It seems that my stepsons are getting worse rather than better as they get older- in terms of adjusting, ease in our house, and overall "contentment". (Hard to put this into words.) Both now have digestive issues that BM is always ranting *MUST* be caused by DH and me, they still freeze like deer in the headlights if I should happen to answer the phone (omg the phone games), and their former joie de vivre just seems to be fading. It has been a loooooooong summer so there's also the chance that we are all ready for the transition back to school and that I'm interpreting these "symptoms" when I should just realize that a change- of routine, of seasons, is coming.

They drive me nuts but I do love them and I know that none of this is their fault.

Has anyone else noticed similar? What have you done to combat? Or have you just chosen to combat it with more of a Zen approach- not doing anything to draw attention to it?

Is this the beginning of DH being PAS-ed out? It seems like they have the same stuff going on in her house- frequently they come with tales of punishments, fights, illnesses, etc...but in between all that there is plenty of alienation, plenty of manic shopping and a hectic "social routine" (big days out followed by three nights of sleepovers, etc...) The woman is desperate to prove what a fun mother she is and how much her kids deserve nonstop entertainment.

Because like all you steps, I need more things to worry about! Jeez why is this all so complicated? On the other side things continue to be delightful 95% of the time.............