bathing aphrodisiacs

There are so many looming debates in America today... so I've decided it's my civil duty (or maybe I'm just a glutton for punishment) to put some of the more minor dissensions to rest. When all is said and done, let's agree to still be friends ok? Here we go... Coke or Pepsi? Well, Coke because what kind of monster doesn't want "to build the world a home and furnish it with love?" I rest my case. Team Jen or Team Angie? I mean DUH, if you have a pulse (and a husband) then hands down, Team Jen. Dance like no one's watching or get caught "carrying a watermelon"? As much as I love mimicking an awkward Frances "Baby" Houseman, nothing stands in the way of me, a shirtless Johnny Castle and some seriously dirty dancing. I guess it just comes down to different strokes for different folks. For me, however, the battle between taking A SHOWER VS. TAKING A BATH is as clear as the day Beverly Hills High decided to let Donna Martin graduate. 

Every early evening, I indulge in the therapeutic ritual of soaking in a scorching hot tub. A bath grounds and lightens me all at the same time. It is one of the rare moments in my day when I feel centered, calm and clear-headed. And because this is such a vital part of my routine, I only seek the BEST when it comes to the products I use to accompany this sacred time. Below is a list of my MOST COVETED bathing aphrodisiacs:

1. L'Occitane Lavendar Foaming Bath- Currently, I'm residing in the suburbs of Stamford, CT: "the city that works." Sounds downright dreamy right? Whenever I'm feeling a little uninspired, I pour a few capfuls of this potion under hot, running water and instantly I'm whisked away to the rolling purple hills of Provence. But truly, what makes this foaming bath so splurge-worthy is L'Occitane's commitment to purity of product. You get what you pay for with this one. Also, it makes a great gift for all those in search of a temporary change of scenery.
2. Burt's Bees Baby Bee Bubble Bath- All you moms out there, look no further than the ledge of your child's bathtub for this gold standard in bathing products. This is my go-to on a regular basis for my daughters AND me because of it's mild, non-irritating yet boisterously bubbly formula. And if that's not enough for you to shout YES! It can be found in the aisles at most local pharmacies... C'est tres facile, non?
3. Laura Mercier Creme Brulee Honey Bath- this pure delight was given to me as a Christmas gift by someone who must know me really well (ok, fine! It was my mom!!!). I have bought this repeatedly since. The packaging alone, with it's adorable glass jar and wooden honey comb dipper is enough to convert all the anti-bathers among us. It promises to "firm, lift and moisturize skin". I am obsessed mostly with the scent of this product (think vanilla, honey and caramel) AND the luxury I feel instantly when plunging in to it. C'est une bonne vie mes amis.
4. ANY Philosophy Shampoo, Bath & Shower Gel- Seriously, you can't go wrong with this product and there are so many sweet smells to choose from. I love Philosophy's Amazing Grace for it's delicate scent and suppleness it adds to my skin. These products are so key for a couple of reasons. Firstly, it doubles as a body AND hair cleanser. Secondly, you can choose a scent particular to you, and thirdly, I have repeatedly discovered Philosophy chillaxing atop the shelves at Marshalls for half the price. My work here is done. 
5. Fresh Sake Bath- Got nothing left in you? Do what the Geisha do and submerge yourself in this therapeutic sake soak which promises to increase circulation and body temperature, "inducing a purifying sweat to eliminate toxins." And in my hope of all hopes, maybe sweat out the boat load of cookies I just ate. Seriously though, this rice sake bath is like a detoxifier for your soul. I save this one for my most desperate of occasions... the nights of no sleep, the week long visits from the stomach bug fairy, or just those random Tuesdays when all things go awry before I've barely even opened my eyes.

Baths for me are what toilets are for my husband... therapy. Luckily for my husband, when he  holes up in the bathroom until his feet go numb, he is commonly alone. I'm usually about one big- toe in when at least one of my daughters climbs across the tile floor Mission Impossible style... at which point, all visions of repose and rejuvenation fly the fuck out the window. Welp, I guess that's life... and that's why there's wine. Fill 'er up, s'il vous plait! 

there goes my 1.5 seconds of serenity... bravo kiddos!

my little piece of Provence...