Dear Abby: Man who lives with his ex-wife and his current girlfriend says one person causes problems

A recent Dear Abby letter details one man’s unconventional living situation with his ex-wife, Debbie, and current girlfriend, Joanna. While he insists they mostly get along, he points to Debbie’s attitude toward Joanna as the single biggest source of tension in their home.

Key Takeaways:

  • The writer is living with both his ex-wife, Debbie, and current girlfriend, Joanna
  • Debbie’s attitude is the only stated source of conflict
  • Joanna is described as “very pleasant”
  • This comes from a Dear Abby column by Abigail Van Buren
  • Published on December 9, 2025, in Lehighvalleylive

A Mostly Amicable Coexistence

A man recently wrote to Dear Abby explaining his unusual domestic arrangement: his ex-wife, Debbie, and his current girlfriend, Joanna, all share the same home. According to his perspective, the arrangement began amicably and, for the most part, remains so.

The Core Tension

Despite an otherwise peaceful coexistence, the writer reports that Debbie’s negative attitude toward Joanna is causing friction. He references Joanna as “very pleasant,” implying that the stress in the household stems primarily from Debbie’s behavior.

A Dear Abby Dilemma

As part of the Dear Abby advice column, authored by Abigail Van Buren, the letter underscores the complexities of modern relationships. It reflects a broader societal curiosity about how people navigate unconventional living setups, particularly when significant others and past partners collide under one roof.

Why It Matters

Stories like this not only capture readers’ attention due to their dramatic nature but also showcase the dynamics of blended families. While the man insists there are no other issues, Debbie’s ongoing negativity points to deeper concerns about boundaries, respect, and communication.

Looking Ahead

The writer does not disclose how the situation might be resolved or whether professional help is being sought. But for advice seekers and empathetic onlookers alike, the question remains: can this household regain complete harmony, or will Debbie’s stance continue driving a wedge between the two women?

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