I have an issue that needs male perspective. My boyfriend has offered his view but I need other points of view also. It was his idea to try this forum.

I am writing about my dad. He's 47, a great father and all around terrific guy. He and mom divorced just over 10 years ago but he's never neglected my 2 younger sisters or me. He and mom are civil enough but are not friends.

Dad has been dating Janine for about 6 months. It's easy to see they're both very happy and we get along with her, too. In the last two months she's reached out to my sisters and me with e-mails and lunch dates. She's made an effort to be friendly and I think we've all reciprcated.

We want nothing more than Dad to be happy, but we can't ignore Janine is only 28 (I'm 25).

Three weeks ago Dad told me he was going to propose to Janine. He I asked what I felt about it, and I said I was glad he found someone who makes him happy. On Christmas Day Janine showed off a beautiful ring, and they are now planning an April wedding.

Our mom is disgusted at the idea. I'm kind of unsure now at the idea of my dad's new wife could be my peer.

Should I be concerned? I love my Dad, he deserves to be happy, but is this a good thing for him? He is certainly handsome and fit, and obviously his peers probably applaud him on marrying an attractive woman half his age. Janine is bright, has a great career in HR, and is an all around good person.

But when I think of what my Dad's reaction would be if I were to tell him I was going to marry a man his age... My boyfriend is 27 so this is not a problem for me, but what if I were marrying such an older man? Am I wrong to be concerned ?

From your message, it seems you have nothing to be concerned about. She doesn't seem to be a golddigger (what i think would be a big problem with may/december romances), you and your sister like her, and she (your own words) is a all around good person. Your mother is upset because her ex-husband is marrying someone who is the same age as her kids (an ego thing??).

And yes, I applaud him for marrying someone half his age and is attractive.

I agree with John. You didn't seem to have any problems until your mom told you that she was upset by it.

If they are happy together, I'd say it's fine. It could be that your mom would be upset no matter who your father was marrying. I know that my ex wife always found something to be upset about whenever I got involved with someone. She'd have some problem so that she could never take time with our son to try to derail my romance.

Thanks for the input, guys.

I understood mom's reaction... my creeping concern was having a step-mom almost my same age.

Janine and Dad have a date set for March. Here's hoping nothing but the best for both of them!

good luck to the both of them. and i hope you can get over your fear of having a step-mom almost your age (look at the bright side, he could have one much younger than you!)