Do The Windows Open? by Julie Hecht
I relate to trying to memorize which neighbors have the pale pink and peach hollyhocks so that seeds can be covertly collected later in the summer. This New Yorker article is also a book of connected stories that is available in paperback for <$15 on eBay.
Unscented Company Dish Soap
I ordered this from Costco.com 3 years ago and am still refilling from the huge box in my pantry. I dislike fragrance so this is excellent in that regard and gives no issues getting grease off pans. I do use Bar Keepers Friend for burned on crusty residue and I sometimes leave things to soak with baking soda.
travel Marvis
Okay so I don't normally brush with this stuff but when I'm on a trip, whether it's hotel or campsite, I love to feel special. Get one, forget it's in your toiletry bag, and it's a surprise every trip.
blind taste tests with kiddos
Chicken nuggets, types of gouda, pickles if they're into that. This is an all ages activity - think day after Christmas multi-generational - and you can really go to bat for which one you think is the best.