4-5:30 was not a good time slot in our house tonight. My friend Mathew calls it the witching hour, the post-school pre-dinner compete for Mommy’s attention and beat each other up time. I couldn’t finish reading Rose her book because David kept thrusting Chicka Chicka Boom Boom in my lap. I couldn’t get David to eat his snack because Rose kept running to the bathroom and slamming the door. Of course, David wanted to investigate. At one point, Rose helped David on to his potty seat and left him stranded in the bathroom calling “Mommy! Mommy!” I got through two pages before I rescued him.

I couldn’t ask/demand John take a child, preferably very far away, because he was cooking dinner for us and our company. We survived, and then the company arrived and everything got fabulous.

We met Ann at an alumni event for our college. She’s a recent grad, loves kids, and volunteered to hang out with ours. Yes, please. The minute she showed up the kids started showing off. David played peek-a-boo, dipping his head under the table and popping up to say hi. Rose chatted on about school and her chores and her toys. David brought her a spatula. Rose disappeared upstairs and returned in full fairy princess regalia—eye popping pink and sparkles. We eventually retired upstairs to read David every book on his shelf and watch Rose’s dance rehearsal.

It was so easy and relaxed and fun. I want company every night.