Great Escape: A Bubble Bath Away

There's nothing better at the end of a long day than indulging in a relaxing bath. Add bubbles and you've nearly got a vacation. 

When the kids have gone to sleep and you're ready to wind down, hand-made Bath Bombs ($12.50) from , the boutique bath and beauty store in Maplewood, will do the trick.

I've tried the Bath Bombs. They come six to a pack, my favorite so far being the Citrus Honeysuckle. Not only do they fizz delightedly in the water, they come in various 'flavors' that soothe and moisten your skin.

 I say flavors because nearly everthing in the store looks and sounds edible. Take, for example, the Bubble Biscotti - interesting choices include Basil Mint and Oatmeal, Milk & Honey ($3.50). The biscotti look like mini-bricks and have the same effect as the Bath Bombs.

The Berry Creme Brulee Palm Wax Candles ($7.50) sound irresistable, described on the website as a 'sinfully sweet concoction of raspberries, strawberries and vanilla custard'.

Other enticing products include Fizzy Bath Cupcakes ($8) and Foaming Sugar Scrub ($12). I'm particularly interested in the Coffee Sea Salt Body Polish ($18) made with beans from .

My only warning about Maven's treats is to hide your purchases - I know when I was a kid anything with the word 'cupcake' on it would go directly in my mouth.

Looking for bathtub fun closer to home?

 in the Crestwood Plaza offers a whole line of signature bubble bath products. Try the Exotic Coconut or Midnight Pomegranate ($12). Also pick up a Brown Sugar & Fig filled candle for a final touch ($19.50).