How to get some solitude? Clean the bathroom. That's right: get out the cleaning stuff and tackle the bathroom. Seldom does anyone want to have anything to do with bathrooms that need cleaning.

For the nosey ones who follow you in because they just *have* to talk to you, I have the following suggestion:

Put the lid to the toilet seat down, and sit down on the lid with the toilet brush (or plunger) in your hand and look up inquiringly. If the person takes a breath to start a meaningul discussion, hand him/her the brush/plunger, stand up, lift the lid and the seat and step aside.

Works every time. They flee the scene and you are left in peace. Seldom is a second round needed.

Heh.