> i
>really truly value being alone so much more now as an adult
>then i ever have before. sometimes that scares me because i
>don't want to get to a place where i am seeking to have time
>alone that i push people away.

When da wiz goes on a short travel stint,...dare I say...it's somewhat chill. Even though I have the kids, not having to share that mental space just for a little while, lends itself to some relaxation. I've found that I REQUIRE just a few minutes (like 5) to myself...before I jump into, "Daddy can you" mode. Doesn't always transpire, though.