This past weekend I read an article in Parent's Magazine titled Remedies for the Witching hour: tips for preventing evening meltdowns. I knew right away that the author was talking about the kids (mostly), but somehow I wished there was advice on how to avoid meltdowns of the mom sort. If I were to compile the list it would look something like this:

1. Act like the baby you are. It was a rough day and you need some transition time between work and daycare pick up. So what's a mom to do? I say crank up the tunes in your car and sing like a banshee. Or on those really bad days, have a good cry on your way to pick up the kids. In other words, just force it out of your system. It's in everyone's best interest.

2. Bring back the 50's cocktail hour. How on earth did this ever go out of fashion? I just can't think of a good reason.

3. Give kids what they want -- TV & treats. Sometimes (not always, of course) just give in and enjoy the much needed peace and quiet that comes from the contented bliss of a kid on gummies and Olivia.

Don't you feel more relaxed already?

All kidding aside, the article is here and worth reading.