I could never have related to this until recently. You are so, so right that you have to find a way to recharge your batteries, or burn out easily sets in. The last thing we want to do is become impatient and resentful directly to the person for whom we are caring. I keep reminding myself to consider how I would feel if I were in that loved one's shoes and transitioned from a strong, independent individual to one who can't function without assistance. We can only hope and pray that when we reach that stage of life, there is a kind and gracious loved one who will be patient and understanding with us--even if we are placing more demands on them than they ever imagined possible! I'm thankful for our time together--however long that may be, but I will take some ME time to recharge. It's the only way we can best benefit them and keep our sanity.