I’m Beyond Frustrated: When My Mom Chose Dance Lessons Over Babysitting, It Felt Like a Betrayal
My mom has always been the go-to for watching my kids—that’s just how it’s always been. My wife and I both work full-time, and especially with the little ones, we depend on her. So when she suddenly decided to step back and “enjoy life,” it hit me like a punch.
What about our life?
How am I supposed to afford a babysitter on our budget?
She’s retired. She has time. So why does she think she can just walk away from being a grandmother whenever she wants? She raised me, so now it’s her responsibility to help raise my kids. That’s family, isn’t it?
I don’t understand how she could just choose herself over us like this.
Mom’s Side of the Story
Hello, everyone—Mom here. I wasn’t planning to say anything, but since this is out in the open, I’ll share my truth.
I love my family deeply. I adore my grandkids. But let’s get something straight—I am not an unpaid, full-time babysitter.
I spent decades raising my own children. Now that I finally have some time for myself, I refuse to spend my golden years stuck at home changing diapers and wiping away endless snack messes.
I’ve given my son everything—love, support, and yes, years of free babysitting. But I’m 71 years old now. My knees ache, my patience wears thin, and honestly? I’d rather be gliding across a dance floor than sitting through another episode of Paw Patrol.
I’m not abandoning my family. I’m simply choosing to live a little while I still can. And no, dancing and brunch aren’t acts of rebellion—they’re the small joys I deserve after a lifetime of giving.
I’ll always be there when it truly matters. But if my son thinks I owe him childcare for life, maybe he’s the one who could use a lesson—in gratitude.