Mel,
I understand where you are coming from with the kids. My 15yo is, I believe, a smart kid, but he will not show it. He does not do his school work, will not listen to Mary, Myself, or even Travis when he is given advice. He wants the world, but wants it on a silver platter. I am glad to see that Matthias is doing well in school, and that is not a battle that you have. But I understand the "Dad doesn't know what he is talking about" attitude. It seems to start somewhere around 11, they go "brain dead" (his younger brother is there now) and it seems to go on until they are in their 20's.
I am on your side about having issues because of not taking care of something simple, where it be add the heater, or a bit of treatment. I am just glad to see that no one was hurt, and everyone and everything made it home safe. Maybe this will help to show him that you do know what you are talking about.......
Being a parent is a tough job, and I am glad to see all the parents out there that do step up to the challenge and do the best they can. Some days it is hard, but it is all worth it in the end. We have 5 children, 15 - boy, 11 - boy, 10 - girl, 8 - girl and 3 - boy. Some days the 3yo is the easiest one to deal with.........