Dave'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 over-sensitive, and there's nothing worse than an
> over-sensitive woman.
>
> My name is Dave. 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 ageing 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
> 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 Debbie.
> I am 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 was well worthwhile. After all, we are put on this
> earth to help each other.
>
> Signed,
>
> Dave
>
>