The Pleasures Of Life

Last year we remodeled our bathroom. We spent weeks selecting all the right fixtures, tile, fans, paint, etc. We were excited to watch the work progress and when they were finally done, we were very pleased. That is, we were very pleased until we tried to take a bath. We hadn't realized that modern tubs weren't nearly as deep as the ones which were installed fifty years ago. We thought the sizes were standard. We quickly found that one couldn't recline in the new tub and expect to be covered by water as had previously been the case. (Of course, maybe if I lost 75 pounds it might be a little different). Now we love our shower, we really do. But, comfortable, relaxing baths are no longer possible for us. And I really do miss a good relaxing bath, especially when my muscles ache and my back hurts. But I am now a "shower person", just not by choice. However, recently we stayed in a motel and I thought that I would enjoy the luxury of a relaxing bath while we were there. While the tub was large enough, it was low, and I encountered my first problem trying to get in. I quickly discovered that there was nothing around to hold on to and getting a firm grip on the side of the tub was nearly impossible. But finally I managed to get in - very slowly. Then the next problem developed. The bottom of the tub had anti-skid material applied and it worked. I couldn't move, let alone skid. It felt like I was stretched out on rocks or broken glass. It was painful to move, but I thought I'd just rest my head on the back of the tub and lie still to avoid the "pain". But guess what? The ledge was so narrow that you couldn't rest your head on it. Unbelievable! So I decided it would be better to get our ... and take a shower. But, alas, getting out was the next problem. As I said, there was nothing to hold on to and I couldn't pull myself up. I imagined the fire company coming to pull me out. Finally, I was able to roll over, enduring the jagging of the anti-skid material. Then I was able to lean over the side of the tub and roll myself out. Success and the fire company wasn't even needed. So I've resigned myself to the fact that showers really are not too bad and that a good, warm, relaxing bath probably belongs to the good old days. It's amazing how we take some of the pleasures of life for granted until we no longer can enjoy them. Oh yes, it's Saturday, so don't forget to take your weekly bath tonight. Enjoy! Guess I'll settle for a shower.