New Year, New You? New Year, Unapologetically You!

The start of a new year always brings a mix of emotions—hope, determination, and maybe a little anxiety about what lies ahead. (Let’s be real, it’s going to take a lot of humor, fun, and grit to tackle not just this year but the next few, right?) For me, channeling those “negative” emotions into something creative is my go-to strategy.

This holiday season, instead of baking stress cookies, I poured my energy into designing custom notebooks as gifts for everyone on my list. My mission? To make each recipient laugh so hard they’d need a moment to recover before declaring, “This is the best gift ever!”

Each notebook featured a phrase tailored to its recipient’s unique quirks or interests. What started as a small project snowballed when I shared the results on Instagram and discovered that others wanted their own copies. Here are the top hits and their backstories:

1. “Things To Do Today in Jail”

This one was made for my Gunkle Roger, a nurse at the local county jail. Roger is tough but kind, stylish, and has the sharpest sense of humor. The notebook was a perfect fit for his vibe—and it turns out, a hit with others too! While it’s a practical to-do list for Roger, I have to wonder: What are all of you using it for? Or are you just fending off chatty strangers at your favorite coffee shop?

2. “Reasons Why Tom Jones Is So Shiny”

Mrs. G, my youngest son’s fifth-grade teacher, is a creative powerhouse in our lives. Every year she shares the story of her first crush, Tom Jones, during the grade-level sex-ed module. Her detailed (and hilarious) explanations of his shine—think baby oil, botox, or just sheer charisma—have inspired years of inside jokes in our family. This notebook gives her a place to jot them all down.

3. “Caffeinated Ideas Journal”

This one’s for the coffee lover who never slows down. It was my pick for a gift exchange where the recipient had requested something as random as a bicycle part. Instead, I went with a notebook perfect for brainstorming over a strong cup of joe.

4. “The Secret Scandalous Life of [Your Name Here]”

Customized with the recipient’s name, these were a huge hit. They combine mystery, humor, and just a touch of drama, making them a perfect gift for the person who loves a good inside joke—or a little flair of scandal in their stationery.

5. “Things to Do Before Watching True Crime”

This was a gift for my mom, who loves to binge true crime shows whenever my kids stay the night. She rushes them to bed, eager to settle in with her favorite mysteries. My kids, however, have a knack for eavesdropping and love to report back on her “scary shows.” This notebook captures the hilarity of the whole situation.

Why Journaling?

Whether it’s a hilarious gift, a to-do list, or a place to jot down your most scandalous secrets, journaling is one of the best ways to organize your thoughts and channel your creativity. It’s a space that’s just for you—whether you’re mapping out goals, venting your frustrations, or dreaming up your next big idea.

This year, we’re introducing more notebooks and journals to the Cocus Pocus lineup, all designed to bring a smile to your face and make your day a little more magical. Check them out and see how they can help you turn “new year, new you” into “new year, unapologetically you.”