Day 91 of 365 - Bucket Lists and Soaker Tubs

This morning I was breakfasting and visiting with friends at the café, after our NIA dance class.  One of the things we were talking about is how much everyone feels the effects of taking a week or two off from regular exercise, as well as how our bodies complain when we are first getting back into it.

Given that this was my third class this week, and also since I mentioned I was going for massage and chiropractic this afternoon, one friend said how I would really need an Epsom salts bath tonight or tomorrow.

Now, that might sound like a mighty fine idea, in principle.  However, I do not like the shape of my standard apartment bath tub.  It is quite uncomfortable for soaking and feels more so as the years go by, which is obviously more a reflection of changes in my body since the tub of course has not changed. :)

I mentioned that it's still on my bucket list to live in a place which has a nice soaker tub.  One of my friends has a lovely large one in her home, and a discussion ensued about a potential sleep over with people taking turns using it.  It's the kind with jets and room for two people, if you are so inclined.

Then a vision flashed in my head.  I said that with my luck, my version of a soaker tub would be when I'm in a nursing home, being lowered by a Hoyer lift into a large institutional tub.  I imagined myself saying, "finally, thank God, now I can go!"  Much laughter ensued.

It's funny, but not funny.  I actually hope I never have to live in a nursing home.  But, this is one of the kinds of humor engaged in by the senior crowd.  We also had quite a lively discussion about experiences of elder relatives in amorous encounters while living in senior facilities.  Oh my!

To hopefully avoid both of the above situations, we keep going to our classes, keep our bodies moving and try to stay healthy.  None of us are promised a particular lifespan and we are well aware of this.  Some have suffered deaths of loved ones not that long ago.  Others are dealing with their own health issues.

The point is, the further we move along in life and see or experience more loss and hardship, the more important we realize it is to pay attention to and enjoy the day to day moments of life.  This includes the pleasure of silly conversation with friends, enjoying good food together and sincerely caring about one another's well being.  Oh, and of course, doing fitness activities together.

I'm still keeping the soaker tub on my bucket list though.  One can always hope.


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