The Return Home, Day 1.

My mom had knee replacement surgery on her right knee on Friday, June 1. She returned home from the hospital last night around 8 p.m. Let me tell you...I have a whole new respect for those live-in nurses. I can also see how caring for a family member who can't do much for themselves totally becomes a full-time job. It's been 11 hours, and I. Am. Wiped.

I'm used to cooking her meals, so that's really nothing new. But, I'm not used to playing housekeeper, waitress, and nurse. It's weird having to serve and clean up after your own mother. Then there's the injections twice a day (don't want to get a blood clot)...setting my alarm every 4 hours to administer pain meds (even through the night)...being at her side every time she gets up (because once she sits back down, she needs your help)...driving to PT...bathing her...dressing her...the list goes on. Not that I'm complaining. She's my mom and I love her and she more than took care of me when I was in a similar situation 10 years ago (along with the majority of my life...because she is, afterall, my mother). It's just a lot of work.

Also, it's hard to see someone you love in pain (to the point that she's crying). I'm used to me being in pain, but not used to seeing her break down. It makes me want to take her pain on for her. But, I know that's impossible.

It's only the first week, so I know it will get easier from here. I'm just glad I don't start work this week and have the ability to be here to help her.