On parenting when you're starting to lose it

Is anyone else out there really starting to feel the toll of this pandemic and lockdown? Not just emotionally, but physically and mentally, too. I feel like I’m starting to crack, and I honestly don’t know how I’m going to power through the next few months. I’m not alone, right?

I’ve been taking near daily runs, which provide some respite and certainly clear my head. But I come home to the same house, with the same people and the second I walk in the door, I feel completely spent.

It seems that every cute quirk about the members of my family are now huge liabilities. My older son’s refusal to be wrong has become aggressively potent. My younger son’s clinginess has become stifling. And my sweet, sweet husband is just as spent as I am. We’re running on fumes.

And what about our kids? My older son is an emotional mess -- his mood swings are intense and he’s obviously hitting a wall. My younger son is showing his weariness by staying by my side at all times and saying “mama” like he’s Stewie from “Family Guy.” And then there’s that intense recognition of how fortunate we are: We have our health and those we know who’ve had coronavirus have recovered; we have a roof over our heads and the ability to eat what we want when we want it. We’re weathering this storm much better than others, which makes me feel tremendous guilt.

This is all to say that I’m dealing with roughly 300 emotions on a daily basis -- fluctuating practically by the minute -- and I’m sure you are, too. So perhaps my point is that you’re not alone if you’re struggling or if you’re doing OK! We’re on a roller coaster and I’m currently in a dip. Remember to breathe and take time (even literally a minute) to yourself. We will get through this... Or at least that’s what I keep telling myself.

If you want to share how you’re feeling, I’d love to hear from you: katea@huffpost.com.

Be safe and well, friends,

Kate

Sometimes you just gotta laugh

Just 40 completely fantastic tweets about homeschooling during the coronavirus.

Spot on

Totally relatable comics about quarantining with your family.

See more here

For when your kid is keeping you awake...

Reporter Caroline Bologna wrote this piece on talking to your kids about death and grief a few years ago, but it’s unfortunately very applicable now. I figured I’d share it with you again so you have it if you need it.