[LiteraryLark]

I quit smoking 5 days ago and I quit drinking 9 days ago and I haven't been very nice to Elwood. I yell at him when he wants to play and get very annoyed with him even when I know he's not trying to get in trouble. I've got a short fuse lately and am very irritable.

I feel so guilty and so sad about this. I know it is because I am having physical withdrawals that I am in such a bad mood. I want to work on being more patient with Elwood and remember that he can feel my energy and emotions even if I can't explain it to him for him to understand.

How do I be kinder to Elwood...AND to myself?

[LiteraryLark]

I think I put this in the wrong section...

[lizardlady]

Lark, are there times when you don't feel annoyed? Maybe you could play and cuddle Elwood then?

Or....
Maybe playing with Elwood or cuddling him when he comes to you would help distract you?

[*Beth*]

I'm sometimes short-tempered (impatient) with my cats in the morning because I'm crabby when i wake up. I feel absolutely awful about it, as I believe they deserve only love and gentle, patient care. I do the same thing I would do with a young child...I close my eyes for a moment and make myself take a couple of good, deep breaths. Relax my shoulders, straighten my posture, and approach the situation with more dignity and love.

[lizardlady]

Excellent idea Beth!

[SybilMarie]