Parenting kids while caring for an aging parent (or in-law) is a juggling act few talk about. It can be rich and meaningful, and also more than a little maddening. My mother-in-law, Elizabeth, lived with us for a decade while we were raising our 4 kids (2 with chronic illnesses) - with a new baby added in the middle of everything. Elizabeth and I both felt we were the “lady of the house,” and my husband tried to stay out of the battle - Once I even sent him to the store on Thanksgiving morning because SHE had reorganized the spice cabinet and hidden all the celery salt). There were moments of deep help (when the baby was born), love (she loved us all so much), and true connection - and also tension, exhaustion, and a constant push-pull of boundaries. Caring for elders while raising children stretches your patience, your space, and your sense of humor. I can walk with you through the balancing act - finding respect, boundaries, and grace when everyone’s needs collide.