I agree with you gals about kids tending to abuse parental love, when they are so sure of it.

MA, “drip drip driping tap”? Are you describing giving positive reinforcement. That’s a good description as to how to do it. In other words…not too much…just a little at a time? Yes, DIL has disempowered my son. This was certainly not how he imagined his little family to be.

Sister Mountain Ash…you who give so many of us support, hopefully will seek support for yourself. I pray you do. This forum is the best therapy in the whole world.

And Jabber, your post wasn’t harsh at all. My son was the harsh one.

Eagle Heart, doing a “but-happy-dance” in my chair too!
Thank you everyone for living this through with me.

Dee, I wish we could put some dynamite into those step children’s pants, and make them feel what they are doing to your Hubby.

Here is an excellent article that may help you through this.

http://www.dailyom.com/articles/2006/3695.html