November 7, 2007

Not just for kids, several years ago, the VP of my company decided we needed some stress-relief toys. And what better thing to have than Slinky races. Never mind the fact we didn’t have steps - we created our own obstacle courses for the clanking metal caterpillars to twirl their way through. And, with great excitement and cheering (and a 6-pack of beer or two), we did relief the pent-up stress.

We had Slinky Jr’s, too - but they weren’t nearly as much fun. They didn’t have the go-go juice of big brother, Slinky, and were easily trampled on or misplaced.

Years later, colleagues have left, and only a couple of Slinkys still exist around the office - mine included. It sits on a shelf, alongside a bottle of Mescal - which, thanks to me, is minus its worm. (That’s another story.)

Ah yes, the simple things. The cheesy things. Look how far we’ve progressed regressed since then. Here’s an oldie but goodie that is so cheesy it deserves an encore. The jingle alone could identify the product without ever seeing the screen.

Anyway, enjoy the video clip!

What are your favorite stress-relief toys?

P.S. Even today, these are still fun. They make great stocking stuffers, too. Just watch out for the cat’s/dog’s tail.

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