I used to think that single, adult daughters who lived with their single moms (divorced or widowed) were a sad lot. But I had an epiphany today: If mom and daughter enjoy each other’s company, and respect each others’s space, why not be roommates?
Of course, lots of moms and daughters like to spend time together, but wouldn’t survive a week living under one roof because their lifestyles are wildly different. Daughter likes the TV or radio on all the time; mom wants quiet. Mom leaves dishes in the sink, crumbs on the counter and clothes on the sofa; daughter is obsessive compulsive about order.
Not all single women want to live alone, even if they have great careers and loads of friends. Living with their mothers could be a fine alternative to living with friends.
My “maiden” aunt Sylvia lived with her mother (my grandmother) until grandma died. Back in the day, most single women were expected to live at home. Today, they’d feel demoralized to stay with their moms. But when they marry and become moms themselves, they’re usually thrilled if mom moves in to help.
Go figure!
0 Responses to “Meet my roomie”
Laura Borud says:
My son and I moved in with mom after my husband left me (for a much younger woman) and my father died. What was only supposed to be temporary has become for the rest of mom’s life since she is getting older and my now adult son is such a big help to her. While he was growing up I had to bite my tongue a lot (!!!) and alter my lifestyle to accommodate her more domineering personality but now I am living my life as I wish, more or less, and after 30 years have finally met and fallen in love with a man worthy of my love. We share expenses, I cook, do laundry, and take care of the yard, while she does what she can. I treasure my time alone in the house but am glad I made the decision to stay.
Kate Line Snider says:
It is nice when mothers and daughters can get along so well. You would have had to pay me ( a lot) to get me to live with mine!
Geri says:
That is one funny line, Kate.
Kate Line Snider says:
I was serious!
Geri says:
I knew you were. It was still funny. You made your point in a funny way, which I appreciated.