For those times when you do want to let just enough noise in, all the adults in my house have Dubs noise-canceling earbuds and they are lifesavers, especially when the toddler is tantruming and we need to stay calm for them and not get overstimulated or stressed out. They're fantastic for concerts, too.

Cuisinarts are lifechanging. I have a bread machine and a Vitamix so my Cuisinart doesn't see as much use as it once did, but it's such an important kitchen tool.