DECEMBER FAVORITES: LITTLE JOYS FOR A BUSY SEASON

December has a way of feeling like both the coziest and most chaotic month of the year. Between the holiday magic and the never-ending to-do lists, we’re somehow expected to bake cookies, attend festive events, wrap presents (without running out of tape!), and still soak up sweet family moments. Since we can’t actually add more hours to the day, I’ve rounded up a few tried-and-true favorites to bring a little ease—and maybe even a little sparkle—to your December.

1. The Mascara That Makes You Look Awake (Even When You’re Not)

If there’s ever a month when moms need a quick beauty hack, it’s this one. Enter: the false-lash-effect mascara that takes sleepy, “up-too-late-wrapping” eyes and turns them into “I totally got eight hours of sleep” eyes. Swipe it on before a holiday party or, let’s be honest, before preschool drop-off so you feel somewhat put together.

2. Atomic Habits: The Book That Might Change Your Life

January is sneaking up, which means we’re all thinking about fresh starts. Atomic Habits by James Clear breaks down how tiny changes lead to big results—perfect for anyone who wants to finally drink their coffee while it’s hot or stop impulse-buying things on Amazon at 11 p.m.

3. Tula Cooling Eye Gels: Because December Is Exhausting

Whether you’re up late wrapping gifts or soothing a teething baby, December has a way of making under-eye circles a permanent feature. These cooling eye gels feel like a mini spa treatment—except you can slap them on while you reheat your coffee for the third time. Bonus: They actually work. Use code APOPOFYOU for 15% off your order!

4. Braun Digital Thermometer: Because Tis the Season for Sniffles

Nothing derails holiday plans quite like a feverish kid. This thermometer is fast, accurate, and easy to use—basically a must-have for getting through winter without losing your mind. Keep it handy because, let’s be real, there’s a 98% chance you’ll need it.

5. The Striped Sweater You’ll Live In

It’s soft. It’s cute. It makes you look like you put in effort when all you really did was throw it over leggings. What else do you need?

6. Toy Doghouse: Because Kids Love Tiny Things

If your child is in the “tiny toys everywhere” phase, this little doghouse set will be an instant hit. They’ll spend hours arranging, pretending, and making up stories while you sip your (probably lukewarm) coffee in peace.

7. DeeBee’s Organics Freezie Pops: The Snack You Won’t Feel Bad About

Yes, it’s cold outside. Yes, kids still want popsicles. These are made with organic fruit juice and no artificial junk, so you can say yes without cringing.

8. GloPals: The Bathtime Bribe That Works

If bath time is currently a battle, these little light-up cubes will change everything. They glow when they hit the water, making the tub suddenly the most exciting place to be. You might even get through an entire shower without someone barging in.

DECEMBER: BUSY, CHAOTIC, AND KIND OF MAGICAL

This season is full of moments—big and small—that make it so special. The key is finding ways to make the chaos just a little easier, whether it’s a mascara that makes you look human, a snack that doesn’t leave you with mom guilt, or a bath toy that keeps the peace. So, embrace the twinkling lights, the sugar-cookie-fueled energy, and the simple joys of this season. And remember: It’s okay if your wrapping job looks like your toddler did it. It’s the thought that counts.