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My father had terminal lung cancer.

Seems more and more lately I have people talking about the deer near their homes. Several years ago, they would mention how beautiful it was to wake up and look out into their backyards and see the deer walking through. But for some time now it’s more of a complaint about the damage these animals do to ornamental and garden plants.

DEAR HARRIETTE: I’ve been dating this guy for four months. He finally told me he wants to get exclusive, which means introducing me to the most important person in his life: his daughter. This is the first I am hearing of a daughter. He never mentioned her when I met him. It’s a complete surprise, and I don’t know what to do now. She is still young, and having me in her life is huge because I know the type of influence people can have on kids at that age. I just don’t know if I’m ready for that.

I’ll admit — I’m not one for new year resolutions. I know that I’ll never stick with them because it feels forced. It’s not organic. To me, resolutions are made to appease a yearly tradition, not because you actually want to do these things.