Ok ok ok. I think I’m on my way to figuring out the childcare situation. My mother in law will likely be able to take my son for two days a week, and my mom is going to ask her employer to reduce her hours. This is actually a blessing for her - she absolutely hates her job and is looking for a reason to quit. She just doesn’t feel physically or mentally capable of working anymore. So if this works out, she will be happier.

She gave me a heartfelt mini-speech on the phone. While she didn’t outright say it, I took it as an apology for how she treated me as a child and even into adulthood. She’s never acknowledged her less than stellar parenting. I’m happy. Even if she can’t work it out, just hearing her say that she wants to do better for my son and support me and my family NOW is heartening.

I can breathe easier, knowing I most likely won’t have to quit.