No buyer’s remorse here
- What It Is: The Ones (831 Stories)
- How Much It Costs: $99/year
- Why It’s Awesome: I love the business model and niche-ness of this brand. Yes, a brand, because they are more than just a publisher. They put out romance novellas and are unabashed supporters of the genre. I respect that they really say it with their chest and recognize the value of romance. They’ve got distinct branding, create fun merch, host events that encourage community-building, and welcome the crossing of platforms. And the books are good!
- What It Is: Small dome studs from Mejuri
- How Much It Costs: $58 before tax (watch out for sales)
- Why It’s Awesome: I’ve hit the age where I’m moving away from costume jewelry and am slowly building my collection of classic pieces made from quality materials designed to last. The price of these sterling silver earrings is great and they go with everything. So easy to throw on and feel put together.
- What It Is: To-go coffee cups
- How Much It Costs: $18-$24
- Why It’s Awesome: It’s really tough to get a full cup in and get another human ready for work. I like that you can find some fun patterns to romanticize your commute a bit without spending too much at the coffee shop. It’s also a good way to avoid drinking less than stellar office coffee.
- What It Is: Mahjong Lessons
- How Much It Costs: $236 for 2 lessons (includes snacks, drinks)
- Why It’s Awesome: I set out to learn a new skill; I did. Mahjong holds major cultural importance for me, and I really enjoyed embracing that.
- What It Is: Scrivener
- How Much It Costs: $60
- Why It’s Awesome: Once I landed on a concept that I thought had legs and a writing group that offered advice and accountability, I wanted to get serious about writing a book. If I’m going to do it, I’m going to do it right, which [for me] includes outlining and developing backstories to properly flesh out the story. Scrivener offers the framework I need and is much more organized than the Google Docs I had been using. After asking around, this platform seemed to be the standard. And when I realized it was a one-time fee instead of a monthly subscription, I was sold.
- What It Is: RideSafer vest
- How Much It Costs: $179 (goes on sale for Prime Day/Black Friday)
- Why It’s Awesome: It’s so compact and opens up a world of travel possibilities. For a family that does not have a car (with a car seat locked and loaded) but does take cars on occasion (to the airport, to quickly visit friends in outer boroughs, etc.) this was a true game changer.
- What It Is: Wild Fable flared leggings (Target)
- How Much It Costs: $22
- Why It’s Awesome: This is a trendier legging that sucks me in properly and is so so comfortable.
Peaches to Apples 