To add to the list of stupid injuries I've ever had: I needed to unplug a fan where the plug was in a hard to reach flat-to-the-ground power strip. Thinking that if I yanked on it right smartly and straight UP, it would come free, I gave it a try.

And it worked.. except for the part where the vigorous yank sent the plug end flying straight UP, hitting the side of my nose hard enough to leave a scab. I'm so lucky that it didn't hit me in the eye, or it would have been a much less fun night.

Theo, I'm glad your injury was superficial enough to just be stupid rather than a cautionary tale. Hopefully your mask will cover it?

Steph, what others already have said. Put on your own oxygen mask first.

Laura, please to not fall down or else we bubble wrap.

Today was my 12th anniversary at work, and I've celebrated... by being On-Call, having multiple meetings with Directors, and working for 10 hours straight with no real breaks except to jam food and caffeine in my face.

Congratulations? I mean, twelve years, that's pretty good, but that day is not really what I would wish for you.

I was just thinking how I recently made 7 years with my company and while I knew I couldn't take a sabbatical as such I was hoping for something kind of mini-sabbatical-esque somewhere along the line. So far it has been like an anti-sabbatical - more work to do, longer hours and less time to think (even about work!). Even my time off has been rushed and full of stress. And I have it pretty easy, compared to a lot of people.

Teppy, this whole situation sounds so hard. Please take good care of yourself. ♥

IMHO caretaking for dads can be the worst. I should know, twice I've taken care of a grumpy, sick old man who honestly feels disrespected and offended by his daughter/ in law taking care of business and telling him what to do, even when he is completely incapacitated, even when there is no one else. It seems to be about being allergic to the reduction in their lordly Dad Power...by a girl.

Fortunately for me, my dad was basically a good guy again as soon as he started feeling better. My FIL had a mean streak and liked arguing with everyone so I didn't feel too bad about stepping back so his wife and sons could drive him around.

So I say Patient Advocate is a swell option, especially if it's a guy. Old farts listen better to other men.

Steph, what others already have said. Put on your own oxygen mask first.

This advice has never been more relevant. We all need to keep this in mind.

This morning's nightmare involved bugs and the New England Patriots. Not good, brain.

Ewww. Sorry. We need to work on programmable dreams.

From a friend who lives in Allentown PA:

Well, did I have a big surprise tonight. I went to mail an important document in the mail room of my building. To my surprise the mail box has been removed. It looks as though we will not be able to post any mail from this building. I live in a 20 story building filled with senior citizens many of whom no longer drive a car. Isn't that nice. From now on we have to go to another location to drop mail. Luckily for me I still drive but I would prefer to do my mailing from the convenience of my building. I suppose it is to discourage voting by mail.

Or develop a good case of insomnia and stay up all night watching DVDs (I, personally, can't deal with new books, shows, etc.).

edited to add: responding to Dana and Laura