Since the 20th of October, there’s only been two days when all the children have been at school. Two days!
I would love to tell you that I have enjoyed every second that they’ve been home, but in all honesty, I haven’t. Don’t get me wrong, I love them and enjoy their company, but I also need space for me.
Space in which I can work on the computer without feeling as though someone is watching me or going to ask for something. Space in which I can talk on the phone without feeling as though I am being overheard. Space in which I can relax and be me rather than a mum.
Being introverted means that I need space away from it all sometimes, and with the children being home so much this month (and year), that hasn’t always been easy to do. When I don’t get my space, I start to feel a bit trapped and closed in.
So, when I have been struggling to find me in a busy house, I move into one of my getaway spaces. They are the garden, the shower, the bath and sometimes the bedroom (if I lock the door).
I used to feel guilty about going to one of my getaway spaces – I thought I was a bad mum for wanting space away – but I now know that getting away from it all helps me to de-stress and I’m a better mum as a result.
So, if you have found it all a bit much and have struggled with having your children around more, it’s ok to find some space away to be able to catch a breath and find yourself again.
Take care of yourself