Fathers don't have the money

When it comes to bidding for Mama's heart, fathers just can't compete. All they can pay is a roof over her head and food on the table and clothes on her back - and that's not much in the currency of this economy. Children (and later grandchildren) have hugs and smiles. That is why, in Mama's day, Daddy usually falls into the "when I get around to it" category - AFTER the children and grandchildren are taken care of. Father's just don't have the money to compete in that auction.