Woman’s second job is good money

DEARABBY» For the past year and a half, I have worked a fulltime and a part-time job while attending school. I recently graduated from college and now have a career that has put me into a better financial position

My problem is, I’m still working my part-time job. My boyfriend, “Jared,” and I get into arguments over whether or not I should keep it.

I enjoy the extra cash, but I’m starting to feel like life is passing me by because I’m working seven days a week, usually 10 hours a day. I am exhausted, but Jared doesn’t want me to quit.

Jared doesn’t seem to understand that I feel left out when I work this much. I don’t have time to see my family or visit friends, something I feel he takes for granted. Should I keep this job and keep Jared happy, or stand my ground and live life my way?

— Exhausted in Iowa DEAR-EXHAUSTED» At the rate you’re going, Jared will work you into a state of collapse. I could understand his not wanting you to quit your part-time job if the two of you were saving for something special, but because you didn’t mention that, I am assuming it isn’t the case.

In order to have a happy, successful life, people need to achieve a balance between work and time to themselves. If Jared wants the extra income, then my view is that Jared should earn it. DEARABBY» I am in a quandary over a situation I don’t have any legal rights over. A friend of mine has two grandchildren. The mother of the children is neglectful. She didn’t take them to a pediatrician for two years. My friend baby-sits all the time and the kids know that she loves them, but she can’t take care of them full time because she has health issues.

I think Child Protective Services needs to know what’s going on with these kids. The little boy is VERY mean to animals and he’s not yet 5. If CPS is called, they will take the kids away and put them in foster care that may be worse than what they are currently in, but without the love from their grandma. Is there any way to help these children without causing more emotional trauma to them and their grandma?

— Concerned in Texas DEARCONCERNED» I’m not sure, but of this I AM certain: That little boy desperately needs to be evaluated by a mental health professional — the sooner the better. Children who hurt animals have been known to harm other children.

If Grandma can see that her grandson gets the help he needs, she should see that he gets it ASAP. However, if she can’t, and the neglect he is suffering at the hands of his mother is what’s causing him to take out his rage on animals, then Child Protective Services should be notified. DEAR READERS» It’s time for my “timely” reminder that daylight saving time ends at 2 a.m. Sunday, so don’t forget to turn your clocks back one hour before going to bed. (That’s what I’ll be doing.) — ABBY