Thanks everyone for responding, here is what I got from all of the posts:

1. Feel free to use controlled dissociation but do try to live in present time some of the time.

2. Remeber that they will probably need their own time too so don't be worried about get some for myself. In fact it is a good idea to even plan for those quiet times.

3. Busy hand work is a good way to keep things under control--I had forgotten just how wonderful it is to have a bag with a crochet project in it. Anytime I got anxious I would pull it out and work on it. I think it is time to go to the library and get a pattern to work on.

4. Remember my own inner strength and ability to use my brain to work things out. This too I forget often.

Thanks everyone.

Oh, and Heather, I am totally looking forward to getting my tubes tied for the very same reason. A week off from everything! Oh I can't wait. Hmmm, funny we have to look to surgical procedures to get the time off isn't it?
Carrie