Whatever it is…it can wait!

When we moved back to Oregon, our goal was to find a four bedroom house so I could have an office at home. We found it and for the most part, that is great. However, my kids haven’t quite learned that a closed door means “leave me alone.”

Also, regular household walls do not stop the shrieks and screams from infants and preschoolers. Then, of course, there is Mommy – she wants access to me 24/7 too.  Something about enjoying my company – or some lame excuse.

If I were working in an “off-campus” office, Mommy would have to deal with all these issues on her own.  If I were working “off-site” my Darling Daughter wouldn’t be able to show me every time she gets a wound, cut, scrape, or scratch – not to mention the new acrobatics, pairing of shoes, or just to come and hold me.

Lately my DD has developed the most annoying habit.  She just wants me to play with her!  Can you believe it?!

And my Smiley Son, although he’s almost 11 months old, he wants to be held.  Yeah, that’s right, he crawls into my office, pulls himself up on my leg and wants me to hold him!

How is a guy supposed to get anything done around here?  For crying out loud, no wonder my Dad was a workaholic who never came home!

It looks like I may have to put up with this for another 10-15 years.  About the time my DD graduates from high school, my SS will be getting his drivers license.  Then, maybe, I can have some peace and quiet around here.

Just a sec, I’ll be right back, my DD wants me to read a story (or 3) to her before she goes to sleep.

Wow, on the way into the bedroom she smacked her head on something.  There were great big rivers of tears.  Warm drops falling on my bare feet as I held her close.  We lay on the bed and I just held her.  I almost thought she was going to fall asleep lying on my chest.

My wrist was developing carpal-tunnel issues from patting her softly on the back.  I kept thinking about all the things that are awaiting me in that lonely office on the other side of the house.  I should tell her it’s time to read.  Maybe I can slip away.  No, I’m good.  I could lie like this the rest of my life.

Ok, I’m back, now where was I?

Oh, wait, Mommy wants me to walk SS to sleep, be right back!

Now that was just a dirty trick.  I picked up SS and he snuggled into my arms and neck like nothing I’ve ever experienced.  Long after he was asleep, I just sat in the rocker and held him.  Sure I’ve got work to do, but when you love someone that much…

…it can wait.

15 years.  I wish I had 30…or more.