Remember the satisfying feel of opening a quality stationery set? That first whiff of fresh paper? The smooth glide of a perfect pen? We're diving deep into our shared love of all things paper in this nostalgic episode that celebrates the tangible in our increasingly digital world.
Our journey begins with a hilarious taste test of Aldi's Summit Cola Diet, inspired by a viral TikTok claiming it's indistinguishable from McDonald's Diet Coke. Spoiler alert: the mouthfeel is subpar, but we've got tips if you're brave enough to try it yourself! We then share the bizarre tale of a YouTuber arrested for leaving a Diet Coke on a restricted island inhabited by an isolated tribe – previous unauthorized visitors weren't so lucky, meeting their fate at the end of bows and arrows.
The heart of our conversation celebrates the dying art of handwritten communication. We reminisce about our wedding invitations, our first personalized stationery sets as children, and debate the merits of mechanical pencils versus traditional ones. Did you know there's a "perfect pencil" that sells for $750? Or that pen caps have holes to prevent choking deaths?
We also explore paper's fascinating history from its invention in China around 121 CE to innovative modern alternatives like stone paper – a waterproof, tear-resistant option made from quarry remnants that breaks down in sunlight. Between fits of laughter over childhood memories of scented markers and crayon-eating mishaps, we contemplate whether the Christmas card tradition is what's keeping the stationery industry alive.
What writing implements do you swear by? Do you still send physical thank you notes? Share your stationery stories with us and join our celebration of the written word!
Right on the corner, right on the price! Head down to 93rd & Cicero & tell them the Noras sent you!
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