Because there's no such thing as 50/50. It's not the same thing to say, "Ok we're married, here's my child, now you make sure you do 50% of the parenting because that's what you signed up for." The child has a mother and a father, and as a BONUS, a caring stepparent. (=150%). And trust me, you have NO IDEA what you've signed up for. Stepparents are the most abused and disregarded people on the Aldara 0.25g planet. You're an employee and the target of everyone's unresolved guilt and anger from the divorce, and THAT's under GOOD circumstances. And God HELP you if the ex is some sort of non-recovering alcoholic/addict. (Because kids in THOSE situations NEVER develop any issues, right?)Biological parents expect you to be perfect, there when needed, involved as they are but without any of your own buy Aldara feelings or boundaries. ( They SAY they value your input and assistance, but really at the end of the day, they are busy defending a child's delinquent behavior and resenting you for voicing any concerns or differing opinions about what's best for the child in your care.) At least employees get benefits. It 's a series of unwritten tests you'll never pass and you are just an accessory to buy generic Aldara their dysfunctional family dynamic. No one should ever do it, but that being said, no one KNOWS that until they are in it and kicking themselves venting on blogs and asking advice columnists to help them navigate odd emotions that come up when they previously thought they were rational, sane, caring individuals.That being said, it's possible to have a great relationship with a stepchild, but the key factor is the biological parent's involvement. The kid doesnt' want it from you and if they feel generic Aldara secure in their position with the parent, they will accept your love and friendship better. Especially if their parent tries to demonstrate that you are on the same page.50% indeed. Maybe we need to ask if the "participation fee" includes a souvenir video of the honeymoon night? that might off-set some of the short-term costs.... "Compassion for others does not diminish your own life's buy Aldara experiences." Thank you for that, so applicable in so many ways. I'll remember it. Regarding the Grim Dreamer letter, I mean. I'm 100% with Prudie's husband on this one. Funny how many of us who would support your legal right to wedlock would also take you aside and say you know, you guys have been pretty happy so far, "if it ain't broke, don't Aldara 0.25g fix it", etc.! I had a dream one night! Thanks for picking up on the "first love" crap. When I saw that reference the second time in the letter it made chuckle ....sort of. The words "entitled" and "shove" don't seem appropriate here. Many loving grandparents welcome time spent with their grandchildren, no entitlement or shoving involved. Let's wish buy Aldara such happiness for all children, shall we? That's why children have butts, so that they can be spanked? I'm sorry for the way you were treated because it has obviously left some hidden scars.