C2H,

Thanks again for sharing your marvelous perspective on things.(Have you ever thought of being a counselor,yourself)

I am sure you are mystified as to why a Phi Beta Kappa, Mensa eligible individual just "doesn't get" when it comes to his children. IQ level and "Emotional Intelligence"(in fact there is an excellent book on this topic) are often in disparity. My H was raised, predominately, by a domineering woman.... as his father worked 24/7, running a small business, and never took part in the tough part of parenting..just the fun stuff,when he could. They had a "peer relationship" and that is exactly what my H has duplicated in our family. There was an absence of affection with intelligence and academic performance valued above all else.
Have a wonderful holiday weekend!
PS. By "appealing to his maleness", I got him to oversee the boys'packing/suitcases for our trip today. Usually,I am stuck with that chore and it turns into a battle.