Aaron's Favorite Things 2023

 

Jura Z10 Diamond White: This machine and my Toto Washlet ($1,091) battle it out for the #1 & #2 spots on my all-time Favorite Things list.  First off, the new diamond white finish looks amazing—more like kitchen artwork than an appliance.  The grinder is quieter so you don't wake up the neighborhood, the programmable display allows you to customize your favorites on the home screen, and of course, the coffee is outstanding. $3,899

Vivace Coffee Beans: David Schomer is a freak, a coffee savant and mentor to nearly all of the world's top roasters and barista's.  He even gave a Ted Talk on his history and perfecting the process, from bean to cup.  It may be a little on the pricey side after shipping, but treat yourself to a batch and you won't be disappointed—opt for the higher blends, such as the Ugandan Ekende.  $22

Reviver Digital License Plate: This digital license plate came installed on my new car and I love it!  I will never own another car without one and no doubt it's the future.  No more annual registration stickers, the plate updates automatically, and you can also customize messages below your plate number as often as you'd like.  If you're in CA, AZ, or MI, get yours now. $599

Fanttik X8 APEX: This hand-held air pump inflates anything; I love it because you pre-set your PSI, so no more under or over inflating.  This is great for all your bicycles, balls, and I keep it in my car for emergencies. Please note that this unit only charges using a 5V power supply (you probably have one sitting in a drawer). $79

Apple Watch Ultra 2: Finally switched from my normal Apple Watch to the Ultra—huge difference!  The two most noticeable upgrades are the battery life (72 hrs) and the screen size. You can fit so much information on your Home Screen.  This watch is a must if you're into working out and it's great for hiking & water sports.  $799

Varsity Headwear Baseball Cap: Two Norwegian brothers set out to create the perfect baseball cap.  They did it.  I know this is a little Kendall Roy from Succession, but there is a time and place for a nice ball cap.  I stumbled upon this brand at Bergdorf Goodman's in NYC and also found them at Le Bon Marche in Paris.  They come in various materials including wool, linen, and of course cotton.  If you want to wear a nice outfit with a hat, this is your best option. $80-$135

K-Way Le VRAI 3.0 Claude Rain Coat: This was another Paris find—compact, colorful rain jacket that folds up into its own pocket to create a functional fanny pack.  I keep this folded up in the back of my car and it always comes in handy.  $98-$130

Vuori Kore Short: I hate to admit this, but I love this short so much I cleared out my old workout shorts and bought this short in five different colors.  It's the perfect length, has built in underwear, and is comfortable and breathable for any type of gym workout.  $68 

Vuori Strato Tech Tee: Just like with the shorts, clear out your workout drawer because once you work out in one of these shirts, everything else feels like smothering sand paper.  Lightest, softest, most breathable workout shirt out there. $54

Vans UltraRange EXO Shoe: Now that you're all decked out in your Vuori workout gear, you'll need some agile kicks for the treadmill and bench.  Having just watched Fast Times at Ridgemont High, I feel extra compelled to rock Vans.  This was a XMas gift last year from my Son-In-Law and they did not disappoint.  They are so light and comfortable and make for a hipper workout alternative than Nikes, Brooks, or Hokas, etc. $90

Onitsuka Tiger Ultimate 81 EX: If you've read Shoe Dog, you're familiar with Phil Knight and this Nike predecessor.  I was visiting the Onitsuka store in Bangkok and was overwhelmed with the variety of cool designs; I almost walked out with three pairs.  My wife gave me this pair for XMas last year and it's one of my favorites. $130

Haflinger Wool Slippers: During the late fall and winter, this pair of cozy, warm, cork & wool slippers is always stationed next to my front door.  I slip these on when I need to take the dog outside potty, getting out of the cold ocean after a surf, or walking to yoga.  Don't worry, I have not gone for the Portland barista look, I don't rock a man-bun, but I do like warm dogs when it's cold outside. This German company's origins date back to 1898.  $160

Munich Moebius: A group of eight of us were strolling around old town Barcelona when we stumbled upon the Munich store. Suffice to say, all of us walked out with a pair.  This Barcelona-based company produces some very cool, colorful, comfortable shoes.  I have this high top in two colors and always get compliments. $130

Pink Miracle Shoe Cleaner: Now that you have all these new shoes with white rails, you'll need to keep them clean.  Dirty sneakers make my left eye twitch, so I'm always cleaning my sneakers with this classic formula and brush. $22

Wisdom of the Ages by Wayne Dyer: This book is a powerful collection and brief, insightful analysis of 60 of the world's greatest thinkers, including Buddha, Michelangelo, Rumi, Whitman, Jesus, Dickinson, Emerson, Francis of Assisi, Mother Teresa, and many others.  Wayne Dyer takes the best teachings from the best Masters and offers suggestions for applying their knowledge into our daily lives. $15

Fishwife Classic Smoky Trio: You either like smoked fish or you don’t.  If you do, order up this colorful trio of smoked salmon, tuna, and trout.  Instead of a boring tuna fish sandwich, mix things up by mixing some mayonnaise with this smoky fish on bread.  The packaging is so cool and makes for a nice gift when visiting a friend’s home. $33

Meater Plus Wireless Thermometer: I hate when my wife just tells me to “eyeball it."  I’m not programmed that way—I need precise measurements, times, etc.  The Meater takes the guess work out and allows you to cook meat perfectly.  It syncs with your phone, and alerts you when your ideal temperature is reached.  $80

Graza "Sizzle & Drizzle" Olive Oil: My interest in olive oil was piqued as my wife and I just completed a live, Whole Foods produced, online olive oil tasting class—who would have thought orange slices with olive oil and cinnamon were the bomb. These olive oils pass all the expert tests and are always within reach on my kitchen counter. Sizzle is for cooking and Drizzle is for eating—squeezing rather than pouring your olive oil is a game changer.  You can buy this dynamic duo at Whole Foods or online. $38  

Auto Registration & Insurance Holder: "Insurance and registration please." Words nobody wants to hear, but when you get lit up, it's nice knowing you're ready.  This is a simple holder with one side holding your insurance & the other your registration.  Hand this to the Police Officer and he may be so impressed he lets you off with a warning. You will receive a pack of four for only $8.

TaskRabbit: Someone suggested this app when I was in a jam and needed 10 LCD's hung in a couple hours.  I jumped on this app and there were two UCLA Engineering students that showed up hours later and completed the task—so impressed. I've used the app for electrical, plumbing, and random handy man style tasks.  Each Tasker is rated so you can get comfortable with their experience. TaskRabbit

PushHealth: I was in the Hudson Valley for Christmas and came down with a horrible sinus infection.  Based on my history, I knew antibiotics were the only course.  I jumped on the PushHealth app and had a prescription ready at Walgreens within the hour.  I like this because I have the same Dr. at all times—a former Navy Seal and a Chicago-based ER physician.  He always gets back to me promptly and will let me know if my symptoms require a physical Dr. visit.  There's no fees unless they write a scrip. Great having your own private doctor on call.  PushHealth 

Mark Cuban CostPlus Drugs: If you have any recurring prescriptions fulfilled by the legacy pharmacies, I encourage you to check out this site.  I was shocked by the discounts and saved almost 90% off what I was paying. In addition to the savings, getting your prescriptions mailed to you is so convenient. CostPlus

Withlocals: I was in Chiang Mai Thailand and wanted to hit the night markets and experience all the different foods.  I detest group tours and private tours arranged through your hotel are usually $$$.  So, a friend turned me on to this app, which matches you with a local for your desired activity.  My wife and I met our "Local" and we had one of our best nights out in Thailand; our local had everything wired, showed us where to eat, what to order, where to sit, and we thoroughly enjoyed her guidance and company.  Withlocals

Hazel Hygiene: Duke Cannon Bloody Knuckles: If you look at your hands and the image of your Grandfather comes to mind, buy this now. Dry, cracked hands (Joe) are nasty. $8  Kiehl's Super Multi-Corrective Cream with SPF 30: Ok, so this is really expensive, but once you've had Mohs Surgery on your face, you'll pay anything for the best, daily moisturizer with Broad Spectrum protection. $71  Olaplex No 4 & No 5 Shampoo & Conditioner: Again, pretty expensive, but so worth it—smell and texture is the best, only use a little. $60  Supergoop Unseen Sunscreen: I hate messy, thick, white sunscreen on my face, especially if I have stubble.  This face sunscreen is clear, so perfect if you have any facial hair. $38

Aaron's Favorite Things 2022

 

IWC Pilot's Watch Top Gun Edition "Lake Tahoe": Worn by Tom Brady, Lewis Hamilton, & John Mayer, this limited edition watch was inspired by Top Gun (based in Nevada) pilots' view of Lake Tahoe's winter landscape and released to coincide with Top Gun Maverick's theatrical release.  The beautiful white ceramic casing, mesh rubber strap, and crystal clear black dial combine to make this the coolest sporting watch on the market.  Good luck finding one. IWC

Theragun Mini 2.0: I have the original Theragun Pro; it is huge and loud as a jackhammer.  The new Theragun Mini 2.0 is a fraction of the size and quiet; also, it charges using USB-C so you don't need to worry about losing the charger.  This unit is easy to travel with and always comes to the rescue for a sore neck or any persistent muscle ache.  $199

Cosori Air Fryer Max XL: I'm a horrible cook; embarrassing, but if there's a bbq at my house I typically ask someone else to man the grill.  Is there such a thing as cooking dyslexia? When my wife says "just keep an eye on it," or "you just need to check it," my eyes roll back in my head.  The Air Fryer is my grilling assistant and nails it every time.  Steak, chicken, pork chops, bacon, salmon, sweet potato fries are all perfect with a little crisp—just follow the mini cook book, hit some buttons and the rest is history. $125 

Purple Harmony Pillow: I really hope you don't buy this pillow; I don't want to hear from you telling me that you hate it—pillows are so personal.  However, I have four different testing pillows in my guest bedroom and people always ask me about this pillow.  Purple describes it as a layer of honeycomb-patterned grid surrounded by a supportive inner core of hypoallergenic ventilated latex offering cool comfort.  When my wife sends me to the guest bedroom for a "time-out," this is my pillow of choice.  Size, Standard/Medium: $134

Ugrette 2 Pack Butane Torch Lighter: There's something oddly satisfying about lighting candles and fires with these powerful little torches.  These do not come with butane, so make sure to purchase separately.  You can adjust the length of the torch from the bottom—release your inner pyro: $10  And, the butane: $6

DrainShroom Sink Snake: Save money and forget calling a plumber for clogged sinks and shower drains; this cable connects to your drill and does the job.  I recently sucked up a hairball the size of a dead rat out of my daughter's shower drain.  Just make sure to wear gloves and glasses as it gets a little messy: $15 

HOKA Clifton 8: I've been loyal to Brooks Adrenaline's for over twenty years.  They have always been my go to running (even though I don't run) shoe.  I kept noticing more and more HOKA's on my walk— seemed like everyone was replacing their old tried and trues with these ugly up and comers.  I literally went out and purchased a pair because I couldn't listen to my mother tell me how comfortable they were one more time.  I admit, Hokas are ugly, but oh wow, like walking on clouds!  Goodbye Asics, Nike, and Brooks—hello HOKA! Available in twenty colors: $140

HOKA Ora Recovery Slide: Yes, more ugly footwear.  Do not throw away your Rainbows and don't wear these out in public.  I keep these by the front door if I need something quick to throw on to walk my dog, pick up his mess, or run out and grab my Doordash.  These are really stable, cushiony, and you can even get way with a light jog. Available in eleven horrible colors: $40

Oofos Ooh Slide Sandal: Why another pair of ugly slides?  Because I could not decide.  The HOKAs and Oofos are neck and neck, however the Oofos are hands down the most comfortable, while the HOKAs are more utilitarian.  Same rules apply for these—don't make a habit of wearing these awful things in public.  These sandals were intended for post-running, but as I don't run, they're really for when I'm too lazy to lace up a shoe.  $60

Cozy Earth Plush Lounge Sock: One of the first things I do when fall hits and temperatures plummet is wrap my dogs in these warm, ultra comfy lounge socks.  Cozy Earth is one of my favorite companies and with over ten colors to choose from, you'll have a pair for every outfit.  $34

Cozy Earth Bamboo Stretch-Knit Pajama Pant: I throw these on my bed side table before I retire at night since I know they're the first thing I grab when I wake up.  Seriously, the most comfortable pajama pant you'll find.  Combine these pajamas with Uggs Scuff slipper $90, a Vince Pima cotton t-shirt ($65) and you may not leave the house. $74

Stanley The Quencher H2.0 FlowState Tumbler 40 OZ: The Wall Street Journal claimed this water bottle is a "desktop trophy" with a huge social media following and a 150,000 customer waiting list.  Aside from all the hoopla and gorilla marketing, this water bottle really delivers.  I cashed in all my Hydroflasks and have moved to team Stanley.  I particularly like the handle, solid straw, and tapered base, which allows it to fit in your car's cupholders.  If you can pay up an extra $10, get the "Soft Matte" finish. Available in seven colors: $50

NutriDyn Fruits & Greens: I'm a periodic fad dieter, so I thought I'd try out a certified nutritionist last year to see if I could reclaim some sanity to my eating habits.  Like anything, it worked for a while until I succumbed to my Jeni's ice cream addiction. Regardless, my biggest takeaway was the importance of pounding water throughout the day; when I'm doing this I'm rarely hungry.  However, water is boring and the Nutridyn Fruits & Greens is healthy with powerful antioxidants, enzymes, probiotics, superfoods, fiber and turns your water into a a coveted beverage.  Available in nine flavors (I like: Pink Lemonade, Grape, & Strawberry Kiwi—you will need to enter Nurse Practitioner Code: 702952): $45

The Five-Minute Journal: My buddy dropped this off for my birthday; I started the next day and have not missed a day.  Designed with proven psychological methods, this journal cultivates gratitude, mindfulness and is the best way to start and end your day.  "The unexamined life is not worth living" -Socrates $29

Scheider Slider Memo XB Ballpoint Pen: Now that you're journaling every morning and night, you'll need some outstanding pens for your gratitude lists.  I have these littered throughout my house; when a guest writes with it, they typically look up and remark, "I love this pen."  Pack of ten: $24

THE WEEK: "I need to stay informed." Do you really?  Seriously, if you eliminated all forms of news consumption for one week, would you survive?  Not only would you survive, your mental health would increase exponentially.  I love this physical magazine because it highlights every major news topic and provides terse analysis from all sides.  It also provides review aggregation for everything coming up the following week, including: arts, books, theatre, film, television, food & drink, and consumer products.  1-Year subscription $129

Opopop: This company's mission is to "liberate you from boring popcorn."  Mission accomplished!  Opopop comes with a special microwave popping bowl and offers unique and fun flavors, such as: Pickle, Chedapeno, Cinnalicious, Salted Umami, Fancy Butter, and Vanilla Cake Pop.  $45

Seaside Market World Famous Tri-Tip: I first experienced this Tri-Tip at Thanksgiving dinner in Cardiff-by-the-Sea, home of one of Southern California's most well-known niche markets.  After taking one bite I nearly dropped to a knee, experiencing a serious food orgasm.  This Tri-tip is affectionately known throughout So Cal as "Cardiff Crack."  Just be really careful when you cook it and use a meat thermometer (I cooked it for half the time suggested and it was still a little overdone).  Get the original, Bergundy Pepper flavor: $110

Jeni's Ice Cream: Speaking of crack, this is hands down the best store-bought ice cream one can find.  Founded in in Columbus, Ohio by James Beard Award winner Jenni Britton, this ice cream has a uniquely smooth texture with a buttercream body. Currently offering over forty-two one-of-a-kind flavors—don't miss the Bramleberry Crisp or Watermelon Taffy: $12 

Ka'Chava: After you hit your bottom sucking down pints of Jeni's ice cream, you're ready for a reset. Ka'Chava is a silky smooth plant based protein meal replacement shake and does not taste like your typical chalky alternative.  Add water, ice cubes, throw in your Vitamix, and you're ready to roll.  Kachava claims to combine all the Superfoods and nutrients into a single, ready-to-go-meal.  Probably all a big marketing scam, but for now, I'm drinking the Kool Aid: $60 

Hazel Hygiene: NeilMed Sinus Rinse Kit: Every sinus-related visit to the ENT Dr. ends of up with a NeilMed Sinus rinse recommendation.  I've come to rather enjoy the salt flush and it's helped eliminate my sinus infections and allergies.  $23 GO Mouthwash Mint Packets: These are great to keep in your backpack or car for a quick gargle and refresh. $15 Dr. Collins Perio Toothbrush: Don't throw out your Sonicare, as this is a great alternative for a natural brush—ultra-soft and super slim tapered polyester toothbrush. $9 Perioe Himalayan Pink Salt Toothpaste: Squeeze some pink salt toothpaste on your new Perio toothbrush and when you're done, you'll feel like you just walked out of the dentist's office. $6

Aaron's Favorite Things 2021

 

ReMarkable 2: "No!  I don't need another electronic device; I have an iPad and I love my Muji notebooks."  That was my defense and will be yours too.  However, my friend was relentless, "Trust me, this will change your life....."  Well, she was right and the Remarkable 2 is my 2021 most favorite thing.  A Kindle is to a book as the reMarkable is to a notepad.   It writes and feels like paper, you can create endless notebooks and it syncs with your iPhone and computer.  I love always having access to all my notes and there's a 100 day satisfaction guarantee. Don't forget to order the cover and pencil. $521

Cozy Earth Bamboo Sheets: I love bed more than anyone.  My goal every day is to check enough boxes and reluctantly respond to just enough emails so I can get back in my bed guilt free.  Spending nearly half of my life in bed, I'm willing to splurge on comfort.  Cozy Earth's bamboo sheets are the the most comfortable on the market and even recommended by my good friend Oprah.   $329

Cozy Earth Ultra-Soft Bamboo Jogger Pant: The day after I posted AFT20 (Aarons Favorite Things 2020), my wife gave me this pair of joggers as a  Thanksgiving gift.  One day after singing the praises of the Vuori Ponta Performance Pant as my favorite thing, it was immediately replaced by the Cozy Earth Jogger.  The Cozy Earth Ultra-Soft Bamboo Jogger Pant was the first item on this year's list.  I have them in black and grey, and they're the first thing I put on every morning.  $109

Vince V-Neck T-Shirt: Here's a fact, the most comfortable t-shirts in the world are made in Peru with Pima cotton; it's just a thing, look it up.  So, the most comfortable and versatile in my experience is the Vince T-Shirt (Crew or V-Neck). Throw this on with your Cozy Earth Joggers and you'll be in paradise.  These shirts are a little thin, so if you're rocking the man boobs, you may want to look elsewhere.  This shirt is also comfortable enough to sleep in.  $65

Outerknown Blanket Shirt: Outerknown is eleven-time world surfing champion Kelly Slater's new clothing company.  They have great products and my favorite release is their Blanket Shirt.  I like throwing this on instead of a sweatshirt; it's soft, warm and versatile.  I love this so much that I own three.  The biggest problem is picking your pattern—35 choices! In my experience, this shirt runs small, so order one size up. Get Outerknown's Black Friday 30% off site-wide deal early by using code EARLY30. $148

Outerknown Local Straight Fit S.E.A. Jeans: In my opinion, one of the best Pandemic trends is comfort fashion and the death of the skinny jean.  If this is news to you, please stop what you're doing and clean out your closet, it's over, no more!  With that in mind, it's time to replace your tapered skinny jeans with my favorite & most comfortable jean, the Outerknown S.E.A jean. $128

Air Jordan 1 Mid "White Shadow": I'm not sure how you watch "The Last Dance" on Netflix and not order a pair of Jordan's.  I went with the "White Shadows" and can honestly tell you this: I have never had more people comment on anything I've ever worn in my life—"Nice shoes man," "Dude, sweet kicks," etc.  I'm not telling you to buy these for compliments, but you've been warned.  $210

Surefoot Custom Ski Boots: The inside of my ankles were swollen, filled with fluid—the outside of my feet sore to the touch.  My buddy from Jackson Hole recommended "Bootsy" for a custom pair; a grand later and my feet are worse than ever.  About to give up skiing because of the pain, a friend suggests Surefoot. I really didn't want to spend another grand on ski boots, but I was willing to give it a try.  I went in for the custom fitting, which is kind of weird as they pump hot, liquid foaming gel into your shell.  Alas, the solution, relief and a life time guarantee for adjustments if needed. Make sure to add the "heater" option. $1200

Uggs Scuff Slipper:  Back to the comfort theme, nothing better than slipping these on after waking up on a cold winter day.  I much prefer the slip ons over the Ascots and they're available in twelve colors. $80

Calvisius Caviar Siberian Royal: I don't know anything about Caviar, but for a special occasion my wife served this with creme fraiche, blinis, & diced chives—it was amazing! I have had caviar before and always thought it tasted like sea water or fishy—not this, just creamy & buttery.  Obviously, caviar can get ridiculously expensive, but Calvisius is reasonably priced.  If you're planning a special evening, splurge a little & you won't be disappointed. $80/oz.

Buona Beef: This meal is a family tradition and probably my (and my friends') favorite.  This was introduced to us by my father-in-law's Chicago business partner and we've been ordering it for over twenty years.  Spicy, slow roasted Italian beef served on Turano Italian bread and hot Giardiniera—unbelievable!  If you're having friends over and want a special and memorable meal, then order this. $109 

Drop Stop: My wife went to get my car washed and took everything out, including my Drop Stops.  Sure enough, I get the car back and within a day I drop my phone down the black hole between the seat and center console. After yelling at my wife for not reinstalling my Drop Stops, I put them back in their rightful spot and I can sleep again at night.  It's comforting knowing your keys, change, & french fires won't find their way into your cracks.  Plug the gaps, sleep at night. $25

Catherine Rise Incense Sticks—Palo Santo: If you’re looking to add a life changing routine, then carve out fifteen minutes every morning for a formal mediation; silent or guided, the benefits will be exponential.  I’ve burned several sticks of incense in my favorite burner (AFT19), but the hand rolled Catherine Rise Incense sticks are my favorite.  Light your incense, set your "Insight Timer" (AFT20), get still, and head off on your day with a grounded perspective. $28     

VOTIVO Red Currant Candle: If incense is not your thing or if you’re scarred by your alter boy days, then opt for the VOTIVO Red Current Candle.  This candle has been burning in a local shop for nearly twenty years, and every time I walk in, I end up walking out with a candle.  This candle comes in a decorative box and makes a great house gift.  $28

Premium Tempered Glass Chair Mat: If you’re home or work desk sits on carpet, you absolutely need this.  The cracked plastic desk mat is awful.  This glass desk mat allows your wheeled desk chair to swivel and roll with ease.  Throw out that nasty, plastic, cracked mat and upgrade to the premium tempered glass chair mat.  $129

Sunglass Hut Take Care - Care Kit: My sunglasses and spectacles are always smudged.  This small kit includes a spray, cloth and a small screwdriver for adjustments.  I keep one in my car’s console, bedside table, and backpack (briefcase) for easy access.  It's extremely slim, so it fits anywhere.  $10

Apple AirPods Max: I still have my Bose QC II and Bose 700’s, so did I really need another pair of over-the-ear headphones?  No.  I really didn’t and could not justify the Airpods Max, but Apple has a way of making me bend the knee.  I finally caved and Airpods Max are now my favorite headphones.  The two main benefits are Spatial Audio, which makes sound appear to be coming from outside the headphones and the seamless integration with my other Apple products. $479 

Beats Fit Pro: I recommended the Beats Powerbeats Pros last year for working out, but the new Beats Fit Pros are far superior.  In fact, I prefer these over the Airpods Pros.  They have the H1 Chip for Apple integration, noise cancellation; they don’t stick out, have longer battery life, and unlike the over-ear hooks of Powerbeats Pros, the Fit Pros use a small, inner ear tip that secures the earbud for strenuous workouts.  The case for the Fit Pros is also half the size of the Powerbeats Pros and charges via USB-C. $200

Apple AirTags: The Airtag is another Apple product I swore I didn’t need.  However, I lost my keys a couple weeks ago and decided to bite the bullet.  Like other Apple products, set up is a breeze and I now have tracking devices on my work, car/house, & bike keys.  If you are prone to losing items, throw an Airtag on and rest at ease. Pack of 4 for $99.

Apple MagSafe Duo Charger: If you have an Apple Watch and an iPhone, you'll want this.  This folds into a compact clamshell and is great for traveling.  It will charge your iPhone and Apple Watch simultaneously and the watch disc pops up so you can view your watch face.  I keep mine in my briefcase as I use it exclusively for travel. $129  

Apple MagSafe Charger: I have replaced all of the old, big, bulky wireless chargers in my house with the small, clean, Apple MagSafe Chargers.  You will spend a lot less time playing around with the phone confirming it's charging; when you drop your phone on this little disc it magnetically sucks your phone in, emits an audible and visual confirmation of a successful connection.  I highly suggest placing an inch of double sided scotch tape underneath and adhere it to the rear of your bedside table so you're showing minimal cord. $34      

Anker Nano USB-C 20W Charger: Apparently Apple is trying to save the environment (really profit margin) by not shipping charging bricks, so all you get when you order Apple products is the cord without the brick.  So, you will need to buy a charging brick separately for nearly every Apple product (even iPhones) mentioned above.  You will also need a minimum of 20W; this Anker Nano Charger is 3X faster than your old charger and 50% the size.  Trust me, you will need these come Christmas morning.  $17

VENO Reusable Grocery Bags: I'm being dead serious when I say I've never been complimented more on anything I own than these shopping bags.  When I get up to the cash register there's a 50% chance the cashier or the bagger comments on these bags.  They form into a solid box shape with a removable bottom that allows the bags to neatly fold.  You can fold and fit all of the bags into one. A shout out to my Jersey wife for this recommendation.  Be the envy of the check out line with these grocery bag bad boys. $24 

Withings Body Cardio Wifi Scale: If I had a dollar for every time my wife and I said, "We'll start our diets on Monday..." My body seems to have a "new normal" and that's +10 pounds.  The Withings Scale fat shames me every morning and reminds me of my crappy BMI and body fat %.  This scale syncs with Apple Health so you can track your weight's peaks and valleys.  I'm starting my diet on the Monday after Thanksgiving, you? $150

Formula 1 Drive to Survive: My wife hates sports, to the point I have to put in earbuds to enjoy a game without her yelling at me to turn it off.  A friend of mine suggested a Netflix series about Formula 1 and I told him I had no interest.  Again, he persisted and said, "just trust me."  I acquiesced and started the series.  Something crazy happened along the way—my wife started to watch.  Not only did she watch, she now can't wait for race weekends; she has her favorite team and driver and is all in for a trip to Austin or Miami for the two, 2022 tour stops.  10 teams, 20 drivers representing 15 countries all competing in the highest class of International auto racing.  If this show can convert her, then I guarantee you'll be hooked. Check out the trailer: Formula 1

Simplehuman Sensor Mirror Trio Max: Have something in your eye? Want to make sure you've plucked all that gnarly, old man nose and ear hair?  Just feel like staring at your face and contemplating your existence?  Well, this is the best product for all of that.  The mirror automatically illuminates when you get close, has a 5x magnified mirror on one side and a 1x and 10x view on the other. $350

OptiVISOR Headband Magnifier: If you're done looking at yourself in the mirror and would rather focus on others, then grab this professional grade magnifying headset.  My wife and I are sometimes like grooming monkeys, picking at each other.  "Honey, I feel something on my scalp, can you check it out." Don't let your dermatologist have all the fun, throw these on and have at it.  These also come in handy for digging out slivers, checking serial numbers and examining jewelry.  $51

Simplehuman Rechargeable Liquid Sensor Pump: Touch-free was a big trend before COVID, now it's huge.  I don't care, I'll touch anything (except my face) and I respectfully decline alcohol wipes offered by flight attendants.  However, this hand soap dispenser is just cool; I like it because it keeps conformity throughout my house— I use the same liquid refills (different scents available) and it comes in really handy in the kitchen when your hands are covered in oil after lubing up that piece of Steelhead trout.  $70     

Hazel Hygiene: Philips One: Not ready to replace my daily Oral-B IO Series 9, but for travel, this toothbrush has a permanent spot in my toiletry kit. $25  Eucalyptus Shower Spray: Spray this into your hot shower and be instantly transported to a high-end spa.  Very relaxing and provides sinus and congestion relief. $28 Piksters: My dentist said if I could only floss or Pik, she prefers I Pik.  I like to keep one in my pocket just in case. $20  Vaseline Lip Therapy Stick: Vaseline is always the best if you have chapped lips.  Finally, it's available in stick form.  Comes in multiple flavors: $7