Indulge yourself, recession-style [Free Stuff Friday]

Could it be true? Is the recession really over, as Mr. Bernanke (sort of) claims? Despite the depressing housing data that emerged recently, there are some signs that things might be getting a little better. Weekly Jobless Claims were down by an unexpected amount, for one thing. And, for another, Mars is winding up its "Real Chocolate Relief Act" this week. What better economic news could you ask for than the fact that folks'll have to start paying for candy bars again? If that isn't a sign that we're on the road to recovery, I don't know what is.

Not to worry, though: there's still one day left to claim a coupon for a free treat from the Mars program—and that day is today. As before, all you have to do is click this link before midnight (ET) and hope that you're one of the first 250,000 to do so. (Some restrictions may apply if you've taken advantage of the program before.)

Once you've got your chocolate, why not combine it with some hard-earned (and free) R&R time? Between October 22 and 24, you can claim a complimentary Skin Time Facial Treatment at the Clarins counter of your nearest Lord & Taylor store. Click here for further details. Chocolate and facials. What could be better?

--Posted by Phil Stott, Vault Staff Writer