The back-to-school shopping is done. Brand new pencils, colored markers, and notebooks fill my daughter's back pack. I've cleaned off the refrigerator in preparation for the new onslaught of pictures and class notices. School's started. She is excited to be back amongst her friends. I find myself in the everyday routine of waking up in the dark, fixing breakfast and packing lunches. Even though my daughter is old enough to drive herself to school this year, I still rush out the door behind her dressed in sweat pants and no makeup. After a quick work out and a shower, my work day finally begins. It's good to be back in the routine.

But, back-to-school is also time to recharge the parenting batteries. The kids are gone until at least 3:00. The house is quiet. I actually get some work done for the first time in 3 months. I've signed up for an art class at the local university. I have time for lunch with my girlfriends.

This month, why not celebrate back-to-school by taking a few minutes for yourself? Put on your favorite CD and take a long leisurely, uninterrupted bath. Why not go for coffee with the girls or host a brunch for your neighborhood friends? Try something decadent, just for mom.

Foaming Chocolate Milk Bath Sachets

Enjoy a relaxing, aromatic moment to yourself.

Ingredients:

1 cup baking soda

1 cup instant nonfat dry milk

1 cup unsweetened cocoa powder

2 tablespoons cinnamon

2 tablespoons cream of tartar

2 tablespoons cornstarch

Vintage handkerchiefs or

Pretty 10-inch square scraps of fabric

Ribbon

Directions:

1. Mix all of the ingredients together.

2. Place about 3 tablespoons on the center of a pretty cloth handkerchief.

3. Tie the bundle with a piece of ribbon.

4. Hang the sachet over the bathtub faucet and let warm water run through it.

5. Store the extra milk bath in an attractive airtight jar. It will keep up to 6 months.

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About the Authors: Rondi Hillstrom Davis and Janell Sewall Oakes are the co-authors of the award-winning book Together: Creating Family Traditions. To check out their website that's jam packed with family ideas, visit http://www.togetherparenting.com

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