Advice from a retired husband


Swamphunter

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ADVICE FROM A RETIRED 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 Jerry. Let me relate how I handled the situation with my wife,

Pat. When I retired a few months ago, it became necessary for Pat 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 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 Pat. 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,

Jerry

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