I said no

So... these days I am on overload - and then some.

Especially this week ....   my one day off being spoken for - going to see my Mom, who had her hip replaced today.

So much homework to do ...computers to repair .... classes to prepare for (first test this week - to give, not take)

 I'm tired. TIRED, even!

And then today, I was asked to give a reading of my work. I like to give readings. I like the recognition ...and the feedback. And I am inclined - mostly - to help out - to represent the university when I am asked.

So ...when I was asked, my first inclination was to say yes - and then figure out how the hell I could manage it... find someone to watch the mother in law,  when/how to get the computers done in spite of, when to finish my reading, and write the test and...and .... and...

And then I realized that this is not my problem.

Remembered a poster I have seen and liked - Failure to plan on your part does not consititute an emergency on mine.  I am sorry that they don't have enough people to read tomorrow night. But you know what?  Those charged with arranging for readers have known for some time. Nothing stopped them from sending out an email asking for readers when they found out.

I am on overload. And this week, what little excess energy - and mother in law sitting - is reserved for my mom and my kids.

And so I thanked them for thinking of me, but declined.... one days notice is just not enough.

Perhaps... next time... they will think to ask sooner. Or not... whatever... for this time I said no... and that was a very good thing.