My guilty pleasures

I don't know about everyone else, but I sometimes feel pulled in way too many directions.  There is just so much for a wife and mother to do in a day's time.  I am an at-home mom, and really don't know how working moms do it!  At least I don't have to commute to my job.  I had to learn this the hard way, but I now take time for myself and enjoy little treats to maintain my sanity.
 My first confession is that I have a chocolate stash.  I remember when I was younger and I would hear other women talking about chocolate like it was the nectar of the gods, and I thought they were just making excuses to eat it.  I don't know what causes it--stress, hormones, ??--but in the last few years, chocolate has been my prozac!
Another thing I make time for is a long soak in the tub with a good book.  It takes some planning to get a tub full of hot water, but it is so worth it!
The most important thing that I refuse to give up is reading.  I don't think I could live without reading any more than I could live without breathing!  They provide a much needed escape from reality.  I mean who wants to clean, vacuum, and fold clothes when they can be reading about a hot Highlander or solving a serial murder case in New Orleans??  They also engage my mind.  I have always been smart and took great pride in that.  But lately I have been missing more and more questions on Jeopardy, and I am reminded of the old adage "if you don't use it, you will lose it".  That is one reason I like to read so many different types of books.  It keeps my mind sharp.
I do try to do at least the basic household chores before I read.  Most of the time anyway!  I am thankful that I have an understanding husband who seems to know when I needed a ME day.  I hope you other moms out there remember to take time for yourselves.  That is the only way you will ever be able to give your family what they need.  If you know of any other ways to de-stress and recuperate, leave me a comment.  I may just find another guilty pleasure. :)