1. A retro-looking OJ carton vase that'll turn your a.m. mood from sour to sweet when you see how cheery it looks on your kitchen counter every morning. Orange you glad you have this in your cart?
2. A pair of glowing light saber chopsticks so the force will be with you — at dinnertime, at least. Now even your most basic meals will seem ~out of this world~.
Check them out on TikTok!
BuzzFeed Shopping's Emma Lord is a big fan of these: "As you can see from the above GIF, I bought these for myself, and I love them to pieces. TBH, I use them as decor every bit as much as I use them to eat. Sometimes I just keep them in my work area to light them up during the day to feel fancy. They toggle back and forth between a bunch of different colors, like red, blue, yellow, purple, and multicolor, so you can either make them match *or* have a red and blue one together and bring ~balance~ to the Force."
Promising review: "The chopsticks are very durable, and the glow is bright. They're a bit bigger that I expected — but very pleased nonetheless with the product because it serves the purpose and is entertaining for kids, right up to adult Star Wars nerds. It also made the perfect gift for my fellow Star Wars nerds. I've been too busy playing with them rather than using them to eat food — but hopefully that will eventually happen before the batteries need changing." —Anthony
Get them from Amazon for $11.97.
3. And a set of finger chopsticks, which are a MUST if you enjoy snacking while typing, gaming, or doing literally anything else with your hands, but would like to avoid powdery fingers, thank you very much! Slip one on, use it to pluck Doritos out of the bag, and thank me when you don't have to lick your fingers clean between each chip.
See 'em in action on TikTok!
Promising review: "I love these thing!!!! Whoever invented these is a genius. I love snacking but hate the dirty fingertips. I'm able to type, move my mouse, dial a phone, and pick up my drink all while eating chips and not have to wipe or lick my fingertips!!!!!" —persianqueen
Get a four-pack from Amazon for $9.95 (available in four colors and a combo pack).
4. A bear-y sweet fan, flashlight, and USB port, because who doesn't love a cute 3-in-1 product that fits in the palm of your hand? Genius, I tell ya!
See why one person on TikTok loves it!
It's rechargeable (no batteries!) and can be folded and propped up on a desk or other flat surface. Lots of reviewers said it's great to hand on hand if you're experiencing hot flashes!
Promising review: "Impulse bought this for a 90-degree day at Disneyland and now my kids cannot live without it. It lasted all day on one charge, even with the kids playing with it for hours. Also brought it camping and the flashlight was great for them. Bringing it on every trip from now on." —Michelle
Get it from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in four colors).
5. A carbonated clay mask, which is equally as effective at exfoliating pores and removing blackheads as it is amusing to wear. I think this is what Bob Ross was referring to when he said "happy little clouds."
See it in all of its foamy glory on TikTok!
Promising review: "I love this stuff! I received some for a gift and then purchased it for my daughter from Amazon. It feels like a clay mask going on, and then starts bubbling and turns to a thinner substance when it's done. I feel like it is very gentle on my face. My skin feels amazing after I wash it off. It feels like I used moisturizer, even though I did not. I hear that these masks are very popular in Japan." —L. Shea
Get it from Amazon for $11 (also available in multipacks).
6. A super cool dual cereal dispenser in case you've ever dreamed of turning your kitchen into a mini version of one of those fancy office cafeterias. Not only will this make preparing your breakfast more fun, it'll also let kids grab their own cereal on hectic mornings (without any mess)!
See it in action on TikTok!
Promising review: "Love, love, love. I bought two of these and my kitchen looks fancy now 🤣. Easier and much more fun to access breakfast." —Jennifer
Another promising review: "We have three kids and a very small kitchen with very little cabinet/counter space!!! We used to keep our cereal boxes on top of our refrigerator, but I've been trying to declutter and also come up with a solution for our kids to be able to get their own cereal in the mornings. THIS IS IT!!!! It looks great on our counter, and we have very little space, so it fits just right! This has been the perfect solution to giving our kids the independence they need to get their own breakfast! It has been a lifesaver!!! Love it!!!" —tenle
Get it from Amazon for $39.21.
7. A cute rotating cube timer you can switch up just by turning it to one of the pre-set intervals! It'll look great on your desk, and now you'll actually find pleasure in carving out dedicated time for tasks on your to-do list.
You can also use it as a clock — don't forget the AAA batteries!
See why one person on TikTok calls it a "game changer"!
Promising review: "Makes staying on task fun. The delight of this timer is its ease of use. Just flip to a time, and it's going!" —Amazon Customer
Another promising review: "I picked up this little timer on a whim after reading about the Pomodoro technique for the 100th time, and vowing that this time will be the time that I actually follow through instead of lapsing back into flitting from thing to thing, starting tons of projects, and never getting any done. I don't know what it is about the timer, but having it beside me has worked like a talisman. As long as it's in view I find it very easy to stay focused and stay on track. It's like a mini personal life coach that just stands there and taps her toes while you work." —chandra orr
Get it from Amazon for $18.90 (available in five colors and with several different pre-set times).
8. A cheery cherry toilet brush, because cleaning your bowl is just the ~pits~ — unless you have one of these babies in the corner of your b-room! Life is short, so why not try making our most dreaded tasks a little more enjoyable?
See what one person on TikTok has to say about it!
Promising review: "This toilet brush makes me want to clean my toilet. It is so cute, exactly what I wanted, and works perfectly!! Fits nicely into my bathroom decor. It was delivered in perfect condition and I've used it three times now. If you're thinking about buying this...do it!" —Michelle Maroon
Get it from Amazon for $18.99.
9. A pack of Crayola Globbles you likely won't be able to stop playing with as soon as you remove them from their packaging. They can help relieve stress and tension when you squeeze 'em, but they're also fun to throw against your walls, since they'll stick without making a mess!
Watch someone throw them at their wall on TikTok!
Promising review: "Super duper fun. Bought my adult self something silly-fun and have no regrets. Had my niece in mind to play with them as well. Works on any kind of ceiling, tried them all except popcorn style so far. Easy to clean and after they dry on their own they are even better than new! Helpful hint, if you have a salad spinner, put some hot water and soap in it and spin them until clean. Definitely let them dry on their own, but they only take a few minutes to do so. 10/10 will buy more whenever these wear out. Thank you!" —Sabrina S.
Get a set of six from Amazon for $10.69 (also available in a 16-pack).
10. A truly lovable snail soap dispenser that'll bring you just so much joy whenever you wash your hands. It's the little things in life!
Check it out one fan's review on TikTok!
Promising review: "I LOVE this snail. I mean, I knew he was gonna be cute, I was excited to get him in the mail, but the amount of joy he brings my household is ridiculous. This is one of my favorite things about my kitchen, and I have a damn cute kitchen. He isn't incredibly sturdy but he doesn't need to be, and for the price I have no qualms. He doesn't hold much soap at a time but again, he makes us so happy that we literally could not care less. I named him Frank and I smile every time I wash dishes. We even catch ourselves thanking him and saying hi to him now and then. 10/10 just buy the snail." —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $12.99 (available in three colors, as well as a set of three and in a penguin style!).
11. Or a very charming flower foam hand soap you'll fall in love with at first pump. It should be illegal for household objects to be this entertaining!
Check it out on TikTok!
BuzzFeed Shopping's Emma Lord loves this soap: "Not only is it super hydrating for my hands (LOL @ constantly hand-washing now and forever!), but the yuzu scent is also just calming and lovely, and I'm obsessed with how light and frothy the foaming suds are from the soap."
Promising review: "I will admit, I first saw this soap on TikTok and thought that it would be a nice soap to try since I do seem to be washing my hands all the time these days. I was so excited when I received it to give it a try, really just to see the pretty foam flower. I was very pleasantly surprised when I pushed down (twice) to get the foam to come out. Not only is the flower cute, but the foam is thick and luxurious and makes your hands feel totally moisturized after you wash them. The smell is very pretty and not overpowering at all. My teenager loves it too and is now finally washing her hands more like she is supposed to. I bought them for every bathroom in the house as well as the kitchen. I almost don't want to recommend it so they don't run out of stock!" —Audra Williams
Get it from Amazon for $18.65 (also available in a paw print shape, and with refills).
12. A wonderfully wacky punch needle coaster that won't just give your living room some colorful Y2K flare, it'll also act as a condensation collector with its soft knit texture. Your antique wooden coffee table will thank you.
See them in one person's TikTok round-up of their favorite Etsy purchases!
Shiro Design Studio is a small biz owned by Neşen Çetinkaya, a designer specializing in colorful, handmade punch needle home decor items, like throw pillows and wall hangings.
Promising review: "I bought these for my daughter for Christmas. She loves them. They are very cute and well made." —Sharon
Get it from Shiro Design Studio on Etsy for $10.50 (originally $15; available in 12 styles, and you can also contact the shop for custom colors — also available in more styles here).
13. A dreamy rain cloud essential oil diffuser so you can unwind with soothing scents, calming light, and the tranquil trickle of rainfall before tucking into bed. Watching its colors change might very well become your favorite nighttime ritual!
It includes seven different light colors, three brightness levels, and five water flow speeds. You can hear the sound of the water for yourself in this reviewer video!
See it in action on TikTok!
Promising review: "I love this thing. I have anxiety and insomnia, and I need background noise to function/sleep. This little desktop fountain is SO SOOTHING, both aesthetically and the sound of the little raindrops. If I’m in the room with it, it’s probably on. If you love the sound of rain this is for you. Because I’m paranoid and I want this to last, I run it with plain distilled water and I have not used essential oils with it even though they say it’s fine. It’s very dry here right now, and I still only have to top up the water every few days, even with it running daily. It’s a solid 12/10 from me." —Violet
Get it from Amazon for $56.98.
14. A snazzy disco ball planter that'll reflect the prettiest shimmers of light onto your wall when the sun hits it. Disco decor is all over TikTok rn, and if you wanna channel some of those Studio 54 vibes, having this little gem in your home is a great place to start.
Watch it sparkle in this TikTok!
Promising review: "This planter brings me so much joy every day! It is well crafted and beautifully packaged. I appreciate the extra touches, like the fact it comes with a few extra mirrored tiles, and that there are different ways to display it — it comes with a stand and nicely braided hanging rope. Every day my whole living room becomes a party :) Cannot recommend enough." —Phil
Get it from Amazon for $29.97.
15. An extremely comical yet practical see-through pet carrier, which conveniently has wheels for transporting your furry friend with ease. Not only will you get a kick out of it, your pet will love taking in the sights via their bubble!
It has 13 air holes and comes with two types of interior mats (a fluffy cushion for the winter and a cooling pad for the summer). It also has an extendable, adjustable handle and 360-degree spinning wheels.
Watch this adorable TikTok to see it in action!
Vetreska is a small biz specializing in the *cutest* pet products for home and travel.
Promising review: "I got these for my cats. They are inside boys and when I use the harness in the fenced backyard they tend to eat grass. My ginger is a rotund 19 pounds but this contraption fits his extra large bod with room for him to turn around and check out the ladies." —angjas97
Get it from Amazon for $99.99+ (available in four styles, including partially transparent or fully transparent) — don't forget to apply the coupon to save $20!
16. A very realistic trail mix candle sure to *spark* joy, even if you don't possess a single camping bone in your body. Resist all temptation to eat it!
FYI: It's vanilla-scented.
Check it out in a very tingly ASMR unboxing TikTok!
Promising review: "So worth it! The candle looks so realistic and smells amazing!! I will absolutely be buying more as gifts!!!" —Amazon Customer
Get it from Amazon for $29.99 (also available in 10 other styles).
17. An adorable magnetic cloud key holder so you'll never find yourself heading out the door and then going, "Shoot, where did I leave my keys?!" ever again. With this you'll have a dedicated spot for them, and one that'll make you smile, too!
Best of all, there's no installation required — see it in action on TikTok!
Promising review: "So, yes, TikTok made me buy this, but so far I really like it. It's obviously very adorable and offers a charming spot to keep my keys that works with my entryway. I'm really surprised by how strong the hold is for such a small object — I carry my car fob and a few keys and so far it's holding strong. I hung it with Command strips to avoid any potential damage to the wall and I will say make sure it's level as the hold is not so good on an angle (but that was from the original in-hand testing). Definitely recommend and for the price, I'm very tempted to get one for my at-work office." —D. Carter
Get it from Amazon for $6.98.
18. A set of stackable ice cube trays if the idea of pressing down on a lid to release perfectly square frozen blocks sounds nothing short of immensely satisfying. Plus, it makes up to 64 (!) ice cubes at a time, saves room in your freezer, and protects your ice from freezer odors and gunk.
It comes with two stackable trays that hold 32 ice cubes each — just fill 'em with water, cover with the lid, freeze, then press down on the lid to release the cubes into the container. It also includes an ice shovel and tongs.
Check it out in this very satisfying TikTok of someone making lemon ginger ice cubes — and feel free to experiment with fun flavors by adding your own fruit to the water before you freeze!
Promising review: "OK, this is now my favorite thing in my house. Not nearly as bulky as other ice trays I’ve used and is so easy to dump the ice into the box out of the trays. Even when the box is full, you can still have your back-ups in the trays. It all stacks so well and the top is covered so you can put water in it and still stack other items on top of it. Much harder to spill and make messes in your freezer compared to other trays. BEST THING EVER!" —Rhiannon Miklosey
Get it from Amazon for $18.99+ (available in three colors).
19. A pasta-tively charming pair of farfalloni-shaped pot holders that'll give you a good chuckle every time you lift a very heavy, piping-hot casserole dish out of your oven. The durable silicone won't melt, and they're even dishwasher-safe!
Check them out on TikTok! And that ravioli spoon rest in the video is also A+.
Promising review: "Just love these cute pasta 'pot holders.' I received a new set of pots and pans for Christmas that came with glass lids. It didn’t take me long to realize that the lids get really hot. These little pasta-shaped holders easily fit over the handles on the lids and can also be used to hold onto the side handles of the large stock pot. Besides being useful they are a cute addition to my kitchen." —she-ra
Get a pair from Amazon for $15.86.
20. A vibrant wireless keyboard and mouse, because if your job involves clickety-clacking away for hours on end, having something colorful to look at will make it feel all the more enjoyable. The cute round buttons have a fun vintage vibe!
See why one person on TikTok included it in their "fun office accessories you didn't know you needed" round-up!
Promising review: "I was extremely excited when this keyboard and mouse combo arrived, and it has not disappointed! It’s so bright and fun! It types really smoothly and has the most satisfying click/resistance on the keys. I am in love! It’s definitely perked up my work from home space! Would most definitely recommend!" —Kat P
Get it from Amazon for $39.99+ (available in 16 colors).
21. An unexpectedly delightful Bread Buddy dispenser, which keeps loaves fresh much longer than just storing them in their plastic bags by creating an airtight seal. Wrap the top of the bag over the sides of the dispenser, then just pull down whenever you want a slice (it's fun!). No more wasted bread or seeing a teeny speck of green and wondering if you can just ~eat around it~.
See it in action on TikTok!
Plus, some reviewers say they bring it on trips when they don't want their bread getting smushed en route.
Promising review: "The Buddeez Sandwich Bread Dispenser is great! It does exactly what it was intended for. I live alone, and I don't quite go through bread often enough before the last quarter section of the loaf starts to go stale. I was originally looking for something to put a loaf of bread in as a shell for my vacuum sealer, that would keep the bread from getting crushed from the pressure. This dispenser solved all of my problems. Thank you!" —DRMcQuaig
Get it from Amazon for $12.49.
22. An endearing set of flower hair clips you absolutely have permission to wear no matter how old you are. Even reviewers with thick hair say they have great hold, and the pretty color options will make the most basic updos look IG-worthy.
Check out seven ways you can wear the clips on TikTok!
Promising review: "These clips are adorable. They are very study as well. You have to use the direct middle petal for them to open, but they hold a surprising amount of hair. I wasn’t expecting much due to the fact that I have very long very thick hair, but they can handle it. Good price and wonderful earthy colors as well." —Madison Austin
Get a set of six from Amazon for $13.98+ (available in six color combos).
23. An angelic boba tea light, because if there's anything more comforting than the warm glow of a friendly looking beverage, I don't wanna know about it. The straw! The little balls inside (that move around)! Whoever designed this gets an A+ in detail.
Check out a TikTok of the boba light in action!
Promising review: "I received this as a holiday gift from a friend and it’s so cute! Definitely recommend for any boba lovers. It fits in with all room decor as it’s pretty minimalist and doesn’t take up too much space." —phoebe0bumblebee
Get it from Urban Outfitters for $22 (also available in a larger size and in a blue version).
24. An "aww"-inducing set of cat and mouse hooks you almost won't want to hang your coat on out of fear that it might cover them up. That said, you should absolutely put these to use, since the sweet little heads only pop out of their boxes when the hooks are given some weight!
They're ideal for holding lighter items, and while they're designed for peel-and-stick application, you can also use Command strips if you're concerned about sturdiness / protecting your wall!
Check them out in this TikTok, which has almost 5 *million* likes!
Promising review: "These are so cute and easy to install. My husband always forgets to put his keys away so I got these to try to condition him into hanging them up. Now he has a little friend say hello when he gets home." —leaaffy
Another promising review: "Bought this for a college kiddo and it’s received rave reviews. Loves them to bits, but swapped out the adhesive for Command strips per school policy. So cute!!" —at the lake
Get a four-piece set from Amazon for $16.99 (also available in a six-pack that includes a monkey and baby chick).
25. A set of on-trend checkered cosmetic bags for storing your makeup in style — plastic sandwich bags, you've been replaced! The gorgeous colors are just begging for a space on your b-room counter, and taking in their cheery pattern will make your morning routine all the more pleasant, even when you most definitely don't feel like moisturizing at 7 a.m.
Check 'em out on TikTok!
Promising review: "I bought these because of the famous TikTok video. All I have to say is that they are sooo cute. Great quality. And perfect size. 100% recommend." —angelina
Get a set of two from Amazon for $9.83+ (available in three colors, as well as in solids and leopard print).
26. An absolutely darling snail tea bag holder, which would be perfectly acceptable to use as a cute mug accessory alone — but the fact that you can wrap the tea bag string around it to keep it from slipping? Icon status.
See why one person on TikTok calls it a "mini home must-have!"
Oh, and some reviewers even use them as potted plant decor!
Promising review: "Love these fun little quirky tea slugs. They work on all shapes and sizes of mugs and have brought a smile to all who either used them or were the lucky recipients of their own batch of tea slugs from me. They clean up well with just a quick rinse under the sink and are even fun to use on wine or cocktail glasses to help guests track their drink." —NC
Get a pack of 10 from Amazon for $6.48.
27. A time-saving Oxo Tot Grape Cutter, because manually slicing small, round produce into bite-sized pieces for your child is just the most tedious thing in the world. This handy thing quarters a bunch at a time, and some reviewers said they enjoy using it so much, they actually look for things they can cut up!
See why one parent on TikTok loves it! Note that Amazon currently only carries the grape cutter in blue.
Oh, and it's not just for grapes! It's also perfect for cherry tomatoes, berries, olives, and many reviewers say it works on a variety of fruits!
Promising review: "When we went to search Amazon for 'grape cutters,' I was worried that we may have hit rock bottom. It doesn't get more simple than slicing a freaking grape. I mean it's not difficult, doesn't take an enormous amount of time, and isn't even really that inconvenient (at least no more than cutting any other toddler food)...yet, my wife and I found ourselves dreading the process every time our daughter wanted a handful of grapes. We bought this little gadget with low expectations and fully anticipated using it two times before throwing it in our kitchen drawer where it would inevitably sit for a year before we threw it away. Boy were we wrong. It only took one use before we realized that what we thought would be another useless novelty, was actually a parent's HOLY GRAIL of food preparation. No joke, I literally used it the other day to cut THREE grapes for MYSELF, just for the enjoyment. I only take time to write reviews on products that I feel are truly worth my time to endorse, and this little gadget was more than worthy. If your little one enjoys eating grapes, do yourself the unimaginable pleasure of buying this...you won't regret it." —Michael
Get it from Amazon for $11.95.
28. A very rad personalized embosser any bookworm will enjoy using to claim ownership of their favorite novels. Now whenever you lend a book from your collection to a friend, you'll have proof it's yours (and you'll feel so fancy whenever you stamp a page and see your name!).
See how it works on TikTok!
Pickled Stamps is a small, NY-based biz specializing in custom embossers so you can literally put your personalized *stamp* on everything.
Promising review: "One of the coolest things I’ve ever bought as a bookworm. So stylish, crisp, and clear! I’m now purchasing more as gifts for other fellow bookworms! Thank you!" —Sign in with Apple user
Get it from Pickled Stamps on Amazon for $34.50 or Etsy for $43.06 (originally $49.50; available in eight designs and two placement options, and you can customize the text).
29. A flexible power strip that makes the stressful task of charging multiple devices in a cramped corner at the same time feel like a neat little puzzle! Since it bends, you can reconfigure it however would fit your space best, and the outlets have enough room between them that your bulky laptop charger won't hog the entire thing.
It has three AC outlets and two USB ports.
See it in action on TikTok!
iJoy is a small biz specializing in fun *and* functional tech accessories.
Promising review: "I saw this on TikTok, so I ordered one. I absolutely love it. Everyone needs one in their life." —Dani Jo Stengsar
Another promising review: "I rarely write a review (this is the second in the past few years). One of the best purchases in a long time. Nice design and very practical. It solves all of my problems as it can go any direction. It's worth every penny. I turned around and bought two more. I am about to buy my fourth one. Love this!" —Pond P.
Get it from Amazon for $19.95+ (available in four colors).
30. A chic yet playful stool you might notice bears a slight resemblance to your favorite Mario character — because furniture can and should be fun! After all, who wouldn't enjoy propping their feet up on their very own tufted mushroom after a long day?
See how much joy it brings someone in their unboxing TikTok!
Promising review: "It’s bigger than I expected, which was a nice surprise! It’s also surprisingly soft when you sit in it, but firm enough so that it springs back into its perfect little mushroom shape afterwards. I’ve been complaining that I wish our couch had a chaise lounge section, but this little guy took care of that for me!" —jermzzz
Get it from Target for $100 (available in cream or rust).
31. And while we're on the subject of fungi, a cute and functional Magic Mushroom kitchen funnel, since the best practical items are the ones that'll make everyday tasks, like transferring liquids into containers with teeny-tiny openings, much more enjoyable.
See it in use on TikTok!
To use it, just flip it inside out and stick the "stem" through your container's opening. Plus, it's dishwasher-safe!
Promising review: "I am obsessed with this funnel!!! I juice a lot of citrus and juices for cocktails, and this little guy is the perfect size for bottling. It’s beyond cute and really great quality. I’m always hesitant about buying silicone items, as I don’t want them to be too thin. This is perfect! Sturdy and cute! Can’t get better than that! The perfect addition to any ‘cottage core’ kitchen!" —Abbey Klem
Get it from Amazon for $17.95.
32. A hypnotic levitating lamp you should only buy if you're prepared to spend countless minutes marveling at its magic. And not only does it look really cool, it's also a wireless phone carger!
It's compatible with Qi-certified devices, and while some reviewers say it's not necessarily bright enough to use for reading, it'll give your room a soft, cozy glow.
Check it out in a very satisfying unboxing TikTok!
Promising review: "It’s one of the coolest lamps I’ve ever had. A great conversation piece. Everyone is astonished by it." —RJ
Get it from Amazon for $98.99+ (available in silver or black).
33. And finally, a very smart Stojo collapsible travel cup, which is as practical as it is fun. When you're done with your drink, it shrinks down into a compact two-inch puck so the contents of your bag don't end up consisting of 75% water bottle. Plus, staying hydrated is much easier when the bottle's as cute as this one.
It even comes with a straw, can hold both hot and cold liquids, and is dishwasher- and microwave-safe.
Check it out on TikTok!
Stojo is a small biz aiming to eliminate single-use plastics with their portable and reusable products.
Promising review: "I take my lunch to work and during mid day I like to use the Keurig to brew a cup of coffee. The 12-ounce Stojo cup I purchased is very practical. It is thick and durable. The plastic collar enables you to hold the cup without squeezing it or burning your hands on the hot walls of the cup. It seals well so you don't have to worry about leaking your drink on your shirt. It even has some reasonable thermal properties. There is enough volume in the cup to allow for the 12-ounce brew plus ample creamer. It's not a stainless vacuum cup, but it does hold its temperature better than your typical gas station or coffee shop cup. Plus you have the advantage of being able to reheat your drink in the microwave which you can't do with a stainless cup. Washes easily too. If you want a 12-ounce cup that keeps your drink hot or cold for a long time, this isn't the cup for you. But if you need something practical that will keep your coffee warm for 30–45 minutes, can be reheated in a microwave, and collapses to the dimensions of a tall hockey puck, this is a good purchase. You'll have it for years." —ViciousCycle
Get it from Amazon for $14.99+ (available in six sizes and 24 colors).
Reviews in this post have been edited for length and clarity.