Feeding our creativity

— and I mean literally. In my 20 years as a designer, there has rarely been a brainstorming session that wasn’t vastly improved by the presence of candy. And I don’t mean fancy, schmancy candy like Godiva or Vosges. I mean good ol’ dime-store candy — the kind of candy that takes you back to a super-sweet childhood memory; the kind that can unite a group of people as they reminisce about the first time they tried it; the kind of candy that kids today just don’t appreciate. Let me just say, “Gobstopper.”

I’m not fussy, but I have always preferred the sour, fruity flavors over chocolate. You’ve got your basics — Wacky Wafers, Jolly Rancher Stix, Lemonheads, Lik-M-aids, Pixy Stix and SweetTarts (the big ones, two to a pack). Then there are the chewy, last-a-long-time options like Charleston Chews, Jujubes, Laffy Taffy, Twizzlers and Sugar Daddys (the kind on the stick; it’ll last two days if you don’t chew it). Let’s not forget the double-your-pleasure, turn-into-something-else candies. Here again, it is appropriate to mention the infamous Gobstopper — a never-ending show of delectable candy colors. I love it. A few other faves are Razzle Dazzles, Blow Pops (cherry or apple, please) and the always yummy Tootsie Pop.

Speaking of pops — I will NEVER forget the first time I had Pop Rocks. My parents brought them back for me from a trip to the West Coast. I was the first one in my school to have them. Needless to say, my popularity (for that day) skyrocketed. Now, I know this next statement isn’t readily accepted by the medical community — but, for the extra kick, I highly recommend eating your next packet of Pop Rocks with a can of Coke. Enjoy!

So, how do you feed your creativity? I would love to hear from you! — Kim, Associate Creative Director