For Better or For Worse by Lynn Johnston for August 26, 2011

Jon, maybe she merely values her talents for what she considers them to be worth. Yeh, no big deal.

John’s a successful dentist. Why would he be concerned that his wife’s volunteer job pays nothing?

Because kids are expensive these days.

Sometimes it’s not about the money, but what you love to do. And, in any field, experience will never hurt.

Don’t worry, Elly. My husband was just like John at first. I began receiving quiet kudos in the community for my involvement in the schools, the religious community, the family shelter, etc… I may not be paid in dollars and cents, but my children have learned the lessons of giving that my being paid for that involvement could never have taught them. My family is proud of my work and I enjoy the fact that I am fortunate enough to be able to give my time, effort and skills where they are needed. You go, girl! Write about issues that have meaning and make that column count! John will come around and be very proud of you.

I can totally relate to this one (except I’m volunteering at the church and school). Glad nobody is bashing Ellie today. Playcare is apparently much cheaper in Canada than the US, but if it’s part-time, it can be quite cheap here as well- even very good preschools. It depends on the staff.

John’s reaction is actually really realistic. She is only doing part-time work, which even most very socially conservative people accept for women, once their kids hit about age 3-5. As long as it’s not a career, it’s considered like a hobby, disposable if it becomes inconvenient. But the truth is, she will be much happier overall and John and the kids will reap the benefits.

It’s good for Lizzie to start being with other kids and learn how to share and play with others. It’s good also for her to listen to instructions from other adults and learn new skills. The free-for-all that most parents have in their own homes isn’t always the best way to prepare children for life. Sure, when they’re babies, but Lizzie is older and can start learning new things.

Never do anything for free, Ellie! You write, you get paid. The End.

Sounds like a great deal — for the local paper. Getting rubes willing to work for free in exchange for just having their name and words in the paper.

Doesn’t Elly need to ask John’s permission to enroll Liz in Playcare since it’s his money that will pay for it?

dam*n dentist look out for the wife and say that’s…. wonderful

What does it pay? Pay?? IT COSTS!!

@JanCinVVIt doesn’t matter if it’s 1955 or 1995, she is not earning a paycheque & he is. It is HIS money unless he gives her permission to spend it.

Must be wimmin’s work.