In support of

So awhile back I blogged about products I that I love. You remember, don’t you? Faithful readers, I am disappointed! Anyway, today as I was driving to work in the monsoon (at least it wasn’t snow and ice like they got north of us—what I figure my parents got!), I thought it might be time for another such post. Mostly because I have no eloquent thought-provoking posts perking at the moment. Maybe someday soon I’ll have some deep thoughts. (But I wouldn’t bet on it!) So here are a few things I’m finding I can’t live without (err, well, I could. I just don’t want to):

1. The Daily Plate: Many of you know that in circa 2005, I decided it was time to get serious about my health. I started exercising religiously (and a little psychotically), started watching what I was eating (sometimes got a little obsessed over calorie counts), and lost some weight and toned up. I’ve kept that up, with some modifications and moderation since then. But recently, my lack of persistence at the gym and eat-whatever-I-want attitude left me a little unhappy with the current state of affairs. So when I found the Daily Plate on Livestrong.com, I knew I’d found a good tool. I like it because it allows you to keep a food diary, but takes into account the whole approach to healthy living by also keeping track of your physical activity.

2. Tony Chachere’s creole seasoning (known simply as “Tony’s” from here on out): I bought it one day on a whim and have found so many tasty uses for it. I fixed yellow squash on the grill with it. Yum. I added it to scrambled eggs. Wow! I put it on steamed veggies, in hamburgers (if I actually made the patties), and in casseroles. It’s good stuff.

3. Cavender’s Greek seasoning: While we’re on the topic of spices and the food, we might as well talk about this seasoning. I also picked it up one day on a whim in the grocery store (sense a pattern to my grocery shopping?), and fell head over heels in love. I love, love, love Greek food. I am a bit crazy about the chicken gyros at the little place in the Farmer’s Market in downtown Nashville. I’ve made my own, sort-of, chicken gyros at home and developed a pasta dish I simply call “Greek pasta.” (I’ve never served it to other people, but I like it!) So Cavender’s Greek seasoning has become a favorite in my kitchen.

4. Boots No. 7 Advanced Hydration Day Cream: Most of you know I’m  a high-end makeup product junkie. But most of those expensive moisturizers from MAC, Bobbi Brown, Clinique really don’t do much for me. Who knew I’d find the moisturizer I like at Target? But I did and I love it. It’s not greasy, contains sunscreen, and seems to do a good job of moisturizing my face and helping to keep me as line-free as possible. But I have been called ma’am and Lady a lot lately. Am I looking old? You tell me if I am! And just to make you laugh a pic to “judge” by:

5. Cuisinart coffee maker: I wanted one for Christmas, told my mom about it, and she came through! I love the thermal carafe, the programmable settings, the charcoal filter. I foresee many a good times together—some sweetened with a little steamed milk, foam, and white chocolate mocha sauce. (And I just made myself crave a mocha. SCORE!)

Have a happy Tuesday. Leave comments. Please?! They do make me happy.