It can be tough to manage combined families, and Carla is experiencing these challenges firsthand. She feels forced to care for her partner’s three children for extended amounts of time every day while his former spouse is at work. Carla was unhappy with her situation, so she sought our advice. My husband’s ex has a demanding work, whereas I am a stay-at-home wife.
This summer, she began leaving their small boys with me from morning till late evening since she is “so busy”. Yesterday, I informed her, “I am not a slave. I want $120 per day. $40 for each child. My husband was quiet, and his ex-wife appeared uncomfortable.
My husband smirked as she went, saying, “And I’m not a free provider.” I work all day to provide a nice life for you, and I cannot accept you treating my children like strangers. This is their house, too!”I became enraged and emphasized that being a housewife is difficult enough; I cannot care for three children who aren’t mine!
Today, I was surprised to see my complete belongings packed in boxes, with a note from my spouse reading, “Since you want to earn $120/day, maybe you can start buying your own stuff yourself.” My husband’s actions have left me completely insulted. This is not like him at all. Was I truly wrong to ask for recognition for caring for three children?