin fever.

What teens need to know about sex, drugs, AIDS and getting along with peers and parents is in “What Every Teen Should Know.” Send your name and mailing address, plus check or money order for $8 (U.S. funds) to: Dear Abby, Teen Booklet, P.O. Box 447, Mount Morris, IL 61054-0447. (Shipping and handling are included in the price.)