12 Things I Can’t Live Without

So besides the two most obvious essentials we need for living, food, and water, we all have those things we need in our lives that we just can’t live without.  Family and friends are of course at the top of the list but I don’t think you want to sit here and read a novel about why I can’t live without them.

These are in no particular order but my #1 is definitely my #1.

Here are 12 things I can’t live without!

#1. Rylee

Rylee is my 6-month-old Golden Retriever puppy.  We got her on September 19, 2020, when she was 2.5 months old.  Let me tell you, she completely changed my life.  I have no idea how I lived without her these last 23 years.  She’s my little best friend and my shadow.  Seriously, she follows me around EVERYWHERE and if I’m standing in one spot for even a second, she’ll lay right on my feet like she currently is right now.  I can’t live my life without Rylee and literally tear up anytime I look at her.

#2. My Cell Phone

Ugh, I know, its a horrible thing to be addicted to but it is just so amazing that we have the world at our fingertips.  Especially right now during Covid, because of not being able to see friends or family, I find myself picking it up a lot more often.  Not to be dramatic or anything but my entire life is on this thing, memories, photos, music, streaming platforms, ideas, plans, recipes, etc.  How did people live before phones?!

#3. Hot Chocolate

Mmmm, my favorite drink! I feel like a dang child for saying it, haha but it’s true.  All my friends make fun of me (with good intentions). We’ll be out at breakfast, they are all ordering coffee and then there’s me, “Can I have a hot chocolate please?” What can I say? It’s the best tasting drink out there!

#4. TV

Now I don’t mean live tv and flipping through channels, I mean the streaming platforms. I’m subscribed to them ALL; Netflix, Hulu, Prime, Disney+, Shudder, Peacock, and, Vudu. It’s one of my favorite ways to relax and end the night.  Horror movies are my favorite. All my paranormal loving friends out there, Shudder will be your best friend.

#5. Paint and A Canvas

I’m a very creative and artistic person. I love all types of crafts and projects.  Other than photography, painting has to be my favorite artistic hobby.  Sitting outside in the warm sun with a drink in one hand and a paintbrush in the other while blasting some loud music, it’s very relaxing.  I’m definitely no pro, it’s just a fun hobby.

#6. Vacations

I. LOVE. VACATIONS. “Everyone loves a vacation, Monica.” I know, I know, but I seriously need frequent trips or vacations – even just a spontaneous weekend trip.  Is it just me or do you start smelling your favorite places when you miss them? Every once in a while I’ll smell the humid Mexico air that you smell when landing in the Puerto Vallarta airport. Or the water from The Pirates of The Caribbean ride. DO YOU KNOW THE SMELL I’M TALKING ABOUT?! Last week I had Alexa playing the entire Disneyland experience soundtrack. You know the music you hear walking down Mainstreet and the songs and sound effects from all of the rides? Yeah, I had it on repeat for HOURS.  Luckily my family loves Disneyland as much as I do so there were no complaints.

Ugh, what I would give to be sitting on the beach in Mexico with a Piña Colada or walking down Mainstreet with a giant churro in my hand.

#7. Starbucks Tumblers

I’m obsessed.  No seriously, I have a problem.  I can’t stop buying these dang SB tumblers! And they have a new release almost every month!!!! There are about 16+ of them sitting on my shelves and a few on their way in the mail. I’m still always on the hunt for new cups though.  I think the most I’ve spent on a tumbler was $80. CRAZY, I KNOW, however, using a different tumbler every week keeps drinking water fun and motivating. Whatever helps, right?

#8. Adrenaline Rushes

I’m an adrenaline junkie, no doubt about that.  I love the rush of fear and excitement you get when jumping out of a plane 12,000 feet in the air.  I’ve done that twice! It’s the BEST FEELING IN THE WORLD.  Try it, you won’t regret it.  I’ve also gone bungee jumping, white water rafting, parasailing, ziplining, and rode some crazy rollercoasters.  I have a major list of adrenaline-filled activities on my bucket list! Interested? I’m always looking for people who want to join me!

Here’s a photo of me in mid-air from my first jump!

#9. Candles

My favorite scent is Mahogony Teakwood.  It has that rich woodsy musk smell and I always end up buying these candles in bulk.  All candles are great though.  I could spend hours smelling all the different candles from Bath and Body Works.  There are currently 8 candles stocked away in my closet just waiting to be lit.

#10. Cheesecake Factory Buffalo Blasts

If you know, YOU KNOW.  These things are UH-MAZING.  What are they even wrapped with? Crispy fried chicken skin? Some kind of dough? Breadcrumbs? I have no clue but they are probably my all-time favorite food!  Dang, now I’m craving them.

©[Cheesecake Factory Image]

#11. My Glasses

If you are standing any further than 5 ft. in front of me, I probably won’t recognize you. You have no idea how many times I’ve had people come up to me asking why I didn’t wave back.  It’s cause I can’t see you! And I’m sorry in advance to anyone who doesn’t get a wave or a smile back.  It’s not intentional, I promise! It also takes me like 2o minutes to put in ONE contact and I just don’t have the time nor patience for that.

#12. My Camera

Ahhh, one of the obvious things I can’t live without. I try and bring my camera everywhere.  I love capturing not only others’ lives but my own too! Photography is my biggest passion, it’s an absolute DREAM JOB!  I couldn’t think of a better job!

I have the Canon Mark IV and my go-to lens is my 50mm 1.2.

What are some things you can’t live without?! Comment down below!