A True Partnership

I recently read an article in our local newspaper The Post & Courier titled Unfair Labor. Please read for yourselves, but the premise is that women carry a heavier load of duties at home than their male counterparts. As I read into the story a little bit, I was quickly reminded (yes, I already knew) that I have a very helpful husband and really don't feel like I carry a heavier load. Although I honestly will say that I think women in general do tend to do more around the house, such as cooking & cleaning, although in the Garrett household we are a true partnership.

It's pretty much always been this way, but since Mollie's arrival, we've had to be more specific in our duties and who does what, as to be as efficient as possible. Matt has always cooked for me, I think from the moment we met. I know, I know, he's a doll. His culinary degree sure does come in handy in our home or else we'd be having cereal every night or maybe a grilled cheese on a special occasion! I'm really not THAT bad, just don't enjoy cooking or being in the kitchen much. I do all of our laundry & sheets, as Matt hates that chore. He unloads the dishwasher, as I hate that chore. We have always been very considerate of each other and feel grateful for that type of relationship.

Our good friends & neighbors have a daughter 2 months older than Mollie. He's a doctor, therefore on call a good bit, which leaves the mom to do just about everything, whether weekday or weekend! On the rare occasion it's been just me for a full day/night I quickly realize how hard that is. I cannot even imagine how a working single mom does it--how do things even get done and where do you find the money to do it? The only time you'll be able to get any work or something else around the house done will be when your child is napping or asleep for the night. That's not much wiggle room. They've had such a hard time adjusting to that lifestyle that she is now going to be working just part-time so she is able to 'pay the bills, clean the house and go to the grocery store without their child!' If that's what works for them and will help her feel better about the balance in their life & relationship then go for it!! I'm happy that my friend's 'hamster wheel' will finally get off track a bit & she'll have some time for herself.

Take this week for example, I've had a couple things before AND after work which inhibits me from dropping or picking up Mollie. If Matt had any different schedule than he does, we'd be in trouble. How would we function and what would we have to sacrifice? How would we afford babysitters all the time outside of work hours? At night when I'm putting Mollie to bed, Matt's in the kitchen fixing our dinner. I just have to walk out and it's ready on the table. Maybe even a beer or glass of wine to accompany it as well:)

As the article states, "Men spend about 1hr and 10mins per day on all household activities, and women spend about 1hr and 55mins." To argue both sides, sure, I know some men who don't lift a finger...and I know some women who don't either! I'm so blessed that Matt and I both participate to what we feel is equal in our home. I love that Mollie will see her dad cooking in the kitchen and creating his weekly menu on our chalkboard. I love that she'll see me out in the yard trimming hedges or fixing a broken door knob. We do what we needs to be done around the house and help each other out, whether it's a coined 'mans job' or a 'woman's job.'