Frustrated Son’s Perspective

I’m beyond frustrated. My mom has always watched my kids, but suddenly, she says she’s “too busy.” She wants to take dance classes and have brunch with friends instead of being there for us. My wife and I work full-time and rely on her to help with the kids. Now, she’s abandoning that responsibility to “enjoy life.”

Where am I supposed to find a babysitter? She’s retired, has nothing else to do, and yet chooses to quit being a grandmother when we need her most. She raised me, so why is she acting like this now?

Mother’s Response

Hi, I’m Mom. I wasn’t planning to respond, but here I am.

I love my family and grandkids, but I am not a full-time babysitter. After decades of raising children, I now want to enjoy my life. I gave my son love, support, and plenty of free childcare, but I’m 71. My knees ache, and I’d rather dance than watch Paw Patrol.

I’m not abandoning anyone—I’m choosing to live. If my son thinks I owe him free childcare forever, maybe he needs a lesson in gratitude.