My kids have the flu and we are staying home today. That sounds pretty normal, right? It's a huge step for me. I work for the family business. I never took sick days for myself, often covered for everyone else at my own expense. I would also set up a space at work for my kids when they were sick, and make them come in with me. It was "what we had to do". No it wasn't. I was trying to be the perfect daughter and the perfect employee. My kids had to throw up in a public space because I was so hellbent on perfection Today we're staying home. Sick in their beds where they belong. Throwing up in their own bathroom. I'm working through my anxiety about it (it's only 10am and I'm posting lol) ... but I'm doing it.

SarahGee, good for you. I have learned the small steps I take that are different than those that got me in my rut, these small changes are the most powerful and long-lasting. Huge TaDah changes I just can't sustain.
With that, I applaud you. Taking the day to tend your children sounds right.
Later I'll see you taking a day off to spend as you like.
I hope the whole family gets and stays well. Find something to enjoy on your day off.

(((Sarah))) - my hope is your kids all feel better this evening! Way to take care of you and what's important to you. I recently was reminded that when I pass from the spot in my journey, my tombstone will not ever say how hard I worked and how fair I was/was not. I need reminders often of what's truly important and you done good!

(((Hugs)))

Thank you! I was an anxious mess all day. But I did it. I stayed home. I have my son watered down juice, I scrubbed puke from the carpet and I snuggled in bed, colouring pictures. I had massive pangs of guilt for all the other times I had made them come in with me. I bought a blow mattress, blankets and pillows that I kept in the office for them. At the time, I did believe it was what was best. It was what was paying the bills. Soon realized after "other" staff members have taken a 2 year long hiatus and still remain on salary..... I can let my kids be sick at home. I will work through my own illness (maybe one day I won't do that either?) but my kids deserve to stay home. Feeling pretty bad ass and also a little terrified today lol