Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and lots of love from me

Christmas Day is a time for reflection, gratitude and connection. This year, it’s extra special as Hanukkah also begins tonight. Both holidays remind us of the importance of light, hope and the traditions that bring us closer together.

When I was a kid, the magic of Christmas came in the form of glowing string lights on a fresh-cut tree, the scent of my Mom’s cooking and my Dad’s laugh as we opened gifts. Those memories of warmth and love are what I carry with me every year, and it’s what I hope for each of you to experience today.

As we celebrate this season, I want to take a moment to thank all those who work tirelessly to make the holidays brighter: Health care workers, first responders, retail staff, delivery drivers and everyone else working behind the scenes to bring a little joy to our lives.

Let’s not forget the thousands in law enforcement and national security protecting us; the firefighters and medical professionals on call today; and the pilots, flight attendants and air traffic controllers reuniting families. And, of course, the men and women of America’s military, who serve to ensure our freedom.

I want to give you a special thanks, too

I’m thrilled you’re here with me day in and day out. I love reading your comments that say, “Wow, Kim, it feels like you’re talking to me in this newsletter.” Yes, it’s real, human Kim here gathering what you need to know in the world of tech and writing it for you.

That’s especially important now that AI is everywhere. I want this email and the info I pass along on my shows, podcasts and writings in USA Today, the Daily Mail and other places to be something you can trust.

Some of my Christmas traditions

Below, I put links to the recipe for my annual Christmas dinner, movies and lots more. But I want to reach out to you if you’re not having a great day.

Years ago, my Dad was a little depressed and missing his mother terribly one Christmas. My Mom thought a quick trip to Las Vegas would get him out of the slump. I gave him a Mannheim Steamroller Christmas CD to listen to on their drive. When they returned, my Mom had a huge smile on her face and said, “Wow! That CD is wonderful! It totally turned his frown upside‑down!”

I shared this story with Chip Davis, the founder of Mannheim Steamroller. He explained he did that on purpose with the tempo so people would have an emotional lift. If you’re a little down, here’s a YouTube playlist. When I miss my loved ones, it helps me, too.

In this season of hope and joy, whether you’re celebrating Christmas, Hanukkah or simply enjoying time with loved ones, I’m keeping you in my prayers. I pray for your health, happiness, and that you find peace and comfort in the moments that matter most.

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5 ways to connect when you’re apart for the holidays

Christmas Eve is here. It’s a time for joy, laughter and cherished moments with loved ones. I know how busy this day can get, but a little bit of tech-savvy can help make it even more special.

Here are five quick and simple ways to use technology to connect with family and create memories without taking up too much time.

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Unique gifts for kids

🎁 These are way more memorable than a gift card or Robux.

  • If you ever need space from your little ones, turn on a star projector (30% off, $35). They’ll be over the moon. 🌝
  • An LCD doodle tablet ($20) is basically a fancier, way cooler Etch-A-Sketch. Click the box for 10% off!
  • A slime kit ($9) is the perfect gift for a fidgety kid (or adult — I don’t judge).
  • I used to love these rubber band bracelet kits (18% off). I’m so glad they’re still around.
  • Minecraft Legos — need I say more?
  • This DIY kit ($10) keeps ‘em busy making cute mini donuts.
  • Kinetic sand ($14) is so much fun. Bonus: It’s way easy to clean up.
  • Indisputable fact: Every girl wants pink hair at some point in her life. This temporary hair chalk ($15) even works on dark hair.
  • A bath bomb potion kit ($20) is basically a bathtub science lab.

👀 For your eyes only: The holidays mean a house full of family, friends and curious little ones. With all the hustle and bustle, get into the habit of locking your computer every time you get up. On Windows, press the Windows key + L. On  Mac, hit Ctrl + Cmd + Q.

Best time to book for the holidays

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Planning a trip? I’ve got the inside scoop on snagging the best prices and a simple trick to avoid delays and cancellations.

⛪️ Open to work: After Pope Francis’ passing, the Vatican updated its LinkedIn with a description for the next pope. Mandatory: be baptized, male, Catholic. Preferred: good singing voice, multilingual, wisdom, prudence and even “Joy in serving with almost no holidays.” Not a remote position. Sorry.

5 clever tricks holiday scammers use

JD in Dallas emailed me with a story. He and his wife were at the mall and stopped for a Christmas selfie. Two young men walking by offered to take the pic for them — and one kept wiping the phone’s lens inside his jacket.

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Practical gifts everyone will love at $10, $20 and $50

Thank goodness I’m almost done shopping! I’m here to help you be a hero on Christmas morning at whatever budget floats your boat. Psst, if you need stocking stuffers, use this link.

⁉️ “Hey Kim, I still need to find the perfect gift for …” Worry not! I have hundreds of ideas for you right here. You’ll get it done in a jiffy with my picks!

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Stock up before you’re too busy

😵‍💫 Have guests coming for the holidays? Mark this off your to-do list today. Some make good gifts, too, just sayin’.

Most popular gifts: $10, $20, $50 and splurges

If it’s not if they sell out … it’s when. This is me giving you permission to buy yourself something, too. Happy shopping!

Hit this link for hundreds of my great ideas for guys and gals of any age.

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Best Cyber Monday deals

🪄 I did the digging so you don’t have to!

  • 50% off clean floors? Yes, please! This voice- or app-controlled Shark robotic vacuum is a deal ($299.99, 50% off). It makes an easy gift for anyone who loves spotless spaces and doesn’t want to do the work (or doesn’t have the time).
  • Salon style at home: Darling, you look marvelous! This Revlon one-step volumizer ($31.75, 55% off) dries and styles hair at the same time, giving it volume quickly and easily. It’s also perfect for traveling!
  • Wrap her feet in cozy luxury: These fuzzy slippers ($15.99, 56% off) with memory foam will have her feeling like she’s walking on clouds, keeping her feet toasty and supported.
  • Santa, I’d use this: This lightweight heated jacket delivers up to 10 hours of adjustable warmth, and it even warms your hands, too. Grab it for men or women ($104.99, 38% off). It’s perfect for chilly commutes, walks, outdoor work or freezing offices.
  • HEYDUDE! Yup, the comfy shoes he’ll wear all the time are deeply discounted for a limited time ($38.99, 41% off).
  • Rev up his style: This quality, stylish leather jacket ($134.38, 77% off) is the ultimate year-round staple, ideal for layering from fall to spring. It’s so nice!
  • Brighten their space: This Amazon Echo Spot smart speaker and color-changing smart bulb bundle ($44.99, 51% off) lets you play music, get the news and ask Alexa set the mood for you, with 16 colors and schedules. Perfect for any age, really!
  • Up to 60% off Amazon devices: Whether it’s a kid’s tablet, Fire TV Stick or outdoor security cam, this is the secret Cyber Monday link to use!

👉 Shop all Cyber Monday deals: Gifts under $10 | Electronics | Toys and games | Cooking and baking | All deals

Black Friday deals under $25

😎 Because giving good gifts shouldn’t burn a hole in your pocket.

Techy Black Friday deals

💰 Give the gift of gadgets without breaking the bank. These deals are live right now:

  • These over-the-ear Bose headphones (43% off) are all the buzz. They’re noise-canceling and come in seven different colors. The blue and lilac are limited edition, so they’ll go fast.
  • The newest Amazon Fire TV Stick (56% off) is under $25 right now. 4K can be a New Year’s resolution. 😏
  • Heated eye massagers (42% off, $52) are so relaxing, I wouldn’t blame you for buying a second one for yourself.
  • A Tile tracker (20% off a two-pack) is perfect for the person who’s always losing their keys (and mind). If they have an iPhone, go with an AirTag (17% off).
  • A smart bird feeder (39% off) records all winged visitors and can identify over 6,000 different species. I want one!
  • I was floored when I saw the Shark robot vacuum is 50% off. Ah, the gift of fewer chores.

AI undresses women, Temu shopping soars & Amazon hack scare

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Plus, Jen Gomez, a former burglar who served ten years in prison, is now helping others secure their homes. Time to ditch the dating apps? Swiping right can be costly. Also, get the history of Nokia’s ringtone and tips on how to prevent your Amazon Echo from ruining the holidays.

New package delivery scam

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The holidays are here. Packages are on the way — and so are delivery scams.

Turn your doorbell into "The Grinch"

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Want to ring in the holidays with a little bit of mischief? Here’s how you can. 

It's scamming season

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Excited about the holidays? You’re not the only one — fraudsters look forward to jingle bells all year long. 

10 ways to make money for Christmas that anyone can do

Is there anything better than the holidays? Food, family, and gifts. What more could you want? Tap or click here for creative ways to include your pet in this year’s holiday cards.

As with anything in life, these things all come at a cost. That’s why we’re here to share ways to make this holiday season one your family and friends will never forget.

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Check out these 15 gift ideas for beauty products

We all have that one friend or family member who loves beauty products — and for good reason. There are millions of lotions, creams, electronics and beauty kits out there created to help you look and feel amazing.

It just so happens there are also tons of sales going on just in time for the holidays.

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