Hi Rhonda,
Basically what it comes down to is that you don't want to do it, and you should never do anything that you don't want to do. Especially it is affecting your family. It is also adding a lot of stress on you. Don't People Please! I know that you may feel obligated to do this to help her out, but there are other options that she does have. Be truthful with her and tell her that it has gotten to be a little too much. You don't owe her an explanation other than that. She will probably try to manipulate you back into doing it, but stand your ground, and don't let her. Just tell her it is what it is, and if she is a genuine person, she will definately understand. If she is not, than it is time to move away from that relationship. I'm sorry to say, but if you don't stand your ground, she will only take it further and further until it ends in a nasty way anyways. She is totally taking advantage of you. I know that you are trying to be nice, which is always a great thing, but a lot of people don't appreciate that anymore. Sometimes you have to just look out for yourself and your family. A true friend will understand, if they don't then let them go. You should never sacrafice your happiness to please someone else. It causes a lot of stress that you don't need. Do not feel guilty about letting her know! It is her responsibility to provide care for her children not yours. I would however give her a couple of weeks to find something else. Make it very clear that it will only be for a couple of weeks!!! Otherwise it sounds like she may manipulate you back into it. Sorry for babbling on, I too did a lot like this, and believe me you are not a bad person for wanting to take care of yourself and your family. That is #1!!! Hope this helps and good luck!
Also, if you still feel bad, anyone that would put your children in jeapordy of catching ringworm without letting you know, doesn't have the best character anyways....That is not treating you with resepct. Sometimes you have to step back and look at the big picture.