It was really weird the way she responded to everything I said---I was authoritatively telling her how it was going to be, and she listened and responded almost like one of the kids
I have tried to explain that to some LBH's b/c it is very much like dealing with a rebelious teenager. That is why you have to be strong and use tough love. I have never seen a case where the LBH made any headway by being anything less than a firm leader. As long as you know you are doing the right thing and do it to the best of your ability, then you leave the rest up to God.
As for the eye thing.....as the old saying goes, "the eyes are the window to the soul". Her behavior in church was really bad, and I have seen people do that very thing. She would not admit it, but she felt uncomfortable and that is why she was trying to stay distracted.
She is not herself and there is no telling how long it may be before she finds herself again....if ever. I just hope she will come out of the fog before she ruins her life and her children's.
Oh, be careful about griping about your stepson. Unless you have adopted him, she may remind you that you can't tell her what to do where he is concerned. I understand you worrying, but wanted to tell you to be careful in that department.
It is not about what you feel should work in your M. It is about doing the work that gets the right results. Do what works!
