Post by Sleepy on May 9, 2008 9:10:04 GMT 1
It is important for men to remember that, as women grow older, it becomes
harder for them to maintain the same quality of house-keeping 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.
Let me relate how I handled the situation with my wife, Diane. When I
retired a few years ago, it became necessary for Diane 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 club 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 an 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 ageing is complaining. 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 lawn. 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 Diane. 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 ageing wife because of
this article, I will consider that writing it as well worthwhile. After
all, we are put on this earth to help each other.
Bernard Smith (retired)
harder for them to maintain the same quality of house-keeping 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.
Let me relate how I handled the situation with my wife, Diane. When I
retired a few years ago, it became necessary for Diane 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 club 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 an 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 ageing is complaining. 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 lawn. 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 Diane. 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 ageing wife because of
this article, I will consider that writing it as well worthwhile. After
all, we are put on this earth to help each other.
Bernard Smith (retired)
