Read Up

I struggle through the Andes following a plane-crash survivor. I fly through space on the space shuttle. I wander through the tops of giant redwoods, amazed by the life found there. I follow people through their lives. I read.
Janice Greene
Springfield, Missouri

My husband and I finish our day by reading to each other. It lets us spend some quiet time alone together, and we share stories without having to fight over books or wait for the other to finish before we can discuss them. The best part, though, is that it gives us a chance to unwind and fill our heads — and dreams — with adventure and excitement rather than unfinished chores and anxieties.
Trixie Doyle
Toronto, Ontario

The Write Thing

I write in two journals before I go to sleep. In one, I list nagging concerns; writing them down helps clear my mind. In the other one, I list things, both small and large, for which I’m grateful. Consequently, I end the day on a positive note.
Lori Drummond-Cherniwchan
Rockford, Illinois

To reactivate my brain after a day of giggles, fun, and lots of play with my two little ones, I challenge myself to the New York Times crossword puzzle. I don’t always finish it, but I feel as if I’ve gotten my self back.
Julie Passett
Overland Park, Kansas

Clean Acts

Right after I tuck my four kids into bed for the night, I quickly pick up all the clutter they’ve managed to accumulate during the day. Then I sit in my clean living room and experience, for a few moments, what it feels like to have an orderly home — before it all gets destroyed again in the morning!
Susan Di Laudo
Kingsville, Ontario

I grew up in a family of 15 children, and we had one shower, for which there was always a long wait. On the third floor of our house was an old claw-footed tub that for some reason no one used much. Every night, I basked in the glory of hot bubbles in that tub, and I have continued to do so as an adult in my own tub. Problems have a way of looking better, sometimes even melting away, in a deliciously scented, relaxing bath.
Regina Fabrizio
Horsham, Pennsylvania

“Children’s” Hour

When my daughters are in bed and it’s dark, that seems to be the best time for girl talk. They’re more chatty then, since they can’t see my facial reactions. It’s the best chance to get details about their feelings.
Rhonda Trosen
Blue Springs, Missouri

I tuck in my yellow Lab. With a husband, a one-year-old, and two jobs, I make a point not to neglect my best pal.
Kristin Kelm
Reserve, Montana

I look in on my sons, ages seven and nine, kiss their smooth, plump cheeks, and whisper, “I love you.” No matter how rotten they’ve been that day (and, believe me, they can be plenty rotten), this routine soothes me. I believe that the kiss and the words filter through their dreams and let them know they’re loved.
Corinne Colbert
Athens, Ohio

Silence Is Golden

I put in earplugs to mute my husband’s snoring.
Nancy Daw
Georgetown, Texas

Your Turn

What is your most embarassing fashion moment? Share your stories here — and read what others have said.