Day 11: An Unlikely Sanctuary

 As an older sibling, a mother, and a popular friend, finding space to be alone has always been a sort of Holy Grail.

When I was younger I often sought out a hiding place to read without interruption. Most of the time I could climb in the space behind my bedroom door and prop it against the open closet door to make a triangle of space that would be easily ignored. Unfortunately I out grew it quickly.

A closed door seemed to work well as an adult. Roommates, parents, and others understood the policy of knocking at least. 

Parenthood has no sanctuary. My adorable tiny humans are my biggest fans and the mosh pit never ends. I can't even go to the bathroom without an escort or some groupies calling my name through the door. It's a charmed life to be so adored but sometimes I wish I had a bouncer to tell the fans to go home. But that doesn't work when they live with the band. 

I have come up with a small routine for when I have to have thirty minutes. 

Pass the crowd off to their father. 

Close and lock the bedroom door and then the bathroom door. 

Run a bath and read a book. 

After about thirty minutes someone will come looking for me. Sometimes I can squeeze a little more time if I tell them I'll be out soon. Adjusting my expectations to such a small amount of time was the hardest part. I often feel like I need more time to replenish before returning to the service of my family. 

I laugh to myself as I sink beneath the bubbles whispering, "Rest faster."