Thank you everyone! Your input has helped me tremendously! (sp?) Happy Thanksgiving to all! Rest easy, friends! (mostlly, rest...)

Pete; asb. I hurt for you, but think I can understand. My kids thought it would be "cool" to live with their dad in Ocean City, MD (which is a HUGE party town). No curfews, no limits; you get it. Why live with a parent who instills rules and regulations when you can live with none? I know that when I was 18, I would have taken the high road to enlightment (and I did!~) Yet, they call me to help them with important stuff and to help me deal with their Dad. Studying over the phone for SAT's. Sending credit card payments for Senior Pics., etc. I am with you! Maybe we should start a support group for "Unthankful Kids!" We just cant help but love them, though! SUCKERS!

Thank you!!!

Hi Kim,

I'm really having a tough time with similar attitude from my boys....ages 13 and 15.

I've been dealing with chronic pain/rsd for 5 years. Truthfully, I think they were more supportive/understanding when they were younger. I don't know if it's teenage attitude or if they are resentful because of what I can't do.

They both saw counselors when my issues started and we have just started doing that again.

Further complicating my situation is the crappy state of my marriage. I 'm afraid to end it because my husband would want to try for full custody......because I'm 'obviously unfit' because I need narcotics and antidepressants. It's not surprising my boys have learned it's just fine to diss mom.

Soooooo.......I'm still looking for solutions too, but wanted to say, I feel your pain.

Dear Finz,

Many of take us narcotics and anti-depressants, but I don't believe that that would give anyone the right to attempt to take full custody of your children in a divorce case. Stay in counseling and engage in open conversation with your therapist on this matter - and with your doctor. If necessary, start to try to reduce your meds. Do what needs to be done to hold your family together and/or maintain your rights as a mother.

And remember - many times with kids respect is earned as well as commanded. We need to try to keep ourselves together as best possible (no, life is NOT fair!!), which means getting up and dressed each day to the best of our ability, maintaining some semblance of a household (with the help of the rest of the family), and keeping our routines the same. It gives kids a sense of security at their age.

Good luck and please take care. XOXOX Sandy

Thank you. Very much. Sorry for you; but glad that you understand.