What do you indulge in when you need a special treat? We combed through hundreds of responses to our Moms and Money survey to pick moms' most popular splurges. They're simple, soul-satisfying, and surprisingly inexpensive luxuries — but they're sometimes hard to come by when you're a mom.
| 1. Time to yourself: Our survey moms told us they need some alone time to recharge their batteries. "I'd take a long, hot bubble bath with a glass of wine and a good book." "I'd treat myself to a night out with the girls." "I'd turn off the phone and have a nap while the baby takes his." "I'd take a mental health day off from work and scrapbook or work on other hobbies." "I'd spend the day on the couch with a best seller." "I'd leave work early, while my son is in daycare, and have lunch by myself or go window shopping." |
| 2. Clothes that make you feel gorgeous: Moms who took our survey wanted to regain their pre-mommy flair and have clothes, shoes, or accessories that flatter their new lifestyle. "I'd buy a nice outfit — one without jelly stains." "I'd get something new to wear — anything new, it doesn't matter what!" "I'd buy a new outfit every few months to mark my progress in losing the baby weight." |
| 3. Sweet treats: Our survey moms said that an occasional bow to your sweet tooth is worth it — especially if you don't have to share. "I'd eat something I usually don't, like chocolate cheesecake." "I'd go to Dairy Queen after my girls are in bed so I wouldn't have to share with anyone." "I'd buy myself ice cream and eat it as I walk through the park — it would be a great way to spend an afternoon." |
| 4. Beauty boosters: Massages, facials, mani/pedis, and haircuts topped our survey moms' wish list. After all, these treatments usually feel good as well as making you look good. "I'd buy bath and body products to make sure I don't smell like spit-up, drool, poop, and baby food." "I'd get a spa or beauty treatment to make myself feel more feminine." "I'd buy expensive brand-name makeup, face creams, and washes." "I'd get a pedicure, massage, manicure, and waxing and a Starbucks drink." |
| 5. Romance with your sweetie: Spending quality time with your spouse or partner helps strengthen your relationship — and that's good for everyone, our survey moms said. "My husband and I would go out for dinner. It's so decadent having someone else take care of the cooking and cleaning while another person watches our child!" "I'd spend a romantic day with my husband." "My husband and I would go to a movie together during the day." |
| 6. A brief escape from reality: Our survey moms craved a mental break from thinking about the responsibilities of work, family, and childcare. "I'd buy a magazine that's not about parenting." "I'd go to a movie by myself." "I'd get up earlier or stay up later than everyone else in the family and watch TV." |
Source: Babycenter.com
Source: Babycenter.com
