I'm a gifting expert — here are 7 Christmas presents worth buying (that'll arrive in time)

I don't know about you, but I'm in desperate need of some self-care right about now. As much as I'd love to splash out on a full day at the spa, I know these glittery eye gels will give me the 15 or 20 minutes of me-time that I'm really after. I picked up a pack after they topped our tests of the best under-eye patches, and I pull them out whenever I need a little pick-me-up.

I'm partial to these gold beauties, which are packed with sea moss, hydrolyzed vegetable protein and hyaluronic acid to energize tired under eyes. They come in two other colors — the blue ones illuminate, while pink are extra moisturizing. 

OK, I'll admit it. I was skeptical about the candle warmer lamp trend. After all, we've been burning candles for centuries, so do we really need a newfangled way to do essentially the same job? Yes, and I've been waxing poetic about 'em ever since I got my hands on one. 

These little lamps melt down the wax so you can enjoy your favorite scents without any soot, smoke or flames. They're, dare I say, pretty genius, especially for those who have a fear of fire. Plus, they're far more unique than, say, wrapping up yet another candle.

This hand-slapping card game is fun for the whole family. One by one, players put down a card and say "Taco," "Cat," "Goat," "Cheese and "Pizza" in order. If the word matches the card, the last person to slap their hands down has to pick up all the cards. The first player to run out of cards wins.

I've only played it with other adults and, let's just say, it really brings out everyone's competitive spirit (and that's putting it lightly). Tons of Amazon shoppers, however, can vouch that it's suitable for all ages. "My family loves family game night and we have seven kiddos, ages 17 down to 7. We have only a few games on our game shelf that all of the kids unanimously agree on, and TCGCP is one of them," one reviewer raved.

Lego's holiday releases flew off the shelves, so I'm amazed that this zero-maintenance stunner is still in stock. While I haven't completed my build yet, it's been a joy to step away from the screens and let my creativity blossom as I assemble this realistic-looking poinsettia. Plus, I love knowing that I'll be able to incorporate it into my holiday decor (once I'm done, of course). 

It's made for ages 18 and up, so grab a set for any kid at heart (or perhaps, an adult who needs some childlike wonder). Move quickly, though: It's currently 30% off and selling fast.

I'm a big fan of subscription boxes, especially if I'm shopping for people with niche hobbies and interests. My brother's a big foodie with a soft spot for sweet and salty snacks, so I gave him a three-month subscription to Universal Yums. Each month, his tastebuds traveled to a different country — Korea was his first stop, then he made his way to Ukraine and France. He'd send me an unboxing video each month and honestly, I was just so happy to be along for the ride. 

Right now, Universal Yums is offering free expedited shipping on all of their monthly subscriptions to guarantee arrival by Dec. 25. Choose between different box sizes and subscription lengths — I went for the Yum Yum Box, but the Yum Box comes with up to seven snacks and is as low as $18 a month. 

Sure, it's a splurge, but this is one of those things that makes my mornings all the merrier. I have a tendency to set and forget my coffee, so this smart mug saves me from running to the microwave every 10 minutes (which, trust me, I've done more times than I count). Just brew your drink, then set your ideal temperature (somewhere between 120-145°F) and sip for hours.

Not sure you want to take my word for it? Senior Tech Writer Rick Broida said it's the best heated coffee mug and the household appliance he'd be most likely to save in a fire, which is quite the endorsement.

I've been a Book of the Month member on and off over the years and in that time, I've read titles from big names like Emily Henry and Taylor Jenkins Reid to newcomers like Casey McQuiston. It's introduced me to some of my favorite reads of all time, which is why I've been singing its praises for years. 

I'm a loyal Kindle user who prefers to read e-books, but there's something special — nostalgic, even — about getting a hardcover book in my mailbox each month. But if you're short on space (same!), then they also have an audiobook option. Know a bookworm or someone who's vowed to read more in the year ahead? Send them a gift card via email or print it out if you'd rather stick something underneath the tree.