Jeff for America

Every year, around this time, Oprah releases her list of “Favorite Things,” which can include anything from a robe to a restaurant dish. A lot of the time, I don’t pay attention, but I do appreciate the idea of sharing things you love with others.  I’m no Oprah, but here are some favorite things of my own.

1

Northface Fleece TKA-100

If you know me, you know I love my Northface. For almost any weather and any occasstion, the TKA-100 is comfortable and versitle. I have collected it in 5 colors over the last few years and they never get fuzzy or worn. Available for $34.99 at most outdoor stores.

2

Edamame Ravioli

This dish has quickly become a favorite in Philadelphia – Gina and I went back several times during the Thanksgiving Break. Purred edamame are tucked inside tender ravioli and covered with an onion shallot sauce and whole edamame. Available as an appetizer for $11 at Buddahkan in Philadelphia.

3

iPhone 3G (Google Maps App)

I love my iPhone. I love the Google Maps feature even more. It has saved me too many times to count. You see, the phone is also a GPS devise and can locate you wherever you are. If I need a place to get a haircut, I just search for “Haircut” and it will locate all the places I can go within a mile. I can click on the red pins and get directions. Amazing.

4

Bolt Bus

Having a boyfriend in New York City (just about 1:30 hours away) can be a bummer, but having a bus to get me there any day of the week for $10 is the perfect solution. Not only is the Bolt Bus clean and comfortable, it also has free wireless internet and electric outlets at every seat. I can get work done while on my way to see Andrew, and all for about $20 round trip.

5

Crew Fiber

I got my AIM screen name (Hairgel12) from a childhood nickname. I used to use a lot of sticky hairgel to keep my “wave” (see below), but Chelsea introduced me to Crew Fiber a fre years ago, which keeps my wave in firm place without the greasy, messy effects of traditional hair products. For $12.99 it lasts me about 5 months.

6

Fleet Feet

When I needed some running shoes, Gina recommended Fleet Feet off J Street in downtown Sacramento. In addition to their great products, they also personally fit and customize shoes for each customer. Two months after purchasing a pricey pair of shoes, I noticed some unravelling at my toe. I took them into a Fleet Feet in New Jersey and they immediately brought out a new pair and let me walk out of the store with no questions asked. Satisfaction Guaranteed – they weren’t kidding. I won’t shop anywhere else for running shoes again.

7

Lobster Mac’n Cheese

Another Philly favorite, the lobster Mac’n Cheese at Continental is to die for. I’ve had many versions of this dish, but never so perfect. Made with crusted Gruyere cheese and shreded lobster, the flavors are full and tastey. A bit expensive at $17 a bowl, it’s still worth sharing.

8

Ticket to Ride

I discovered this board game just last year but it quickly became an all-time favorite. If you are looking for fierce competition and an anxiety filled hour of fun, then try it out by building a train track from New York to Seattle, but don’t freak out when your route is put on detour because of some idiot who wants to go to Winnipeg. You can have your very own for $35 online.

9

Sheer Band-Aids

With my nasty finger habit, I rely on band-aids a lot. After years of experimental research, I have found sheer band-aid brand bandages to get the job done. With little room for wear, they last all day, rarely discolor, and stay stuck the longest. Fabric, plastic and oddly shaped bandages have too many potential problems. If I have a band-aid on, I don’t want to know it or see it. At $3.99 a box, I have probably kept the company in business since I was 13.

10

Orbit Mint-Mojito gum

Long lasting, refreshingly different and the perfect size, this flavor has really got me back into gum. Unlike hard gum or the regular winter fresh/mint flavors, Orbit gum isn’t too powerful or strong. If you are looking for a little party in your mouth, try it out.

If I were Oprah I would give you all this stuff. I’m not Oprah, and you probably wouldn’t want it anyway. So…leave a comment and tell me some of you favorite things.

- Jeff