In need of advice.....

[BlackJackal]

Alright, to begin with I feel really bad for even posting this because I haven't been able to find anyone else with the same issue, so that makes me feel even worse.

I have a stepson who lives with me and his mother whom I have been married to for 6 years and a daughter who lives with her mother and who I get to see every other weekend. I love both of them very much but lately, I have had almost no patience with either one of them. When we are together, they just get on my nerves and it makes me feel like a horrible father. I have tried keeping myself in check but I always seem to lose it and get into a bad mood ruining the day for everyone.

I really don't like my life being like this and I need some advice.

[Dadu2004]

Welcome to parenting my friend! I would suggest that you attempt to take a few days and you and the wife go do something...find a babysitter and go have some adult time. We all need some time away from the kids periodically so we don't lose our minds!

[BlackJackal]

I hate to say it but I do have adult time every other weekend. We don't have any kids every other weekends because they are with their other parents. My wife and I get along great on those weekends but the weekends with the kids I am stressed out to the max.

[Dadu2004]

My suggestion stands....seems that routine is getting old and you might want to get away and come back refreshed.

Another thing you could try is do things with the kids that you really enjoy doing...like for me, I love to play Wii with my daughter, so we'll do that when I want to have some fun too!

[bssage]

I agree with Dadu and would add

I get that way from time to time. Usually its because I am sleep deprived or have something else that is occupying my mind. Lately its because we have been snowed in, kids not feeling well and basically imprisoned in my own house. Familiarity breeds contempt.

What I am saying it typically, I am able to assign a cause to feeling that way. I try and put my energy toward resolving that specific issue.

A little one on one with each person might be some help. They can understand whats up with you and the other way around. Develope some "common ground"

Also if it's obvious that you are on edge I think it kind common to yank someone's chain to get a response. Its kind of a bad part of human nature.

You should at least find a little comfort knowing that almost everyone goes through this now and again. Its not at all uncommon. My Wife goes through it three days a month, every month.

[KojaksGirl]

I agree with Dadu... make plans to go and have fun outside of the house too. I don't know where you live, but Im in Michigan. In the winter, my husband and I take my stepson sledding a lot. In the summer, we hit the beach. Movies are always a good time, even if you just rent one and pop some popcorn at home.

[helenkong]

take it easy

[Mom2all]

How old are the kids?