I thought everything was okay....(Part 4)

[Mozza]

I'm sorry to hear about the difficulties of D4 during her first full week with WAW. It must be hard to hear as a father, especially knowing that qualified people at the daycare were concerned. The anecdote about the potty is troubling as it sounds like the worst way to get a child to relax and just go. I don't know if it's a coincidence, but my WAW also has a fixation on kids' toilet use. She wants them to go all the time.

I agree that the actions of your WAW sound like those of someone who's overwhelmed. Parenting is hardest when you don't want to do it. Unless your daughter is at risk, it is just poor parenting. I would expect the situation to be temporary as your WAW finds her footing. For instance, things seem to have improved a little with my WAW or at least she doesn't call me anymore because she's overwhelmed. The kids mention not doing much and being quite happy to see me, but they don't complain about their treatment with her.

Before I throw the first stone at my WAW, I try to keep in mind that I'm not a perfect father either. Sometimes, I get them to bed too late for a story, something that's very important to my WAW. The list is long, like for most parents. It would be similar if you were still together.

Your WAW will have to find her bearings and become the mother she used to be. Hopefully, it's just an adapt period. I'm still nervous in the 24 hours before I get the kids back because of the coming level of responsibility and work, after a week of taking care only of myself. So even stable people can find it difficult.

Thanks for sharing your feelings about companionship with honesty. I appreciate it and will respond to your post on my thread.