Mom Isolated Me During Childhood, Stole Child Support - Now I'm Taking Her To Court r/Relationships

[@catsncrows]

The dog situation is blatant sadism. Just plain disgusting

[@jasonrustmann7535]

I absolutely love dogs, but if my kid had an issue like allergies, ain't no way I'd have one, that person has a kid, but she's no mother. More and more I'm leaning towards people requiring some sort of license to procreate.

[@PonderingStudent]

It's abuse, plain and simple. Frankly, they should have been prosecuted for it - given how badly his breathing was affected, I don't think it's exaggerating to say that OP could have been made very seriously ill or even died, had he been less careful than he was.

[@wmdkitty]

@@PonderingStudent OP exaggerated to make himself look like a victim.

[@akl2k7]

@@wmdkitty How do you know? You know OP personally?

[@SilverstreamPJ28]

​@@wmdkitty your comments are always the most ridiculous 💩. We get it, you're a troll, move on

[@AndyyWithAY]

Story 1 so dissapointed OP didn't sue. She is such a manipulative irredeemable narcissist. She deserved the smoke

[@pippo17173]

I hate that he probaly got it from his dad when he is saying this is too harsh when its not. Like dude, you of all people left her because of how horrible she is and you say that? I'm sorry but op and dad has no spine.

[@LeggoMyGekko]

Yeah this is so frustrating, he’s not advocating for himself, setting a bad example for his sisters on how to handle BS like this, and refusing to hold people accountable. All this will serve to do is teach them that it’s okay to keep doing stuff like this. They won. He gave up and lied down, and said “fine, whatever, walk all over me.” Why would he even post here if he was just going to ignore the answer he got? Pitiful.

[@AndyyWithAY]

@@LeggoMyGekko I hope OP will have the chance to sue in the future. While I'm super disappointed, OP's parents failed him. The mom is the Queen B and even though they are divorced Dad still would rather not rock the boat. All he knows is letting his mom get her way. I hope as OP gets older, he stands up to her and has a chance to still sue.

[@LeggoMyGekko]

@@AndyyWithAY I really doubt it, mainly because of the step dad upping the reward for giving in. It seems like a classic manipulation tactic, he’s technically getting more than he would’ve before, and he’ll subconsciously internalize that, which will make it easier for them to get their way next time as he’ll be thinking “well maybe they’ll sweeten the deal again if I just say okay.” I think it’s called “probable reinforcement,” but it’s being used here in a very shady way.

[@charliedelfino2102]

I think the Dad wasn't paying as much child support in the first place and that's why he wanted OP to settle. OP definitely is an AH to himself for dropping the case, all the adults failed him.

[@mattiekarwin3667]

"You're droppinf a grenade in your family." Well how else is he supposed to flush out the enemy?

[@TonySamedi]

I just love how warped their minds are to think OP is the one tossing a grenade. If you let people into an area of my house you know is supposed to be private, let them destroy my stuff, and then refuse to pay me for the stuff they destroyed, how is THAT not lobbing SEVERAL grenades?

[@dragontyrant5607]

They threw the grenade he was just throwing it back.

[@RockinTheBassGuitar]

As the mother of two kids, if your kids break something, you pay for it. It doesn't matter if you agree with someone having something that expensive or not.

[@user-wr3vt8uq4s]

Yeah, that mom must be a treat when she goes to a museum or store. "Oh well, kids do that." Not!

[@paulagoeringer9466]

​@@user-wr3vt8uq4s it kinda makes you hope that they get held accountable for something like that.

[@owl7072]

Story 2: "You didn't lock the door" I'm so sorry that Op expected family members to do their jobs as parents and keep their kids from going into random places in other people's homes and messing with things that aren't theirs.

[@TortoiseNotTurtle]

Whenever I visit families house they usually don't lock their bedroom doors (I only go because their rooms have bathrooms in them). By their logic if I go in and steal from my family then it's my fault

[@Schwiegermutter]

She knew they were painting...

[@catbitmaster8216]

And with families like that, I would go no contact anyway, grenade be damned

[@nicksuazo4377]

I remember another story where OP had valuable antiques in another room, friends and family were visiting, and a grown ass man (aka manchild) went in there without OPs permission and broke stuff. His (as well as others excuse) "You should have locked the door." And OP got slammed because they dared tell that manchild to pay for damages, and everyone was telling OP to drop it. With children, you are obligated to teach them rules/boundaries because as they get older, they will get themselves into things that are simple to avoid. But of course, "They're just kids, let them do what they want", "Why should we pay, we're family", "How dare you discipline MY BABY?!"

[@nicksuazo4377]

​@Grimlock852x Why would you steal from them to begin with? You're still a thief, whether they locked the door or not. Their mistake was simply trusting you enough not to fuck with their stuff. I know this may be an unpopular opinion, but if a cheater cheats because their partner was "unfulfilling," then that means you should forgive them? Or apologize to them?

[@darkmask5933]

Story 2: Final comment is the best argument against the ESH comments; why is it suddenly alright to forgive the kids and blame OP for not locking the door because of what was in the room? BIL and SIL are AH and need to learn that not everything is for their children to play with, maybe its petty to pay a lawyer when OP could have paid for it himself, but for everyone saying 'is it worth blowing up the family over 400 dollars' why is that question always said to the people in the right, and not the ones who caused the mess? SIL and BIL are choosing to blow up the family over 400 bucks as well!

[@katta309]

I would willingly go through all that shit for people that don’t respect me, my things. It’s not only 400 dollars, it’s also all the time I spend on the thing that I drew and now that thing is ruined by some kids that those parents could not be bothered watching and taking care of.

[@MdMzzz]

I would add the fact that the room actually has a lock is just a coincidence, completely irrelevant. Most inside doors don't have locks, and yet, somehow most guests manage to not wander into places they're not supposed to be in. Am I supposed to lock up everything of value when family comes over for dinner? I thought family members were supposed to help, support and respect each other, not destroy everything in their path without paying for it. And I also don't understand the stance of blowing the family up. So, If one of my in-laws is a criminal, am I blowing up the family by condemning them ? "Faaaaaamilyyyy" at all costs is simply insane. If they don't respect you and your home, they don't consider you family, family isn't supposed to behave like that with one of their own.

[@evantreffinger2009]

Exactly! How is OP blowing up the family when it’s SIL and BIL who refuse to respect and pay back OP? If $400 isn’t worth this then why don’t they just pay it and be done

[@jasonrustmann7535]

I'm still trying to recover from the comment calling the gamecube "vintage". Like christ man, i went to a prerelease party for that thing lol feel like i need to go get a walker or something now

[@KazeShikamaru]

I'm not a fan of him. All this shit just to drop the lawsuit and back off. He is a grade A punk. .

[@jakemarie828]

2nd story: NTA. "Don't touch my supplies without permission" is common courtesy, and "mine/not mine" is a lesson that parents should be helping kids with from age 3 on. There's a parenting issue here.

[@fhuber7507]

mine/not-mine starts before age 2.

[@Bala_Niranna]

i dont get the commenters saying "the kids didnt know any better!!!" well this is how they learn. evidently their parents arent teaching them to respect peoples things so they learn it hard way. touch the stove, get burned, never touch the stove again

[@paulagoeringer9466]

​@@Bala_Niranna yes. They're 6 and 7. That's plenty old enough to know better. That's malicious destruction at that point. I wouldn't be surprised if their parents told them to as a way to "get back" at op for whatever perceived slight.

[@kili_liniani_3768]

Literally!! For those complaint about “it only being art supplies”, I wonder if they had reacted the same if it was the the kids broke a $300 custom ring or something like that. They just think art supplies are cheap

[@mellodees3663]

That ESH is also delusional. If you don't have kids and you trust your family to behave why would you lock your doors?

[@strategicarchitect869]

Story 2: NTA and I have a comment to those people who says ESH and YTA, it seems pretty clear that this wasn't the first time anyone had been to the home. If there's a room that is specifically off limits then that's it, unless the owner says otherwise. OP is well within his right to drag brother-in-law to court for the damages and hopefully get it through his and sister-in-law's thick skulls that it's never okay to let your kids mess with other's stuff without asking. Those kiddos aren't exactly without blame either if they had been to the house several times and knew the ground rules. When my nephew was little kid I made it clear to my sister, brother-in-law, nephew and parents that my room was off limits. One day when I was out picking up some groceries mom had to kick out both nephew and dad (who let him in the room) out of my room after catching dad in the middle of giving my nephew a collection of cards I had--and both did admit that I didn't give permission for them to be in there. Anything that is either a collectable, artist-grade, or hell--high end electronics/expensive make up in general are not supposed to be around kids for good reason. You do not invade others space unless invited or allowed, the brother-in-law and the rest of the family who sided with him can shove off.

[@slytherinlibrarian3501]

The kids 100% have their blame and no one is going to like it but here's why: they are school age and likely use art supplies at school. They absolutely know not to smash on markers until the tips break because if it happens at school, teacher takes it away. They know not to draw on other people's art work because, again, that's what happens at school. They likely knew better and didn't care because mummy opened auntie and uncle's art room and said have fun.

[@stan8479]

As an artist who has had pieces ruined by younger (step)family members, the revelation that they drew on OP and Sally's pieces made me gasp out loud...

[@TheCheaPet]

Especially when a piece can take weeks, months, or even years to complete.

[@kieraanimations2389]

Forget gasping I just about fainted

[@justaperson4656]

​@@kieraanimations2389 and this is why I tend to digital /j

[@kieraanimations2389]

@@justaperson4656 I do both

[@jessicarichards6796]

Besides the time and effort the cost of supplies is no joke. Ruined brushes, wasted paint, and canvases (shudder). The cost starts to add up quick.

[@Trisscar44]

Story 2: As a fellow artist, it was heartbreaking to hear about the kids ruining projects that OP and his wife had spent ages on, not to mention ruining their markers in the process. The last comment making all those different comparisons is spot on.

[@chanaleahsteinberg2645]

Yeah. I’m a fellow artist too and it hurts. Thinking about working so hard to work on something and having it destroyed makes me want to cry.

[@PinkMarshmallows]

Story 1: **ALWAYS PRESS CHARGES!!** OP is STILL being a people pleaser. 🙄 Story 2: FK NO! NTA. Art supplies are EXPENSIVE AF!

[@lilly_xox0244]

That's what I said about story 1, he caved in and in my opinion showed in a way that he still let's his mother control him

[@dillongage]

1st: theres no charges in civil court. 2nd: civilians dont press charges, prosecutors do. I agree with the sentiment tho, take them to court for sure.

[@shadamyandsonamylover]

@@dillongage idk how German courts work, but if it’s not criminal in the US there’s practically no guarantee you’ll get any money even if you win small claims.

[@emcustard]

Story 2: Parents like BIL boil my blood. No, children don’t have the right to just do whatever they want to because they are kids.

[@MsUnamusedNerd]

STORY 2: As an artist this annoys me to no end! SIL felt entitled to have her kids entertained she sent them off to OP’s art studio without checking if it was OK first. “you’re being ridiculous over markers/you’re a dumb ass for spending that much on markers” That’s called downplaying someone’s feelings to avoid taking accountability. It was their careless parenting that caused someone else’s property to get ruined. They should pay for the damages. Especially for the art pieces the kids ruined. To all of the comments that are saying the equivalent of you’re over reacting over markers…. It seems they’re just looking at it like it’s just office supplies and it doesn’t matter. It’s like the other comment pointed out; what if those kids raided OP’s wife’s make up collection? Scribbled and destroyed lipstick, made “potions” by mixing all the perfumes together or dropping and breaking the bottles? Will small claims be acceptable then? It doesn’t matter what the item is karens/kevins are not entitled to have their kids go into someone else’s house and destroy those things. Sister in law probably had a good feeling. Her kids were not allowed in the art room, especially unsupervised and that’s why she was pussyfooting around telling OP where they were. “you can’t have this much art supplies and not expect kids do you want to use it” DOES NOT MAKE IT OK FOR YOU TO LET THEM IN WITHOUT PERMISSION KAREN! I have videogames, Manga, sonic the hedgehog comic books, and an expensive drawing tablet with my laptop in my room. If my cousins were coming here when I’m not home and someone lets them in my room to give them access to all that stuff WITHOUT MY PERMISSION because “you have all of these fun things how could you not expect your cousins to not want to ‘borrow’ them.” I will fully be pissed and drag them to court for replacement of my stuff that got ruined. The family isn’t getting destroyed over $375. The family is getting destroyed because you have entitled parents getting away with the usual entitled parents crap and people are getting mad at OP for not being complicit in letting entitled parents get away without repercussions. If other family members do cut ties over this, watch. I guarantee you they will come back in OP’s life after those kids ruin their shit and they understand where OP was coming from “ over markers”

[@justaperson4656]

What sonic comics do you have? :00 Completely agree with the rest of your comment, just curious if you have the fleet or nicky comics

[@MsUnamusedNerd]

@@justaperson4656 I have a mix of different ones since I just started collecting. I have a short on my page showing my collection.

[@faeb.9618]

oh my god the moment he mentioned having markers i immediately went NOOOOOO that hurts so much to hear. i didn't have any real art supplies as a teen and had to rely on my school supplies but man even then i would never fucking let anyone in my family anywhere near them. i hope they will get back at them for everything in court

[@Sarah-oc9zc]

I agree art supplies is expensive, it was rude of them to brush it off like that. They should’ve asked first for some paper and a pen, that’s what my parents would’ve done. I was an unhinged kid growing up and even I wouldn’t do that

[@Bala_Niranna]

@@faeb.9618 they were probably alcohol markers like copics or something, it hurt hearing that

[@swearimnotarobot3746]

This is one of those titles where it’s clear what verdict is to be made. Endangering your child. Isolating your child. Stealing from your child. Etc. All pretty evil stuff. No halfway decent parents would do this. The worst part is that he has siblings. And his mother will treat them as badly as she treated him, and isolate them from him.

[@pippo17173]

I hate how he and his own dad bend down to her as well. Look if the sisters are at the same mind set, CUT THEM OFF TOO! I know it complicated but screw that noise.

[@Icalasari]

@@pippo17173 ONLY thing that may make the dropping it and organizing payments outside of court worth it is if there was a good chance of a judge being all, "What kind of cruel child does that to their parent? I will NOT find in your favour!"

[@wmdkitty]

Nobody endangered OP, and he chose to isolate himself.

[@dillongage]

​​@@wmdkittyyeah the I found that dubious. Without having athsma or something, no dog allergies are severe enough to make breathing harder. Thats just not how allergies work. Bees and food allergies are only so bad because its directly entering your blood stream or being injested. My dad has Athsma and COPD, he was in the hospital about once a month from breathing issues, and even then the doctor said his dog allergies werent a major factor. It would be "better to remove them, but not really enough to noticeably affect quality of life" (doctors exact words) Unless OP was EATING the dogs, runny nose, itchy eyes, etc is the worst he had. Not pleasant, and not cool of the mom to force him to suffer through, but in no way was he in danger.

[@nicksuazo4377]

Yeah, OP should have sued because he could have gotten real justice out of that rather than just get money he was owed. That's why mom and step-dad wanted to settle, they knew they were in deep shit

[@DemonAngel]

I had a friend whos Mom did this with disability benefits. She would get the check deposited onto her account but only gave him an "allowance". Yes. He sued her. Yes. He went NC. Yes he got everything changed over.

[@juresichj]

My daughter has a friend who is a victim of this. They are in their late 20's, have limited transportation, no privacy, and their SSI payment is being used to support 4 other adults, all of whom are capable of working, but refuse to. They also eat this friend's food. The pandemic made it all worse. I don't know if they will ever escape.

[@295Phoenix]

Story 1: NTA Parents, even deadbeat parents, need to financially support their kids before all else. If they don't, drag their worthless ass to court and force them.

[@jlyo1991]

He let the parents off easy. He rewarded their harassment.

[@mracula1667]

Markers story: NTA. It’s not that kids are expected to not use art supplies. Parents are expected to mind their children.

[@TsukiKageTora]

They even destroyed the artworks both him and his wife done within a week

[@RiverWoods111]

Those markers are highly toxic and these parents just let their kids in to play with poison? WTF?

[@crowdemon_archives]

​@@RiverWoods111 if they have a bunch of stuff like that lying around, chances are they may have actual solvents that will thoroughly fuck you up internally (ie. Mineral spirits and various forms of alcohols, stuff that are genuinely dangerous to an *adult* human, let alone a child)

[@LadySingingWolf]

As an artist I would have cried. Good quality supplies are super expensive and to have a couple pieces ruined on top of that is crushing. I am so glad my niece was very respectful with my good supplies when she was younger, and understood why I wouldn't let her use the more expensive stuff. As a result I have gifted her my good stuff over the years as she has grown her art talent (With her mother's permission of course).

[@justaperson4656]

Right? I have so many nieces and nephews. I also have a decent amount of art supplies. "Sorry, you can't use these, they're mine and I don't want anything to happen to them" is usually enough for the kids to lose interest.

[@crowdemon_archives]

Sometimes, certain supplies are hard to come by too. :S

[@juanhaines7295]

Story 1 nta I heard this one before minus the update. I personally wouldn't have folded. I would have sued them into oblivion.

[@owl7072]

Story 1: "You need to get your spending habits under control" She says, while taking money from her own kid because her own habits are out of control. Can't have spending habits if there's not much to spend 🤨

[@Russman67]

Story 2: If they feel is "just markers", then brother in-law can just pay the bill.

[@sharyebethancourt3660]

In story 1, I just don’t understand the mom being so insistent on having the damn dogs. That just feels sadistic.

[@laurenrose2895]

Story 1: This is a case of child abuse pure and simple. Don’t know what the laws are like where OP lives (the UK or?), but here in the USA it would be handled by CPS (Child Protective Services). OP would have either sent to live with his dad (if dad was willing) or fostered if mom didn’t immediately get rid of the dogs and have their home professionally cleaned to make it safe for OP. This is NOT a case of a minor allergy with an occasional sneeze, something Benadryl would help. It is the same as if the mother had forced her child to eat peanut butter sandwiches when he was deathly allergic to nuts. Over here he would have the right to sue his mother not just for the child support but also for battery and intent to cause severe bodily harm. And frankly I think he should have continued the lawsuit. People like that mother have no right to have children and any remaining underage children should be removed from her.

[@dillongage]

What are the odds hes not exaggerating though? Its like a 1/1,000,000 to have pet allergies anywhere near that bad. Allergens need to enter your body in large amounts, so short of eating a dog..... he was probably being overdramatic. If his allergies were actually dangerous, he wouldve had an epi-pen. However, its still not okay to force someone to live with something that causes them to feel like they have the flu constantly.

[@Gungepup]

Story 2: As someone who uses things like Prismacolor pencils and markers for art, I can absolutely agree with OP's choice. I think people voting ESH are probably folks who don't understand the difference between something like Prismacolors and the 10-pack of Crayola markers that you can get at Wal-Mart for 4 bucks. The final comment in that story is a perfect analogy, because those pencils / markers / etc. are professional tools. They're not casual throwaway supplies to be played with haphazardly. They're professional tools, just like the hypothetical expensive chisels in the woodworking shop, or the top-quality makeup. Just because someone else doesn't understand the value of professional items doesn't make them less valuable.

[@shadamyandsonamylover]

This is something I think that isn’t taught anymore. I myself have issues understanding the value of things I dont understand, which really stems from my distrust that other’s are telling the truth. I’m putting in effort to do better but some people just don’t understand. Or dont want to understand.

[@RiverWoods111]

@@shadamyandsonamylover Go wander around an art store for an hour, and don't even bother looking at the Cheap student supplies only look at the prices on the artist's quality and you will understand what we are talking about. I can easily put an art supply order together for $1000.00. Also, the only lock on my studio is my front door, because my studio is more important than my living room & dining room, so it occupies those spaces and I have a small cozy sitting room in a spare bedroom.

[@shadamyandsonamylover]

@@RiverWoods111 oh I understand the value of art supplies (my sister and friend are artists), I just meant in general it’s easy for me to not value things I have no knowledge of. I think that’s true for a lot of people and they get defensive over it instead of just admitting a mistake was made over something they don’t personally care about. It’s a moral I think that should be better taught. I’m trying to do better at valuing things my friends value even if I personally don’t see the appeal.

[@crowdemon_archives]

​@@shadamyandsonamylover it's perfectly fine to overestimate the value of supplies if it makes you wary so you're careful lol.

[@jakemarie828]

Nooo. ⭐️Always ⭐️press⭐️ charges⭐️. They're being civil right now but it's only a matter of time before they remember they don't think of you as human. Idk maybe it'll be fine, but I've always regretted being lenient and being the "bigger person" because it's always left room for people to take advantage again.

[@HaliaStone]

This was exactly my response. That 'mother' tortured her child and isolated them. Folding just proves that if something like this ever comes up again all they have to do is sic the flying monkeys on them to get it to go away.

[@dillongage]

Theres no charges in civil court, and the prosecutor presses charges, not the civilian. But yes, sue her.

[@salomerodriguez5145]

Story 2: No, OP doesn't have to lock his room ind his own damn house. If you're a guest you have no reason to go into a room without asking. He shouldn't have screamed at the kids, fair, but the question is about taking the bil to court not about his reaction in the moment. Edit: I feel like the type of parent who feels their kids are entitled to play with anything are the type who don't really have any hobby's of their own. Thats why everything they see it as for kids: figurines, art supplies, gardening tools, make up, video games... All that stuff is just "toys" for them.

[@justaperson4656]

Idk I'm a pretty calm and collected person, I'd scream out of sheer horror if £400 worth of my property AND a few months of work were trashed. That's just a gut reaction imo

[@faeb.9618]

honestly though, those are the kind of people that automatically stop caring about anything as soon as they pop one out because now they can say they're adults while they still act worse than the kids they have. do yall just not have anything fun in your life??? like god i cannot for the life of me imagine a life that sad

[@hiro4344]

I'll wager they're the sad sort of people who don't read books for the pleasure of it.

[@InvasionAnimation]

He should have screamed at the kids.

[@Taizu314]

About story 2, Another set of parents who don’t understand that professional grade, quality art supplies aren’t toys and have prices that reflect that.

[@ScooterBond1970]

And even ignoring that, if Bob spends $XXXXXXX on some thing that's meant only for Bob, it's no one's business how much he spent (barring taking money from his family, of course) so that's not a valid reason to not pay.

[@muhname6052]

Story 2: Imagine giving op grief because they didn't lock their door in their own home because two parents couldn't actually parent. NTA.

[@madambutterfly1997]

"Just kids" is not a fucking excuse

[@Feisty_Elfgirl_5258]

Story 2 - I suspect that this is not the first time OP and Wife have had their art and supplies trashed by family members. It feels like there is a history we are not privy too

[@slytherinlibrarian3501]

Parents need to learn that 'kid friendly' isn't tacit approval to play with/use. Just because it's something a kid would use like toys, art stuff, or themed collectibles doesn't make it OK for kida to touch them.

[@truthseeker9249]

Story 1: Sorry but OP is the biggest idiot on planet earth to not go through with the lawsuit.

[@lux0rd01]

1000% that's literally 12 weeks worth of the extra payment she denied them. They should be receiving 10s of thousands at least. I was so disappointed and upset when I heard that update

[@candypettynettie487]

S1- OP folded like a damn doormat. He acknowledged the abuse and folded anyway. Smh. He hasn't learned yet The prequel pissed me off more, knowing the update. The egg donor knew what she was doing. OP is now allowing himself to be abused. S2- I bet if the kids got hurt sil would want to be compensated and "why would you leave the door unlocked " ect!

[@Splatoon_Kirby]

Debatable, have you ever had to deal with constant phone calls and messages for hours each day, for days straight? Also have you ever had to deal with family through legal means be it courts with a judge or with police? Some of them are not right in the head and can't see past their own perception of Family and assume all family is like theirs, and don't take well to a child trying to 'take revenge' using the legal system. It might not of gone that way for OP but this was clearly making OP worse off mentally and also had to choose between this, and risking losing his siblings. He can't just take them from his parents, he is working on helping them how he can. two of them are almost out but there is another that has 8 to 10 years before she'll have a real chance to get out.

[@Tyanna01]

Story 2: BIL and SIL dropped the grenade in the family. Their entitled behaviour has shown everyone in the family not to invite them over b/c when their kids destroy something, they won't care and will blame the hosts. It doesn't matter what they damaged, they damaged OPs stuff and the parents are responsible for it. Full stop. I wouldn't take them to court, but I wouldn't invite them over again until they paid the money. Also, their kids aren't allowed in my house any more.

[@jenniferhanses]

Story 2: NTA. Yes, it's a shame OP forgot to lock the door. But him forgetting to lock a door in his home should not have been an issue because it's his stuff in his home. He doesn't give up his right to privacy just because he forgot to lock a door. And if your kids destroy things, then you should pay for them. If you destroy things, then you should pay for it. Stuff being an accident is a reason that you have high hopes of forgiveness. It doesn't mean you shouldn't still pay for that accident. I'm also a bit perplexed at the kids being guided to the art room without adult permission. however, I'm also a bit perplexed at children attending a dinner party. Because to me "a dinner party" is a bunch of adults mingling and drinking. It's just not a child-friendly event in the first place. So I have questions over why OP invited the kids or what the ILs brought the kids.

[@Tiogair]

Story 2: My mom brought me along with her to friends and family all the time when I was even younger than these kids and NO ONE ever had to lock a door to keep me out of the room. It’s super easy when you keep an eye on your children and parent them regardless of the setting.

[@thebigmystery7841]

The first one makes me so mad....my MIL is much older as my husband is the youngest out of a bunch of boys. And she has this belief that you cant get allergies later in life. She kept buying cinnimon based foods, even after us constantly telling her he cant eat it. (She bought food while we took care of most of the bills) then shed get mad because it wasnt getting eaten. Makes my head hurt.

[@ZestyTime233]

Oh god my mom is the same~ I have severe nut allergies, and she's constantly buying stuff without bothering to check the labels, then gets all mad about me "wasting food" 😭 And if i call her out on it she immediately switches to "i'm such a horrible mother~ 😢🎻" She read once about exposure therapy to "cure" animal allergies, then decided that's how it works for ALL allergies and is always trying to make me eat stuff so i can "get better" 😭🚫NAW IM GOOD

[@rylashadow18]

S1) Child support is exactly that. Money given to support the child. OP no longer lives with his mom and therefor doesn't need their mom to take their money. If OP can I'd suggest talking with the representatives at the support offices and have it either directly deposited into an account solely under OP's name or enroll for the credit card they offer. Make sure you get punitive damages while at it. If mom and stepdad so desperately need money for the kids they have they need to cut their spending habits, put on their adult pants and get to being responsible. OP's child support is for OP only.

[@GonzoHenson]

What is with all the people saying that you have to lock the doors in your own house just in case non-household members come over and decide to help themselves to whatever is available in unlocked rooms? It's not like "unlocked door = 'Free Candy inside! Come and find it!'"

[@fallingawayfromthenorm]

Story 2 - NTA. These are not Crayola markers that cost like $2.59 at Target for a 10-pack, these are markers that individually cost nearly $20. People should not have to lock their house like the Bastille to prevent people with kids who suck at parenting from allowing their children to ruin people’s property, like makeup, art supplies, collectibles, etc. My parents had the basic parental common sense to teach me not to go into peoples stuff without permission as a young child, and also brought things to keep me occupied like a few of my toys or a book.

[@lsmmoore1]

And it really wouldn't be that hard for the parents to, you know, just buy their kids Crayola markers, a default fat marker pack to start with and add a skinny marker detail pack (also Crayola) if the kids want that, and some paper to go with it. All those things would add up to less than $10.

[@blandoatmeal1273]

Story 1 and stories like it make me wonder why parenting licenses aren't a thing.

[@ArcaneNim]

Because it would probably be used against anyone who isn't a rich white cishet couple.

[@nahnottodayfam7879]

Story 2: NTA and all the ESH and YTA are ridiculous. Good on OP for suing, I would too.

[@trishnjasperCarnivorePack]

people were commenting on story 2 that "you didn't lock the door that's on you"... who the hell goes into random rooms in other people houses family or not? When I went with my parents to other family's houses we all stayed in the same room or my cousins would all hang out in a playroom, outside, the basement, tv den, etc... we didn't go into random rooms without permission.

[@evantreffinger2009]

Story 2: First of all, yes OP could’ve locked the door but honestly that feels irrelevant. When I was little and we went to someone’s home my parents didn’t just let me go and do whatever. They watched and patented me. If there was an art room or a game room that might (key word “might”) ask if it was ok for me to play but they’d never leave me unsupervised. Regardless, your kid breaks something you replace it, it’s simple. You’re responsible for your kids, not anyone else. Additionally I’m getting real tired of these “You can’t expect the kids to see *imsert item* and not want to play/use it!” responses. Because that’s completely irrelevant to the situation. Ya ofc the kids are gonna want to use it but, thst doesn’t mean they should or are allowed to! Kids also want candy for dinner, no bed time, and unlimited games, doesn’t mean they get it. Parent. Your. Kids.

[@BurningheartofSILVER]

That’s straight up child abuse! Why was German CPS never involved?! He sneezed so hard one time that a vain in his eye popped??? This kid was NEVER able to be safe in either of his homes. That mother is a fucking monster! The fact that she was berating the dad and his gf for years before doing the same thing shows that she KNEW how bad it was. Yet she not only got one dog, but FOUR

[@Lestaticate]

Last Story: I just listened to another story where the OP and fiancé were playing host for family, while OP’s young nephews ran into their master bedroom and played in their walk-in closet under father’s … lack of supervision. The kids panicked when they heard family looking for them and FLUSHED OP’s $30k engagement ring down the toilet. Unfortunately the ring couldn’t be salvaged and of course OP’s family is pissed they had the audacity to ask FAAAAMILY to pay… when he totally has the financial means. You’re a guest. Stay the frick out rooms you weren’t given access to. Watch your kids / don’t give kids access to rooms without asking the host. Basic freaking manners.

[@hellkitelord8319]

I was thinking about the same story. People really need to start watching the kids. This is one reason I will never allow kids unsupervised in my house or apartment.

[@justaperson4656]

R slash?

[@slytherinlibrarian3501]

It was on today's R/! But also it seems to be a theme of parenting seen on Reddit as of late. As people are gathering more due to spring holidays and nice weather, we're seeing more cases of parents letting their kids run rampant in their family's homes without remorse. In addition to these two, an OP posted about his 12 and 14(?) year old niblings going into his and his wife's master bathroom and destroying about 1K's worth of makeup palettes in the sink, foundations poured out, and the teen was recording. The wife itemised the damages and asked for replacements, but her brother said that he'd replace _a palette,_ nothing more. And again, it's all under an umbrella of 'kids, y'know?'

[@Lestaticate]

@@justaperson4656 lol, yep.

[@catherinecox573]

I hate when others touch my supplies without permission; I think I would explode if someone let their kid wreck $400 worth of stuff in my studio AND wrecked some of my work. OP was pretty civil to the AHs who don't respect others' belongings.

[@belial3781]

story 2: definitely nta, the parents of those kids are wildly off base here. My familiy would *never*. As an artist with lots of younger family members, my atelier is regularily housing tiny destructive hands. The difference is, those kids ask me which supplies they can use and I then direct them to the parts of my stash that are 1. child safe and 2. cheap stuff I use to test out new techniques. I would have a conniption if someone ruined my stupidly expensive professional supplies. Not just because of the money but also because some of this stuff is really hard to procure.

[@shaetoons3602]

Story 1: Should've gone scorched earth and sued I don't care. Those POS parents don't deserve any grace. They stole so much money and isolated Op.

[@angeliqueSeidlitz2388]

Story 2, NTA , my son is 7 and always asks, even when he was 3 or 4 I never plays or messes with stuff unless he asks

[@Plaprad]

Story 2) I developed a rule many years ago that has helped immensely. If I feel I have to lock up any part of my home for a guest coming over, that guest is not coming over. I have no issues putting stuff away so kids won't mess with it. But to have to lock a room in your home to keep other people out is just mind boggling. This was simply lazy parents who now have to face the consequences of their laziness. I personally know people who have had thousands of dollars destroyed by other people children and it's always the same show, "Why do you have all that anyway/ Isn't that kids stuff/ You're stupid for paying that much for something." then, "Well, you should have locked it up better so kids can't get to it.", to "Well, it's your responsibility, I'm not paying because it's not my fault/ Kids will be kids." I've only seen a few instances where the parent actually does their job. Had a buddy at my place with her kids. One of her sons tore up my daughters wall playing with something he shouldn't have. She simply said "Your house, your punishment." Her son then learned how to repair drywall, how not everything wall mounted can support body weight and how if it's not yours you don't mess with it. Then we all went out for ice cream to thank them for fixing their mess. Never had an issue again. Easy.

[@palindont9238]

OP admitting that he craved affection as a child and then learning that his mother ruined his most vulnerable years broke my heart. That woman deserves to be as miserable as she made her own child.

[@sandeesandwich2180]

S1: I don't know why his dad doesn't send the check directly to OP now that he is in college. I have so much sympathy for OP because I am also allergic to dogs and we also had 5 dogs. I also lived mostly in my room. S2: When my kids were that age, they would never dream of entering a room with a closed door. And they wouldn't touch things that weren't theirs without permission. Well, my little one might have (she's an artist) but that is why she would never have been left unsupervised by me. If the parents just said "play in here kids" with no rules and without asking if it was okay, that is so on them. Can't blame the kids in that case, but their parents are the AHs for sure.

[@carolcarol9982]

That dog loving mom sounds like she was punishing her dog allergic kid. That or she was hoping he'd have such a nasty allergic attack his lungs would stop working and then....no more dog allergic child.

[@natlisan]

Story 2: Definitely NTAH!!! As an artist myself I completely get OP's anger!!!!!!!! I use the best of the best in art supplies which isn't cheap. As for ruined artwork, I would send Brother-in-law an invoice, which would be a hell of a lot more than the $375!!!! You are in your own home, The absolute AUDACITY!!!

[@HobieInTheBox]

19:07 I hate this comment in particular. Alongside every other esh or yta. Reddit loves victim blaming, OP shouldn't have done anything The parents are at fault period

[@kateemma22]

Mark, your pain at the German makes my little '12 years studying this insane language and I still want to never use it' heart lighter. But if you ever need it again: Bafög is BAH-FOOG and basically student loans. Wohngeldbeschied is VON-GEHLD-BAH-SHYD and housing benefits. You did well, dude.

[@standinthegsp6858]

That would be the last time anything was hosted at my house. “No, there will be no family get together at our home because some people cannot be trusted. They don’t give a darn about other people’s space or possessions & they can’t keep their children in check.” I’d get a motion sensor LOUD alarm for your art room so if you forget to lock it again it’ll scare the you know what out of the intruder. Do this for other rooms you don’t want people in (in case you’re guilted into hosting). Give the niece & nephew a supply of play-doh for their birthdays, several small containers of glitter for Christmas, a container of that gross glue/paste we were forced to use in grade school for Easter, a set of markers (not washable but not quite permanent) & thinish paper for Valentine’s Day, finger paints for thanksgiving.... you get the idea. Also give them each a small set of legos each time-- you can pick sets up that give you a choice to make one of two deals, ie: a boat or plane. I’ve picked them up for less than $20. If you live near a lego store you can purchase individual pieces, (hint: go for the tiniest pieces). Everyone who’s ever stepped on one of those suckers at night while barefoot raise your hand! Dollar stores have “fake” legos sometimes. After all, you regret that you yelled at them when it was the fault of their parents & you want to foster a love of art in them! Be sure the whole family sees the wee ones getting the oh so wonderful generous gifts. Another alternative? Drum set. Muahaha....

[@norman9076]

For the artists story.. why should you have to lock a room in your house just because parents can't supervise their own kids? I have a nice who let's her kids do whatever they want and trust me when I say they want... this and that, they break (mom hides it afterwards) steal stuff because you know they're just kids and so on. When she wants to come here I tell her that my house is not kid friendly and she can not come with them. Saves a lot of trouble....

[@telinhajp]

Good morning, Mark and Poppy! Wishing you a joyful weekend! ❤️🤗

[@MarkNarrations]

You too Telinha, have a wonderful one :)

[@SLTheOneAndAwesome19]

Story 2: This reminds me of a story my mom likes to tell: When I was about 2 or 3, my mom had a meeting at her boss's house and my mom was used to just leaving me in a nearby room with toys to play on my own. Typically I would play with the toys my mom brought or just nap, so my mom thought nothing of it. My mom's boss and her colleagues were complimenting her on how quiet I was and how amazing it was I could play alone quietly. They went into the other room and I had apparently found highlighters and, for the first time in my life, drew on the walls. My mom was mortified and, even though she was a young teacher and struggling financially, immediately offered to pay to paint the wall. Thankfully her boss was cool and was like, "Eh, we'd been talking about repainting anyways. Don't worry about it. Just keep her away from markers in the future." If your kid damages something because of your inattention, *you* offer to pay for the damages. I feel bad for the kids, they didn't deserve to be yelled at, but the fact the mom sent them to the art room without even asking OP or his wife is just stupid. Like, that entitlement was bound to have a situation like this happen.

[@carolcarol9982]

Quite often adult art supplies include things like X acto knives. I guess those parents would have been okay with their kids playing with things that are basically very sharp scalpels.

[@kichikitsu]

OP1 is a fool, ngl. He's letting them essentially scam him by only paying him 2.5k with absolutely no benefit to himself. I dont think he realizes how vile abusers can be -- it doesn't matter if he takes her to court or not, she WILL shit-talk OP and attempt to get his little sisters to hate him. She will punish the 9 and 12 year old if they try to keep in contact with their big brother. Legally, she cannot do anything against the 18yr old to keep her away from OP, but that doesn't mean that'll stop her from trying. She views the kids, and OP, as her property to do what she pleases with. So either way, OP is still at risk of losing his sisters AND he still does not have proper justice against his mom nor the full amount of child support they stole from him.

[@LokasennaCole]

Maybe. OP may feel like the remainder of the funds is the price he pays to keep contact with siblings. But here's the catch. IF the kid has a lawyer ( almost certainly does ) the out of court settlement will be documented in dropping the case and a condition of dropping the case, so /if/ they reneg on the deal OP can start the case right up again with the knowledge not to trust them. Second, If the lawyer is even mediocre they will include a clause about denying access to the siblings as part of the deal to drop the case. I agree that the 'parents' may try to go back on the deal. Still OP values contact with his siblings more than the money and that's Okay. People are allowed to have different values.

[@ksbs2036]

I don't think OP is a fool. I think he is just Exhausted. He's at the point where his rage won't keep him going and he just wants it behind him. You are right about everything else, but he's not a fool. He's a battered child, exhausted and worried.

[@kichikitsu]

@@LokasennaCole the problem is we do not know if he has any of those protections. quite honestly, it does not matter if he does. because manipulation is hard to prove and the courts will likely not care if he goes "your honour the reason my little sisters hate me now is bc my mother shit-talked me and turned them against me." my whole point is that he is a fool bc he's banking on his mother being a good person and not doing anything to interfere with his relationship with his sisters. he's working under the assumption that if he doesn't sue, then she has no reason to use his sisters as weapons against him... as if "revenge for trying to stand up for yourself" isn't a strong enough motivator for abusers. it has nothing to do with him "not valuing money more than his relationship with his siblings," it has everything to do with "he's naive to think his abusers won't retaliate against him just bc he dropped the case."

[@kichikitsu]

@@ksbs2036 sure, maybe foolish isn't the right word. but he is definitely naive. dropping the case in order to keep a relationship with his sisters relies on his abuser being a good person and not retaliating against him for nearly sueing her... that's definitely naive. his mother is not and will not be a good person who will let that be water under the bridge. I am saying this as a survivor myself btw. Never believe the person that chose to put you in pain and misery for years will suddenly let your attempt at standing up to them legally go without any form of revenge against you.

[@ksbs2036]

@@kichikitsu I expect you are correct, but my thoughts on his exhaustion still stand. Yes, he hasn't protected the relationship with his sisters through the dropping of the suit ... the abuser's outrage at being confronted will continue. It's like any fight, sometimes you just walk away because even if you win you lose. You have direct experience though and I'm just an olde phart

[@karimuffin]

I absolutely love the victim blaming people do on reddit /sarcasm. Just because he didn't lock the door doesn't mean the kids get free reign over his art supplies. I honestly would have gone ballistic. I probably would have yelled at the kids to stop, I would have yelled at the parents for being lazy, I would have verbally destroyed the brother in law for disrespecting me. And the fact that the kids ruined artwork, oh lord, that hurts the soul. They don't know any better but their parents certainly do--and clearly don't respect artists.

[@Yourlocaltrashgoblin]

Story 2, both of my parents were professional artist, and we lived in an apartment, which meant there was no designated room, my dads easel was in our living room, half finished painting and dnd dioramas were all over his and my mothers desks, they had anime figurines, and expensive pieces of equipment, they never had to worry about little hands destroying things, past the age of three, my friends all knew, you want to draw ask op what you can use/ask op’s parents for some things to use, their parents taught them not to destroy everything. Yes we occasionally broke things, but we cried, and didn’t break anything past that, we apologized, but we all knew better than to destroy others things, the markers breaking, those little ones didn’t know, but the painting, the destruction of other things, sorry there’s no way those parents are disciplining those kids (I blame the parents not the little ones). Nta op, it’s not a freak accident where the little ones went to the br, found it explored and broke one or two markers before being caught, these parents not only recklessly indangered their kids, the let them destroy expensive equipment.

[@terramarini6880]

The little ones were taken to the room by their mommy who opened the unlocked door and ushered them in with a "have fun!" They weren't snooping, they had their moms "permission", they were mostly blameless here. But I would have cried if my artist grade watercolors got destroyed and I can only dream about those markers. Useless parents... Just ask, we all have kid friendly supplies in our studios, JUST ASK!

[@Yourlocaltrashgoblin]

@@terramarini6880 oh I know, which is why I was saying it, it wasn’t a freak accident

[@CrazyWolf2468]

Last story that is one of the main reasons why if my youngest sister visits she is not allowed to bring her kids

[@xirochamber5863]

“Be the bigger person OP :(“ OP: “well I’ve been belittled all my life so I can’t be the bigger person when I’m a small one”

[@jaymel4691]

I remember once when me and my sister were kids, I think maybe I was 9 or 10 and my sister 3 years younger than me. We were at grandma's or something for a couple days and our parents told us they were having a tupperware-type party and someone brought their kids. We both pleaded that the kids not mess up our stuff, we didn't want them playing with our toys at all but as long as nothing was broken or lost, we could deal with it. Of course, when we got back our room was trashed and a lot of our toys were destroyed by these little brats. We were raised to take good care of our things because our parents weren't rich and couldn't easily replace stuff we broke, so we couldn't understand how other kids could do that to anyone. We were devastated, it was awful! We both cried, and I think our parents felt bad about it too because it never happened again. So yeah, NTA. You don't ever allow your kids to use someone else's things without permission and supervision, especially when you're guests in their home.

[@maddydavidsdottir9862]

Everyone saying op shouldve locked the door, would you tell op he shouldve bought a safe if he didnt want his jewellery stolen? It's the literal equivalent of saying a woman shouldnt wear a skirt if she doesnt want to be raped. It's the same thing. Its ops fudging house! OP shouldnt have to lock the door, the parents shouldve watched their brats!

[@judithjeffers7666]

The child support is to be used on the child. It is legally the child’s.

[@justaperson4656]

I'm entirely biased on the marker thing, and as soon as I heard "they're in the other room drawing", the panic set in. As soon as he said the markers were done, it was sue. Living for the one comment that said £350 isn't a reason to "drop a grenade in the family", because £350 is a month's pay for me. Show you're privilaged without showing you're privilaged lmao! And it was never op that blew up the family dynamic, it was the guests who disrespected his house, his rules, and what he said was off limits all because they can't entertain their own spawn

[@quinhoprimeiro1049]

Story 2: "If you take... You pay! If you destroy... You pay! If you lost... You pay!" and the examples in the last comment were all perfect.

[@DerekScottBland]

So disappointed in OP that they let mom and step dad get away with everything. They pay significantly less than what they stole and learn that if they ever have a problem all they have to do is constantly harass the person and it'll go away.

[@Mardi87]

the 2,5k might be more worth than you think. i live in germany and i had to sue my father for child support 16 years ago. havent seen a single cent, he just didnt open the door for the bailiff and after a while claimed unemployment to get out of paying. i on the other hand had to renew the claim on child support every year to keep him on the hook. after a few years i realized that it just isnt worth it and to "just let it go" to get my peace of mind. he never would have payed and i had to go out of my way to try and make him.

[@Khiarika1]

10:44 - My dad did everything to treat this....except letting him come and stay with him. Both of this person's parent's were failures. And it's evident in the forgiving language he uses and the unfair blame he still takes on.

[@stephaniet1389]

Story 2: I'm an artist and good art supplies get expensive, but can also be very dangerous. I have some very toxic paints and would be calling poison control and hazmat if anyone got into them(paris green anyone?). Art supplies for children are highly regulated these days to be non-toxic, but professionals will prefer certain effects and lightfastness. What those spawn points did was not only entitlement to expensive materials they did not own, but also endangering the children with potential exposure to deadly chemicals. The loss of a work of art also makes my heart hurt. The whole story was a mess.

[@69mercurycyclone44]

Love that line "dropped a grenade in the middle of the family " that is perfect! Thanks!

[@rachelmcdaniel8999]

I've never heard of child support continuing through college...definitely not in the U.S.

[@sharyebethancourt3660]

I somewhat hate how story 1 ends. His family is trash. I’m glad she’s working towards NC.

[@luvondarox]

S2 Yo. Parents blatantly set their children on OP's property. The vandalism is their fault.

[@lux0rd01]

Story 2. I hope they add the cost of the work that was damaged into the small claim.

[@novastarlight3802]

I love the comment with the “Oh you think its okay the kids mess with OP’s art supplies? What if it was your make up in the bathroom? Your tools in your shed? And you with your games in your game room?” Hell, I recall went to someone’s house for a church function and one of the kids (not a relative or the house owner child) decided to go into the owners room. The door was originally close and us kids were told to stay in the down stair floor (it was like a basement that lead to the fence up back yard). But one of the teenagers got board and thought it be a good idea to take the fun on the second floor (where all the rooms are at). Well, he took the owners wife medicine out of their master room bathroom. When we all left, there was a report of the proscriptions missing and also, the mother of that teenager try to put the blame on me cause I was “different” and looked drugged.

[@DMFP42]

The "you're the a-hole" people on the marker story are all the entitled parents who don't take responsibility for anything they, or their kids do.

[@Saeiyu]

I love hosting events but one pet peeve I have as a hostess is people not being in the assigned party area. When I was a kid my mother was very strict about us staying only in the rooms we were invited to and never enter any room of a host's house unless invited. I had these highschool friends who were often invited to house parties and before I could pour my first glass of soda for the night they already knew which colour of socks the girl hosting the party had and how many. Ugh! I hate it.

[@sardonically-inclined7645]

Story 2: NTA "If it's not a big deal, take responsibility for what you let happen instead on making me having to hold you it. I value my things, even if you don't."

[@thotimusprimeofficial273]

The fact that you can tell that she got non hypoallergenic breeds as well despite knowing of op’s allergy. Like that could’ve been the BARE minimum.

[@wmdkitty]

Yes, because GOD FORBID he have to suffer a few sniffles and sneezes, right?

[@akl2k7]

@@wmdkitty It was more than that. He literally couldn't breath. How do you know he's lying, anyway?

[@kristagardner5288]

Story 2 I have a studio with professional oil paints (my most expensive tube was over $100) very expensive pencils etc...and my sister, neice(2) and nephew (7) often visit and the door does not lock. They have never gone in there because my sister has made it very clear to the kids that it is Auntys art room and off limits. If they ever do go in there and wreck stuff they would get in trouble but i wouldnt expect my sister to pay for it. However if my sister encouraged them to go in there and play I would give her the bill.

[@tobiasschumacher8602]

Hey, Mark. Your pronunciation of Wohngeldbescheid was actually pretty good.

[@MarkNarrations]

Haha glad to hear it :) Thank you

[@catpatrick3838]

Gotta say I love they cottage background art.

[@SwapnilBBagul]

I would contact non emergency police line for advice that what could be done with the situation. My mom has got dogs even when I have allergies and wouldn't listen.

[@helenbontje15]

I once worked with a woman who smoked & so did her husband. They have 3 girls who ALL had asthma. She would complain about how often they had to go to the ER because the girls would have bad asthma attacks. I asked her if she & her husband smoke In the house, she said yes. I asked her why don't you go outside to smoke if your girls all had asthma so bad, your smoking is making it so much worse. They didn't like going outside, so the girls suffered because they were too selfish.

[@sigisig3941]

Bafög is a help students get in germany from the state. When I was a student it was 750€ wenn you life on your one and it is the full set (this was 2019). what is in Berlin a flat one room already cost 450 or more. So even with Bafög you need to work, you only get it too when your parents are not so well off. So that is what the Bafög means, after 5 years you need to pay a part back not all what is nice too. For every Children German parents get 250€ per child.

[@darklightmagus1222]

Story 2: NTA. Guests are not allowed to snoop or enter any room that isn't communal without the permission from those that live there. I had a problem with this. My mom kept giving permission for my cousins and nephews to enter my room without permission until I talked to her about it. I told her that I want them to ask my permission. If I'm not around, they need to ask her and an adult needs to be with them in my room. It was annoying to deal with since I lost a couple of my Skylanders figurines and a couple of my game controllers started having problems.

[@TsukiKageTora]

Story 2: NTA. They didn’t ask to use anything and just started using and destroying someone else’s artwork and pencils. Like the parents couldn’t maybe ask OP and his wife about which supplies they can do art with and what paper they did. They were just ok with their untrained brats ruining art and art supplies from artists and get mad when the artists want to be compensated for the amount their kids destroyed. NTA, sue that bad father. Sue him also for the time and amount of supplies you and your wife used on artwork that those untrained brats destroyed.

[@anotherone1532]

Should have taken her to court

[@julessciamachy8429]

So awful! I can’t imagine choosing my dog(s) over my child! Insane! I’m so sad to hear how this mother treated her son. 😔😔💔💔 My heart aches for OP. 😔

[@Nicholem718-1]

It’s not ABOUT $375. It’s about the disrespect, violation of privacy, callousness, and lack of accountability.

[@historictruecrime5119]

Those comments really annoy me, because why does OP have to lock doors in their own house? Why can’t people just stay out of rooms that are not common? Brother-in-law dropped a grenade in the middle of the family with his behaviour, and his entitled attitude.

[@squidward6187]

I teared up a little. My mom isolated me too, made my brothers and my dad hate me. I was a very isolated child and because I wasn't properly socialized (they didn't really let me speak, I was often punished or mocked or talked over or just treated as a non-entity) I didn't know how to speak to people or how to make friends. Books were my only friends. So I could write really well and did well in school but for 29 years I was pretty much a loner. I found my voice in AA because cross-talk is not allowed, you have to let people speak even if you're "offended." You can't be a lightweight in AA. You're gonna hear some hard stuff. S2. Something I've noticed is that if certain parents are jealous of another couple they will use their kids to destroy stuff. It's very underhanded and abusive to use your children as weapons. My mom used my brothers as weapons to beat up the children of people she didn't like, including me. This was before zero tolerance so he'd be rewarded with a three day vacation playing video games. He thought he was king shit until he was 19 and kicked the wrong guy's truck and got his face smashed in. That taught him a lesson.

[@shebakoby]

Never underestimate the Narcissist's ability to be in denial about plain, hard facts. Which is why in story 1 the OP's mom either downplayed or ignored OP's dog allergy.