What’s in my NOW? — Dana Lee (Cool Tools issue #270)

Dana Lee identifies herself as a UX researcher, yoga teacher, dog parent, and a Jersey native living in Brooklyn. She writes about the overlap between Eastern and Yogic philosophy and AI Safety on her Substack. This issue of What's in my NOW? lists tangible items, local practices, and small habits she uses now.

CSA share and neighborhood involvement

Dana participates in and volunteers for a local CSA run by the Blomgrens. She cites several benefits: high-quality produce, the ability to give her share to friends when traveling, and the connection formed by visiting the farm and knowing the farmers personally. The farm is organic and powered by electricity, and Dana describes the producers as kind and knowledgeable.

A clip-on ring light is a recurring travel item for Dana. She keeps a small rechargeable clip-on light on trips to ensure face visibility for calls or recordings. She compares a $17 GearLight-style model to a slightly more expensive branded version with better reviews but a shorter battery life.

Dana and her husband play Wordle together as a time-boxed daily game. They alternate who picks the first word. She frames it as a simple shared activity that they enjoy.

Dana mentions a website that evokes the early social web, describing it as feeling like MySpace. She appreciates discovery and recommendations, which is why she visits sites like this.

The list mixes practical self-care tools, neighborhood commitments, and small rituals. Physical objects handle maintenance and travel needs. The CSA reflects local engagement and food practices. Digital items and poetry provide short daily pleasures and reflective moments.

• If you have dental appliances or delicate jewelry, consider a home ultrasonic cleaner for simple, inexpensive cleaning.
• For fresh mosquito bites, a small suction tool can relieve itch if used promptly.

• Small shared digital rituals, such as playing Wordle with a partner, can be meaningful ways to carve out daily connection.

This issue of What's in my NOW? is concise and pragmatic. It focuses on small tools and practices that make day-to-day life easier, more social, or a little more reflective.