Illustrator Brooke Barker’s dog may not be the most exuberant or affectionate, but as Brooke puts it, “the finest things don’t need to be the most vibrant or the most loving.”
Similarly, the finest things aren’t always the trendiest, the glossiest, or the swiftest. “I believe there are scarcely five truly great ballpoint pens in existence and they’re all aged,” Brooke shared recently in her newsletter, Never Not Nervous. “And my go-to shirt is the one I received while playing recreational soccer in the fourth grade.”
Even though the best things might not always appear to be the best things, you recognize them when you encounter them. The books I hold dear are often worn and frayed, and when dining solo, I swiftly reach for a bowl of Cheerios.
Furthermore, one of my favorite aspects of our home is that our living room windows are adorned with children’s handprints.
What subtle treasures do you hold dear? This question brings to mind a Kate Baer poem mentioned above. xoxo
P.S. Seeking glimmers, and do you have any tips to share?
**Cherished Simple Items That Lack Flash and Glamour**
In a society increasingly captivated by cutting-edge gadgets, upscale brands, and trending fads, it’s effortless to forget about the quiet champions of our everyday existence—those straightforward, humble items that provide us comfort, ease, and happiness without the need for the spotlight. These cherished everyday items may not dazzle or exude glamour, but their worth resides in their dependability, familiarity, and the small yet significant parts they play in our daily lives.
Here’s a salute to the unpretentious objects that enhance life by making it smoother, cozier, and more manageable—often without us even realizing their presence.
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### 1. **Well-Worn Sweatpants**
Nothing compares to slipping into a pair of soft, well-loved sweatpants after a tiring day. They might be faded, stretched, or slightly worn, yet they provide unparalleled comfort. Unlike upscale leisurewear, these pants don’t have to impress anyone—they’re there for you on lazy Sundays, sick days, and during movie marathons.
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### 2. **Trusted Coffee Mugs**
Everyone has that one favorite mug. It may be chipped or stained from extensive use, but it feels just right in your hand and holds the perfect amount of coffee or tea. These mugs often carry sentimental significance—maybe a souvenir from a memorable trip, a gift from a dear one, or a keepsake from college days. They don’t belong to a uniform set, which is precisely what makes them unique.
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### 3. **Reusable Grocery Bags**
While they might not be glamorous, reusable grocery bags are the unsung champions of sustainable living. Frequently stashed in car trunks or hanging by the door, these bags help cut down on plastic waste and simplify shopping trips. Some are promotional freebies, while others are colorful or quirky, but all serve a practical and eco-friendly purpose.
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### 4. **Duct Tape**
Though it may not be visually appealing, duct tape is the ultimate solution-oriented tool. From mending torn upholstery to temporarily sealing a leaking pipe, this gray roll of adhesive wonder is a staple in toolboxes and junk drawers everywhere. It embodies ingenuity and versatility—demonstrating that functionality doesn’t require perfection.
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### 5. **The Kitchen Junk Drawer**
Every home has one: a drawer brimming with batteries, rubber bands, twist ties, old keys, and mysterious items whose functions have long been forgotten. It may be chaotic, but it’s also incredibly useful. When you require something random, chances are it’s right there in that drawer. The junk drawer stands as a testament to the principle that practicality often outweighs looks.
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### 6. **Basic Notebooks**
In this age of tech-driven planners and organizational apps, the humble notebook still stands firm. Whether it’s used for making grocery lists, doodling during phone calls, or capturing fleeting thoughts, a plain notebook serves as a blank slate for day-to-day reflections. There’s no need for it to be leather-bound or embossed to be valued.
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### 7. **Old T-Shirts**
Soft, stretched, and perhaps even a little holey—old T-shirts often rank among the most beloved items in a closet. Whether it’s a concert tee from your younger days or a promotional shirt from a long-gone event, these pieces hold memories and provide unbeatable comfort.
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### 8. **Essential Kitchen Utensils**
Consider the wooden spoon, the cast iron skillet, or the manual can opener. These tools lack digital features or sleek aesthetics, yet they accomplish their tasks—day after day. Their straightforwardness is their strength, and they typically outlast their more advanced alternatives.
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### 9. **Library Cards**
In our digital era, a library card might appear quaint, but it’s a gateway to a wealth of knowledge and entertainment—completely free. It unlocks access to books, movies, audiobooks, and local events. A simple piece of plastic with a profound impact, especially for those who cherish lifelong learning.
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### 10. **Home Slippers**
Though they may not be runway-ready, a cozy pair of slippers can dramatically improve your comfort on a chilly morning. Whether fuzzy, fleece-lined, or simply practical, slippers provide a small indulgence that makes your home feel even more inviting.
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### Conclusion
In a culture where value is often linked to visibility and price tags, it’s essential to remember that some of the most treasured items in our lives are the ones that consistently support us in understated ways. They may lack glamour, but their influence is unmistakable. These everyday items remind us that comfort, practicality, and sentiment often hold more significance than style or status.
So here’s to the unsung champions—the items that may not glimmer but still shine in their own unique way.
