Snappity snap

Yesterday was a rough day. I didn't get enough sleep the night before and as a result was easily irritated by silly things. And from there it's a downward spiral everytime. Because almost without fail, my kids' moods reflect my mood. 

You know what I'm talking about, right? 

If I snap at them, they snap at each other, and then I snap at them again... And before you know it at least two kids are yelling at the top of their lungs and/or crying. In addition to little hands and feet being used to attack each other's faces. It can go from calm and cool to crazy quickly. And I pretty much want to tear my hair out. Good times.

Until, of course, I snap out of it. 

It usually takes me stepping back, taking a deep breath, and using a calm, kind voice to alleviate the tension. 

After the fact, I often wonder why it can take me so long to make the switch. I know it has to be me. But I let the chaos get the better of me too often and for too long. 

But knowing is half the battle, right?