These stages of the recovery process will make you laugh–and help you return to the real world.
Stage 1: Joy
1 of 9
When you've gotten the kids out the door and on their way to school. You love them and all, but now you can return to a world of conversations with other adults and/or watching trash TV.
Stage 2: Disbelief
2 of 9
When you turn around and realize the house is still a complete mess of wrapping paper, discarded toy packaging and said toys. Everywhere.
Stage 3: Bargaining
3 of 9
When you convince yourself to leave the decorations up for one more day.
Stage 4: Confusion
4 of 9
When you realize you're not sure what day it is, who you are or what you're supposed to be doing.
Stage 5: Disappointment
5 of 9
When you realize the break's over for you too, and you have to go back to work.
Stage 6: Regret
6 of 9
When you're on your way to work and you realize you miss your kids already and feel totally guilty about that initial feeling of joy.
Stage 7: Coping
7 of 9
When you force yourself to be positive once you're back at work and master the fake smile.
Stage 8: Plotting
8 of 9
When you realize spring break is only two and a half months away.
About the Author
Discuss This Article