It is important for men to remember that, as women grow older, it becomes harder for them to maintain the same quality of
housekeeping as when they were younger. When you notice this, try not to yell at them. Some are over-sensitive, and
there's nothing worse than an over-sensitive woman.
My name is Bob. Let me relate how I handled the situation with my wife, Debbie. When I took "early retirement" last year,
it became necessary for Debbie to get a full-time job along with her part time job, both for extra income and for the
health benefits that we needed. Shortly after she started working, I noticed she was beginning to show her age. I
usually get home from the golf course about the same time she gets home from work.
Although she knows how hungry I am, she almost always says she has to rest for half an hour or so before she starts dinner.
I don't yell at her. Instead, I tell her to take her time and just wake me when she gets dinner on the table. I generally
have lunch in the Men's Grill at the club so eating out is not reasonable. I'm ready for some home cooked grub when I hit that door.
She used to do the dishes as soon as we finished eating. But now it's not unusual for them to sit on the table for several
hours after dinner. I do what I can by diplomatically reminding her several times each evening that they won't clean themselves.
I know she really appreciates this, as it does seem to motivate her to get them done before she goes to bed.
Another symptom of aging is complaining, I think. For example she will say that it is difficult for her to find time to pay
the monthly bills during her lunch hour. But, boys, we take 'em for better or worse, so I just smile and offer encouragement.
I tell her to stretch it out over two or even three days. That way she won't have to rush so much. I also remind her that missing
lunch completely now and then wouldn't hurt her any (if you know what I mean). I like to think tact is one of my
strong points.
When doing simple jobs, she seems to think she needs more rest periods. She had to take a break when she was only half
finished mowing the yard. I try not to make a scene. I'm a fair man. I tell her to fix herself a nice, big, cold glass of freshly
squeezed lemonade and just sit for a while. And, as long as she is making one for herself, she may as well
make one for me too.
I know that I probably look like a saint in the way I support Debbie. I'm not saying that showing this much consideration is easy.
Many men will find it difficult. Some will find it impossible! Nobody knows better than I do how frustrating women get as
they get older. However, guys, even if you just use a little more tact and less criticism of your aging wife because of this article,
I will consider that writing it was well worthwhile. After all, we are put on this earth to help each other.
Signed,
Bob
EDITOR'S NOTE: Bob died suddenly on May 27th. The police report says
that he was found with a Calloway extra long 50-inch Big Bertha Driver
II golf club rammed up his backside, with only 2 inches of grip showing.
His wife, Debbie, was arrested and charged with murder; however, the
all-woman jury found her Not Guilty, accepting her defense that he
accidentally sat down on it.
Sheena.
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