Help! My Retired Mom Prefers Dating Over Babysitting Her Grandkids

Hey everyone,

I really need some advice here. So, my mom, Ella, recently retired and I thought she’d be more available to help me with my kids, Kinsley and Zachary. But instead, she’s been super busy going on dates and enjoying her newfound freedom. I totally get that she deserves to have fun and live her life, but I’m feeling a bit overwhelmed and could really use her help.

The other day, I asked her if she could watch the kids for a few hours while I ran some errands. She responded with, “Why do you think that just because I’m retired, I have to babysit your children?” It kind of stung, to be honest. I mean, I’m not asking her to be a full-time nanny or anything, just a little help here and there.

Nathan, my husband, thinks I should just hire a babysitter and let my mom enjoy her retirement. But Raymond, my brother, thinks Mom should be more willing to help out since family is important. I’m torn between respecting her freedom and feeling like she’s not there for me when I need her.

Has anyone else been in a similar situation? How did you handle it? Should I just back off and let her do her thing, or is it reasonable to expect a bit more support from her? Any advice would be greatly appreciated!

Thanks in advance!