These Are a Few of My Favorite Things

I originally visualized this as a vlog, with me dancing around and singing like Julie Andrews in The Sound of Music. But since I'm a klutz and tone deaf I think this way is probably less painful for everyone involved. I'd hate to have to go to the ER with a broken arm and be forced to explain I was injured when I tripped over the dog while dancing and singing for a vlog I was making. And I'd have to go out of state to find an ER where I didn't know anyone - maybe two states away. Just not worth the risk.


Anywho, I posted a long list of things I VOW to do this summer a few days ago, and if I'm going to get through even half that list I'm gonna need some help. Here are a few items I personally love that might help you out with your summer plans, as well.

Bug Bam bracelets. No, you won't look cool wearing them, and yes you will smell a little funny, but it's worth if you're a mosquito magnet like the kids and I are. No amount of extra-powerful insect repellent works as well as these babies. Order the big pack.

Neutrogena Fresh Cooling Sunblock. Perfect for spraying on fast-moving kids who don't think they have time for sunblock, yet cool enough for teens at band camp. Never greasy - I even use it on my face, and I'm super-picky about anything that touches my face.

Roaman's (online and catalog). Great place to buy modestly cut shorts and T-shirts in a wide range of sizes. Read the customer reviews for good recommendations. I just ordered a bunch of stuff from them and loved everything I bought.


Zanafel for poison ivy. It's easier to find than it used to be. Keep it on hand and start using it as soon as you think you MIGHT have poison ivy. Works better than anything else I've tried, including some prescription ointments. Steroids work best, but since my husband and eldest son call those "Mom's bitch pills" I'm trying to avoid them.



A fire bowl. Check your local limitations, but even in our strict neighborhood we can have a fire in a fire bowl with a cover. This is what ours looked like new. It still works great for burning up limbs after a summer storm and toasting some marshmallows, it's just not as shiny.


Paperbackswap.com and Half.com. Essential for buying your summer reading without spending a fortune.

"Shakespeare Can Be Fun" series for kids. They have kids' books for all the most popular Shakespeare plays, and my local library carries quite a few of them. These are essential if you want to do Shakespeare in the Park as a family and have younger kids.