I would go crazy without some quiet solitude at some time each day. I have a lap desk and often don’t come out of my bedroom until noon. I can get a lot done at the lap desk if my husband is home and has the TV on in the family room. I also know the minute I walk out of that bedroom door life will start happening, so I try to do the really important things before I come out — read my Bible, pray, and do my ten-minute German review. Then I sometimes try some free writing before I come out and hit the computer.

I’ve also found that working in the garden on yard chores gives me time to think, and I can also take walks. I’m glad you have regained your sense of self and are finding some of the solitude you need again.