Hey BG, know how you feel. My mother is in a hospice for respite at the moment, she spent the best part of July and August in hospital. I don't live nearby and all the going to work and then travelling up to the hospital, making sure she has everything she needs etc, plus we all have our own problems on top of that is all too much. I posted the other day "so what" about how it all became too much. I cried and cried, the person I was with I am sure did not know what had hit them!! It is not easy when you are surrounded by people who are only around for themselves and you find yourself listening to them all the time and when you try and say something about yourself, they just talk over you or change the subject. I know how you feel, if only someone would ask "how are you doing?" but then again, it is also a question I hate, difficult.

Are there no other family members to step in, even if it is not on a regular basis, just to give you a break every now and then?

Take care

((((BG)))) Sometimes it's those unexpected bits of kindness from people that can unsettle you most. And sometimes it's good to just cry, because keeping it in can be so painful - like letting a wound fester. I'm so sorry for what's going on with your MIL. I was wondering the same thing as Scars...is there some way you can get some sort of respite?

(((Scars))) I'm sorry for what's going on with your mother, too.

Big hugs to you both.

(((BG))))

Although you are embarrassed, being open emotionally is such a good thing, IMO. It helps us connect. The librarian connected with you. I would probably feel the same way as you do but I found it beautiful and touching that you were so open, she was so responsive and you got some much-needed support.

It's so kind of you to do what you are doing.

((BG)) I'm glad you feel better today. I'm glad the librarian was so sweet - sometimes when we don't expect it, people can hit that 'spot' if they are the right person, and it's the right time.

So sorry about your situation - I hope the stubborn subsides - I've heard tons of stories about how absolutely hard getting older parents to transition is.