I am home.  And I am fine.  My skin rash is a bit worse but otherwise, I feel pretty good—and some good lessons came my way during the past few days.

I learned that I can let go of my responsibilities and that life goes on.  In the hospital, I had control over nothing.  There was nothing I could do about my health, my kids, my house.  Despite this, everything is fine.  I got well.  My kids did great.  And my house is just as I left it.  This is largely due to John—who became a full-time dad and excelled at the job.  He even kept the house clean, did the laundry, and found time to visit me at the hospital—thanks to my mom who filled in when John was away.  Thank you John and mom for taking over and for keeping Joey and Danny so happy.

Thank you also to my friend Bev who watched Joey and Danny today so John could work and my mom could be with me at the hospital.  Joey and Danny have been left with non-family members on only a few occasions.  Joey has loudly protested each time (Danny does fine).  So I've protected Joey and have avoided leaving him.  I predicted today would be a challenge, and it made me nervous as I watched the hospital clock this morning in anticipation of Bev's arrival at our house.  But there was no protest.  Joey welcomed Bev, allowed John to leave for work, and played like he always does.  I am so relieved.  And I am so happy to be home.