In early November, I stepped out of the shower and was surprised to find the house empty. Wrapped in a towel, I stood in the silence that had been absent for what felt like ages—likely since March. That was when everything changed: my job transitioned to remote work, my partner’s job followed suit, and our three kids began their online classes.
As a father of three, I can honestly say that I’ve longed for some alone time ever since my son was born in 2007. I realize that fathers generally get more time to themselves than mothers, and I want to acknowledge that. When my partner was a stay-at-home mom before becoming a teacher at our kids’ school, it seemed like she was always surrounded by little ones. Most of the time, she just wanted a moment to breathe.
But this piece isn’t about comparing experiences; it’s about the rarity of alone time in 2020. With the entire family working and learning from home, solitude has become as elusive as a mythical creature. COVID-19 has made it impossible to take the kids to playdates, birthday parties, or even the community pool. And with the winter weather in full swing here in Oregon, outdoor activities like hiking are off the table unless we fancy wandering in the rain. My house is a chaotic mix of toys, snacks, and open laptops.
Once a week, I send my partner, Sarah, into our bedroom to enjoy a few hours of peace. She locks the door, and I do the same for myself. These moments are pure magic, but they don’t compare to having the entire house to myself. The absence of running, arguing, and door slamming is a kind of bliss that’s hard to describe.
So, when I stepped out of that shower and realized I was truly alone, I was taken aback by the unfamiliar stillness. I wasn’t sure what to do with this unexpected gift of solitude. I figured I should do something productive—maybe catch up on a show or call a friend. Instead, I opted for the most logical and adult choice I could think of: I pulled out some popsicles from the freezer and settled at the kitchen table in my underwear, relishing the silence. I know it may not sound glamorous—a middle-aged dad in his skivvies enjoying popsicles—but trust me, it was an incredible experience.
I was alone for about 30 minutes before Sarah and the kids returned from a neighborhood stroll that coincided with a rare break in the rain. And honestly, I was thankful for that time alone. It was, without a doubt, the highlight of my year.
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Summary:
The joy of solitude can be a rare and delightful experience for parents, especially during challenging times like 2020. In a humorous recount of one such moment, Jamie Carter shares how a brief period of being home alone led to the unexpected pleasure of enjoying popsicles in his underwear. This light-hearted story underscores the importance of taking time for oneself amidst the chaos of family life.