Win Bestie of the Season With This DIY Gift

We love our besties. And I’m not talking about a mild love — I’m talking about a borderline obsession (wait, is this just me?). So naturally, while dreaming up gifts to craft this holiday season, I was determined to craft a project that celebrates friendship. These cute jingle bell door hangings are a new twist on the traditional friendship bracelet. Hang these on your door knobs and remind each other of your awesome bond every time you open and close the door.

Don’t let anyone tell you you’re too old for friendship bracelets. These are perfect for an afternoon of holiday crafting with your bestie.

In this tutorial, we’ll show you how to make this unique gift for your BFFL. If you’re familiar with our Wrapped Necklace Kit, then you’re no stranger to the wrapping technique that we’ll use to make these fun friendship jingle bell door hangings!

Materials:

– embroidery floss (four warm colors, four cool colors)

– macrame cord

– 16 jingle bells

Tools:

– ruler

– scissors

– washi tape

Grab your materials and tools and let’s start crafting!

Cut two pieces of macrame cord 18 inches long.

First, we’ll wrap the center loop. Begin wrapping six inches from one end of the macrame cords. Once you’ve wrapped about four inches of cord with embroidery floss, tie off and trim the remaining floss.

Fold your newly wrapped cord in half, and wrap both cords together with embroidery floss to create a closed loop.

Now comes the fun part — weaving! Tape your cord down with washi tape. You should have a total of four cords that will serve as the weft. Cut a piece of embroidery floss to 27 inches and tie it around the cord furthest to the left. Begin weaving in an over/under pattern through the cords with your embroidery floss. Once you reach the furthest cord on the right, wrap the floss over the cord and continue weaving in an over/under pattern toward the left. Continue weaving until you’re left with about two inches of floss. Tie the new color of floss (also cut down to 27 inches) onto the last bit of the previous color. We won’t add a bell to this first block of color.

When you’ve woven three rows with your second color of floss, string a jingle bell onto your floss and continue weaving.

Repeat these steps until you’ve used eight jingle bells and have nine color blocks. Your piece should look like the example in the photo above.

Next comes the tassel. Using your fingers, wind two colors of embroidery floss into a loop about two inches long. Cut both ends of the loop to create the fringe needed for your tassel.

Wrap your fringe to the end of the macrame cord and tie your floss off to secure it all together.

You’re all finished! We attached a piece of embroidery floss for easy hanging.

What else are you making for your bestie this Christmas? Tell us in the comments below.

New Year's Eve is drawing closer, which means it's finally time for all things sparkly, celebratory, and of course, boozy. Whether you're planning to go dancing with your squad for the night, or rather want to stay in watching all the cheesy TV specials, we have the perfect New Year's cocktails for you.

You can enjoy these New Year's Eve cocktail recipes for a pregame or a chilled-out home hang — the choice is yours! We know that not everyone wants to drop hundreds of dollars on overpriced bar drinks, which is exactly why these NYE drinks are perfect.

Craft one of these delicious drinks, create your own DIY confetti poppers, draw up a menu for an impressive charcuterie, and start planning the best New Year's Eve function. If you're not down for alcoholic drinks, we got you covered on tons of tasty mocktails to celebrate with.

47 New Year's Eve Cocktail Recipes We'll Be Sipping Into 2025

Prosecco Martini

Brit + Co

Let the deliciousness of this festive cocktail bubble over during your New Year's Eve celebrations. Vodka, lemon juice, and Prosecco come together for this can't-miss drink. (via Brit + Co)

Speak Now Spritz

Brit + Co

Toss together some plum liqueur, Prosecco, tonic water to craft this stunning New year's Eve cocktail. The cherry on top, of course, is adding the edible glitter for the glitz + glam factor! (via Brit + Co)

Spicy Fireball Winter Mule

Brit + Co

Delight guests with this New Year's Eve cocktail recipe that leverages a few of our favorite ingredients, like spicy Fireball whiskey and ginger beer. (via Brit + Co)

Lemon Drop

Brit + Co

To us, the ultimate Lemon Drop martini is equal parts sweet and sour, but you can play with the ratios in this recipe to reach your desired flavor balance. (via Brit + Co)

Butterscotch Bourbon Milk Punch 

Brit + Co

This creamy and boozy beverage will expand your holiday cocktail repertoire, and is the perfect drink to sip in front of a fireplace. It also includes a homemade butterscotch syrup recipe that'll please your sweet tooth cravings. Yum! (via Brit + Co)

Mocha Martini

Brit + Co

This New Year's Eve cocktail can thankfully double as a chocolate dessert to satiate all the sweet tooth-ers at your party. It's only four ingredients, so you won't be stuck at the bar all night long. (via Brit + Co)

Bananas Foster

Brit + Co

To make this totally NYE-ready drink, shake up 1.5 oz Eggo Brunch in a Jar Sippin’ Cream, 1 oz Banana Pudding Sippin' Cream, and 1.5 oz your milk of choice for a super creamy result. The best part about this recipe is you can whip it up post-New Year's, too, for an approachable brunch cocktail. (via Brit + Co)

Hot Toddy

Brit + Co

For the pals that tend to lean cold, a hot cocktail like this Hot Toddy will do wonderfully. This one only requires three entire ingredients for maximum sipping. (via Brit + Co)

Spicy Sweet Holiday Storm Cocktail

Half Baked Harvest

Drops of jalapeño honey keep this New Year's Eve drink interesting on the flavor side. Indulge in this complex, fizzy cocktail on those cold AF winter nights. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Negroni

The Endless Meal

You'll need Campari, gin, sweet vermouth and orange peels to craft this strong drink. Enjoy it slowly throughout the night to truly savor it! (via The Endless Meal)

Apple Cider Habanero

Dos Equis

This New Year's Eve cocktail is super juicy with a boozy finish. To make it, you'll first make your own infused habanero apple cider by soaking habanero peppers in a gallon of apple cider for up to 24 hours. Once that's done, stir 3 oz of the cider with .5 oz lime juice and 1 oz tequila reposado. Then, top everything off with Dos Equis Ambar Especialand some apple slices! (via Dos Equis)

Champagne Life

Photo by Madelynne Boykin / @BitesandBevsMedia

This sipper is crafted with gluten-free and vegan vodka, so you can serve it to your friends that may have different dietary needs. To make it, shake 1.5 oz YoCo vodka, .5 oz passion fruit syrup, and .5 oz lemon juice over ice, then strain into a champagne flute and top with sparkling wine. (via YoCo Vodka)

Manhattan Beach

Happenstance Whiskey

For the whiskey gals, this Manhattan Beach cocktail will be perfect for NYE. To make it, stir 2 oz Happenstance Bourbon, 1 oz Carpano Antica Sweet Vermouth, 3 drops of Angostura bitters, and 3 drops of orange bitters over ice. Garnish with a cherry and orange peel for an extra touch of elegance. (via Happenstance Whiskey)

Salted Caramel Iced Coffee Cocktail

Pizzazzerie

To guarantee that your guests are awake and wide-eyed when the ball drops, offering a hit of caffeine in cocktail form is as brilliant as it gets. (via Pizzazzerie)

Apple Cider Mimosa

The Endless Meal

Apple cider, bourbon and cinnamon notes swirl together in this amazing sip. (via The Endless Meal)

Frosted Mistletoe Margarita

Half Baked Harvest

Your guests won't be able to resist this delicious margarita recipe that gets a holiday twist. Not only does this drink look gorgeous topped with sugared cranberries, it tastes amazing, too. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Aperol Spritz

Culinary Hill

You can truly never go wrong with an Aperol Spritz. Though we love them for any occasion, this recipe is sure to be a big hit at your holiday parties. (via Culinary Hill)

Spiced Chai-tini

Chef Bai

Move aside, espresso martinis. We're simply swooning over this sweet chai cocktail! (via Chef Bai)

French Pear Martini

Freut Cake

This chic cocktail boasts sophistication. With chilled Champagne, pear vodka and elderflower liqueur, this effervescent drink will make it impossible to enjoy a classic dirty martini ever again. (via Freut Cake)

A Floral Affair

United Sodas of America

Pour half a glass of United Sodas Pear Elderflower, then add 1/4 glass vodka, 1/4 glass St. Germain, and garnish with a lemon twist! (via United Sodas of America)

Citrus Pomegranate Champagne Twist

Half Baked Harvest

Pomegranate and citrus notes couldn't be a better combo for celebrating the holidays and new year. Plus, we could never say no to the champagne! (viaHalf Baked Harvest)

Sparkling Pomegranate Cranberry Sangria

Justine Celina

Here you’ll find major inspo from wintry flavors, New Year’s Eve bubbly and Gatsby glam. This classy sangria offers fruity flavors and gingery notes — and the addition of Grand Marnier sends it right over the top. (via Justine Celina)

Spiced Honey Bourbon Old Fashioned

Half Baked Harvest

This boozy, spicy drink will warm you right up in the middle of winter. Try out this drink to practice your at-home bartending skills. (via Half Baked Harvest)

Vanilla Plum Shrub

The Modern Proper

One swig of this concoction, and visions of vanilla plum shrubs will be dancing in your head. Though a shrub takes a little extra work to create, it’s totally worth it. (via The Modern Proper)

Cinnamon and Cranberry Bourbon Spritzers

Cooking and Beer

Cinnamon, cranberries and bourbon — oh my! With the addition of fizzy ginger ale, this cocktail recipe takes on a whole new level of flavor that will wow your guests and have them passing on the bubbly. (via Cooking and Beer)

Sparkling Cranberry-Orange Champagne Punch

Boulder Locavore

Champagne alone is the perfect way to bid a fancy farewell to the last year. However, this doesn’t mean you shouldn’t jazz up that Champagne. Cranberry juice and Grand Marnier do just that in this ruby-hued beauty. (via Boulder Locavore)

Blood Orange Champagne Mule

Half Baked Harvest

Forget your classic Moscow mule, and try out this recipe made with blood oranges instead. This sip is light and refreshing, and sure to keep the party going. (via Half Baked Harvest)

The Last Word Cocktail

Pinch and Swirl

Fresh lime juice and a maraschino liqueur are blended together to create some seriously bright flavors in this potent elixir. You’ll want to go easy on this cocktail, but if you can’t get enough of that awesome flavor, the amount of alcohol can be reduced. You’ll thank yourself in the morning. (via Pinch and Swirl)

Roasted Cranberry Gin Cocktail

Signature Concoctions

Kicking off the new year has never been better with this cranberry-forward New Year's Eve cocktail. Roasted cranberries add tons of depth to its flavor. (via Signature Concoctions)

Kir Royale

Culinary Hill

This unique cocktail leverages blackcurrant liquor and champagne. Super easy to pour for every guest! (via Culinary Hill)

Perfect Manhattan Cocktail

A Spicy Perspective

This ever-so-boozy sipper will is the perfect pick for a classy night in on NYE. (via A Spicy Perspective)

Coconut Vanilla Mint Lemon Drop

Chef Bai

Take this deliciously fresh mocktail recipe to the party by adding your alcohol of choice. (via Chef Bai)

Persimmon Cocktail

Salt & Lavender

This cocktail, perfect for New Year's celebrations, comes together with just four ingredients. Bet your friends have never tried this one! (via Salt & Lavender)

Rosemary 75 Champagne Cocktail

Goodie Godmother

Thrill your guests with this magical cocktail that changes color right before your very eyes! Gin and sparkling wine pair wonderfully, and welcome the addition of rosemary for a unique and herbaceous flair. (via Goodie Godmother)

Vanilla, Pepper and Thyme Martini

What Should I Make For...

Black and pink peppercorns kick this dazzling cocktail up a few notches, making it an awesome contender for your NYE party. If you want to impress your guests, this awe-inspiring cocktail is the way to go. (via What Should I Make For…)

St. Germain Kumquat Cocktail

Talia Bunting

This low-cal drink is full of citrusy flavor and is incredibly refreshing. Fresh kumquats are joined by elderflower liqueur to create a blend that is classy and downright delish. (via Talia Bunting)

Green Chartreuse and Pear Brandy Cocktail

House of Hipsters

This pretty-in-pink cocktail possesses an old-school feel with a modern spin. Notes of pear will liven up your tastebuds along with citrus and bitters. This may look like a dainty drink at first glance, but it’s a potent one — so sit back and sip easy. (via House of Hipsters)

Classic Moscow Mule

Culinary Hill

The freshness of a classic Moscow mule cocktail will keep NYE guests sipping all night long. (via Culinary Hill)

Cranberry Moscow Mule with Homemade Cranberry Simple Syrup

Boulder Locavore

Throw a splash of holiday cheer into the traditional Moscow mule with cranberries. If you’re afraid to mess with a good thing, worry not — this baby is still fizzy and it will still warm your heart with its gingery spice. (via Boulder Locavore)

Pomegranate Cranberry Champagne Punch

Chef Savvy

When you think of holiday fruits, pomegranate and cranberries are the first that come to mind — and that’s why you need this festive punch in your life this holiday season! Pop the Champagne and pour it over a fresh cranberry reduction and pomegranate juice for the perfect boozy refreshment. (via Chef Savvy)

Cranberry Whiskey Sour

Cilantro Parsley

Indulge in even more seasonal flavors with a tart cranberry sour that's sure to please the party. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Sprinkletini

Salt & Lavender

NYE is all about the glitz and glam, and this cocktail doesn't disappoint in that department. (via Salt & Lavender)

Spicy Tequila Soda

Cilantro Parsley

This feels like a vacation in a drink, transporting you past the wintery vibes of New Year's and straight to summer. (via Cilantro Parsley)

Lemonade Sangria

Amanda Wilens

For a super simple cocktail that tastes light and refreshing, this lemonade sangria can't be beaten. (via Amanda Wilens)

Dirty Shirley

Culinary Hill

This is a fun grown-up version of the classic drink you loved to order as a kid! (via Culinary Hill)

Peach Bellinis

Barley & Sage

This fruity New Year's Eve cocktail tastes like a peaches and cream cupcake in a drink. Who wouldn't want that to ring in the new year? (via Barley & Sage)

Pomegranate & Persimmon Winter Sangria

Salt & Lavender

This refreshing punch is sure to be a crowd-pleaser. (via Salt & Lavender)

Follow us on Pinterest for more festive + classy New Year’s recipes!

Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations. This post has been updated.

Eating out as a vegan can be a true challenge, especially if you don’t exactly know that what you’re ordering is 100% vegan. Fast food faves like McDonald’s and Taco Bell are secretly packed with vegan items, and Starbucks is no exception. From oat milk coffees to satisfyingly savory snacks, you’ve actually got plenty of plant-based choices when you pull up at your local Starbucks.

Scroll on to explore every vegan Starbucks drink and food item you can add to your order!

Vegan Starbucks Drinks

Starbucks

1. Brown Sugar Oatmilk Cortado

This new-to-the-menu espresso drink combines brown sugar syrup and oat milk to balance out the punchy coffee notes.

Starbucks

2. Latte (Iced + Hot)

You can totally enjoy a latte at Starbucks if you're vegan. Their oat, almond, coconut, and soy milks are vegan, plus many of their syrups qualify as vegan, too, if you want to flavor up your drink. According to this Starbucks supervisor, all of Starbucks "clear" syrups are vegan and dairy-free. Starbucks' regular and white mocha sauces and caramel drizzle are also vegan and dairy-free.

Starbucks

3. Americano (Iced + Hot)

Starbucks' Americanos are just water and espresso, so you don't have to worry about any dairy being in there. Optionally, you could ask for a splash of non-dairy milk and pumps of your fave syrup.

Starbucks

4. Brewed Coffee (Iced + Hot)

Same goes for their brewed coffees, including iced coffee. Easily ask your barista to add in some non-dairy milk and a few pumps of syrup if you desire!

Starbucks

5. Nondairy Salted Caramel Cream Cold Brew

This vegan cold brew drink is crafted with non-dairy cold foam that's flavored with salted caramel – and it's delish!

Starbucks

6. Nitro Cold Brew

A plain nitro cold brew from Starbucks is fully vegan and dairy-free. You can choose to add a splash of non-dairy milk, if you wish your sip to be a bit smoother and creamier.

Starbucks

7. Iced Brown Sugar Oatmilk Shaken Espresso

This one's a classic: shots of espresso get shaken up with ice and brown sugar syrup to create a frothy foam, then the drink is topped off with oat milk to cut the bitterness. It's quite a delectable order, even if you're not eating fully vegan.

Starbucks

8. Starbucks Refreshers

All of Starbucks' fruity Refreshers are vegan. Plus, you can can add lemonade, tea, other flavor inclusions like strawberry and peach to add some extra oomph.

Starbucks

9. Iced Black Tea

Their refreshing iced black tea is certifiably vegan, too.

Starbucks

10. Iced Green Tea

If you prefer green tea, Starbucks' offering is vegan-friendly. If you tend to take your tea a bit sweeter, just order it with however many packets of your preferred sweetener, and your barista will add it in.

Starbucks

11. Lemonade

You truly can't go wrong with a lemonade!

Starbucks

12. Hot Teas

Starbucks' hot teas are totally vegan, too. If you want to make them fancier, ask for an additional splash of your go-to non-dairy milk!

Vegan Starbucks Foods

Starbucks

1. Rolled & Steel-Cut Oatmeal

Now onto the food! First up is Starbucks' oatmeal, which you can fancy up with nuts, berries, and brown sugar. Make sure to order it with water to ensure it stays vegan.

Starbucks

2. Plain Bagel

Surprisingly, Starbucks' bagels are also vegan.

Starbucks

3. Everything Bagel

The plain and everything bagels will work for any vegan eater.

Starbucks

4. Avocado Spread

Plus, you can order your bagel with a side of this delicious avocado spread for a nutritious boost!

Starbucks

5. Spicy Falafel Pocket

This 100% vegan snack pocket is new to the Starbucks menu, but it's already become a fan-favorite amongst vegans and non-vegans alike.

Starbucks

6. Chipotle Almond Dip

You can order the Spicy Falafel Pocket with a side of this fully-vegan Chipotle Almond Dip (AKA Bitchin’ Sauce). Yum.

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more amazing Starbucks orders!

Finding gifts for the person you're closest to can be the absolute hardest thing to do, especially when there are so many things that would make great gifts for him. If you're shopping for the main man in your life this season – whether you call him your dad, husband, fiancé, boyfriend, partner, or your preferred pet names – of course you want to find a gift that shows him just how much he means to you. Just remember that the key to the perfect gift is simply that it comes from you. These stunning gift ideas will help you say "this made me think of you."

Our 50 favorite gifts for men for 2024:

Target

Epson EpiqVision Mini EF22 Portable Smart Laser Projector

Make movie nights even more epic with this mini portable projector. The Dolby audio sound is AMAZING and the full HDR picture quality is perfect, plus you can project as big as a 150-inch screen! Watch his (and your) favorite movies, shows, sporting events, Oscars?, gaming, and more anywhere, indoors and out. It comes with a Google TV setup with access to more 10,000 apps, including favorites like Netflix and Prime. It's super simple to set up and a great way to bring in a screen wherever you want. No additional supplies needed! Also it comes in a bunch of cool colors. This is a splurge gift that's totally worth it and will make cozy nights at home even cozier. We love it!

Amazon

RVCA Commonwealth Snapback

This flat-brimmed baseball cap replaces those older, worn-out styles you know your man has been hoarding. The green corduroy fabric on this gift-worthy hat will grace his head perfectly for every season!

Apple Watch SE

Get him motivated to reach his fitness goals with features like fitness tracking and heart rate monitoring, plus he can send a text, take a call, listen to his favorite music and podcasts. You can customize the watch faces and bands to his liking too. It's the perfect gift for the active guy!

Amazon

Every Man Jack Mens Amber + Sandalwood Body Set

This gift set is filled with an ideal assortment of gifts for him. From body wash, shampoo, deodorant, and face wash, your man will have everything he needs to feel fresh – plus, having a good-smelling guy around is the real gift for you that keeps on giving.

Nike

Nike Air VaporMax Flyknit

Be his biggest cheerleader as he reaches his 2025 fitness goals in these best-selling Nikes, made with sustainable materials. We are loving this vintage green.

Target

VANKYO Leisure D30T Mini Wi-Fi Projector

Bring the cinema home to your movie buff with a sleek projector setup for your own private screenings and viewing parties!

Sunswell

Sunswell The R&R Pant

Made from recycled materials for rigorous wear, the Sunswell R&R pants are bound to be a staple in your man's year-round wardrobe.

Amazon

Cosori Pour Over Coffee Maker

This sturdy coffee maker will be a total hit for the caffeine-loving guy in your life. The layered stainless steel filter allows for a rich, creamy flavor in every sip, plus the decanter is holds a whole 34 ounces of brewed coffee to help him wake up!

Amazon

Stanley Stainless Steel Shot Glass and Flask Gift Set

This durable drinking set complete with a flask and shot glasses will be his new BFF for sharing on camping, fishing, or hunting trips. Top it all off with a brand-new bottle of whiskey to complete the gift for him.

Creem

Creem Magazine Subscription

For the music-loving man in your life, a subscription to Creem (the coolest rock 'n' roll mag) will really impress. The publication's covered plenty of classic names in the industry – as well as newer bands – so he's sure to soak up plenty of new knowledge about the scene. There's a handful of annual subscription tiers for the mag starting at just $79.

Amazon

Thermajohn Thermal Shirt

Whether he's hitting the slopes or is braving the cold winter weather to run errands with you, this warm thermal base layer tee will swarm his upper half in comfort, flexibly moving with his each and every move.

Herschel

Herschel Little America Backpack Pro

For his outdoor adventures or social gatherings, outfit him with a cool backpack (literally, this one is insulated) that he can fill with his favorite snacks and beverages.

Ties

Ties The Scientist Sock Pack

Whether it's a stocking stuffer or a smaller gift, a playful set of socks is both practical and personal.

Tie Bar

Tie Bar Navy Travel Tie Storage Case

This tie storage case means business, just like your man does. If he travels for work often, he'll appreciate that you're looking out for his formal-wear.

Amazon

Marlowe. Coffee Bar Soap

This manly bar soap is infused with coffee beans and cocoa butter butter that help tackle even the worst bouts of sweat and body odor. It's definitely long-lasting, too, so he can smell lovely all night long.

Taylor Stitch

Taylor Stitch The Workhorse Jacket

This jacket will hug his bod in the most stylish way, all while keeping him comfy throughout the season's cold weather.

Williams Sonoma

Breville Precision Brewer 12-Cup Drip Coffee Maker with Glass Carafe

For the early risers and coffee-obsessed, a programmable coffee maker means he can wake up to the smell of coffee every day (and no longer has to use wasteful pods for an instant brew).

Mark & Graham

Mark & Graham Italian Leather Desk Set

Whether he's going to work, outfitting a permanent at-home office, or heading back to school, a personalized desk set like this luxe leather one will please the most studious types of guys.

Nordstrom

Ugg Beckett Fleece Robe

If your man loves a cozy night in just as much as you do, a soft robe to lounge around in will make the ultimate gift for him.

Mejuri

Mejuri Flat Curb Chain Necklace

Once you've reached long-term status with your guy, gift him a signature gold chain he can flex for years to come.

Pangaia

Pangaia 365 Heavyweight Hoodie

For the hoodie-obsessed, Pangaia's signature sustainable sweatshirts (and sweatsuits!) are best-in-class.

Etsy

Custom Soundwave Art Print

From a first dance song to the one you always blast together in the car, every guy has their favorite tune. Memorialize it for your music-loving man with this custom art print.

DUER

DUER Performance Relaxed Taper Denim Jeans

A good quality, fresh pair of denim is gonna set him (and his style) so right for the new year. These jeans feature a stretchy fabric that'll allow wear for practically any occasion.

Mark & Graham

Mark & Graham Leather Poker Set

Outfit his next game night with a poker set that's sure to impress and easy to bring on the go for weekend trips and group hangs.

New Balance

New Balance 9060 Sneaker

Secure your status as the greatest of all time by copping him that stylish pair of sneakers he's been eyeing.

Amazon

Polaroid Now 2nd Generation I-Type Instant Camera + Film Bundle

If your man is into photography and all things nostalgia, consider surprising him with a retro Polaroid camera set. We bet you'll be his favorite muse.

Manly Bands

Manly Bands The Forged Ring

This sleek wedding band stands up to tough, hands-on jobs with a carbon fiber construction, unlike traditional rings. The inner part is actually made from a Jack Daniel's whiskey barrel, making the perfect personalized touch for gifting the guy who loves a drink.

Uncommon Goods

New York Times Custom Football Book

This isn't just any coffee table book, but one that true sports buffs will actually want to devour – with clippings from his team's history, glory days, and highlights.

Still trying to figure out the perfect gifts for him? Subscribe to our email newsletter for more gift guides!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others and earn commissions, but we always offer genuine editorial recommendations.

This post has been updated. Former reporting by Kaitlyn Ingram and Lauren Black.

What is it about family sagas that seem to make book clubs more interesting? Maybe it's because we know interpersonal relationships can be a little dysfunctional. It could be that we still don't know how to communicate with the people we love the most. Even if we love our parents and siblings, reading about other families' fictional twists and turns gives us a rush of adrenaline.

So it's no wonder Jenna Bush Hager's January book club pick feels like something we can read without putting down. It's full of complicated relationship dynamics, love, and reconciling one's identity with their past. You can say it's the perfect read to kick off your 2025 reading goals!

Learn more about Jenna Bush Hager's 2025 book club pick and fall in love with one character's journey of self-discovery.

Amazon

The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus by Emma Knight

Penn should be excited about advancing her education at the University of Edinburgh, but she can't stop thinking about the secret her parents have been keeping from her. For some reason, she believes she'll uncover it while she's in Scotland because Lord Lennox — her father's friend — is in the area.

Her hunger for the truth leads her to Lord Lennox's estate where she she starts mingling with his family and even discovers love in this moving novel.

@readwithjenna/Instagram

Jenna Bush Hager's Thoughts About The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus

Jenna Bush Hager thinks readers will love The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus because "it's a rich novel" with themes of "friendship and motherhood" (via Instagram). It's so good, she's sure "it will sweep you off your feet (via Instagram).

We hope you enjoy reading about Penn's journey in The Life Cycle of the Common Octopus and encourage you to check out Reese Witherspoon's January book club pick next!

Trader Joe’s loves to keep us on our toes when it comes to their new arrivals. We’re constantly monitoring the aisles to discover all the new TJ’s sweet treats and savory snacks they launch – and these 7 new picks for January 2025 are not to be missed! All of these Trader Joe’s products will run you less than $5, which only makes sealing the deal on your grocery bill easier.

From delicious dips to a very enticing new frozen meal, these are the 7 best new Trader Joe’s finds you absolutely need to try in January 2025.

Trader Joe's

1. Teensy Candy Bars

These tiny little candy bar bites ($2.99) resemble Snickers in the best way possible: layers of nougat, caramel, and peanuts are enveloped in a delicious chocolate coating for maximum snackage. We're gonna have to resist eating the whole bag! TJ's even suggests using these bits as decoration for other desserts, like sprinkling some on a scoop of ice cream or baking them into some cookies.

Trader Joe's

2. Olive Tapenade Hummus

Trader Joe's array of dips is simply too good to resist, and this newcomer hummus ($3.49) is no exception! It's a tub of "smooth and nutty" hummus topped with a tapenade comprised of black olives, manzanilla olives, capers, and olive oil to give it a salty effect. It's gonna taste so great as a dip for crackers or as a spread on a Mediterranean pita wrap.

Trader Joe's

3. Organic Concord Grape Jelly

This squeezable grape jelly ($3.49) is nothing short of nostalgic. Trader Joe's says it's "super smooth, joyously juicy, and potently purple," which immediately has us sold on making PB&Js every day now.

Trader Joe's

4. Spicy Chicken Nuggets

Oh, yeah. Bring on the spice with these spicy nuggs ($3.99) that make the perfect easy meal no matter the time of day! Made from all-natural chicken breast and rib meat, breaded with wheat, rice and corn flours, then covered in hot sauce and lightly fried, TJ's has their texture down to a tee. You can easily cook 'em in the air fryer, oven, or microwave before chowing down!

Trader Joe's

5. Crispy Potato & Poblano Pepper Tacos

These halved and fried frozen tacos ($4.99) will totally crush your Taco Bell cravings, since they come together super quickly and contain flavors with mind-blowing authenticity! Each taco is filled with a blend of seasoned mashed potatoes and some "ever-so- slightly spicy" poblano peppers that'll work so well with any dipping sauce, from TJ's salsa to their creamy Jalapeño Sauce.

Trader Joe's

6. Strawberry Mini Hold The Cone!

Just in time for Valentine's Day, Trader Joe's is debuting a new flavor ($3.99) of their classic Hold The Cone! frozen dessert: strawberry! These tiny, chocolate-covered cones are lined with even more "rich" chocolate on the inside, then packed with strawberry ice cream, which TJ's says is crafted with plenty of strawberry purée.

Trader Joe's

7. Caesar Salad Dip

Trader Joe's shoppers have said this new Caesar Salad Dip ($3.69) makes a perfect girl dinner addition– which, if you get it, you get it! The tub starts with a "creamy" base that's then loaded up with Caesar-seasoned sour cream, mayo, anchovy paste, Parmesan, and finely shredded Romaine for the crunch. It's best enjoyed with crackers or veggie sticks to dip, but you could also smatter fried chicken or seared steak in it for some ahh-mazing flavor!

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