Lotions and Potions

Anyone that knows me, knows that I love to pamper myself. I even have more appreciation for my lotions and potions since there was a period a couple of years ago - when taking a shower was a luxury. I like to keep it simple and of course - SAVE $$$! So, I am always on the lookout for a new find.


Typically, I make out really well at Beauty Brands - I am on their mailing list - I get a "Free item with purchase" every other month (typically, a pretty good item - shampoo/hairspray/etc). I take my coupon and go straight to the Clearence isle (tucked away in the back of the store). They have a 35% off and a 65% off - I only go to the 65% :)  And, of course - I look for the most volume (of product)  for the least amount of $$ - who cares if it has been discontinued?? I always score big AND  get my free item! In addition, they have a program  - each time you spend $100 you get 10% off your next purchase - they keep track of your purchases - its great.
http://www.beautybrands.com/jump.do?itemID=5&itemType=LANDING&page=TAKE_10_REWARDS

This being said, and totally TMI...my hair/skin products - regardless of brand are starting to bother me. Not only did I find hairs in strange places and a few extra wrinkles around my eyes..now I have weird reactions to perfumes and dyes - itchy and breakouts. EWWWW! This must happen when you turn 36! No one told me :) So, in my quest to make our food a bit "preservative free" (see earlier blog) - I decided to get some ideas on do-it-yourself hair care products.


And, what did I find - but ingredients in my own pantry. My favorite item of all "Braggs" Apple Cider Vinegar. There are countless health benefits - I often drink it (Must mix with water)..it is awesome (for you - horrible taste!).

http://bragg.com/products/bragg-organic-apple-cider-vinegar.html

Other must haves - Baking Soda, Olive Oil and Sea Salt = beauty for pennies!

My skin and hair feels and looks great. My hair is shiny and has no build up! My skin feels like Glass, smooth, clear and moisturized!

Currently, I am using these DIY hair products - every OTHER day.
I bought a ketchup/mustard bottle from the Dollar Store as my applicater- works perfect - and your guest will think you eat hot dogs in the bathtub! Let them wonder..lol!


HAIR
Bottle #1 - Add baking Soda approx 2 Tablespoons and fill the rest with water. Shake until well mixed. Apply to hair and scalp, rinse, repeat. There will not lather. Don't fret!  This will last you a LONG time! (Shake prior to each use - Baking Soda will settle at the bottom)
Pennies..hear me - Pennies! And, no bad chemicals! Cha-Ching!

http://grist.org/living/glam-locks-the-not-so-secret-secret-to-naturally-gorgeous-hair/

Bottle #2 - Add Apple Cider Vinegar (the good stuff - Bragg's Brand) - 2 Tablespoons and fill the rest with water. Shake until mixed. Apply to hair - let sit for a bit, rinse. This will not be your typical "cream rinse", BUT your hair will be manageable and shiny!
***Do not get in your eyes AND do not use on children!!! Burning is an understatement!

FACE
I love exfoliation and have used "St Ives" since High School. Many Dermatologist will disagree - but, drinking tons of water and great exfoliation makes my face look great! I use this potion about 2 times a week.
This can be used for your entire body - just be careful in the shower - Oil + water= a slippery shower!
I always apply to my hands at the same time as my face - this has worked wonders for my dry hands and cuticles!

Take 2 Tablespoons of Sea Salt and 1 Tablespoon (just enough to wet the salt) of Olive Oil, stir with fingers and apply to entire face (except eyes)..scrub scrub scrub...especially around hair line an nose...I also like going over my lips and chin! I do a really deep scrub for 3-5 minutes, then let it sit - while I do my hands.

FYI - My skin slightly broke out the after the first scrub, I'm convinced it was impurities coming to the surface.

Men - I wouldn't hesitate to use either one of these suggestions! Nothing is sexier  that a man with great hair and skin!


http://www.ehow.com/how_4524261_make-olive-oil-scrub.html

http://www.lovelyish.com/2011/05/15/salt-and-olive-oil-face-scrub/


Try it - trust me - you will be glowing..not to mention - saving that $$$$
-stacey

The Power of 3!

So, I am the first to admit, being a parent  is not easy. For those of you who disagree, you are   A.Lying,   B.Lying or   C. Lying. If you are a parent who does everything you can to promote learning, develop a well rounded off-spring  - then, pray, close your eyes and hope for the best. You are not alone! I was always told that a 2 year old was easier than a teen..whoever said that was right! They are a different being, a unknown character- hugs one minute and rejection the next. And, the best part – this is normal. They are as confused as we are. It was a big deal when I was a kid – but, today it is amplified. Conversations that I was hoping to wait until later, were expedited. I had no choice but to go with the flow and be ready for confrontations at any moment. Every parent has a different method for approaching the “tough” subjects. For me, there was no rehersal. Originally, I had a plan – it looked formal and precise. That idea was tossed out the window when a couple of years ago, Trent informed me that “John told me on the bus, that his sister would have never gotten pregnant if SHE would have used a condom.” EEEEEEK! GASP! Well, after I took a couple deep breaths (and splashed cold water on my face) – I dove right in!  This wasn’t a “dollar menu” convo. This was the Supersized Value Meal – Crap! We addressed a “few” subjects.  It was honest, quick and fact driven. I didn’t sweat, he giggled and we moved on. It opened the door to the matter-of-fact approach and the rule that “nothing is too embarrassed to be discussed”. Well, this is where I am today – almost age 13, ask me next year – when I am sure things will change.

Recently, I took along my preteen on a business trip – It was a great way to spend some one on one time with an underlining motive. The motive was to discuss current social topics – home, school and in our country. It was successful. We also took in awesome movies that produced great dialogue. Sometimes, as parents we just need an icebreaker (kind of like John on the bus) – this time, it was the movie.

The movie opens the door –then, it’s just a simple…Hey, How did you like the movie? Did anything like this ever happen in your world? What would you do different now? Do you have any questions for me?  Trust me; the conversation will just take off. One tip – typically, a movie with mom will get rolled eyes and “your movies are stupid”…I suggest popcorn and lots of candy – it softens the blow!

I have already done the leg work for you…these are fantastic movies for any age. Most importantly, they will promote a discussion between family members, peers and great internal dialogue.

Do not let “special needs” or “disability” changes your thoughts on watching the first 2 suggestions. This is the world that are children are growing up in. Raising children to be culturally aware, culturally educated and the ability to completely accept (regardless of capability and color) is the best gift we can give to them.

1. Including Samuel – less than 1hr

**Inclusion of Special Needs Children in their home and school – and the impact on community.

You can watch it online here –

http://www.cultureunplugged.com/documentary/watch-online/play/8924/Including-Samuel

2. Monica and David-less than 1 hr.

**What does marriage look like? Does a disability matter? Involvement of parents in adult relationships.

Netflix, Amazon

http://www.imdb.com/title/tt1553066/

3. 42 – less than 2 hr.

**The story of Jackie Robinson, wonderful insight into black history, baseball. How far have we come? Acceptance? And, how much further our country needs to go towards equality.

In theatres now!

http://42movie.warnerbros.com/

Don’t forget the extra butter J

Enjoy! I would love your feedback!
-Stacey

Storage Tote Intervention!

I’m alive! Barely…super busy with work recently…lots of changes going on around these parts! I am one step closer to starting my new job and a wonderful (and unexpected) turn in my career path. Unexpected turns are great…a good idea for a blog sometime!

So I have only a few more weeks before I am a full time working mom again…eeeeek! So, I am frantically organizing and stocking up on the essentials – as I know that the initial transition will be a bit bumpy. Hoping that preparing on the front-end will bring less stress on the home front. I have kicked it in high gear and decided that once again, I would share purging tips!

By means of full disclosure, I own storage totes…probably 6. I am going to store some of Chases Medical Records, so another is needed. This blog is for all of the addicted Toter's out there. STOP! Stop finding boxes and storage containers and more crap to “organize”. Trust me, you will rarely go back and look in some of them. I have a tote for Christmas, a (yes ..one!) for baby memorabilia from the kids, a Stacey  tote (yearbooks, old school pics, etc), Chase’s “too big” clothes, and a couple for misc. holiday décor. That. Is. It. Honestly, my old stuff probably could go – but keeping it for my kids could offer some great memories.

As I have said before, I am not sentimental, so these projects are easy for me. I like keeping the top 5-10 items from childhood, not everything. So, for those of you who find meaning in everything – you may want to obtain therapy before reading any further! As I have mentioned before, our families items (95%) are CHEAP, very CHEAP. I find great deals! When you spend less on an item you don’t feel so obligated to it! I remember spending $300 for a bed spread ensemble in 1998 – that I used for 5 years because (back then) it was so much $$$. Now, I spend less, and there is not as much attachment!

I hear over and over…”I wish I had time to Organize”, “I neeeeeeed to get rid of stuff, but I can’t”.  Mind you, I am a busy mother – It is non-stop around this joint from dawn to dusk. But, I always have time to eliminate! So, here is the Cliff Notes version getting rid of your Crap – the 5 Minute Purge!

Typically, by the end of each week, I have 1-2 bags (trash bags) for donation and 1-2 bags of purged items. I have a small family – this is easily done and simple. For me, it is sanity. It clears my mind. Makes cleaning a snap! And, best of all  -I know where EVERYTHING is!

So, get your supplies – a garbage sack and a trash can and pick a spot!

For example, this morning I was watching the news – Chase was playing and I spent 10 minutes and got 2 spaces done – the Bathroom and the Bedroom.

When cleaning my closet, which I do a couple times a month, I eliminate what I don’t like, What doesn’t fit and what is out of style – my closet is small – this takes 3-5 minutes. Bathroom – I eliminate expired meds, old makeup (or colors I don’t like), frayed towels, cleaning supplies, etc. Today I got a entire trash bag – no joke!

I pick a space each day. Kids rooms, Entertainment center (old movies), Toys, Kitchen Cabinets, Refrigerator, Etc. I highly suggest at the end of each holiday- purging before you put away. I always end up with more Christmas décor than what I need.  Trust me, this is easy and painless.

By the end of the week, I simply drop off what I don’t need at the local DAV Thrift store and get a 25% off coupon for my next shopping trip.

Some families choose to have garage sales – as much as I love attending these sales – storing the items prior to the sale, gives me a heart attack. Clutter seriously stresses me out (obviously). Some families choose to attend the “kids consignment” sales – these are way too much work for my liking!  I like a simple purge, and a simple donation. For items that have value, I have good luck with Craigslist and Facebook Groups. Although, recently, I found it was more work tracking down the seller and gas to deliver my item proved not to be profitable.

Find what works for your family. Buy only what you love. Spend less. Save more. I recently went into Coldwater Creek, love that place. However, I started sweating (really) while looking at the Clearance (the only section I shop). A tank top was $39 with 50% off. HUH?? $20 for a tank. I had to do deep breathing. I spend $20-$40 per month on clothes for my entire family. I do splurge on shoes or a good bra. But, rarely!

Try it for a week. Don’t ponder an item. Move Quick. Often, I will drop off a donation and forget what I brought. We are such a materialistic society, when we enjoy the items we do have – there is a much greater appreciation!

Other Great Ideas:

http://www.31daystodeclutter.com/purging-rules

http://www.rantsfrommommyland.com/2011/01/five-helpful-tips-for-purging-crap.html

And here is to a "Clutter Free" Life!

-stacey

What I Know For Sure!

Another birthday is peaking around the corner, sigh. For me it is a time of renewal and reflection. I sigh only as an I realize am developing into an older version of what was, but grateful of the wisdom and greatness that this life has offered me. I have reflected on it before, but the last few years have filled by bucket with new experiences and a greater appreciation for my world.

Several years ago, as I embarked on my 30’s, gravity had not done its damage.  For her birthday, I gave my sister (10 years younger) a list “Things I know when I am 30 that I wish I knew at 20”.  I have searched for this list, unable to find it. I wish I could take a glimpse into my life at that time and what was important to me then.

Today, physically I am changing. The days I have time to stop in front of the mirror I see the crow’s feet leave their stamp on my freckled face.  Trent informed me yesterday, that my hands resemble my moms. I have embraced the changes.  The clock has ticked and my list has changed….but it still has the basic old school values that I tried to instill in my sister back then.

These days, I am not too far from 40 – I am always looking for leading a simpler, well defined lifestyle. But, today, I think…what is important? What do I still seek to learn? What are the basic ideas of life that keep it lovely, great, well-balanced?

So…here are my “what I know for sure” List:

1. Faith is mandatory

2. Hand Written Thank you notes never go out of style

3. Putting Make-up on is optional

4. Saying Please and Thank You is a priority

5. Listen more than you speak…aka “shut your mouth”

6. Don’t count your chicks before they hatch, regarding finances

7. Don’t expect the unexpected, from another person

8. Light up when your children walk in the room, every time

9. Never stop advocating for your children, ever

10. Forgiveness will ease your heart

I really enjoyed reading what other people feel are the “facts of life”, here are some thoughts from other bloggers:

A bit humorous…depends on the age of the writer!
http://www.lemondrop.com/2010/11/09/25-things-i-wish-i-knew-before-i-turned-25/

http://www.doughroller.net/personal-finance/10-things-i-now-know-at-40-that-i-wish-i-knew-at-20/

http://thingsiknowforcertain.tumblr.com/

http://www.molly-greene.com/ten-things-i-know-for-sure-are-true-for-me/

Sunny Days Ahead!

So, I am a bit delayed in my blog posting. Between sick kids and spring break, my “free” time is limited. For some reason, when I break out the laptop it is like Cat Nip to a toddler – he attacks it! Spring is in full force, Summer is knocking on my door! Looking forward to what these warm months have in store for my little family! I am embarking on personal change, as I recently accepted a full time (corporate) position…it will be a challenge, as I haven’t been in the workforce for several years!  Needless to say, it will be an exciting summer – I will be working a full time job and 2 part time jobs and raising these 2 munchkins – solo!

Regardless, summer planning has started and we are ready to add events to our calendar. I reached out to my ever-so-reliable Facebook family to chime in on their favorite activities on the cheap (my #1) goal!

I hope that you and your family find some new ideas in the list below!

BIG KIDS

My oldest (age 12 ¾) loves the Salvation Army camps at the Three Trails Center (Independence, MO) – these are fun, awesome, Christ driven camps (3-4) days for only $25! He attends 2 a summer (sports, music, etc.), must turn in applications ASAP to get a spot!
http://www.usc.salvationarmy.org/usc/www_usc_threetrails.nsf

Recently, Downtown KC started a bike rental program *a bit pricey, but a fun day! We have already planned on adding this to our big kid list, checking out the Crossroads - browsing Architectural Salvage and grabbing a sandwich at Grinders!

http://kansascity.bcycle.com/About/HowItWorks.aspx

http://www.aoarchitecturalsalvage.com/

http://www.grinderspizza.com/

My big kid has found that digging through moms old treasures is cool! We pulled out my old (very old) Cotton Candy Machine – lots of fun! We have started cooking lessons and browsed new recipes. Many of our summer activities revolve around education and life skills!

LITTLE KIDS

Independence Center has a train (aka choo choo) that chugs around the mall (all year long) – for just a few bucks your tot can wave at the mall walkers!

I rarely shop at the mall, but it makes for a great field trip. We also stop at the pet store (pray for the caged animals), take a spin on the (over-priced) carousal, and climb on the free play area aka Germ Central (then drench them in hand-sanitizer)

FOR THE WHOLE FAM

Anything at the Library!!!! We love Midcontinent and the KC Library

We are eager to go for a ride on the N KC railroad:

http://www.kcnrr.com/Welcome.html

Tour the Roasterie Coffee Plant

Tour the Harley Davidson Plant

Gage Center – Open Play

Science City

Coterie Theatre

Deanna Rose – A fun farmstead with playground, fishing and horse back riding – a must see for the summer!

Crown Center – Kaleidoscope (free, best for over age 3) and Burgers at Fritz’s (meal delivered via train)

Science City

Stroll around Bass Pro, picnic and duck feeding at Waterfall park (our fav) – located behind Bass Pro

Summer passes for Movies or Bowling (ex. $2 movie days)

Burr Oaks or any nature center – many in the KC area

Cool Crest – Arcade, Mini Golf, Go Karts(great Groupons and Coupons)

Thoughts from other moms

 Fleming Park - Get carrots and apples - feed the elk and buffalo! Take lunch, drinks, pillows, blanket, books. Have a picnic and reading party after. There are grassy areas near the animal enclosure. Cheap fun. Another good one is to take a hike. We have good trails near our home. Have the kids take pics. Or have them draw or write about what they saw when they get home from the hike. I sometimes use reading hours for "points" earned toward a bigger kid fave, like Summit Waves.

Think outside of the box – Last summer we helped a dog rescue lady by walking her dogs a few times per week. Free, helpful, super good for the dogs, good exercise for all of us, AND teaches a good lesson about "giving back."

OP Arboretum... they're adding new attractions for the kids... a big caboose/train station. There are paved trails, hiking trails, creeks, waterfalls, and a kid area. Free, or $2 admission... cheap, and you could do a picnic.

Feeding the fish at Longview Lake Marina.

A few great finds for cheap kids meals – I haven’t tried these but heard good things:

Red Robin

Pizza Ranch

Culvers – has an awesome kid’s meal!

**Our family is trying to reduce fast food, if anyone has suggestions for healthy food stops on the go – please let me know!

Our Favorite Desserts:

If you haven’t been to Glace, you are missing out! Excellent Ice Creams by Christopher Elbow (my fav – goat cheese and pretzel – heaven)

http://www.glaceicecream.com/

Another fav, are these delightful Little Freshie Snow Cones – like NO other!

http://www.pitch.com/fatcity/archives/2012/05/14/sweet-dreams-little-freshie-opens-on-the-west-side

------------------------------------------------------------------------

A couple websites with suggestions (some duplicates):

http://alphamom.com/family-fun/activities/50-things-to-do-with-kids-in-the-kansas-city-area-before-or-even-after-they-grow-up/

http://www.kckidsfun.com/outdoor-activities/general-outdoor-activities/

http://kansascity.about.com/od/entertainmentattractions/tp/KCFreeThings.htm

Wishing you Sunshine and Giggles,

Stacey

 

 

The Windows Are Open!

There has been a big emphasis recently on “paying it forward”. I love the underlying message and continually try to acknowledge others by doing good deeds.  As I agonize over parenting an offspring through the teen years…sigh…I was venting (begging for suggestions) to a friend “ALL I DO IS COMPLAIN”..I feel like I am constantly giving directional cues to my kids..”Do this, Do that”.  And, when I get a long-winded story about a friend crisis (at middle school)..I am known to say “speed it up!..you are dragging this out”. 

My dear friend made a good point, make your connections (verbally)…90% positive and 10% “other”. This struck a nerve, I had it all backwards. I thought my constant bitching was constructive (not!). He reminded me these are precious years and we WANT our kids to talk to us – we don’t need to complain about everything – pick YOUR battles. Wow. Simple. Yet, it spoke to me at the right time. The light bulb went on!

I have made a conscious effort to turn this around. At any given moment I might close the open kitchen window to make sure my neighbor doesn’t hear me rage about the melted ice cream found under the bed..UGH! Full Disclosure, I am not perfect

First, I took principals that I put place in my own life and incorporated them into parenting and social interactions. Several years ago, during a transformation in my own life, I was reading the benefits of Positive Thinking, Vision Boards, Law of Attraction, etc. All about positive energy – I am a big believer.  If you don’t know what this is all about..you should!

You can find more here:

http://thesecret.tv/thesecretbook/

First, I had each family member create a daily mantra, affirmation…Such as “God is first, I am a patient mother, knowledgeable student and devoted friend. I will take on the world today, and make myself a priority”

It may sound cheesy, but sometimes you need the internal push (self-compliment) and reassurance that you can make it another day!

Then, I went back to my positive thinking roots and realized that it all goes back to one thing – Words, the simple, the spoken.  And, I used a sprinkle of The Love and Logic parenting concept, using “empathy” first with your children (more on this later).  In your everyday conversations add empathy (validation) and compliments and watch your world turn around. The best thing, it’s free – yep, no cost for your kind words.

So, instead of getting caught up in the physical or monetary rewards to a stranger or even the ones you love, consider starting with the genuine, creative gift that we all possess. The Power to make someone feel on top of this world!

Here are a couple of examples from my life:

Trent comes home upset, ANOTHER middle school drama. After about 15 minutes of listening patiently, the bottom line was..”John was holding Sally’s hand on the way to the bus…and, I like Sally”. Gulp! My initial reaction would be…”toughen up, don’t worry about it – dude, you’re in middle school – you shouldn’t even worry about girls”. But, I slammed on the brakes. It obviously was huge to him. Instead, I replied. ..(Empathy) “I bet that really hurt your feelings, that has happened to me before too – I know how it feels.” “You are smart, funny and great looking there will be another young lady who comes along”. It is simple and small, but we connected and it was part of the 90% of positive conversation, not the 10% of negative.

I love the often repeated Starbucks story of purchasing a drink for the person behind you. I think it’s great, kind of the mysterious generosity – like Larry Stewart  who never reviled his identity but would hand strangers 100 dollar bills. How awesome.

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Larry_Stewart_(philanthropist)

I like Wendy’s coffee..and make a habit of getting a cup  before class. Every morning there is an older lady – probably mid 70’s who takes my order and hands me my coffee. She is wrinkled, worn, making minimum wage, and still had a bright and welcoming smile. One morning, before speeding off..I stopped; I looked her in the eye and told her how much I look forward to seeing her warm smile every morning. It was obvious; I was the first person who said this all day. I found the reward just as great, as if I had purchased a 5 dollar coffee for the car behind me.

One of the most profound use and misuse of words that I remember is the day, I got engaged. I met my husband (now ex) when I was 18, head over heels in love. Three years later, we picked out the perfect ring and stuck it in layaway. I knew that one day, we would pay it off and he would propose. However, he surprised me and got it out early. It was Valentine’s Day, 1998 – perfect. Of course, like any newly engaged girl– I bounced relative to relative, friend to friend – gleaming, holding up my sparkling left hand! I will never forget the words, “is it real?”, “why are you doing this?”…the joy was not mutual. The power of these words still sting today- It reminds me of the old saying, “I may forget what you said, but I will never forget how you made me feel.”

It was a painful lesson in the power of words. I vowed to forever support any arrangement of love, always. You may be short, tall, African American, fat, skinny, Chinese, poor or rich, I will not judge you. If you are man or woman, and you have found love or companionship – I will fill you up with words of joy and encouragement.

This has spilled over into all avenues of support. When I see accomplishment, such a new relationship, job promotion or weight loss – I am truly happy. I will pronounce my words of joy and support. I will not mumble envy or jealousy.

We all strive to be better and we have all made mistakes, so turn your words in a new direction. I hope that this message on the power of words touches your world and that your 90% is full of greatness! I leave you with this (compliment)…thanks for reading my little ol blog! Oh, and by the way, your hair looks great today! (wink!)

Xo

Stacey

Mom, The Witch!

Although, my children may disagree - I don't drive a broom. And, I haven't taken a new spiritual path and discovering being a true witch. I consider myself, Glenda, the good witch. There are a few times a day when I bring out the black hat - Morning (trying to get out the door), Right when we get home (dinner, homework, etc.) and bedtime for Trent (making sure that he is sleeping and not browsing a electronic device.
Mornings are currently under experiment - I have found improvement with adding Curious George and Popsicles at 7am - who cares, it works! And, I get up before the kids to get ready. At least I "appear" together when I dart out the door with leftover Popsicle on my face. Hasn't really helped the situation that Chase's school has suggested "locking the doors" if you are late. Nice. Considering that I have to drive 30 minutes in morning traffic, the heat is on! If I find a trick to make it work, I will be sure to pass it on.
Back to the Witching, specifically the "Witching Hour". I stumbled upon a article recently, titled as such - as I quickly browsed to discover the Cliff Notes version - I realized, that I am a witch! Everyday, at 4pm, as we all make our way back to the "burbs"..it happens..tears, yelling, begging for food (usually candy, Popsicles, etc), phones are ringing, dishes need to be done - it all collides! Then, I realize that I need to check a school planner, assist with homework, give Chase a tube feed...all while someone is tugging at my leg screaming "OOD EE" - (aka..Woody = Toy Story). Shit. Forgot to let the dog out!  I am not embarrassed to say, I find myself extremely frustrated and quite honestly, I don't know where to begin. I am not alone, I'm sure.
So, I looked for advice on the Witching article and took a look at our house to make it more peaceful and put the broom away! First, I made changes without telling the kids, then I informed Trent, mid week. We all agree, its better!
First thing I do, Feed the kids - dinner! No snacks..we eat dinner between 430 and 5! Then, the reward for getting your chores and homework done - you get a dessert and "free time" before bed. Second, I stick Chase in the bath at 5pm - yep! 5pm - he is in PJ's. The bath and playtime is soothing, peaceful and organized play. It also give me time to check my emails and go through mail..the bathroom is my "other" office :) don't laugh.  Depending on the weather, I give Trent some time to unwind (bball) then its homework, chores and bath. The quicker he moves, the more free time at the end of the evening.
Last night, by 6..all baths were done, kitchen cleaned, and I was baking a dessert. It was peaceful and lovely. My number one goal is to be present with the kids in the evening. After they are in bed (early!!!), I use that time to catch up on work and reading. 
We have had the best week, we have eliminated the late night rush - by moving everything up a couple of hours! Every family is different, I rarely plan activities during the week, I like simple evenings! I have attached a couple of other articles on "The Witching Hour" - check it out!
http://simplemom.net/how-to-bring-peace-to-the-witching-hour/
http://www.parents.com/parenting/better-parenting/advice/remedies-for-the-witching-hour/
http://www.momroad.com/2013/02/5-ways-to-ease-the-witching-hour.html

xo stacey