NOTES FROM A THOUGHTFUL HUSBAND
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 Rob. Let me relate how I handled the situation with my wife,
Annette. When I took "early retirement last year, it became necessary for
Annette to get a full-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 a reasonable option.
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 my of 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 Annette. 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... Rob
Originally Posted by LX-1
