My mom always called them “creature comforts” – those things that make life just a little bit better. Not extravagant or expensive, these odds and ends ease the sting of the day-to-day grind.

Here are five creature comforts that I have been enjoying lately.

1.) Garnier Fructis Leave-In Conditioner: smells familiar, makes brittle and frizzy ends (and hands!) soft, and does not break the bank

2.) Monster Rehab Energy Drinks: a non-carbonated pick-me-up, flavored with tea and other juices, that contains electrolytes and does not make me jittery. (pictured here against a vintage maxi dress)

3.) A narrow leopard notebook: small enough to stash in my handbag so it is always available to jot down notes, To-Dos, grocery lists, or blog ideas

4.) This Topcoat: speeds along a manicure, imbues it with a nail-salon sheen

5.) Sephora Flashy Waterproof Eyeliners: they are bright and don’t budge, and will be perfect poolside in Las Vegas (two weeks!)