Creating Space

Do you have a space for yourself? A place that represents peace, rest, or relaxation?
Yesterday, I felt like I was in a state of chaos all day. It seemed as if all three kids were in a talkative mood, which led me to feeling like I was being bombarded with auditory stimuli. All day.
I took the three of them to Target in the afternoon. And, by the time we left, I had asked each of them, at least once, if they could just stop talking. Sound cruel? Maybe. But, I just couldn't take all the noise. It was too much for me.
In an effort to be productive and tame my internal chaos, I decided to clean, organize and create a peaceful retreat. I washed all the sheets from every bed, which I was regretting late in the afternoon, when I was exhausted and had to make four beds! I made beds, picked up toys, cleared the sink of dishes and emptied three unpacked suitcases.
Walking into my room, looking at my bed, made me happy. It gave me peace. 
I have never been one of those people that have to make my bed. In fact, I think the only time it gets made is once a month when the cleaning lady comes...because she makes it. It's just not one of those things that is important to me. Yesterday, it was. I posted this photo on Instagram. 

I decided not to stop with my bed. In our master bedroom we have a chaise. I bought it not long after we moved in, in an attempt to create a reading retreat for me. In the past eight years, I can count on one hand the number of times I have sat there and just read. Mostly, because it is usually covered with something. But, yesterday, I needed to know that I had a space.
So, I cleared off the chaise and brought in my Bible and devotional books to set on the ottoman. This is now what I see when I walk through my bedroom door.

Relief from chaos. Peace.
I made my bed again today and the chaise is still clear. I'm hoping to use my space today, even if just for a few minutes.