Bob

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'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? 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 defense that he
accidentally sat down on it.