If there's one thing I took from the movie My Big Fat Greek Wedding, it was the use of Windex as a universal remedy for all ailments be they physical, emotional or spiritual. Lately I realize that I've got some peccadilloes when it comes to "alternative" remedies for things. Forthwith, my confession list.

Vaseline. Every time I pop open the lid of my off-brand petroleum jelly, I think of the dinosaurs and their sacrifice. But man does that stuff heal chapped lips! And super dry skin. And minor abrasions like paper cuts.

Benadryl. Yeah so this works for allergies, but after being given Benadryl by a nurse while I was in labor and nearly falling asleep between pushes, I realized this is an excellent remedy for sleeplessness.

Baking soda. Whenever any fabric smells funky or stale, which in a house of three animals and a toddler fabrics are wont to do, I sprinkle it with baking soda with full confidence that the stuff with soak up the stink.
Does it work? Questionable. Do I continue to believe? Yes.

Hot bubble baths. For all emotional troubles.

The Office on DVD. As a teenager I'd turn to Winona Ryder and Little Women for simultaneous entertainment and the occasional good cry. As an adult, The Office frequently provides both in smaller doses: Plenty of funny, and a few touching moments sprinkled in here and there. Little Women is still on standby when I have time.

What are your tried and true "alternative" remedies?