I agree. I couldn't identify with the article, or The Price of Motherhood, either. Misconceptions was another book I had a hard time with. A lot of airtime is being given to upper middle class white mothers these days and the rest of us are still sitting in the dark, tackling our problems by ourselves.
There were definitely things in these texts that I could relate to, but as a whole I just can't identify. For me the issue isn't whether to return to work or stay home with my kids on an idealogical level, it is purely financial for me and most of my friends. With childcare costs as high as they are, I can't afford to return to work. I don't think I would, anyway, but it isn't even an option. Money buys choices, if nothing else.
I was reading a blog that says the article makes must more sense when you put "privilege middle class" before every Woman and mother in the article.
That said, my favorite quote is this one: "Nine hundred and nine women in Texas recently told researchers they find taking care of their kids about as much fun as cleaning their house, slightly less pleasurable than cooking, and a whole lot less enjoyable than watching TV."
I had a whole reply posted - basically agreeing with the ladies above but it sounded bitter and angry. But maybe that's what I am these days. It's all about choices people. If you want your husband to come home earlier then tell him - lower your standard of living - half of the consumerism is bullshit anyway. And btw there *is* part time daycare. There are ways and options available - it's the effort people dont' want to put in to find them. Yeah I like to bitch and moan as much as the next gal - maybe even more - but push comes to shove it's up to *me* to find a way.
Eh, anyways I like the article that followed it (not sure if what it is in your link - i saw it before somewhere else) I liked better - Slacker Mom. I encourage my kids to play - outside, inside, whatever. I feel no need to enroll them in every friggin' class available. Okay enough soapbox.
I had responses written to each comment but they vanished into 'this journal is in read-only mode' and didn't post successfully. And now I've decided that's okay because I was feeling attacked and getting defensive. So debate away and I'll keep my feelings and opinions to myself.
I did not mean to attack you!! I dont think you are any more privilaged than I am, that's for sure! I enjoyed the article and am glad you posted it. You know I fall into the "don't fit is either catagory." I have more to say but am having trouble forming coheisive thoughts. sorry.
Comments 7
(The comment has been removed)
There were definitely things in these texts that I could relate to, but as a whole I just can't identify. For me the issue isn't whether to return to work or stay home with my kids on an idealogical level, it is purely financial for me and most of my friends. With childcare costs as high as they are, I can't afford to return to work. I don't think I would, anyway, but it isn't even an option. Money buys choices, if nothing else.
Reply
That said, my favorite quote is this one:
"Nine hundred and nine women in Texas recently told researchers they find taking care of their kids about as much fun as cleaning their house, slightly less pleasurable than cooking, and a whole lot less enjoyable than watching TV."
Reply
Eh, anyways I like the article that followed it (not sure if what it is in your link - i saw it before somewhere else) I liked better - Slacker Mom. I encourage my kids to play - outside, inside, whatever. I feel no need to enroll them in every friggin' class available. Okay enough soapbox.
your friendly neighborhood welfare "queen"
r.
Reply
Reply
Reply
r.
Reply
Reply
Leave a comment