Mrs.Nop: The way she explained it to me wasn't so much that she didn't want me to have contact with DD5, but that I "announced" on the way in, that I would be taking her downstairs, rather than discussing it with her, or asking her what her preference was. My usual M.O. is to just let W announce it, because I don't really care. So, a), she felt 'un-consulted' and b) she felt like I was dominating the parental role. Yeah, she's being overly sensitive, but I don't think it was any kind of plan to come between my daughter and me. However, I'll be on the look-out for that sort of thing.
The end-of-service pick-up of DD5 was different, in that I thought she'd already gone downstairs, and I thought I'd meet her. Then, I thought I'd just be "Helpful Hairdog" and sign DD5 out. I mean, what was I supposed to do, see DD5, and then leave her in the class while all the other parents were picking their kids up? I suppose Ms.Hdog's perfect hubby would have consulted with her prior to leaving his seat; would have, perhaps, not had a conversation with the other guy; and would have waited obediently in the lobby.
But perfect, I am not.
And Karen, I often wish that Ms.Hdog had a friend who could talk to her about this sort of thing. The only friends she seems to have here in KC are business associates, and some moms of school chums of DD5, very superficial relationships. Her best friend is her sister, and they seem to be two peas in a pod, based on some convos I've had with my bro-in-law.
Despite this little glowing ember of hope I still have that she'll figure out what a catch I am and want to jump me, I note, every year, how much dimmer that ember glows.
