Some of my favorite things that made life in 2008 just a little bit better… 

1.       Aura Cacia – Natural Aromatherapy Bubble Bath.  Without a doubt, the best bubbles I have ever encountered – creamy, luscious and long- lasting (you will still have a tub full of bubbles in 15 minutes).  The product is so good you don’t have to use a lot of liquid for each bath – so it could last awhile, but because the experience is so awesome, well, bubble baths become a nightly affair – thank GOD.  Price: $10 a bottle.

 2.       RJ’s Natural Licorice – Black.  You either love black licorice or hate it – I’m a lover and was wowed to discover this licorice.  It is soft, chewy, with an unbelievable taste and just the right size so one piece satisfies your craving.  Side benefit – good for your tummy.  Price: $6 a medium bag.

 3.       Olay Quench Therapy Body Lotion.  Last February a friend told me about this lotion as I complained of dry, scaly winter skin and miracle of miracles – it works.  Here in Colorado, it is dry, dry, dry and I had been a fighting a losing battle with itchy winter skin for years.  That is until I found this lotion.  Tip: apply every day and within a week your skin will feel soft again all the time – not just after application.  Price: $7 for large 22oz bottle.

 4.       Italian Ice Sodas.  This is a light refreshing drink I would always order when out…then I realized I could make them at home too!  Fill your glass to the top with ice, pour in the mineral water to the brim (Pelogrino is what I use) and add a dash or two of any flavored Torani Syrup (can buy at World Market).  Yummy, refreshing and low-cal.  Total cost: Less then $5 for 3-4 glasses.

 5.       Morning Joe.  During this year in elections 2008, I became an avid watcher of all things politics.  Being an early riser, I discovered Morning Joe and soon it became part of my regular routine.  I am a democrat through and through, but what I like about Morning Joe is he (Joe Scarbourough) is not, nor are many of his guests.  They argue, debate, joke – sometimes heatedly, about the issues of the day.  Yes, there are some mighty egos on the set, but I like hearing all points of view in a variety of issues.   

6.       iTunes.  I was a late to come to the iTunes party, but now, to have all that music and movies available in moments?  Heaven.  Price $.99 and up.

 7.       Angels by Victoria’s Secret Lace Trim Bikinis.  Want to feel better and a little sassy?  These undies are a delight – so pretty, comfortable and no rising up.  Price: $16, however there is a big sale going on right now…

 8.       Cuisinart Ice Cream.  My husband received an ice cream maker this year and much to my pleasure, it makes fantastic ice cream and so easy to use.  If you are an ice cream lover – this is a must-have.  Price: $49.99 and up.

 9.       Hotel Collection at Macy’s – towels.  There is nothing more decadent then wrapping up in a soft towel upon exiting a shower or bath…As my friend exclaimed when she touched the towels, “Oh my God, that is like velvet!”  Need I say more?  And the best news is, they have a “Slightly Imperfect Selection” that costs less than half the regular price.  (The imperfects have not measured to be exactly the right size for the bath towel, hence they are imperfect and an amazing deal…)  Price: $25 per bath towel, imperfects – $10.

 10.     Hats.  Bad hair day?  Please put on a Newsboy Cap.  Suddenly, instead of being appearing slightly disheveled, you are instantly hip and look about 5 to 10 years younger.  The caps are everywhere and are so much fun to wear.  Hint: Try on a lot of hats and when you find a goody – buy it no matter the price.  Finding the right hat is worth the $38 – $50 because not all hats look good on your head, but once you find a gem, you will be surprised how often a hat becomes a simple solution to those inevitable bad hair days.  Price: $10 and up.

 11.     Anthropologie Stores.  A new Anthropologie Store opened near me this year and basically, it’s like walking into my closet – the nicest version.  Absolutely everything in the store is my style – feminine, sexy and keen on detail.  Only problem – ridiculously over-priced, but again – sales abound.  This is the place to find unique pieces to spice up your wardrobe or reward yourself for any job well done…Price: variable.

 12.     The Passionate Marriage by David Schnarch.  This book will change your perspective forever on marriage and relationships.  How many of us read marriage, self-help books with a mindset of “if my partner would just get it…he/she is holding me back from my best life…if I could just figure out a way to make her/him see how they need to change…”  One of the most startling and truthful revelations in this book is that your partner is not the only one not getting it.  You are stumbling just as much – it just may not appear so on the outside.  Be fairly warned though, this is an emotionally exhausting book because you are faced with the truths of your own behaviors and how they impact your life – for better and worse.  The good news: your life and all your relationships will improve after reading this book.  Price:  $13.

 These are just a few of my favorite things of 2008.  Please feel free to share some of your favorite things of 2008 in the comments below…