Skimm HQ is OOO eating turkey leftovers. But we didn't want to leave you hanging. So we've put together some things to do today (including: deals) to make your holiday-from-home feel festive.

Ho-Ho-Home Shopping

The Story

Black Friday hits different this year.

Because fighting strangers for deals isn't pandemic-friendly?

Yes, that. The CDC says shopping in busy stores "just before, on or after Thanksgiving" is high-risk. And is encouraging online shopping instead.

Shopping from my couch is more my speed anyway.

A lot of people feel that. In recent years, Black Friday has morphed into more of a season than a one-day event, with stores rolling out discounts weeks in advance. This year, that started even earlier with retailers pushing online sales as early as October to avoid overwhelming their supply chains and help manage crowds. It's predicted that US shoppers will spend more than $190 billion online this holiday season. That's $50 billion more spent online than in 2019.

Sounds like fun for shipping companies.

More like "shipageddon." FedEx and UPS are preparing for an unprecedented surge – as in, an extra 7 million packages per day between Thanksgiving and Christmas – which could lead to delays. If you usually wait until the last minute to shop for gifts, this is a good year to start a little earlier. Also, buying from small businesses with curbside pickup could take some pressure off and help your local economy.

Is the economy happy about all this shopping?

More spending is good for the economy. But just because online spending is expected to be high this year, doesn't necessarily mean overall spending (aka online and IRL) will be that much higher than in 2019. Some forecasts are optimistic: The National Retail Federation said this week that holiday sales growth could increase this year thanks to people wanting a happier ending to a rough 2020. But unemployment is still high, and the recent spike in COVID-19 cases has led to more restrictions for businesses. Meaning: there's some uncertainty about people's spending habits this year.

theSkimm

Black Friday is a mood, not a day. Especially this year, as retailers have extended their sales and consumers are getting their shopping fix from their couches amid the pandemic. But more coronavirus infections and lack of another stimulus package loom over the holiday season – typically a critical time for consumer spending to bolster the economy.

PS: Want more about $$$ from theSkimm? Sign up to get the Skimm Money newsletter in your inbox every Friday.

How to Give Back, Smarter

'Tis the season for being generous. If you're considering donating to a charity, follow these steps to make sure your dollars make the most impact.

1. Identify your cause, and find a charity with a matching mission.

2. Use sites like Charity Navigator and CharityWatch for an overview of how the org spends its money.

3. Keep your receipts.

4. Read more about vetting charities so you can do good – by the world and your wallet.

What to Eat

Leftovers are the best part of Thanksgiving weekend. And Blue Apron's chefs have lots of ideas to help you make them taste even better. Like topping mashed potato and stuffing 'pancakes' with a fried egg for brunch. And blending a slice of pie with ice cream to make a milkshake for dessert. Check out the deets, then head to the kitchen.

Oh, and snag $80 off your first four boxes during their Black Friday Sale. You'll get chef-designed recipes and all the ingredients you need delivered right to your door. Feeling grateful. Also, great/full.

What to Read

For when your last Google search was about Princess Diana and "The Crown"…

"HRH" by Elizabeth Holmes is the coffee table book you need. It explores the fashion choices of the four most influential members of the British royal fam (Kate Middleton, Meghan Markle, Princess Diana, and the Queen). Consider us royally obsessed.

For when you love an antihero…

"White Ivy" by Susie Yang is a dark literary thriller about race, ambition, and wealth. It follows a teenage Chinese immigrant in Massachusetts who becomes fixated with a politician's wealthy son. Years later, they reconnect...and the obsession (and your page-turning) intensifies.

For when you have a sci-fi itch…

"Ready Player Two" by Ernest Cline to the rescue. It's the highly anticipated sequel to his 2011 dystopian bestseller about a teen who gets sucked into the world of virtual reality in 2044. (It's good, trust us). Steven Spielberg turned the first book into a movie. And now you can finally get your hands on the follow up. Game on.

What to Buy

An under-$100 air fryer from QVC...

So you can cook smarter...and with less oil. This 10-quart air fryer has 12 presets and dishwasher-safe parts. Translation: easy prep and quick cleanup. Bonus: Skimmr's get $10 off any purchase of $25 or more if they're new to the Q with code OFFER. Channel your inner Ina.*

Up to 50% off Tarte Cosmetics...

The holidays are giving us a reason to put our face on again. And not just on the days we have a Zoom meeting. We're eyeing their mascara, concealer, and lipsticks. They're all vegan-friendly, cruelty-free, and dermatologist-tested. Look good, feel good.*

Up to 70% – plus an extra 10% – off at Cole Haan...

We suggest the Explore Hiker Boots. They look chic and keep feet cozy whether you're hitting the backwoods or taking a city stroll. Today's "best it gets" deals are just one part of their Grand Month of Giving Event, which lasts all November. More sales are better than one.*

25% off Metabolism Super Powder from Sakara...

Mix it into your fave smoothie when you're feeling meh. It will eliminate bloat, control your cravings naturally, fire up your metabolism, and boost your energy. So you can reset after those big holiday dinners. Oh, and it's their only sale of the year. You got this.*

50% off a SimpliSafe security system, plus a free camera…

Experts will monitor your home 24/7, providing protection against fires, break-ins, water damage, and more. Oh, and you can set it all up yourself in under an hour. (No, really.) Easy as (leftover pumpkin) pie.*

$200 off new organic mattresses from Avocado…

These all-latex ones are sustainably sourced, organic, climate neutral and non-toxic. Aka they're good for your health and the planet's. Plus, they've got sales on mattress toppers and pillows too. Mother Earth approves.*

40% off apparel and accessories at Everlane…

Pretty big deal, considering it's their first (and maybe last) Black Friday sale ever. Celebrate by grabbing yourself high-rise stretch skinny jeans. Or maybe some cozy alpaca and cashmere sweater tees to survive the cold weather ahead. Don't miss out.*

30% off goodies from New Stand's holiday shop...

Think: Boy Smells candles, Bala bangles, Herschel accessories...and a Big Night In box complete with cozy socks, sleep mask, ceramic mug, and puzzle. They pinky promise everything will arrive in time for the holidays. Use code SKIMM through Dec 13 to get in on it. Don't wait.*

Skimm’rs

In times like these, community matters more than ever. Let us know how you (or someone you know) is making an impact by helping others.

Putting pen to paper...Rachel D (NY). She's the Founder and CEO of GlamourGals – a nonprofit that fosters intergenerational connections and meaningful service for young leaders. This year, it's spreading holiday cheer by sending 10,000 holiday notes to isolated seniors now through Giving Tuesday. And wants your help.

A helping hand...Anju D (TX). She created VCYNTA – a website that aims to match people seeking help with people who can provide that help. That can be anything from grocery shopping, driving, household chores, or donations. And the website is free to use.

Cleaning up with...Maddy M (OK). She's a mom to two boys and the founder of Permanent Diaper Relief – a nonprofit in Tulsa, OK, that provides permanent diaper solutions to families through reusable diapers and a diaper cleaning service. Learn more.

(Some) Birthdays…Jill Leiderman (CA), Eric Gastfriend (MA), Jason Berger, Rachel Wohlfeld (NY), Greg Golkin (NY), Alyssa Pepper (NY), Courtney Stachowski (CO), Harry Gregory (NJ), Isabella Trifero (NY), Judy Rossano (SC), Cherry Lahar (KS), Sahil Shah (CA), Deb Grossman (MD), Meghan Clarke (UK), Kate Sega (MN)

*Paging all members of theSkimm. Reach out here for a chance to be featured.

Skimm’d by Alexandra Napoli, Ivana Pino, Stacy Rapacon, Lindsay Schneider, Simone Scully, Liz Smith, Jessica Kelly, Niven McCall-Mazza, Clem Robineau, and Elyse Steinhaus