Speaking as a mom, I prefer the 5 min did it themselves jobs to the $4 cards from the store. To avoid these things in the future, your sis may want to consider that. I always keep card making supplies in the house for just such emergencies.

I am so sorry this happened to her. I too, can see why she is doing it but also how hurtful it is. Reading what Heather posted, my own ex-dh is making more sense now. His mom used to call him a jerk all the time, in front of people, and made fun of his anxious behaviours when he was a small child publicly. She also called him "child #3" and occasionally reminded him that he was the "unplanned one". I think maybe she had some BPD as well. She was certainly manipulative.

Did you talk to your sis afterwards? When my kids' dad does stupid stuff like this to them, I always pull them aside and say that although their dad loves them, he isn't very good at relationships with people. He didn't realize this would upset them. I agree he should have known but he didn't. I make up what I think he meant for them to take from it, sometimes I lie a little bit to protect their feelings. Or I tell them of something similar he did to me in the past that was meant a different way. It helps them. I just hope they keep believing me. As they get older, it is going to be harder to protect their feelings from his insensitivity.

Give your sis a hug for me! She deserves it!

Kristin
Alex 18-GAD, mood disorder, ADHD - Abilify Maintena 400mg
Matthew 16-ADD 40mg Vyvanse