Straight from the pen: Marjolein

Even in the most favorable circumstances I am not a laid back person. I am what you would call a perfectionist control freak. And it's okay to live with that. Although the characteristics that go with it, in a chaotic family with three small children, they do sometimes get in the way. But in normal life, I've developed certain survival strategies that keep it cozy for all five of us.

Unfortunately, in the past three weeks, a normal situation is of course no longer possible. And wanting to control everything perfectly for three weeks while everything is upside down takes its toll. That's why I was at the doctor last week with all kinds of vague complaints, which eventually turned out to be stress related. So extremely non-relaxed I was working with schedules, schedules and structures.

Although my husband absolutely supported me in my alcohol-free existence since January 2, he now said for the first time: "I think you should have a glass of wine". Of course I didn't want to know about that. But I thought about it and decided to go for it. This is not the time to strive for perfection, to try to control everything and set myself up for extra challenges. This is a time of survival, of good enough is also fine and of enjoyment when the opportunity arises. And that's exactly what I'm going to do now.

I wish all readers a lot of strength and relaxation in the difficult weeks ahead.