Full-Time Grandma: When the Love for Grandchildren Becomes a Heavy Burden

Grandma FullTime: When Loving Grandchildren Turns Into a Burden
Id always imagined retirement would finally be my timeto read, knit, stroll through the park and enjoy the activities I never had a chance to pursue. Those fantasies vanished the moment the doorbell rang.
It was a Sunday, just before the autumn break. Standing at the entrance was my daughter Claire with her two boysThomas, 12, and Lucas, 4. No warning, no explanation.
Mom, look after the kids. Were heading out with Julien for a retreat. Were totally wiped out! she said while helping the boys take off their coats.
But I thought there were no holidays right now! And what about work? I asked, puzzled.
Julien got three days off. Mom, we have no time! she replied, and they were already gone.
A few minutes later the television blared, clothes were strewn everywhere. I tried to tidy upwithout success. The children refused the soup Id made because their mother had promised them pizza. I called Claire to tell her the boys were demanding a restaurantstyle meal.
Ill order a pizza for them. They never eat your mush anywayevery time its a battle! Take them somewhere, have fun! You yourself say they wear you out at home! she snapped, irritated.
And with what money? My pension? I asked, outraged.
Theyre your grandchildren, not strangers! I cant believe youd say that! she replied, then hung up.
For an entire week I cooked, cleaned, pleaded and endured. I truly love my grandchildren, but I cant remain the freeofcharge grandma any longer. The generation gap and my childrens lack of respect make the situation unbearable.
Ive given everything so my daughter could grow up happy, and now Im only met with criticism. Dont we seniors deserve a little peace? Why does everyone act as if our lives have lost any value?
Well, Im done staying silent.