My husband has been annoyed at the growling and gnashing of teeth because he believes it's a step mom issue when really it's a hormone issue. It's amazing what a home is like when there are 2 females in the home going through a hormone change. Having a 13 year old in with a perimenopausal woman is not ideal but a common scenario.
I haven't told my kids anything about my menopause because I figure they won't have a clue what I'm talking about. I know what they are going through for the most part but they can't appreciate where I am because they don't have the life experience.
I have a greater understanding of where she is and realize that she doesn't know much about managing her cycle of emotions so I am patient. On the other hand, there is a certian level of respect that needs to remain in tact. We should probably get some boxing gloves and just duke it out but we all know girls can't let go like guys do. Guys address it and move on, females.. they tend to carry it around for a while like their favorite purse with everything in it.
I suppose it's timed this way so that I can remember what it's like to be on that emotional rollercoaster. I take it moment by moment, cycle by cycle and look for ways to help her manage her emotions in a positive way. I will get her on a good path to hormone health as she starts out.