I have a secret. And I suspect that many moms have the same secret. 

Before I head into the house, especially after coming home from work, I spend anywhere from 3 to 10 minutes remaining in my car in the driveway. At times someone would even come out to see what was wrong and why I wasn’t coming in right away.

I need a minute.

This is my transition time. Especially when I’m coming home after a long and stressful day. That drive home for about 30 minutes, with 80’s hairbands or 90s hip-hop blaring from my radio, is one of my favorite times of the day. To go from that directly to the demands of home is too much.

When I walk in the door, I’m immediately thrown into all the things that need to get done around the house and all the people and animals that need to get cared for. So that driveway time gives me a moment to collect myself and get ready for that transition. 

But here’s the thing -- sometimes I do it now even when no one is waiting for me on the other side of the door. Not even the dog. 

Because I still need a minute. 

Am I alone in this? Or do others have similar routine?  I suspect from conversations I’ve had that I am not alone. So if you’re wondering where your mom is, check the driveway.

OK — I’m going in. Well after this song is over.