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I participated in the farmers market yesterday. I made a beautiful table skirt and took a vase of flowers. I had my hand work along, (i don't like to be idle). I talked to several people who were care giving for a family member full time. One young woman had no respite  help, often family members do not help out or not every effectively when they do. It's kind of like going away leaving your partner and kids, coming home and having all the laundry, dishes to do, garden to water etc. waiting for you only more. The other problem we discussed was the elder can get very particuliar about who they will allow to help them. Often they won't venture out when the opportunity arrises, so the burden on the main care giver gets even heavier. There are programs and support groups available. Just being able to share your story with others and realizing you are not alone, your feelings are not bad and you are really doing a great job care giving for your loved one can make a BIG difference. Start your own support group in your area, you'll be surprised how many people will thank you. Perhaps a collective day care for elders to get to take a break and provide inter action for your loved one at the same time. I am a big believer in getting things going. If it doesn't  exist, begin. It can be helpful to share with your loved one that you need some time. If you don't take care of your self you can only keep going until you are exhausted or get sick or hurt physically. Learn to delegate with family members, specificaly communicate what needs to be done. Sometimes others don't step up to the plate or simply don't know what to do, or maybe they don't want to offend by washing the kitchen floor while sitting with Dad while your out. Communicating in a non judgmental manner is very important.

I enjoyed my afternoon at the market. I choose to network with the people of my comminity. It's been advised that i network with social workers etc. Very good advise, how ever I want to work for my client and not the establishment. Most times the client knows what they need and what they feel comfortable with. Insurance and libality fear has affected the quality of care too much. I don't choice to live and interact on fear based life. Mindful living is about living now and finding acceptance for where we are and joy in these moments.