One of the first things I learned about my friend Pam when we met years ago was that every year on Mother's Day, she treats herself by checking into a hotel. Alone.
I liked her immediately.
It's a tradition she started when her kids were tiny and she was desperate for a good night's sleep. She hasn't missed a Mother's Day since.
I know. Kinda heavenly.
What intrigued me most was the thought of one of those great big hotel baths all to myself without a child climbing in along with me or asking for help finding their [fill in the blank], or worst of all, getting the tub filled halfway, only to realize laundry and long showers have robbed the house of hot water.
And so this year, while I'm not going to be checking into the Ritz, I do plan to treat myself to a hotel-style bath. I'll ask my crew to skiddadle and pretend I'm in one of those giant tubs, all by myself.
My bath salts are about the only recipe I'm planning to follow this Mother's Day. I advise you to do the same.
It's going to be delicious.
Mother's Day Bath
This is a more luxurious version of the bath my mom would make for us when we were kids -- a combination of Epsom salt and baking soda. The addition of essential oils, herbs and flowers makes it suitable enough to qualify as a Mother's Day indulgence.
1 cup fine sea salt
1 cup baking soda
3 drops lavender oil or other favorite essential oil
2 big sprigs fresh lavender
Rose petals
Start filling your bath with water as hot as you like it.
As the water is running, pour the salt and soda in so it dissolves.
Add the lavender oil and sprigs of fresh lavender. Swirl it around the tub with your hand.
Sprinkle rose petals over the top.
Climb in.
HAPPY MOTHER'S DAY!
This post originally appeared on Katie's blog, Mom's Kitchen Handbook, where you can find recipes and tips for feeding a family. You can also follow her on Instagram @KatieMorford