Bubble Baths

After years of wishing and hoping I finally have a great big jacuzzi tub. I've always seen those pictures of people soaking serenely in a big bubble filled tub and longed to experience that. We've always had bathtubs in our homes but they were never deep enough or long enough for me. I am pushing 5'9" so I need a larger than average tub. It's no fun to sit in a nice warm bath with your legs hanging out the other end.

Shortly after moving day I finally got an opportunity to try out my new tub. I filled it up and plopped myself in...aaaaaahhhhh. Heavenly! About 5 minutes into it I found myself kinda twiddling my thumbs and whistling. Hmmm, what now? I was a little irritated with myself, "Why can't you relax and be still Aly?" After a few more attempts I started to get a little better at this sit and be still thing. Here's some of my tips...

1. You must have a comfy bath pillow. I recommend one that is covered in terrycloth otherwise you'll here squeaky sounds everytime you move your head.

2. Bubbles! Highly debated amongst bathers. I didn't think I would need them but I threw some in on my 3rd attempt and it was kinda like a big fluffy blankie and I didn't feel so exposed. However, if you have a jacuzzi tub like I do you may want to forgoe the bubbles if you plan on using the jets. Turns out that using the jets with bubble bath is a like puting a marshmallow in the microwave. Another problem with bubbles is I tend to start "playing" with them. You know bubble beards (ho-ho-ho), scooping them up and blowing them around the room or clapping your hands together and they go flying. I may not be mature enough for bubbles yet.

3. Music. I have a "chill" playlist on my ipod specifically designed for such an occasion. It helps to drown out the sound of the jets, bubbles popping or annoying midgets (I got 4 of em and they can destroy your chill session pretty fast with all their racket).

4. Make sure the water temperature is just right. Everyone has a different preference. It's a delicate balance between tepid or too hot. If I go too hot I'll be on the verge of heat stroke 3 minutes in and will be outta there. Better to go more towards to tepid. You can always add more hot water to adjust the temp after you're in the tub.

5. Candles. There is something about a great scented candle that just makes me sigh.

6. Keep the phone nearby. I know you're thinking "You don't want to be disturbed by the phone!" but lemme tell ya, when that phone rings you immediately start thinking "Who could that be? I wonder if it's important? What if there is an emergency?" Chances are it's probably a telemarketer but at least you won't be tempted to jump outta the bath and go streaking through the house or worse lay there and "What if?" yourself into a panic attack.

So, there you go. That's how Aly relaxes. I'm getting pretty good at it now. Maybe I'll go give it a try right now.