A couple of days ago, I was
talking to friends of mine who are having troubles financially, and physically,
balancing their schedules, finances, and family, with their heavy work loads. They are above the income threshold for childcare assistance.
They are indeed fortunate that their earning capacity is high. However, they still find it difficult to save, to spend time with their immediate family, and their extended family of parents. They juggle their work commitments so they can pick up, and drop off, kids to
They are indeed fortunate that their earning capacity is high. However, they still find it difficult to save, to spend time with their immediate family, and their extended family of parents. They juggle their work commitments so they can pick up, and drop off, kids to
daycare. When they are finally
home, they run out of steam! The projects at home are influenced by money,
and commitments to both their children, and their respective parents. Quite
often, leaving them the drudgery of the general running of the household and day to day maintenance ie.
cooking, cleaning, mowing, ironing etc. All these things need to be done
but, there is very little time spent doing things that give them pleasure as a
family and indeed, as a couple.
Firstly, I asked of them were their parents active? Do they get along well with
their parents? Do the children enjoy the grandparent's company? Do the
grandparents live within close proximity to work or home? The above boxes
were ticked with a favourable- Yes!
Ok, I am
gay and have no children to pick up and drop off and I realize that not all
families do have all boxes ticked, like this couple. But, to me an
obvious question is, 'Why don't they utilize at least one of the problems they are having trouble to organize?' The problem that is giving their parents
quality time with the grandchildren and, indeed allowing themselves time that is not
so rushed with their own parents.
I think from time to time, we think that parents are beyond their use by dates! Maybe, we think that they deserve their time alone - this is their time! So, why do
you hear parents complaining that they never or hardly ever get to see their
kids and grandkids? It is a discussion every time you enter the waiting
rooms of doctors surgeries. Quite honestly, I feel sometimes these people
go to the doctor so frequently because it is an outing. Seems to be, there
is nothing they need to be home for. Slanted and judgemental I
know, but my pool man who is 75 says its like God's waiting room. He says
all he and his wife have to think of is their food and then go to the
doctor to see what may affect them after eating it.
Yes I am extreme, but, taking on board what my old friend the pool man has said, and what this couple have discussed, I see a simple solution to their dilemma that may be rewarding both financially and physically.
The children's parents benefit too, financially and physically! They don't need to run like mad hatters fitting in to schedules and closing times. They get to see their parents for longer when they pick up the kids or the grandparents drop them home. Thus leaving them more time for things they want to do on their precious weekends.
To me it is a win/win. If you are confident with the grandparents and the grandparents are confident with the arrangements just go for it. Life will become much better, and who knows, your kids may teach you how to make the best God damn apple pie there is.
My thoughts!
Cheers!
Bitchescoz
Contact: luke65mcbride@gmail.com
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