Dear Abby

My husband and I just found out we’re going to be grandparents in seven months. It’s such an exciting time, and we’re really looking forward to spending time with our new grandchild.

The plan is to spend 2-3 weeks with our daughter after the baby arrives, helping her settle in and take some time to rest.

But there’s a bit of a problem—one of her dogs, “Bruno,” is quite large and unpredictable. Honestly, I feel like he could bite me if given the chance.

My daughter adores Bruno and insists he won’t hurt me. I’m just not sure how to handle this situation. When I meet our grandchildren, I want every moment to feel special, but my fear of her dog complicates things.

I know our daughter can be sensitive, and I don’t want to jeopardize our relationship with her or the new baby. What should I do? – Concerned in Colorado

Dear Concerned: First, express to your daughter how much you’re looking forward to helping her and bonding with your grandchild during this special time.

Then, maybe suggest that it would be wise to keep Bruno away during your visit. If he jumps on you or, heaven forbid, something worse happens while you’re holding the baby, it would only add to the chaos.

Hopefully, she’ll understand where you’re coming from. Otherwise, you might find yourself needing to say no to her request for help when she brings the baby home from the hospital.

Dear Abby: I’m 85 years old and dating “Larry,” who is 62. We’ve become good friends through our work in community charity and church volunteering over the last 25 years.

During this time, I also cared for my husband, who suffered from Alzheimer’s for 12 years before he passed away five years ago.

Two years ago, Larry, a lifelong bachelor, asked me out. We hit it off and eventually fell in love.

I may be considered a young 85, and Larry is fairly quiet. The issue is the age gap—sometimes I can’t shake the feeling that others are judging us, and we’ve yet to discuss it openly. Honestly, I worry about how it might end someday.

We’re both financially stable, look around the same age, and share the same faith. We’re also involved in helping charities and the less fortunate.

We trust one another and share similar values. So, Abby, I’d really appreciate your guidance. I feel like people’s opinions might overshadow our relationship. – Just a number? In Pennsylvania

Dear “Just”: I’m glad you reached out. If you and Larry genuinely love each other and share core values, then it’s important to dismiss what others might think and focus on nurturing your bond.

There’s no expectation of marriage from either side—if that happens, great, but it’s not mandatory. You’re 85 years old; embrace the time you have left and don’t let worries hold you back.