Jesus Said:

Is there hope for them?

We Answered:

It sounds like the bio-mom is a bit of a nut case. Did you tell her you were paying for 1/2 of the speech therapy in lieu of the photos? I got the impression that the 2 of you felt she needed help with her speech and you wanted the b/m to pay for half. If you have a court order stating you split the uninsured medical expenses 50/50 then she has to pay half. If she doesn't, turn it in to the friend of the court. Believe me, she would do that if you didn't ante up. And your hubby is right. He pays child support for food, clothing, shelter, and incidental day-to-day expenses - like school pictures. Maybe if she wouldn't be such a wiener head, he'd help out with those too? It sounds like you've got your hands full with this one. AND it sounds like you are a really great person and an awesome step-mom. Hopefully things will work out for you. Keep plugging away, it sounds like you and hubby are doing the right thing, the best you can. Kudos.

Lois Said:

Is there any compromise here?

We Answered:

It's all about priorities. She sees the photos as more important than the speech therapist, any sane person would not! Would it be possible to bring the mother to the therapist so that he may answer any questions and concerns. The mother may think her daughter is fine and will catch up, the therapist could change her thinking. It would be in the best interest of the child if you kept paying for these lessons. Speak with a layer and maybe they can help get the cost of the lessons taken out of his weekly child support, that way you wouldn't have to ask the mother for the money. The court ordered half of all medical then she HAS to pay $17.50 per session.

School pictures can be important also, many people like to make a wall of their child's growth. She (mother) could also want to have them done so that she appears to be normal and a good parent. If she wants money for that then make sure you get to agree on which photos and how many, then take half of all photos. I'm sure you, your husband and your step-daughter would like to look back on those photos when she is older.

Dealing with an ex can be very trying at times but you must remember that the child must come first. My parents divorced when I was 3, my father got custody, he remarried 2 years later. Whenever my mother would come visit she would try and bash my parents, I knew that my father and step-mother were doing an excellent job. All you can do is take the high road.

Best of Luck!!