Two words: Downton Abbey.
After a hard day scrubbing filthy floors, washing stacks of soiled dishes, sorting mountains of dirty laundry, chasing unruly kids, cooking, chauffeuring, and calming crying babies, moms deserve a break; a chance to relax, unwind and indulge in something that brings them peace, repose and otherwise rejuvenates their spirit.
According to an unscientific survey, these days, those highly anticipated (though extremely rare) Mommy breaks are being spent in front of a television screen fostering an addiction to Downton Abbey.
The entire universe is reportedly enraptured by the ITV/PBS drama set in early 20th Century England, but according to a new poll, American moms are among the most loyal viewers.
It’s probably because American dads could care less about following the fictional lives of a refined British aristocratic family and their house staff, but I digress.
Downton Abbey is a bona fide mom addiction.
What’s more, ladies, who long for weekly doses of brilliant acting, hilarious zingers, spiraling subplots, breathtaking costumes, and sexy accents, are not afraid to embrace their obsession. Twitter and Facebook are being choked by moms chatting about the show’s latest twists and turns. Meanwhile, Sunday night Downton Abbey viewing parties are becoming the newest mom escape.
Forget about getaways to high-end spas, fancy restaurants or fashionable boutiques, an increasing number of moms prefer to go Downton once a week to hook-up with the likes of Countess of Grantham, queen of insults and raised eyebrows.
What’s more, now that the show is available on Netflix busy moms can put the series in their queue for those late night breastfeeding sessions or those rare moments of “me” time.
In addition, unlike The Real Housewives, Lost, Jersey Shore or other tawdry TV shows that many moms may be addicted to, but are too ashamed to admit, Downton Abbey features exceptional storytelling about characters who actually possess a moral compass and use it to do the right thing.
What a concept.
And the best part, the show airs on a free channel. PBS allows moms access to their addiction at no charge, unlike those other expensive cable reality TV shows.
Downton Abbey; it’s free of charge, free of sleaze and calorie-free, which is more than I can say for my newest addiction: Nature Valley Dark Chocolate Granola Thins.
A.K.A. Crunchy crack.
Crispy, chocolatey, OOOOHHH-EMMM-GEEE! drool-on-your-keyboard crack.
They’re only 80 calories per square, which is great… unless you down an entire 10-pack box in one sitting.
What’s your Mommy addiction?