Peanut Butter or Corned Beef Reuben?
Thursday, August 14, 2008  by Cindy Droog

This isn't really a post about food. It's more about life. 

My husband and I are in the Sandwich Generation, caring for our kids and our parents at the same time.

I don't talk about it much, because despite being a blogger, I'm still a pretty private person. But I just read a tip about successful blogging in Wired Magazine yesterday. It said: "Go a little beyond your comfort zone; share something you're hesitant about sharing."

So, here goes.

Hubby and I are responsible for his aging father (Grandpa Fred). We also spend as much time as we possibly can these days with my dad (Grandpa Don), who has inoperable Stage 4 Lymphoma. It's challenging to say the least, and our emotional roller coaster just took an upside-down turn when Grandpa Fred had a minor stroke last week.

I've always found the term "Sandwich Generation" rather funny, though. I'm the Peanut Butter Sandwich - mushy and clingy, especially since I've always been a big-time Daddy's Girl. My husband is the Corned Beef Reuben - a tough (toasted if you will!) exterior, and unmistakably strong.

I wish I could be a Corned Beef Reuben - just for a day. They might not be healthy for you to eat, but they sure get off the roller coaster unshaken. Any tips on becoming one?

Grandpa Don in his truck with A.J. (top) and Grandpa Fred holding Alec as a newborn (below).

Grandpa Fred with Alec


Comments

# Jessica Ellis said on August 14, 2008 10:30 AM:

Cindy - I've always seen you as a corned beef reuben! Actually, more like a sub sandwich with lots of fantastic layers...creativity, compassion, and incredible support for your friends and family. You're stronger than you think...

# Shannon said on August 14, 2008 11:17 PM:
Cindy - I'm not in the sandwich yet but know it is coming. I just hope that when you are done with the sandwich, you get to enjoy a cookie.
# Erik Easton said on August 18, 2008 12:35 AM:

I don't recommend putting to 2 Corned Beef Reuben sandwiches together, because then 1 of them is not needed. :) I am being serious, it is the differences that really matter between the 2 of you. I'm certain where your weak, he is strong and vise versa? Whalla! It's all part of the plan! Honestly, I struggled with this too, like many couples I'm sure, but then I read Personality Plus by Littauer and it all made sense. I guess that would be my tip, give this book a read. You'll laugh, you'll cry, and you'll learn a ton about personalities that you'll use all areas of your life. Hope this helps. I know it sure did me.

 

Thanks for the tip! Going to Amazon.com now to look for the book! - C.D.  

# bridget said on August 18, 2008 1:23 AM:

Cindy,  ok, I have sat here for several minutes thinking of what kind of sandwich I would be...  all I can come up with is a thank you for making me think a deeper thought than "did I remember to feed the dog?"  However, I also think you are selling yourself short on this one.  Peanut butter sandwiches are not only mushy and clingy, but oh so comforting in a stick to your ribs kind of way.  They fill you up and give you the energy to keep going much longer than other sandwiches might.  I think the main thing to keep in mind is that peanut butter is sticky and holds things together, much like you are doing now.  Plus you can pair it with almost anything (jelly, bananas, mallow cream) and it compliments.  Even if their exterior is soft and pliable, I think peanut butter sandwiches fair far better on roller coasters... in a stuck to your seat/let's go again kind of way.  Get it? :)

 

Thanks, Bridget (for this perspective and for being a great friend)! Please keep coming back and commenting. - C.D.

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