The Best of The Good Things: Top Product & Media Recommendations from 2018 Revisited

As we reflect on the past, particularly the year 2018, it’s a wonderful opportunity to revisit the things that genuinely made a positive impact on our lives. From your top recipes and DIY projects to my own personal goals, a common thread emerges: the pursuit of things that simplify, enhance, or bring joy. This sentiment was the driving force behind the monthly series I launched in 2018, aptly named The Good Things List.

Now, a few years on, a crucial question arises: do these items and experiences still hold up? Are they still in regular use, performing as well as they did then? As bloggers, we often highlight new discoveries, but true transparency comes from following up on those recommendations over time. Life moves fast, and sometimes these follow-ups get delayed. However, I believe revisiting past endorsements builds a stronger foundation of trust with my readers, showing what truly endures beyond the initial excitement.

It’s incredibly helpful to see what’s working for others. Many of my best recommendations for books, movies, and products have come from fellow bloggers whose insights I trust. My deepest hope for this “Best Of” The Good Things List is that you’ll discover something here – a product, a tip, or an idea – that genuinely resonates with you. Perhaps it will solve a small problem, spark inspiration, or simply add a touch of beauty and ease to your everyday life. This curated collection represents the items and experiences that have truly stood the test of time, continuing to deliver value and satisfaction.

Highlighting the Best of The Good Things List from 2018

Here, in no particular order (with movies and TV shows reserved for the very end!), are the standout items from my 2018 “Good Things Lists” that I continue to use, love, and enthusiastically recommend:

The Everyday Essential: Bubble Up Brush from Grove

My Bubble Up Brush from Grove has been a kitchen staple since 2016, but its consistent performance made it an immediate inclusion in one of the very first Good Things Lists. I genuinely use it daily, and I’m constantly grateful for how efficiently it cleans dishes. Anyone who helps out in my kitchen invariably comments on how clever and effective it is. In fact, it was one of my go-to Christmas gifts this year, which I think speaks volumes about my endorsement! While I’ve seen similar brushes elsewhere, I first discovered this gem through Grove, a company I consistently recommend for their commitment to quality and their eco-conscious mission. It’s a small, inexpensive item that makes a tangible difference in daily chores, proving that sometimes the simplest tools are the most impactful.

Long-Lasting Lip Color: Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick in Lover

The Maybelline SuperStay Matte Ink Liquid Lipstick in “Lover” continues to impress me with its incredible longevity. It truly lives up to its “SuperStay” name, remaining vibrant throughout the day, often with a noticeable trace still present when I remove my makeup at night. My main discovery with this product is that when applied at full strength, it can sometimes accumulate in the corners of the mouth later in the day. My simple, yet effective, solution is to gently blot the lip stain with a tissue immediately after application. This eliminates the caking issue and also leaves a slightly more subtle, natural color that I find perfect for everyday wear. While I’ve experimented with a few other shades (and they’ve released new ones since!), none have matched the flattering tone and consistent performance of “Lover.” It’s an affordable beauty hack that delivers premium results.

Affordable & Delicious Dining: Baja Fresh’s A La Carte Tacos

For a consistently satisfying and budget-friendly meal, Baja Fresh’s a la carte tacos remain a firm favorite. While the price has seen a slight increase over the years, they still offer exceptional value, especially considering they come with complimentary chips and access to their fantastic salsa bar. It’s a go-to spot for quick family dinners and casual gatherings with friends, and the food quality is reliably excellent. I always recommend signing up for their email list; they frequently send out coupons, such as $2 off a $10 order or $5 off a $20 order, which makes an already great deal even better. It’s a simple pleasure that continues to deliver on taste and value.

Reliable Home Appliances: LG Washer & Dryer Update

Our LG Washer and Dryer, purchased in January 2018, continue to be excellent investments. Initially, I had some reservations about the washer. I’d heard concerns that top-loaders might not always immerse all clothes sufficiently, potentially compromising cleanliness. Indeed, during my first few washes, I noticed some items weren’t fully covered by water. However, I quickly learned to adjust my washing routine. Instead of just selecting “normal wash” for typical loads, I now consistently add “water plus” and “extra rinse” options. This initially increases the estimated wash time to a seemingly lengthy 1 hour and 22 minutes, but the machine intelligently auto-adjusts the load, bringing the actual wash time down to a more manageable 53 minutes. This method works perfectly, ensuring all our clothes are thoroughly covered, agitated, and emerge sparkling clean.

A significant factor in choosing a top-loader was its ability to wash and soak large items, particularly our white slipcovers. I’m thrilled to report that this washer excels at this task. Its generous 4.5 cu. ft. capacity easily accommodates bulky items, making deep cleaning a breeze. While our exact models are no longer available (and I do miss the front control panels!), I’ve linked to newer, comparable versions above for those interested in upgrading their laundry room with reliable LG appliances.

Affordable Matte Eyeshadow: L.A. Colors Matte Eyeshadow Pallet in Brown Tweed

Since its purchase last spring, the L.A. Colors Matte Eyeshadow pallet in Brown Tweed has been my sole eye makeup choice. I’m quite minimalist with my beauty routine, investing only in the few products I regularly use – so there’s no need for me to “organize my makeup,” thankfully! This pallet continues to impress me with its quality, especially considering its incredibly low price point. Finding good matte eyeshadows can be surprisingly challenging, and as we age, shimmery or sparkly shadows tend to highlight fine lines rather than enhance. This pallet offers a fantastic range of matte neutral shades that I use consistently. While I initially thought it would last well over a year, I’ve since learned that it’s closer to a year’s supply with daily use. I’m currently running low and will definitely be reordering this month. It’s a budget-friendly find that delivers exactly what I need in my simple beauty routine.

Nourishing Connections: Our Family Game Nights

Of all the “good things” from 2018, our family game nights might be the most impactful for our relationships. We commit to doing this twice a month, and I cannot recommend it highly enough to anyone looking to strengthen bonds and create lasting memories. It’s more than just playing games; it’s about dedicated time for connection, laughter, and a break from screens. Gather your family and/or close friends who are interested, schedule it in, and protect that time. You will undoubtedly be glad you did. It provides a consistent opportunity for genuine interaction and shared fun. If you’re looking for ideas on how to get started or structure your own game nights, you can read more about how we organize ours here, including some of our favorite games and tips for making it a success. It’s a simple tradition that yields immense joy.

Everyday Elegance: Inexpensive Opal Round Stud Earrings

I am literally wearing the white version of these inexpensive opal round stud earrings as I type this, which speaks volumes about how often I wear them. They are my default earrings, worn almost 24/7 unless I’m heading to an event that calls for something more formal. The quality of the setting is surprisingly good for the price; I’ve experienced absolutely no skin irritation or tarnishing despite constant wear. They stay securely in place, look elegant, and offer a subtle pop of color. The fact that they’re still available at such a great price makes them even more appealing. As an added bonus, they arrived on separate cards, making it easy to keep one pair and gift the others if you don’t need all three. They’re a fantastic find for effortless, everyday style.

Wireless Freedom: Apple AirPods

It’s almost comical how often I’ve mentioned Apple AirPods – I just realized they made it into two separate Good Things Lists last year! But I suppose that only reinforces how truly indispensable they’ve become. And it’s not just me; my daughter and I gifted a pair to Brian for his birthday, and he’s now a convert too. Yes, the price point is undeniably steep (Apple, why do you do this to us?!), but as a carefully considered splurge, they genuinely simplify daily life and add a layer of enjoyment. I wear them constantly while gardening, tackling DIY projects, cooking, and cleaning, and they have yet to fall out, even during vigorous activity. Their comfort, seamless connectivity, and sheer convenience are unparalleled. If your budget allows, I wholeheartedly recommend them for anyone seeking truly wireless audio freedom.

Kitchen Tool Review: Brieftons QuickFold 5-Blade Spiralizer

After several months of consistent use, I can offer a more nuanced review of the Brieftons QuickFold 5-Blade Spiralizer. While it certainly lives up to its promise of being easy to use and remarkably simple to store, the abundance of blades can be a bit overwhelming and confusing initially. I’ve had fantastic results spiralizing zucchini into “zoodles” – it handles them beautifully, creating consistent, perfect strands every time. However, I haven’t had the same success with carrots; perhaps it’s a matter of choosing the correct blade or mastering a specific technique, but they haven’t spiralized well for me yet.

Here’s a fantastic storage tip I discovered for zoodles that makes them even better: line a gallon-sized Ziploc bag with paper towels, then lay your freshly spiralized zoodles directly onto the towels. Seal the bag and store it in the fridge. This method allows you to store zoodles for 3-4 days, and crucially, the paper towels absorb excess moisture. I actually find that zoodles cooked after a day or two of storage using this method taste even better, as they have less water content and achieve a more desirable texture. Give it a try and let me know your thoughts!

Sustainable Coffee Choice: Fully Compostable San Francisco Bay K-Cups (French Roast DECAF)

Finding a truly satisfying decaf coffee can be a quest, and the Fully Compostable San Francisco Bay K-cups in French Roast DECAF continue to be one of the best I’ve discovered for home brewing. So many decaf options in stores lean towards medium roasts or artificial flavors, but I prefer a strong, full-bodied cup of coffee, and this French roast delivers that rich, robust flavor daily. Beyond the taste, a significant advantage of this brand is its commitment to sustainability. This is the only brand I’ve found that offers truly compostable k-cups at an affordable price point, allowing me to enjoy my daily cup without the guilt of excessive waste. You can find them conveniently on Amazon for under $30 for 80 cups with their Subscribe & Save option. If you’re curious about how Subscribe & Save works and how it can help you save money on regular purchases, I’ve detailed my strategies in this dedicated post.

Kitchen Gadget Dilemma: Cuisinart Classic Food Processor Update

While I’m hesitant to label the Cuisinart Classic Food Processor as an unqualified “best,” I wanted to provide a crucial update on my ongoing food processor dilemma. I previously shared my struggle with replacing my old, beloved classic model and my reservations about the updated version. My primary goal was to find another 7-cup machine, a size that’s surprisingly difficult to come by in other brands, yet perfectly ample for our needs without taking up excessive counter space like larger 11-cup models.

The main sticking point with the new Cuisinart was its peculiar pusher design, which consisted of three interconnected pieces that needed to be locked and unlocked. One piece was non-removable, meaning that to utilize the full-sized feed tube, food had to fit precisely within its confined space to allow the mechanism to lock and the machine to operate. This was incredibly frustrating. After a few exasperating attempts, I enlisted Brian’s help, and we ultimately decided to carefully break off the two plastic pieces that were hindering the pusher’s complete removal. This modification was a game-changer! Now, I can at least use it like a traditional food processor, although the multi-component pusher still presents challenges, particularly during cleaning.

My recommendation for this product comes with a significant caveat: if you are specifically looking for a 7-cup, reasonably priced food processor with a robust motor, this model might be a contender – but only if you’re prepared to adapt it as we did. Otherwise, it might be worth exploring other brands that offer a simpler, more user-friendly design.

Empowering Gardeners: Vegetable Gardening the Easy Way Ebook

It should come as no surprise that I’m including my own work in this “Best Of” list! The Vegetable Gardening the Easy Way ebook, which I poured my heart into last year, encapsulates all the practical tips, tested techniques, and invaluable insights I’ve gained over years of gardening. My philosophy centers on cultivating a productive vegetable garden without succumbing to burnout, ensuring that the bounty of the harvest can truly be enjoyed. This ebook isn’t just a collection of instructions; it’s a guide to making gardening less arduous and more rewarding.

My overarching goal with this resource is to inspire and empower everyone, regardless of their current skill level or available space, to grow some of their own food. Whether you envision a single raised bed near your kitchen for fresh lettuce or dream of a more expansive “back 40” garden, it is genuinely possible to achieve impressive yields with significantly less effort than you might imagine. The book demystifies common gardening challenges and offers streamlined approaches to planting, nurturing, and harvesting. Visit this page to learn more about the ebook and how it can transform your gardening experience.

Comfort & Style: Me Too Zoey Bootie

This “Best Of” list wouldn’t be complete without a nod to my beloved Me Too Zoey Booties. I’ve raved about these comfortable shoes in multiple posts, including a Good Things List, a Podcast’s Cool Things segment, and my 2018 Gift Guide. Since then, I’ve even acquired a black pair to replace another uncomfortable pair I owned. Interestingly, I’ve found that the black pair requires inserts to achieve the same level of comfort as my original brown pair – isn’t it frustrating how the same style can fit differently across colors? (Don’t even get me started on Old Navy’s jeans!). Despite this minor variation, they remain incredibly comfortable with absolutely no toe pinching, and I’m still immensely pleased with this discovery. They offer both style and all-day wearability, making them a true wardrobe winner.

Rewatchable Entertainment: The Movies & TV I’d Watch Again

Beyond products, sometimes the best things are experiences, and for me, that often means engaging with captivating stories. Here are the movies and TV shows from last year’s Good Things Lists that have earned a permanent spot on my rewatch roster. (Keep an eye out for a separate, in-depth article soon, where I’ll delve into my best book recommendations of 2018!):

• The Greatest Showman: A spectacle of pure joy and feel-good narratives, perfectly complemented by an uplifting soundtrack. It’s an instant mood booster.

• Black Panther: A groundbreaking film that transcends the typical superhero genre with a compelling story, rich cultural immersion, and powerful performances.

• Game Night movie: Easily my favorite film of the year! This movie is a comedic masterpiece that had me laughing out loud from start to finish. I genuinely can’t wait to watch it again and catch all the witty details I might have missed.

• Crazy Rich Asians: An incredibly fun, vibrant, and heartwarming movie that seamlessly blends humor with a meaningful moral lesson about family, culture, and love.

• The Good Place: This is the only TV series to make my list, and for good reason! Our entire family eagerly awaits the return of each new season. It’s been a long time since we made an effort to watch something live on TV as it airs, but this show is so cleverly written and consistently entertaining that we plan our Thursday evenings around it. A crucial note: this is a series that absolutely demands to be watched in order, from the very beginning, to fully appreciate its intricate plot and character development. Older episodes are readily available on Hulu and Netflix, so you can catch up from the start!

What Are Your Enduring Favorites?

So, there you have it – a comprehensive look back at the best of the best from my 2018 recommendations. I’m always on the lookout for new “good things” that simplify life, inspire creativity, or bring a little extra joy. Have any of my 2018 suggestions become staples in your home? Or perhaps you have a fantastic product, a brilliant tip, or a must-watch movie that you think I (and my readers!) need to check out? Don’t hesitate to share in the comments below – I’m genuinely eager to discover what’s making a positive difference in your life!