You know that high you get when you buy that new pair of shoes, or splurge on a nice electronic device? Is there anything better than giving in to your guilty pleasures? Whether it be something for yourself or for your kids, these are a few of things that I indulge in, or my time and money on (when I can, of course).

1. Reality Television: Geez, can I be any more basic? I am a stay-at-home mom, so getting to see other peoples lives and relationships can either make me REALLY feel good about myself, or inspire me to become a better person. If I have a free moment, you can find me watching ANYTHING on the Bravo or E! networks.
2. Going to the Store by Myself: Anytime that I can go to the store for groceries for any errands ALONE, you will see a smile on my face. There’s nothing better than roaming the aisles of Target or my local grocery store without a toddler who needs a snack or a toy every 10 minutes.
3. Wine: There’s something about a good wine that instantly puts me in a good mood. I don’t even need to have had a bad day to imbibe in a bold red. If it’s from California, send it my way!
4. Laying on the Beach: I am a total beach bum. I grew up on the beach in California and after having lived in Illinois now for the past 9 years, I have a real hankering for laying out on the sand and just falling asleep to the sound of the waves crashing and birds calling. Back in the day, you would find me on the beach every weekend, soaking in the sun, without a care in the world. Days have changed! What I’d give to have a free day alone on the beautiful beaches of my home town, or any beach for that matter.

   

5. Getting my nails done: Since I’ve had the baby (5 months ago), I have not even had the chance to get a proper manicure. I never really was a regular at the nail salon, but after not going for over 6 months, I sure do have an appreciation for having good nail beds and a bold red color to make me stand out!
6. Mexican Food: There is nothing better than going out with friends to a great Mexican restaurant. Guacamole, Tacos and Margaritas….pretty much an amazing meal that makes my tummy happy. Combined with festive music and a million combinations of food favorites, you just can’t go wrong with a dinner at your favorite Mexican place.
7. Traveling: It’s been 10 months since I’ve gotten on an airplane and I’m starting to get the traveling itch. My hubby and I have been fortunate to go to a lot of great places together around the world. I still have a lot of Europe and Southeast Asia that I want to see. Also on my bucket list: to do an African Safari, visit Mayan Ruins in South America and walk along the Great Wall of China. My life will literally not be complete if I don’t get to do these things. I believe that seeing the world is vital to educate yourself on how other cultures live and to see the differences in the way we eat and socialize with one another.

   

8. A Good Workout: I’ve been working out since I was a teenager, so it’s important to me to be fit and keep up my exercise regimen. A couple of great exercises classes that I enjoy taking are group classes in small fitness studios such as SHRED415 or Orange Theory Fitness. These classes are instructor led and really push and motivate you to get to a certain fitness level. I love the dark lighting in these classes, it makes it feel more intimate and less “showy”. I get a great high from knowing I burned a ton of calories and whooped my body into shape. I used to go to these classes before I had my second kid. When I get time again, I will totally be back at it!

   

9. Getting my hair done: I can’t even tell you the last time I had my hair done! <Ughhh>. It’s probably been 2 years since I’ve actually had my hair colored or blow dried by a professional. As any girl will tell you, there’s nothing better that getting a good cut and color. A hairdresser magically turns you into a different person! I always tell them that I want to take them home with me to be my personal glam squad everyday….am I right? There’s just something about having a great new look to really put you in a good mood. The reason I haven’t gone in so long is mainly because it’s an expensive habit to upkeep. But if I could afford it, I would definitely prioritize my hair! For now, my $15 Supercuts hairdo will have to do.
10. Getting a Facial: Of all of the beauty regimens that I would purchase, my number one would be a facial. I don’t personally care for body massages because I am really little and don’t have a lot of muscle to massage! Ha! But, I can truly appreciate a wonderfully relaxing day at the spa that includes a facial complete with scalp massage. Have you had one before? They’re literally the best. There’s nothing more calming and rejuvenating that getting your skin pampered and head and neck massaged. I carry a lot of tension in my upper body, so it’s heaven to me to get that all worked out. I pretty much always fall asleep during one of these treatments…go get one!

Now I’m curious to know…what are YOUR guilty pleasures?

-Kim