Happy Things

I have a few favorite things that I'd like to share with you, so that your life will be a crapload better than it already is. Of course, you may not like these things at all. And for that, I pity you, I really do. Here they are:

Fruit Roll-ups have put out a natural-ish product that has real fruit, kind of like they way they used to be. They're really good. When I was a kid these things always hit the spot, along with a Jello Pudding Pop (heyheyhey) and some Lemon Coolers. You remember those cookies? I wish they would come around again too, but alas, it doesn't look like it'll happen.

Nordic Naturals strawberry flavored cod liver oil. I know, sounds absolutely gross, but I love this stuff. A teaspoon or two every day makes my brain work much more efficiently. I can really tell the difference.

A McDonald's hazelnut cappuccino. I shouldn't like these things, but I do.

Carrots. Yep. Just good ole plain carrots.

Emergen-C, acai berry. When I need some extra energy, or I'm starting to feel a cold coming on, I drink one or two of these and feel better in a snap. The powdery flavor took a bit of getting used to, but now I love them. My kids do too.

Brown sugar. It makes cookies so much softer. White sugar is not only bad for you, but will dry out your confections and make them crispy. Don't worry about it making your cookies darker, it's worth it.

Vinegar. Another way to soften confections. The flavor cooks out and you end up with a richer dough.

Red Cider Vinegar. Drink a little bit diluted with water every day and it will help break down your cholesterol and improve your skin.

Sugar and baking soda scrub. This is what you can use your white sugar for. Add two tablespoons of each in a small container with a little bit of water, and scrub your face (or hands) gently in the shower a couple times a week. Just watch those dead skin cells slough away! Don't add the water until you're in the shower or the sugar will dissolve too fast. Many people think that those apricot scrubs from the store are good for their skin, but they can scratch and scar.

Real books. I have books everywhere. Oh boy how I have tried to enjoy reading on an e-reader, but I love the feel and smell of a real book. They're my friends. Really.

Dr. Pepper. I want one now.

Laverne & Shirley. Every night. Every, single, night.

Libraries, especially in the summertime.

Driving at night with the windows open.

My kids.

And so much more that I can't even list it all. What are your favorite things?