<p><strong><em>There comes a moment when you realize your parent is no longer the one holding everything together. You are.</em></strong></p><br><p>In this deeply personal episode of <em>From Mrs. to Ms.</em>, Andrea opens up about navigating one of the most emotional role reversals many of us will face. Caring for an aging parent. As her mother’s health declines, Andrea shares what it really feels like to move from daughter to caretaker, including the quiet grief, guilt, love, and overwhelm that often go unspoken.</p><br><p>This conversation explores the emotional reality of care-giving for elderly parents, especially during the holidays when family dynamics, memories, and expectations can feel heavier than ever. Andrea is joined by her friend Amy Watts for an honest, compassionate discussion about anticipatory grief, setting boundaries without guilt, and learning how to care for a parent without losing yourself in the process.</p><p>If you are supporting an aging parent, navigating family responsibilities in midlife, or struggling with complicated emotions during the holiday season, this episode will remind you that you are not alone and that what you are feeling is valid.</p><br><p>Andrea also shares why this episode marks the final episode of the season and how she is taking time to reflect and thoughtfully revamp <em>From Mrs. to Ms.</em> before returning in the new year with renewed intention.</p><br><p><strong>In this episode, we discuss</strong></p><ul><li>What it feels like when the roles reverse between parent and child</li><li>The quiet grief of caring for an aging parent while they are still alive</li><li>How anticipatory grief shows up emotionally and physically</li><li>Navigating guilt, boundaries, and expectations as a caretaker</li><li>Why the holidays can be especially hard when caring for elderly parents</li><li>How to choose presence over perfection during this season</li><li>What this stage of life teaches us about love, loss, and letting go</li></ul><p>If this episode resonates, please share it with someone who may need it, leave a review, or send Andrea a message to continue the conversation.</p><br><p><strong><em>Timestamps:</em></strong></p><p><strong>00:00- </strong>Navigating the Shift in Parent-Child Roles</p><p><strong>02:57- </strong>Anticipatory Grief and Emotional Complexity</p><p><strong>06:05- </strong>The Impact of Aging on Family Dynamics</p><p><strong>09:03- </strong>Finding Connection Amidst Change</p><p><strong>12:02</strong>- The Reality of Care-giving</p><p><strong>14:54</strong>- Understanding Anticipatory Grief</p><p><strong>17:53</strong>- The Challenge of Boundaries and Guilt</p><p><strong>20:57</strong>- Communicating and Delegating Responsibilities</p><p><strong>27:29</strong>- Navigating Family Dynamics During Illness</p><p><strong>30:14</strong>- Guilt and Expectations in Caregiving</p><p><strong>32:34</strong>- The Importance of Self-Care and Mental Health</p><p><strong>34:14</strong>- Supportive Relationships in Times of Crisis</p><p><strong>37:15</strong>- Adapting Traditions and Celebrations</p><p><strong>40:53</strong>- The Reality of Grief and Love</p><p><strong>43:40</strong>- Finding Joy Amidst Sorrow</p><p><strong>46:03</strong>- Embracing Imperfection in Care-giving</p><br><p>Where to find Amy Watts:</p><p>IG: @SoSheDidLifeCoaching</p><p>Facebook: <a href="https://www.facebook.com/amy.selburg.3/" rel="noopener noreferrer" target="_blank">https://www.facebook.com/amy.selburg.3/</a></p><br><p><strong><em>Looking for Andrea?</em></strong></p><br><p><strong>Instagram: </strong>@from.mrs.2.ms</p><br><p><strong>TikTok:</strong>@from.mrs.2.ms</p><br><p><strong>Website:</strong> www.frommrs2ms.com</p><br><p><strong>Email:</strong> [email protected]</p><br><p><strong>YouTube:</strong> @FromMrs2Ms</p><hr><p style='color:grey; font-size:0.75em;'> Hosted on Acast. See <a style='color:grey;' target='_blank' rel='noopener noreferrer' href='https://acast.com/privacy'>acast.com/privacy</a> for more information.</p>