Readers, this is the second of two issues featuring updates to previous columns.
Dear Barb: My fiancé and I are planning our wedding. The problem is that my parents are divorced and both have remarried. I know tradition says my father should walk me down the aisle, but I don’t want to leave out my stepparents or my mother. Do you have any suggestions on how I could include my parents as well as my stepparents in the ceremony?
Nicole in Chicago
The Voice 2004-08-18 (v12 i32
http://www.ausu.org/voice/search/searchdisplay.php?ART=3094)
Dear Barb: My husband and I want to thank you for your great suggestions for our wedding. When I spoke to my parents and stepparents we were able to come to a mutual agreement. Everyone was agreeable, except my stepmother. We decided that my mother and stepfather would walk me halfway down the aisle and then my father and stepmother would take me the rest of the way. My stepmother did not feel this was her place, so it was agreed that my mother and stepfather would bring me halfway and my father would then take me the rest of the way down the aisle. I think my stepmother had some regrets about her decision, but overall the wedding was a success. My husband and I had a wonderful honeymoon and are enjoying married life. Thanks again for your suggestion.
Nicole
Dear Barb: I grew up in a very strict, structured home environment. My parents made all my decisions for me. Consequently, now as an adult I have a great deal of difficulty making decisions. In fact when faced with a decision I become almost paralyzed with fear. Can you possibly help me?
Anxious Al in Tucson
The Voice 2004-08-01 (v12 i34 http://www.ausu.org/voice/search/searchdisplay.php?ART=3125)
Dear Barb: I am writing to thank you for your excellent advice on making decisions. As you suggested, I have been trying to take a structured approach to my decision-making, considering all the pros and cons. I have been successful most of the time, but I have to admit to making some bad decisions here and there. However, I continue trying and feel very good about my new found skills. Thank you so much for your help.
Not so Anxious Al
I’m looking forward to receiving more updates, so don’t hesitate to let me know how you made out, good or bad.
E-mail your questions to dearbarb.voice@ausu.org. Some submissions may be edited for length or to protect confidentiality: your real name and location will never be printed. This column is for entertainment only. The author is not a professional counsellor and this column is not intended to take the place of professional advice.
