We have the kind of big family where everyone talks at exactly the same time, but weirdly also hears what everyone else is saying? I don’t know exactly how it’s done, but my aunts and uncles execute it flawlessly. The atmosphere ends up being fun and wonderful and boisterous, but the catch? Sometimes you find yourself craving a little quiet time.

So, I’ve realized that the secret to surviving, even thriving, during family gatherings is stealing away, here and there, to be alone. Here’s how I’ve done that…

* Run an errand, any errand. Fill up the car with gas. Get wine for dinner or milk for tomorrow’s breakfast. Grab grandma’s sweater from the other house. Whatever needs doing, do it.

* Go for a walk. Even just looping the block for 20 minutes while listening to a podcast — here are six funny ones — can be immensely restorative.

* Take one kid on an adventure. You can still get that feeling of quiet time with just one kid, I’ve found. I’ll take Anton to throw darts at the pub…

…and Toby never turns down an ice cream (or hot chocolate) excursion.

* Walk people’s dogs to give them a break…

* or their babies. When I’ve volunteered to take babies for walks, their exhausted parents always say yes.

* Read together in a quiet spot.

* And if all else fails? Just close your eyes.

Then you’ll be ready to return to the happy chaos. xo

Thoughts? Do you steal away for breaks during large gatherings? I’d love to hear your strategies!

P.S. The #1 trick to enjoying family travel, a seven-year-old’s guide to surviving holiday travel, and how to plan your best vacation.