My Grandmother

My Grandmother lives next door to me. She had a servere stroke over 10 years ago now and can't use the left side of her body so is confined to a wheelchair. She's pretty independent really considering all her medical conditions etc. She lives alone, has carers every day to take shopping, do housework, and whatever else. I generally keep an eye on her, make sure shes taking her medications, is eating, that sort of thing. I also do things that it would be inappropriate for her carers to do such as her banking, tax return, specialist appointments etc.

Most people don't understand why I'm not her fulltime carer. Basically its that shes such a strong person and bulldozes people. Its a lot easier to get a new carer when she burns someone out, then a new granddaughter. Plus all she wants to do day in and day out is wander round shops. I hate it.

So today, once again I've had the conversation with her that goes something like this:

Nana: [sad guilt inducing voice] Toni's boy was sick so she wasn't able to come today, so I've been stuck in the house ALL day.
Me: Well, you know that a mum's first responsibility is always her children... You're alright for food etc?
Nana: Yes, I've got lots of [she starts naming stuff]
Me: That's good then, you'll be fine till tomorrow when Arlene comes.
Nana: If Toni is going to keep canceling I'll have to find someone else to do her days.
Me: For christs sake, her kid was sick...it happens. She's really reliable and she did two full weeks over Christmas when Arlene was away. It doesn't hurt you to spend one day at home.
Nana: I was listening to the radio this morning and the Warehouse is having a sale on tablecloths...
Me: I don't use tablecloths.
Nana: I need some new ones, you could take me this afternoon...
Me: I'm busy. Besides its not urgent nor important to go look at tablecloths.
Nana: You could take over Toni's days....
Me: We've talked about this before and you know I'm here for you if you need it or its an emergency. But I'm not prepared to wonder round the shops every day with you. Besides, we'd argue too much.
Nana: I only go shopping for things I need. Its not my fault that you're bossy...
Me: Riiiight... Anyways end of subject, its not happening.

Then I get off the phone feeling crappy...