Evening Folks,

Relationships are full of unexpected outcomes. Fell out with Elaine again and again was over one of the kids. Michael this time, his attitude is not the best at the moment. He started to talk back to Elaine and I, just like Jordan. I think it's all about finding his role in the family and trying to out do Jordan. So at the moment we have two kids that are not pulling their weight around the house and verbal hassle.

Their main excuse is that other kids in their school are not doing chores or helping out around the house so why are they made to do chores and help about the house. Which really winds me up. Usually Elaine takes their side as it usually ends up in a shouting match between Jordan or Michael and me. I don't need this hassle and Elaine is too soft on them, she usually tidies up after them and she is happy with that. With me I would usually confront them and ask them to tidy up after them, if there is any hassle from them I keep asking them to tidy up after them.

One of the main gripe with the two older boys is their lack of motivation and imagination. They keep thinking of games and if that is not part of the daily routine. Michael favorite phrase is that there is nothing to do and I'm "bored". All they watch are the kids channels and they are usually repeated every few days...We had tried to interest them in other activities outside the house but they "don't like it" or it's too much effect to do. So they don't bother and we stopped trying. I also dislike spoon feeding them. It's time for them to get their own interests and hobbys apart from gaming..

Ethan on the other hand likes the activities outside the house and can make the effect. But he is starting to copy the other two and have started not to listen to Elaine and I. He also tries to talk back too.

From what I been told this is all normal and will get worse. So the question is do I take the attitude of Elaine or get them to pull their weight. They are kids still but what will happen if we don't encourage them to tidy up after themselves or pull their weight around the house?? I know what I prefer and it not what Elaine would like. It will be a long and hard struggle to gain what is require around here or they end up being lay abouts and useless..

Apart from all that ranting above I am doing fine..hassle or no hassle life have to go on through all it's up and downs...gearing up for the 8th cycle on Tuesday. Weight wise I am now 13st and I am hoping to put on another few pounds as I will be losing weight again next week.

I am looking forward to a break from the chemo during the festive season.

Well that is all for now..

Nite Folks,

Sai