I am a step mom to a 7 yr old girl. I have been with her father 3 years now. (actually he was my first love many years ago, we got back together). Her biological mother is not in the picture; she is not interested. I have 2 grown children, a son and a daughter. We are very close, and have always had a wonderful relationship. I feel guilty because I cannot find in myself, a love for this 7 yr old, that I feel I should. She is very sweet, but has some issues because of a rocky first 4 years. She is jealous of my relationship w/ her father, but not as bad now as it was 3 yrs ago. Her father babies her, (of course) and he thinks I'm too rough on her (of course). He can't see that when he babies her so much, that it HURTS the relationship I have with her, as it causes resentment. When I am alone with her, she pretty much does what she is supposed to do, but when dad is around, she starts acting like a baby, and does not pick up after herself, etc. Peeing to bed and in her pants is a huge issue. I think she always peed her pants from a toddler on, and got “used” to it. I thought because I had already raised 2 kids, and had such success, that this little one would be easy for me. I guess I just need to vent about the jealousy issues, the babying issues, and how I feel about her. I want to love her and have a happy successful relationship with her. I dearly love her father, and do not want her to tarnish things for us. I will not, however, tolerate certain behavioral issues, lying, being lazy, sassing, etc. I want her to be proud of herself and be the best she can be. Her father, does recognize that she has gained in so many ways because of me, and of course, I am happy for that. Looking forward to comments and feedback.