Interesting situation over the weekend. Hairdog, Ms.Hdog, and DD4 are driving to the zoo. I call DS14 to ask if he has found a map I loaned him. He has not. I ask him to look for it again. I hang up. W: He won't remember to look for it. H: I don't know, but I'll give him a chance. W: He won't find it...He won't even look for it. He's forgetful, just like his dad. H: That's uncalled for. W: Why? It's true. H: Because it's disrespectful. W: But it's a fact. H: Not only do I disagree with you regarding whether I am forgetful, it is inappropriate to say that in front of DD4, and it's just downright hurtful. In fact, I don't want to be around someone all afternoon who talks to me that way. Please just take me home (We weren't very far from home at this point). W: Why don't you just get out here and walk? H: (considering it, but deciding...) No. I deserve to be driven home. *pause* Just how is it that you think it's okay to treat me this way?
*silence, for about 2 minutes, as we drive farther from home. Then, she comments on something benign on the radio, trying to be chatty. I don't respond. More driving. She tries to be chatty again, I relent, responding flatly to something she asks. From then on, for the most part, she behaves like a loving wife for the rest of the weekend (no, no ML, but some hugs and kisses).*
So, by not allowing bad behavior, it seems I may have earned some respect. Dang!
