This is what baffles me the most. Dennis' father was a severe alcoholic. Dennis' earliest memories are of being 8 years old, and his Dad taking him to the bar and buying him a soda for each beer that his dad drank. This was so common, that there was not many nights that Dennis didn't drink 12 sodas or more. In his Dad's infinite wisdom, it would be ok if he drank with his kid in tow.

It landed Dennis in the bed for over two weeks with a severe kidney disorder. In those days, they explained that he had actual sugar crystals in his blood from all the soda. I can't vouch for this claim, I've never searched it, but it sounds reasonable. Dennis has told me for years, how much he hated his real father for that, and the many nights that the barmaids would drive him home because they were afraid for him to ride home with his dad.

Why, in the name of God, is he putting his kids through the same hell? Believe me, I've asked, but he gets defensive and tells me to leave his real Dad out of this. On the other hand, he had a wonderful step-father that came into his life at age 13 that he adored. This man was very upstanding, took care of Dennis and his sister, along with the mother, and loved them dearly until he died in '88. Instead of drawing on the positive, Dennis seems to be drawn into his real father's genes. He, by the way, died at the age of 62 after fighting diabetes, losing both his sight and legs.

To make matters worse, I've talked to my husband's sister (only sibling) many times about this and she has even been up here to talk to Dennis, but it always ends up with them drinking beer and rehashing old crap until they pass out. Her advice...."He needs to learn how to have a few beers and then go to bed". When I question her in the least, I'm the one who feels at fault. I need to be "more understanding.........make sure he eats properly..........gets enough sleep at night...." All the while she is guzzling her nightly 6-pack.

I'm sorry...........whew.........how's that for showing the dirty laundry? I feel so much more at home here now. My mother was my rock, and now that she is gone,....well, I guess I rant to you guys.

Thank you so much for the positive vibes. I do feel them, and I will keep you updated.

Love Always,
Mandi