5 Things We Love is a shortlist of newly discovered stuff you have got to see, hear, wear, use or eat. What are you loving this week? Send a brief description of your latest favorite thing, where to find it and how much it costs, along with your name and contact info to features@staradvertiser.com.
Aveda’s new Invati system good for hair
When my hair started thinning after an illness last year, I panicked. A lifelong hula dancer, my long hair has always been part of my identity. Alas, I cut it to shoulder length because the hair I had left became brittle, dull and difficult to style. My stylist at Ho‘ala Salon & Spa at Ala Moana Center recently suggested I try Aveda’s new Invati system, which includes shampoo and conditioner ($27 each for 6.7 ounces) and a spray-on scalp revitalizer ($60 for a 5-ounce bottle). Invati contains an invigorating blend of Ayurvedic herbs. After about two months, I’m thrilled to say my hair started growing back fuller, shinier and healthier. No more hiding my hair in a bun or under a cap! I have to buy the liter size now, though, because my husband loves it, too! Free shampoo and conditioner samples are available while supplies last. — Mona Wood-Sword, Honolulu
PocketMonkey is a handy tool
PocketMonkey is a multi-utility tool made in the shape of a monkey that is flat and can be stored in your wallet. It is also TSA-compliant, so you can travel with it. PocketMonkey serves 12 functions and is available at zootilitytools.com for $12. I am able to keep this tool in my pocket while at work and use it to open packages and mail. At home, I use it to change batteries in kids’ toys and open more mail. I no longer have to wait till my husband comes home to tell me where he put the screwdriver! — Kristi Dagdagan, Ewa Beach
Blueberry Breakfast Biscuits taste good right from machine
Vending-machine snacks are an important food group for many working people, writers included. I discovered Nature Valley Blueberry Breakfast Biscuits when they appeared in one of our newsroom vending machines. Curiosity won out, and I embraced them as an alternative to the standard choices of miniature cookies, candy bars and salty chips. The crunchy blueberry "biscuits" seem closer in form to crackers or cookies than conventional biscuits but the blueberry taste and whole-grain texture come through with every bite. A single biscuit is only 58 calories. Although they come four in a packet, there’s always the option of eating one now and saving the other three for a little later. Nature Valley Blueberry Breakfast Biscuits are available at Walmart ($2.98 for a box of five packets). — John Berger
Treasures by Umiko evoke ocean
Carry a piece of the sea wherever you go with Treasures by Umiko’s locally handcrafted jewelry. After graduating from college and returning to the islands, designer Shaina Ducosin fused her love of the ocean with her passion for jewelry making. She hand-makes everything with shells and sea glass found on local beaches. Sterling-silver bangles start at $30 and can be customized with your choice of shell, Tahitian pearl, pendant or sea glass. She also creates stackable rings, earrings, macrame bracelets and even "shell phone" cases. Find these beautiful one-of-a-kind creations at www.etsy.com/shop/TreasuresByUmiko and instagram.com/treasuresbyumiko. They’re perfect for ocean lovers! — Alyssa Amasol
Bakery’s Puffys declared tasty
If you like cream puffs or eclairs, Paalaa Kai Bakery is the place! Go early in the day as they often sell out by lunchtime, take a cooler and purchase the Snow Puffy ($1.98) or the new Cinnamon Finger Puffy ($1.35). Taste it and you will end up getting more than one. And do check out the other items in the bakery case such as turnovers, cookies and malasadas. Paalaa Kai Bakery is at 66-945 Kaukonahua Road, Waialua. Call 637-9795 — J. S. Mihata, Mililani and California
