ABSTRACT
Why Gina is angry but hasn’t explained to Patrick: I don’t even know who I am anymore. I’ve lost the “Gina” I used to be; now I’m “Mrs. McDowell” and “Mommy.” I love those titles, but I miss my professional identity and the sense of competence and power that I experienced in my work. My brain has turned to mush after reading nothing more stimulating than The Very Hungry Caterpillar for months now. Yes, we agreed that one parent should remain in the home as long as the children were young; this is so important for children. But I can’t help resenting Patrick’s freedom to think only of his work while I handle all of the household and child-rearing responsibilities. It’s almost like Patrick has “abandoned” me. Not only does he work long hours, but he’s preoccupied when he is at home. I also feel shut out of financial decisions because Patrick earns all the money. It’s degrading to have to go to him every time I need to spend some money. That certainly keeps me from having any romantic feelings for Patrick. Besides, I’m so exhausted at the end of the day. Anyway, Patrick probably doesn’t find me sexy any more.
