We recorded a special podcast episode on video so you can listen, watch, or do both. In this installment we revisit twenty-seven items we’ve recommended during our first 50 episodes in the “This Is Really Cool” segment. Are they still worth recommending? Short answer: yes for most. We explain why 22 remain favorites and why 5 have become less exciting. We hope you find something that makes your life a little more useful—or a little more fun.
Some links in this article are affiliate links; if you click them I may receive a small commission at no extra cost to you.
You can download this episode from Apple Podcasts, Google Play, Stitcher, and TuneIn Radio, or listen below on your computer. Use this page to find links, notes, and photos mentioned in the episode. Note: if you’re reading in a feed reader you might need to click through to the post to see the player.
Watch the video version of the episode to see our reviews and the items we still love:
Cool Things That Have Stood The Test
Listed in the order we mentioned them:
1) Anker iPad integrated cover/keyboard – Unfortunately this specific model is no longer made, but similar cover-keyboard combos are available.
2) Hoopla Digital Library app for borrowing ebooks, audiobooks, comics, and more through your library.
3) Monoprice for affordable cables, connectors, and tech accessories that work reliably.
4) UE (Ultimate Ears) Boom Bluetooth speaker—durable, portable, and great sound for the size.
5) Lightweight spinner suitcase with smooth wheels and a roomy interior—easy travel without excess weight.
6) Barre3 workout method, a blend of ballet, Pilates, and yoga that builds strength and balance.
7) Suave conditioner used as an inexpensive, effective shaving cream—especially handy when you want a low-cost option.
8) H&M Home for affordable, good-quality pillows, linens, and home basics.
9) Coffee in compostable pods—good flavor with a more eco-friendly pod option.
10) Newman’s Own Wintergreen mints—classic flavor and a favorite for freshening breath.
11) Simple kayak racks for cars with existing roof racks—an inexpensive, effective way to transport small watercraft.
12) Seedling heat mat, especially useful for starting peppers and tomatoes earlier and more reliably.
13) Impact driver/drill—a versatile, powerful tool that makes many DIY projects much easier.
14) Interchangeable knitting needles, convenient for knitters who want a variety of needle sizes without storing separate fixed needles.
15) AT&T Ticket Tuesdays (app-based BOGO movie ticket offers) for economical movie nights.
16) Apple AirPods for convenient, wireless audio that pairs seamlessly with Apple devices.
17) LastPass for storing and autofilling passwords securely across devices.
18) Italian leather backpacks that combine quality materials with classic styling.
19) Affordable wetsuits that perform well for recreational surfing—good value for occasional surfers.
20) Comfortable leather booties with a balanced fit—stylish yet wearable for daily use.
21) A budget waterproof action camera that mimics many features of higher-priced models—great for casual filming in water and outdoors.
22) Peppermint Crunch Junior Mints—seasonal candy that made a strong comeback on our list. Keep an eye out for them next year.
And A Few That Haven’t
Some items we once recommended have become less impressive over time:
• A compact “lipstick” portable charger — still useful for heavy phone users, but I personally found I didn’t need it as much as I thought.
• Sleep Fan app for white noise — initially helpful, but the sound became irritating after extended use.
• The Cold Sassy Tree novel — the second half altered my overall impression, so it’s no longer a wholehearted recommendation from me.
• Certain Bluetooth headphones that kept falling out and had weak battery life—look for more secure fits and longer runtime now.
• Arizona Chipotle Spice — the company changed the formula and, while still usable, it’s not the same favorite it once was (opinions vary).
Thanks for listening!
If you enjoy the podcast, please tell friends, subscribe on iTunes, and leave a review—those actions help others find us. If you’d like to ask a question or suggest a topic for future episodes, call (541) 658-0215 to leave a voicemail and we may discuss it on the air.
For more from An Oregon Cottage, follow on Instagram @AnOregonCottage, Facebook, and Pinterest, and subscribe to the AOC newsletter for updates.
Disclosure: affiliate links in this post may earn a commission on purchases at no extra cost to you. This does not change the price you pay.