I'm really really trying to not become the evil step mom. I known have a lot to learn about raising kids since I don't have any of my own. There are some things though that are just common sense. First of all my DH is a good dad. When we were dating I was impressed on how he handled issues with his kids. He always stayed calm and talked to them about things. Now that we have been married for 15 months Im getting tired of the talks because they don't make a big impact when I feel a big impact is needed. The kids learn that he will give them a lecture and thats it. No real consequence and no reason to change anything at all! When kids have been given expensive items like an Ereader and an Itouch and they end up under beds, down in the cushions of chairs, and where ever else and you keep finding yourself addressing the need to take care of things shouldn't there come a time when you take those items away at least for a time being? They are too expensive to be tossed about! I did a new years resolution to start letting go of things that upset me and it's hard! I've decided to get a gym membership to work off these frustrations! I sure hope it helps!