Here's my take - scary situation, but you can do it. Leave the door open - if the guy sleeps third shift, he won't be getting up - guys, mostly anway, don't wake in the middle of the 'night' as much as women anyway. Also, when a guy sleeps days, he egts used to sleeping through lots of noise, especially with children around - my hubby did it for years out of neccessity. If your sister could bring the kids over, she wouldn't need your help - either find a way to do this, or let her know you can't, so she can look elsewhere. Suggestion - bring NEW crayons (something about these kids love) and blank white paper, a kids Disney movie for the days when you KNOW it's going to be bad, and colored paper they can cut (or rip) and glue. Anything they can do on their own will be a big help. Also, make lunches easy, and while you're ok, then store them in the fridge for later. I'm a stay at home mom of three, full time sitter of ten, wtih IBS D, so I know whereof I speak on this one. It's not easy and it's not fun, but it's do-able. Also, these two are old enough to understand at least a little if you tell them your tummy hurts and you have to go potty a lot - that they should just keep playing and you'll be back in a minute. Make sure you have sippy (non spill) cups filled before an episode hits, though - or they'll be in the bathroom wanting something to drink. For some reason, kids will wait for food much better than drinks!!! Also, remember that kids in some houses want to follow you in, but know not to follow anyone but Mommy or Daddy - remind them of that! If you want more ideas, or need moral support or to bounce ideas off me, feel free to email me privately - Like I said, I may not know a lot about many of the topics that come up, but this one is in my only area of expertise! I've been doing day care for the past 12 years, first in centers, then in home after my own kids were born. erwin5###prodigy.net[This message has been edited by bethae3 (edited 12-11-2000).]