10 things Andrea Cunningham can't live without

Andrea Cunningham (Laura Simon ~ lsimon@semissourian.com)

1. My sweatpants and fuzzy socks. As soon as the temperatures start to cool off, I basically live in these. I can't stand to be cold. My husband jokes that I have a pair for every day of the week!

2. Sweets! Especially gummy bears and cheesecake. I am definitely one to look at the dessert menu first before I order a meal, just so I know I'll have room for it!

3. Reality TV. I'll admit, I'm a junkie.

4. Bargain shopping. I really do get a sort of "high" when I score a good deal. Every once in awhile I might splurge on something ... but then I'll probably feel guilty!

5. "Me" time. I really do enjoy spending time with others, but I need opportunities to decompress, reflect or just "veg out!"

6. My handwritten "to-do" list and refrigerator calendar. The only way I can stay semi-organized is to write it down, old school. I admire those who can keep track of their lives and tasks electronically, but I have tried and failed miserably at that method. There's something about physically scratching off a completed task that makes me feel more accomplished in a day.

7. Family. My heart and soul. I don't get homesick near as often as I used to ... we are transplants from Oklahoma, and most of our family is still there. We've come to really love this area, and have made some great friends here, but we'll always consider ourselves "Okies!" I'm so thankful for my sweet husband, who knows when to bring on the comedy relief at just the right time (sometimes I stress too easily!). And for my gorgeous girls who have helped me look at life in a whole new way, and teach me not to take one day for granted!

8. Sunshine/light. The first thing I do in the morning is open up all the blinds/curtains. And in the evenings, I like to keep lots of lights on throughout the house. Light really tends of affect my mood and productivity. I tend to dread Daylight Saving Time ... yaawwwwn!

9. My silver hoop earrings. I rarely leave home without wearing them. They've become a sort of "security" accessory, and I feel naked without them!

10. Coffee with half and half. This is my fuel for the day! I crave my coffee morning, noon and night!