DEAR ABBY: For the past 10 years I have put up with my husband's manipulative ex-wife. I am tired of her using their boys as a way to get my husband to do things. Don't get me wrong -- I know my husband "has" to do things for his boys. But there are times when she could manage for herself without him.
Abby, this woman still keeps their wedding picture on her fireplace. My question is: Do you think she is still in love with him? -- WONDERING IN HOUSTON
DEAR WONDERING: Whether your husband's ex-wife is still in love with him should be of no concern to you -- as long as he is not still in love with her. She may keep the wedding picture on her mantle for the sake of her sons, as proof that at one time she was actually a size 6, or even that she was once loved by someone.
You have nothing to gain -- and a great deal to lose -- by harboring resentment against her. She will always be a part of your lives because she is your stepsons' mother, and she will be a grandmother to their children. If you are wise, you'll accept it, not obsess and move on.