Shevie and eya, you guys are great...I am really, really, really happy I'm not alone in this. Well, not really ALL that happy, because I wouldn't wish this mental state on anyone (OK, maybe a few people), but grateful to know that this is...uh...normal...
Shevie, I don't think it sounds corny to embrace this. Actually, it kind of reminds me of when I had an abscess...I had to have it drained and about 2 feet of medical packing shoved into the wound every other day. I'd just kind of relax and let go and breathe...It was a lot easier to handle that way. So yeah...I get it.
eya, I'm really glad you posted, because I'm having a similar experience and it helped a lot to read your post. Earlier today I was even wondering if I would qualify for days off under the Family and Medical Leave Act! Then I remembered that I work as an independent contractor and that, like you, I HAVE to show up!
I can potentially take off Friday night and Saturday afternoon. I hate to do that, but at this point I feel that it's justified. I need to lighten some of my workload so that I can get through this.
Another reason I'm glad you posted is that you reminded me that, especially right now, I need to be my own best friend! I'm extremely prone to beating myself up, and I just realized how many horrible things I've said to myself this week... No wonder I'm crying my eyes out... I'm not even sure I'm allowed to repeat them on these message boards!
I think I owe myself an apology and some TLC...I will if you will!