As an admitted thrift store addict, I generally carry a tape measure with me to best evaluate tablecloth length, planter height, skirt waist and what have you. Looks like it’s time to get rid of the ridiculous black-and-yellow industrial behemoth I inherited from my handy husband.

Lovely stamps from all over the world transformed into pendants via Scrabble tiles. Custom orders encouraged.

Thanks, Elaina of Fun Finds for Mom!

Because phrasebooks too often leave out, “Is anything stuck in my teeth?”

The well organized urbanite’s answer to the Swiss Army knife: a mini screwdriver, file, scissors, toothpick, knife, tweezers, pin, pen and ruler, all swiftly pluckable from their thick credit card-like home. As with the aforementioned knife, don’t try to carry this on, kids.

AAs you recharge via any powered USB port to use hundreds of times over. Note they take five hours to fully charge, but you can always top them off to nab an hour or two of life here and there.

For instant—if fleeting—ambiance. Keep them together in the book, or break one off to turn dessert into a birthday celebration, any time, any place.

What differentiates this carryon-friendly clear quart-sized plastic baggie stand-in from the others now on the market? It comes bearing not only little 2.5-ounce product bottles, but an eye mask and a set of ear plugs to help you catch some Zs (or discourage seatmate chattiness). Also? It’s trimmed in leather. Fancy.

Here in Minnesota, it’s that time of year when folks start going a little batty (see: cabin fever, SAD, the polar plunge). Or, in attempt to remain sane, especially in this season of extreme chilliness, they make a break for it. I live near the airport. Firsthand tales regaled while shuttling friends and family as part of my personal park-n-ride will have to suffice until my own warm-weather getaway in March. Lately, though, even the most basic suggestions of summer make my eyes glaze while my imagination hustles me off to a beach somewhere. Like this inexpensive warm-sunset-hued terry towel. A symbol of hope—or cabin fever.

Have a favorite beachy gadget? Comment about it below or drop me an email.

So Japanese, this toothbrush cap, for its smart little suction-cup back and total adorableness. A smiley face? Yes, please. If there’s anything I took away from my time living in Japan, it’s a better appreciation for anthropomorphism. Also: a sushi addiction, a deeper knowledge of what it really means to be hospitable and the ability to say I was once lead singer in a Japanese cover band.

Happy Inauguration Day!

Let the world know that you, too, are ready for change.