Early wake-up calls? Yep, we’ve been getting those nonstop around here. My kids have clearly decided that sleep is for the weak. While I usually try to keep it to just one cup of coffee a day, today might just be a double day. I’m hoping caffeine can work its magic because I’m going to need it! How’s your morning shaping up?

• How Millionaires Are Made: Spoiler—It’s Not From Winning the Lottery

• Holiday Hustle, Meet Heart: Little Ways to Stay Lovey-Dovey in December

• Leaving Kids Home Alone? Check Your State’s Rules First

MONEY

Millionaire moves.

If you’re thinking it takes a trust fund or a six-figure salary to hit the million-dollar mark, think again. According to The National Study of Millionaires by Ramsey Solutions, most millionaires get there through everyday choices, not golden tickets. Turns out, it’s more about consistent investing, debt avoidance, and smart spending than flashy windfalls. No lottery winnings or grand inheritances required.

The Millionaire Playbook: Invest and Spend Wisely
Here’s what the study found: 8 out of 10 millionaires max out their company’s 401(k), and many also invest outside of employer-sponsored plans. But they’re not rolling the dice on trendy stocks or high-risk opportunities. The overwhelming majority of millionaires credited regular, steady investing over time as the secret sauce to their wealth.

Surprisingly, 94% of millionaires live below their means, and nearly 75% have never carried a credit card balance. These folks keep it simple—no extravagant spending. In fact, most millionaires spend under $200 per month at restaurants, and 93% use coupons on a regular basis. Their money stays in their bank accounts, not someone else’s pocket.

Did Millionaires Inherit Their Wealth? Not Really.
Forget the “born rich” stereotype. Almost 80% of U.S. millionaires didn’t receive any family inheritance. Many came from middle- or lower-income backgrounds, with only 2% growing up in upper-income families. And high salaries? Not so much. Only 31% made $100K or more a year during their careers.

Millionaire Mindset: They Know What’s Not Worth Their Time
The study found that it’s not just financial habits that set millionaires apart—it’s how they use their time. Here are some common habits they avoid:

• Excessive TV watching and social media scrolling

• Engaging in office gossip or toxic comparisons

• Living beyond their means

The takeaway? Millionaire status is less about luck and more about consistent, deliberate choices that anyone can make. Ready to start your journey?

RELATIONSHIPS

Mistletoe moments.

As cozy as the holidays sound, they’re often packed with back-to-back commitments, leaving little room for romance. But staying connected with your partner doesn’t have to take hours—or even a fancy date night. Here’s your cheat sheet for making connection a holiday priority.

Quick Tips for Rekindling That Spark

1. The Six-Second Rule: Sex therapist Vanessa Marin swears by a simple six-second kiss or 30-second hug each day. Sound small? Studies show that non-sexual physical touch is a powerful way to bond, even when life gets hectic. So, lean in, linger a little longer, and let the connection build.

2. Try Something New Together: Our brains love novelty—it’s a bonding booster! Pick something small and fresh: check out a new café, go to a holiday market, or even bake cookies together (bonus points if it’s a new recipe).

3. Micro Dates FTW: No time for a full night out? Micro dates, or mini dates, are short activities you can squeeze into a busy schedule. Here are some ideas:

   • Take a quick 15-minute coffee break together before the day begins.

   • Write a short gratitude letter to each other and read it aloud.

   • Take a walk in the neighborhood and spot something new.

4. Reminisce About the Good Ol’ Days: Dig up those memories of first dates, vacations, or that unforgettable holiday party where you both wore matching sweaters. Reminiscing can bring back that “falling in love” feeling, reminding you why you’re in this together.

Simple Gestures, Big Impact

Sometimes, it’s the little things that mean the most:

• Send a quick “I love you” text.

• Hold hands during that holiday shopping trip.

• Leave a note or flower somewhere unexpected.

When life gets busy, these small moments remind your partner, I’m here, and I choose you.

TRENDING

SNIPPETS

🎁 Kid-approved gifts under $25!

🎮 HEX BOTS Wall Crawler Gecko – Part creepy, part cool, this robot gecko scurries up walls and across floors with lifelike moves. Watch it mesmerize the whole family with its glowing red eyes and flexible, silicone limbs. A totally wild toy for hours of fun! Check it out

🚀 The Stomp Rocket Space Collection – Get ready for liftoff! This rocket launcher lets kids experiment with force and trajectory, sending shuttles soaring (or hurtling across the living room) in style. It’s the perfect blend of movement and imagination—plus, soft foam rockets make it safe for indoors. Launch here

⏰ 5-Second Rule Relay – Think fast, pass the baton, and keep the answers rolling in this fast-paced game. You’ll need to stay on your toes (and hope your teammate can keep up!) while you race against the clock in the ultimate challenge of speed and memory. Get your relay on

⚽ Hover Soccer Ball – Turn any smooth surface into your personal soccer field! These floating hover soccer balls are great for indoor play and won’t damage walls or furniture. Let the game begin without leaving the living room. Shop here

🌊 Heishi Surfer Bracelet Set – Stack up your new favorite accessories with this bracelet set. Mix, match, and layer them to create a personalized style that screams beach vibes and effortless cool. Perfect for kids looking to express their individuality! Accessorize here

💪 Strength at home. 18 exercises for a full-body workout with no weights required.

🌶️ Spice it up. What happens to your body when you eat spicy food.

🎄 PJ party! 19 best Christmas pajamas for everyone in the family.

🐧 Penguin alert. Surfer spots emperor penguin in Australia, far from home.

😍 Heartthrob status. John Krasinski crowned PEOPLE's 2024 Sexiest Man Alive.

Home alone.

Got a quick errand and thinking it’d be way easier to leave your kid at home? Good call, but here’s the big question: is it legal? The short answer: it depends. Most states don’t have specific laws, but a few have set age minimums. So, if you’re unsure, click here to find out your state’s guidelines (because no one wants a surprise call from Child Services).

Generally, 12+ is the safe bet. According to family therapist Sheryl Ziegler, age and maturity matter more than an official age limit. Can your kid handle basic emergencies? Are they comfortable solo for a short stretch? If yes, try leaving them alone daytime only and keep it under 45 minutes.

Before making that “thoughtful, calculated risk,” check the full list of state laws, and make sure your kid’s ready.

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