Is there hope? Part 2

[Rita]

Scoobs, this is totally normal, everything is really by the script. You may get huge drama or you may not; to me the big hallmark is the confusion, and yours is very confused. I am very devoted to pleasing God in my stand and not trying to manipulate anything, so I would say that whenever you can muster the courage, you should go along to anything she invites you to and do not have any R talk but only live in the moment and have a good time. If she pulls any stunts on the trip, just don't reply and keep trying to have fun, the way you would do it with a teenager on a family trip. Or a three-year old! ; )

I also think it won't be useful to keep trying to diagnose if it's MLC. From the outside, it definitely sounds like it, and I can tell you as a mother that her behavior towards her kids is shocking. But either way, don't try to diagnose because the response you should have will be the same as far as letting go, working on you, being kind and unconditionally forgiving/loving whenever you can, knowing that all the plans she is laying for her new life are not going to bring her one iota of happiness so not taking her words as hurtful. Again, as you would with a teenager -- validate but have the confidence that you know how it's all gonna play out so you don't have to be personally hurt by it.

Easier said than done, but try!