Chin up! I find November in general is depressing I hear for a lot of people...I don't know why... for daycare I think it's the realization we have to put on all the toddler's winter clothes. Last week took 1/2 hr to get everyone ready and then someone pooped! I'm 49, and haven't really noticed any menopausal symptoms yet, but my diet is very clean...very little whites like flour and sugar, lots of veggies, hardly any junk and that has made a huge difference for me. I used to be arthritic but not anymore. I found it really hard to transition my diet (lots of google help on how to get rid of candidas) especially with 3 teens in the house. But now it's easier and they are adapting a better diet too.
One really good thing in your post is that you filled your spot already... that is definitely a positive... I've had spots go for months, although i'm in a very good place now with all filled. Can change in a heartbeat tho.
Not sure what to do on the phone thing - for a big ticket item, perhaps she can pay for half. Luckily my teens haven't asked for much but we went through a job loss this fall with my hubby and I think they are actually sensitive to that. I always tell my self in life that things could be worse. just look at the news.