I like that one!

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If the kids get to the phone first (start teaching them not to answer without permission?), and your mom starts into one of her critical lectures, tell her "I'm sorry, but I do not have time for one of your lectures today." or "I'm sorry, but I don't have to listen to you talk to me that way."

She won't like it, but it might be a wake up call. I have a verbally abusive father and it wasn't until my sister FINALLY told him she wouldn't take him talking to her that way anymore that it stopped. She's in her 50's!

Omg, I have a long lost sister because that sounds exactly like my mom. Screen your calls and tell the kids they are not allowed to answer the phone. My mom is the type to turn a scratch into an oozing fatal wound. I feel your pain.