Bob's Story...
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 oversensitive, and there's nothing
worse than an oversensitive 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' Grill at the club so
eating out is not reasonable. But 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 January 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 butt, 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 defence that he
accidentally sat down on it.