Long Day

It's 10:28 and I just got home. I have started a new routine of going to my moms in the morning and waking her up and making sure she gets breakfast and her meds. Pam, my sister in law goes at noon, and I go back after school and in the evening. We just started this this week. Good thing.. this morning I went in and some time in the night she had fallen and couldnt get up. She is so confused and weak. It is sad to see my mom like this. My mom has always been such a strong woman. I think she is tired of fighting - and rightly so. Since dad passed in December she has gotten progressively worse. I spent the day in the doctors office and then on to the hospital. My brother is staying with her tonight and I will return in the morning. I also have an appointment with her doctor in the morning to talk about what our future with mom looks like. I hope I am ready for his answers.

When I found mom on the floor Randy was already out of town at an all day dentist appointment. I didnt even call him . I didnt want him to turn around - he has waited a long time for htis.

Devin came in at the last minute to help Ms Beth. Since things have been such chaos today, I have talked to Beth but not specifically about the activities the kids did. I can tell you what was planned though.

Today the children enjoyed " The Grouchy Lady Bug " . In circle time they talked about " what makes YOU grouchy?" They also made a lady bug from a paper plate. I am sure they enjoyed many other fun things with Beth and Devin . I wish I could elaborate more.. but I cant. I do know they had fun learning and were safe... as they always are when we leave - or.. we wouldnt leave.

QA? No, they havent come yet . Ms Beth is scared to death they will show up tomorrow. I had a little talk with myself this afternoon. My mom needs me now. I can't stress out every day , especially in this type of situation, worrying that they will come and I wont have that high score I normally do. So what if it isnt perfect? One day when I am gone is not a reflection of the absolute passion I have for my job. If you are thinking , Debbie, are you NUTS and think you can't be replaced? No... but if you knew the mental checklist I have to go through EVERY DAY to make sure I am meeting all the requirements, you would understand. First, the environment is set up - easy one.. as long as it stays that way. :) No, it isnt just making sure they have enough. There has to be 32 soft toys - 2 per child. Two sets of blocks , art materials from 4 different groups... the list goes on and on. Then there are the provider issues - like help 2 children solve a social dispute, comment on a child's art work that is displayed, use music at some time other than group time, etc.... See my pain. It isnt as easy as saying be nice to the kids and keep them safe and oh yeah..read this book. I have every faith that Ms Beth and Randy will do their best job and I have to be satisfied with that. Looking back - I know I wont regret it.

When you say your prayers - throw in a little extra one for my mom - and me if you have time.