Anyone else enjoy the quiet when the kids are out

[FlorismartBasara]

This might sound strange but I really enjoy the quiet when the kids are at school. The house feels calmer and I can finally think for a bit. Then I start feeling guilty like I should be doing something more useful with that time. I love my kids so much but I also really need that quiet time sometimes.

I like the quiet when I get up for work in the morning as everyone else is still fast asleep then, a moment to have a cup of tea in perfect peace. Except now its the holidays so I'm up and my teenager hasn't gone to bed yet

Totally normal. I think most parents feel this but don’t always say it out loud. Loving your kids and loving a bit of peace are not opposites.
That quiet is your nervous system getting a break. You don’t have to justify it by being “productive” either. Resting, thinking, or just enjoying the calm is doing something useful.
If anything, that space probably makes you a more patient parent when they’re back. No guilt needed at all.

Oh wow absolutely!! It’s needed (and I very rarely get the opportunity, I know a lot don’t) but I do think it helps clear the head.

You should feel it when they leave home. It’s really quiet then.

Of course and don’t feel guilty !