Dearest Marti, I know exactly how you feel. Your post brought tears to my eyes. Not only did my dear, beloved, best friend, mom, pass 3 years ago, this past June (time flies), but her youngest sister, my favorite aunt, passed away Feb 9.

I feel your pain, as, I too, home cared my mother when she wasn't in the hospital or in rehab. Our roles were totally reversed. I never thought I'd change my mom's diaper. She was mentally alert, which, to me, made it easier, as we could still talk and laugh.
Unlike a lot of my friends, I was very close to my mom. I was invited to live with my parents to save money, and I never regretted it, as I had total freedom.

It gets better little by little. One day at a time. Sometimes, you'll lose it, other days, your fog will lift and you'll feel sane. I survive by remembering all the gazillion great memories. I still wear some of her clothes, remembering when and where she wore it. I know my mom is proud of me..she taught me well. And I'm sure your mom feels the same about you. (I miss my dad too, he was super, but mom and I had girlie times). Sometimes I think I feel her kiss my cheek and her arms wrapped lovingly around me.

May you find peace knowing your beautiful mother is healthy and happy, with her loved ones, human and furry.