Are You Part of the Sandwich Generation?
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Sandwiched Between Kids and Parents?
Many of us find ourself in the “sandwich generation”. Since a lot of us had children a bit later in life, we find ourself still caring for kids. Meanwhile, we are very happy to see that are parents are living longer. But as they grow older we need to also devote some of our time to caring for them. I have had this experience, and believe me, it can be tough. It isn’t just the issue of time, but sometimes one generation, kids or parents, resents the time we need to spend caring for the other generation. We find ourselves caught in the middle. As if we didn’t have enough things to feel guilty about! If you are part of the “sandwich generation” you know what I’m talking about!
Indulge in a Little Convenience
Maybe it’s time to go ahead and hire a cleaning service rather than try to clean up after Junior and Senior. Also, many grocery stores sell some really good prepared food these days. The other day, I saw my local market had cooked roast beef on sale by the pound. When you count shrinkage and all, the price per pound was barely more than preparing it at home. When you consider the time it takes to make a roast, taking home a couple pounds of prepared roast and some bagged salad really isn’t that extravagant!
And it may seem like common sense, but try to combine activities when you can. Your dad probably won’t mind attending the kid’s band concert, and may even be very pleased to be included. Your daughter can certainly combine her own shopping trip with Mom’s outing at the mall. If your daughter doesn’t agree, then maybe it’s time to explain that grandma is a person too!
Make Some Time For Yourself
And don’t forget. You’re a person too. Once in awhile, slip away! You love your parents. You love your kids. But you need time with friends too, and you deserve it! When you explain that you would really like to spend some time doing what you want to do, everybody will proably be happy to accomodate you. If they don’t understand, then you’ll just have to be firm that Tuesday night is poker night or movie night, some of your friends complained that you had been neglecting them, and you miss them too!
sandwich generation, aging parents, grandparents, children
Technorati Tags: sandwich generation, aging parents, grandparents, children
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Comments
One Comment on Are You Part of the Sandwich Generation?
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PMullaly on
Mon, 10th Dec 2007 5:33 pm
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Let me know. Pat, editor@midlifejourney.com
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