After two weeks and one day, the phone rang and was v. surprised to hear the UMFs voice on other end. And surprised self by being glad to hear it.
UMF: Hi, honey. How are you?
H: Um, fine. What's going on?
UMF: (Following usual 'the kids never clean up' complaints) Oh, well, I've been in a lot of pain. I hurt my back. I didn't want to tell you because you always say how fragile I am and I didn't want you to make fun of me.
H: Are you ok?
UMF: Oh, well I just haven't had much time to take care of myself, with your dad being sick. But they released him today. You knew he was in the hospital, of course.
H: Um, no. I did not. And if you say "oh, well" one more time...
UMF: Oh, well... I thought you were at least talking to your sisters.
H: No one told me.
UMF: They probably don't care...
Am horrible, horrible, selfish daughter. Seems doctors are bouncing between diagnoses of Congestive Heart Failure and Pneumonia. Am now rethinking Declaration of Emotional Independence and selfish resolve to decline Christmas visit to House that Crazy Built. After hung up phone, was banished to hot bath by Concerned Roommate.
CR: Are you sure you're ok? I wish I had some chocolate to give you.
H: I'm fine. Chocolate's against the rules anyway. Thanks, though.
Sat in bath til water was cold and toes resembled dried fruit. Climbed into bed, cajoled Reluctant Kitten into joining and was asleep by 10:30. Woke every hour. Guilt is stronger than caffeine pills, would seem.