Tues Ten 080409: Mommy Indulgences

I don’t know about you, but when I need a little pick-me-up, buying something special just for myself can really do the trick, especially if it’s something I might not get every day.  The problem is that my busy schedule of home responsibilities and work responsibilities isn’t always conducive to trips to the mall.  And, in today’s economic crunch, a favorite blouse or jar of perfume may not be in the family budget.  If you’re like me, it really doesn’t take much to produce a smile.  In fact, sometimes just the act of taking the few extra minutes and thought for yourself can refresh you to more creatively give to the others in your house.

Now, I’m not really a big “tip” writer. Any advice I have to give most often consists of “just do what comes naturally” and “have a fire extinguisher handy.” But, I was preparing this article for an online magazine that has recently decided not to continue publication [more on that later and how it relates to axes], so I decided to share it for today’s Tuesday Ten. This week I give you 10 Mommy Indulgences you can find at the grocery store. Sometimes just a trip to the store by yourself is an indulgence in itself. But, even if you have all your bundles of joy in tow (along with their little stuffed bundles of joy), a browse for one of these little ditties will quickly improve your mood. Mommy refresher on aisle 13!

1. Fresh flowers
Almost every grocery store these days has a florist counter.  Check the pre-cut cooler for specials on in-season blooms.  You’re likely to find enough stems in one bunch that will boost spirits all over your home and office. Or, splurge on a special potted plant complete with a seasonal decoration or bow.

2. Artisan bread or cheese
Many grocery stores have begun to carry specialty brands of bread and cheese that were once available only at custom bakeries.  Forget buying something that your toddler would like and choose a “flavor” just for yourself, or as a special treat for you and your husband to share.  Try an assortment pack with samplings of a variety of cheese types. Or, look for a gourmet garlic-cheese, sun-dried tomato or cinnamon bread. Choose a pear or bunch of grapes as well, and you have the makings of a grown-ups only snack time!

3. Magazines
Take your time on the magazine aisle and choose something that really interests you.  Magazines are a great way to regroup and get new ideas because they don’t take much time to read.  Whether it’s a beautiful cooking magazine, a fitness monthly, an upscale design read or a quick fix of celebrity or soap opera gossip, you can indulge yourself with great bedtime reading for $4 or $5 a pop!

4. Bon-Bons
Yep, I know the unindoctrinated may think you sit around and eat these all day, especially if you are a stay-at-home mom.  So, just this once, prove them right.  Skip past the kid-size packets of m&ms or oreos and head for your favorite decadent chocolate indulgence.  Whether your favorite is in the candy, cookie or ice cream aisle, the only rule is by-pass anything bearing the words “diet” or “sugar-free!”

5. Beauty Products
No, it’s not Lancome  or Estee Lauder, but the grocery store beauty aisle offers some great pick-me-up items.  Maybe it’s Cover Girl’s Simply Powder, the powder “foundation” that will give your skin a “done up” look in 2 seconds.  Maybe it’s Garnier Fructis’ fruity hair wax.  Maybe it’s a funky shade of blue nail polish (that was my wedding attire’s something blue) or a juicy lip gloss. Get in touch with your inner pre-teen and go for it.

6. Desk Supplies
Think back to the first day of school. You remember the thrill of new pens and pencils and colorful notebooks. Head to the “school supply” aisle and get yourself one of those notepads with the lined pastel sheets, and splurge for the matching envelopes.  Check out the metallic gel pens or the post-its printed with flowers.  Whatever gets your girlie started!

7. Greeting Cards
Browse the greeting card section like you mean it.  Pick out the perfect pick-me-up that’s just for you.  Music, movement, whatever strikes your fancy.  Many grocery stores also feature a mini Post Office.  Go ahead and mail it to yourself right there. If your store doesn’t have the postal option, stick it in your mailbox as soon as you get home.  If you’re like me, you’ll forget about it and be totally surprised by yourself a few days later.

8. In Season Fruit
Shop the organic produce stand for an undoctored taste of the Earth’s bounty. Choose in-season fruits you may not buy often to wake up your tastebuds with fresh flavors. Pick up some vanilla yogurt or caramel sauce for an impromptu gourmet snack.

9. Gift Cards
You can find pre-loaded gift cards for many of your favorite restaurants or retailers at most grocery stores these days. Choose a $10 card to tuck away in your wallet for a gloomy day. You’ll enjoy the anticipation of using it, and you can treat yourself to lunch or dessert one day when you really need it. Better yet, splurge on a $20 card and treat yourself to some face to face girl talk with a friend—or I’m sure your hubby will do in a pinch!

10. Dessert Makings
Yes, this treat isn’t just for you, but you may be the only one who’ll get to enjoy it as a midnight snack.  Grab some refrigerated sugar cookie dough, a jar of pre-made icing and some sprinkles for a giant cookie pizza.  Choose a graham cracker crust, frozen pink lemonade, sweetened condensed milk and Cool-Whip for a summertime “pink lemonade pie.” Get vanilla ice cream with chocolate and caramel syrups – or go for some ice cream cones for a special treat for the whole gang.

Whatever your fancy, take some time on your next grocery shopping trip to stray from your list.  It only takes a few extra minutes and a few extra bucks to treat yourself to your next favorite indulgence.