Thanks for sharing Cherie. That is great advice. The kids are here every other weekend and one weeknight each week. I have asked DH to take the kids out without me several times because it just got overwhelming. Even without the MS diagnosis it was going to be difficult, largely because I was living by myself for many years and had my own routine going on before I moved in. I like spending time by myself -- in fact I need silence to recharge. In the past 2 years I've developed a very low tolerance for loud noise, stimulation, busyness etc. I always wondered if this was MS related. I can't have the radio too loud in the car, or the television on, or I get annoyed with too many people talking at me. The kids always have to have the TV on, even when they leave the room, and it drives me crazy. But I've set my foot down several times. Oh yeah, and did I mention there is a "crazy" ex-wife in the picture? She was fine before we got married and then she snapped. Now she is another added stressor. And she is re-married with another child yet she is still acting out! Anyhow, I digress......thanks again for your story.