Bob's Story

[KB]

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

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 anice,

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 September 27th. The police report

says that he was found with a Calloway extra long 50-inch Big Bertha Driver

golf club rammed up his arse, 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 defence that he accidentally sat down on it.

[Johnkaz]

Thar poor guy, he gave everything and died because life is just a pain in the [censored].

Bob R.I.P

Cheers Johnkaz.