F-Laura-nce Nightingale

On Wednesday night I packed up a suitcase and left for three nights to help out my sister who was having surgery on Thursday morning. It was outpatient surgery, but still a big deal having to get her into Boston early, talk to the surgeon, anesthesiologist and nurses, and understand the discharge instructions. Once I got her home I had to get her settled, fill her prescriptions, make sure she ate, drank, peed and took her pain medication.

By Friday she was feeling a whole lot better and the demands on me were not so intense. As you can see from this photo, I had an exhausting afternoon reading my book and taking a nap.

I have to admit, I did feel a smidge guilty that Jason was home juggling the kids, work, the contractor and everything else going on. The last few days were a bit of a recharge for me though not having to think about packing lunches, combing hair, or checking homework. The only responsibility I had was to be there in case my sister needed me. A rare treat for a mom with little ones. Too bad my sister had to have surgery for me to have a few days of doing nothing. I don't know any mom who gives themselves permission to do nothing.

My mom tells me a story of a good friend of hers who used to give herself a day off when she had little ones at home. One day of the week was designated as her day and she wouldn't do housework, and would even sit around in her pj's all day if that's what tickled her fancy. She'd read a book, talk with friends on the phone, or watch tv. It was all about her. After the last two days I had, I'm starting to think my mom's friend was on to something good!