Several weeks ago, I decided to indulge in a bath—complete with bubbles and all. I manage to do this only once every seven or eight months. It’s never truly relaxing, but I persist in trying. Years ago, I stopped locking the door because I realized I’d rather deal with unexpected interruptions than listen to the chaos from outside.
“Mom, are you done yet? What are you doing? I was here first! Stop hitting me! Mom, he just hit me! Mom, I need to go potty RIGHT NOW!”
We have four bathrooms in our house—four! Yet, the lesser of two evils seems to be leaving the door unlocked and hoping for the best (heavy sigh).
I had about six minutes of peace (pure bliss) before the first uninvited visitor arrived. She walked in, plopped down the toilet lid, and made herself more comfortable than I ever have on a toilet seat in my life.
“Why are you taking a bath, Mom? You never take baths.”
Before I could respond, the second guest appeared, bursting in with excitement.
“Mommy! You’re taking a bath! Can I watch?”
“No, and aren’t you supposed to be doing your homework?”
“Oh yeah, I’ll go get it.”
“Okay. Wait. What?”
Moments later, she returned (still uninvited) with a pencil and her homework.
“Mommy, I need help with my homework.”
The first visitor interjected, “Mom is trying to take a bath! Right, Mom?”
“Yes, yes I am, very observant child of mine,” I replied, while the first visitor perched on the toilet, gently sharing, “Mom, I can see your…” and she pointed at my chest. “Maybe you should cover up with a washcloth or something?”
“Oh, I’m sorry. Am I making you uncomfortable? You see, in most cultures, it’s customary to remove one’s clothing before getting into a bathtub filled with water. Generally speaking, of course.”
I take every chance to impart life lessons (or common sense) to my kids.
Then, the third uninvited guest showed up.
“MOMMY! Why are you taking a bath? Can I come in?”
“No, Buddy. Go find your Dad (Where on earth is he?!).”
“Okay, Mommy, be right back.”
“Perfect.”
Guest #2 chimed in, “Mommy, do you like taking baths?”
“Sometimes more than others.”
Guest #1 added, “Mom, the bubbles are disappearing. Are you sure you don’t want a washcloth or something to…” and she pointed again.
“Nope. I’m fine. I appreciate your concern though. Here’s a thought. Get out.”
Then, here comes Guest #3, charging in like a racecar driver, beaming from ear to ear, wearing nothing but a grin.
“BUDDY, YOU ARE NOT COMING…” (sigh) “Hi Buddy.”
“I like taking a bath with you, Mommy.”
“Just hand me the washcloth.”
And that’s “me time” in a nutshell.
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In summary, moments of solitude are a rare luxury for mothers, often interrupted by the demands of family life. Whether it’s bath time or any other moment of self-care, the chaos of parenthood can make it challenging to find peace.