House Mom

12809

Ask if there’s anything you can do, but don’t insist on doing any one specific thing.

Having people at the house everyday is pride retching. Sometimes the house is clean and tidy. Sometimes it’s dusty and cluttered. Sometimes I’m in a good mood. Sometimes I’m in a bad mood. And these people get to see it all. It’s not fair.

We have a lot of people who love us. It’s a good feeling if you step back and think about it. A really good feeling. Unfortunately, on the day to day, it just feels smothering:

“If there’s anything I can do at all…”; “Ya know, have you guys considered…?”; “What can I do?”; “Maybe Sherie would like this...”; “Don’t you hesitate to ask if…”; “I was reading this article and maybe you guys should…”; “Does Reuben need to go outside?”; “How’s your mom doing?”; “Is there a good day I could come by for a little visit?”; “I think Reuben wants to come in.”; “Is there anything I can do?”; “What will your mom eat?”; “What can I get for you guys?”; “Is there anything you need?”

Yeah, I need a god-damn break from everyone’s questions and suggestions!

The worst is when people, and I won’t name names, volunteer to do specific things. Yes, it’s nice that they’re offering their time and care. But what they don’t realize is that they are also offering up their observation of something we’ve missed or neglected. Well, really, it makes me feel like shit. Like I’m not doing my job.

Ya know, if I could drop in on someone mid-week, out of the blue, I’d love to see what their house looks like. Piles happen for god’s sake! Dust happens! Dirty toilets happen! Laundry accumulates. Flowers die. Dogs shed hair. Spiders build webs. Crap! Houses get lived in. Especially when someone is sick!

For christ’s sake. I’m doing the best I can.