Dear Prudence,
Help me chew on this: I am a married working mom of two preschool-age kids. My husband’s married parents have us over for dinner each week, whereas my divorced parents just see us when they see us, often at grandchild drop-off or pickup when we catch up briefly. My parents and I text all the time as well. Grandparent assistance is absolutely appreciated and the only reason I am sane. Other than that, I have almost no time to myself, but I signed up for that when I had kids and I know this season isn’t forever.
Well, now both of my parents (coincidentally) have expressed that they want some one-on-one time with me. Not with me and my kids, just me. And I get it. I can’t ask for free babysitting and not nurture my relationship with them, but I also don’t know how the fuck I am supposed to add two more relationships to attend to and find child care for in my life. It’s not like I can have my parents over and my kids play quietly and independently while the adults talk (yet). My husband has offered to facilitate this, but his work hours are insane and he is just as burned out as I am. I have no idea what is normal or acceptable here—could you help me with this?
—Guilty but Still Burned Out