Yuck. I'll be on here to vent about the visit and whatever happens. Just so that I don't say it to DH. When I attack DH about stuff with the SKIDS, I just tear him down as a father. It's so counter-productive. I don't do it often anymore, but when I do, it's bad.

Only the SS is coming - so it will be another *better* weekend with just one of the SKIDS. DH is a much more effective parent when it's just the one of them. I'm hoping he will continue to employ his new parenting skills. DH is gaining more and more confidence as a parent. It's a good thing.

I've asked DH to pay attention to when SS butts his way in between us. That's it important for him to set boundaries: we do get to sit next to one another, we do get to have conversations, we do get to have a moment of alone time, or kiss, or hold hands. I explained that when he allows SS to butt in, he is actually teaching SS that he is more important than I am. I explained that I really need him to level that playing field. I followed it up by asking DH if he feels that I respect his time with his children: ie, do I make sure they have alone time? Do I interfere with his plans with them? Do I treat them with respect?

The answers are yes.

Thus, I deserve to have him make it clear to SS that I am to be treated with the same respect. HE has to MAKE him do it.

I think DH gets it. At least, I hope.

He may not be where he's supposed to be, but thank you Jesus he isn't where he used to be.

So I'll be on here to blow off steam, I'm sure of it.

It serves no purpose to call the kid an asshole to his father's face. It does serve a purpose for me to call the kid an asshole on here though. It makes me feel better without hurting anyone.