the less detail explanation, the better. As with communicating with divorced co-parents, use BIFF -- Brief, Informational, Friendly, Firm.
As much as possible, you can communicate the positive of what you can do, rather than outright refusals.
"Mom, this week I can do a grocery run, Run a few loads of laundry, and take you to your appointment on Thursday."
"But...but...but..."
"You'll need to make other arrangements for that. This is what I can do this week."
"...[escalating protests and an insult]..."
"Bye, Mom."
Golly, this is good GaGrl. Thanks! I
should know this... Things got real crazy real fast when I got home from our family trip. Her behavior kept escalating and was just so overwhelming day after day that I lost my way, and the wisemind just stopped working. Thanks to everyone for all your thoughtful and practical suggestions. I think I'll be referring back to this thread quite often. Lots here to work on.
