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The Milky Way Is Going To Be Its Most Visible This Week—Here’s How To Catch It
Here's the thing about the Milky Way: you can't just look up any night and expect to see it stretching across the sky. There's a specific window to catch its glowing core—and it's closing soon. If you want to witness the celestial core of our galaxy before summer steals the show, mid-May is your moment.
The Best Time of Year to See the Milky WayAccording to Space.com, from February to October, our planet's position in space allows clear views of the galaxy's luminous heart, a window astronomers refer to as "Core Season." But not all months are created equal. May offers a longer viewing window than June because the new moon on May 16 provides darker skies right when the nights are still long enough—before the summer solstice pushes twilight further into your stargazing hours.
Your best window is between midnight and sunrise, when the center climbs highest above the southern horizon. Any light—whether it's moonlight or city lights—will wash out the details you're after, so for the best views, you’ll want to drive out to where there’s little to no light pollution.
Where to Look (And How to Get There)You probably won’t be able to see it from your backyard in the suburbs. Minimal light pollution is essential—city glow will erase the faint dust clouds and dim stars from your view. Resources like DarkSky.org can help you find the best areas of darkness near you. National parks tend to make good viewing spots since they're removed from urban development.
@flyandfotoWhen can you see the Milky Way in the United States? The Milky Way core is visible from April through October, with peak visibility from June through August. But season alone isn’t enough. To actually see the Milky Way clearly, you need: • Dark skies away from city light pollution • A new moon or low moon phase • Clear weather • The right time of night In April, the core rises much later in the night. If you’re outside at 9pm, you won’t see it because it hasn’t risen yet. And a new moon in Los Angeles will still look like Los Angeles. Light pollution washes the Milky Way out. Planning around location, moon phase, and core rise time is what makes the difference between “I missed it” and a visible Milky Way core. Save this for your next stargazing trip. We’re releasing a free Milky Way planning guide that breaks down core rise times by month, moon phases, and how to choose the right location. Join the waitlist in our bio. Follow us for practical Milky Way and Northern Lights planning tips. #milkyway #milkywayphotography #stargazing #darksky #astrophotography
♬ original sound - Kasey & Jason 🌌 Night SkiesOnce you're there, face south. Looking south, you'll trace the core's path through Aquila, Scutum, Sagittarius, and Scorpius as it lowers toward the horizon. You'll see clusters of stars, hazy clouds of interstellar dust, and that unmistakable glow that reminds you just how vast our galaxy really is.
If you want to photograph it, be sure to bring a camera with manual settings, a wide-angle lens, a tripod, and patience. Just remember, the so-called "Core Season" won’t come back around for another eight months, so if you have your heart set on spying the Milky Way, be sure to set an alarm.
Read With Jenna Book Club Pick Named Among Most Banned Novels in the U.S.
Jenna Bush Hager’s favorite novel, The Bluest Eye by Toni Morrison, is one of the most frequently banned books in the United States.
According to the American Library Association, the 1970 novel has experienced 306 documented censorship attempts at U.S. schools, libraries and universities, with 84 instances of banning. The Bluest Eye was also included on PEN America’s list of books banned in 12 or more school districts during the 2024-2025 school year.
Bush Hager, 44, selected Morrison’s debut novel as her December 2020 Read With Jenna book club pick. The month prior, she revealed in a Today show article that she first read the book for an assignment in her sophomore English class at her Texas high school.
“Thematically, I had never read anything quite like this,” she recalled. “It was a book that talked about adult subjects but the underlying themes of racism, otherness and feeling not good enough were things that my classmates were dealing with, particularly my classmates of color. It was the first book that really opened my eyes to how literature can create understanding and take you into worlds you don’t know.”
Bush Hager then delved into the significance of getting to read The Bluest Eye despite the novel being restricted from students at other schools in her home state.
“My mom [Laura Bush] being a librarian, we talked often as kids about books that were banned,” she explained. “At the time I read it, The Bluest Eye was prohibited across some Texas schools. Knowing that some kids weren’t even allowed to read this made it an even more special treasure of a book.”
As The Bluest Eye celebrated its 50th anniversary in 2020, Bush Hager noted that the book “still holds incredible power to spark current conversations. While this fact is heartbreaking, it also shows how complicated and complex some of these themes are.”
While recommending it to her book club readers, Bush Hager expected her own perspective to shift as she reread The Bluest Eye, sharing, “I can’t wait to see how adulthood and now being in my late 30s will make this novel resonate in a different way.”
She concluded, “Of course, if you are reading for the first time, I hope you marvel at the beauty of Toni Morrison’s writing the way I did when I first picked up a copy. She is my favorite author of all time, and I am honored to be recommending her book to this special group of readers.”
Bush Hager later confirmed in a Goodreads Q&A that The Bluest Eye remains her “favorite novel.”
“This is a book I have read multiple times,” she wrote. “Each time I have been moved and changed by the story of Pecola Breedlove.”
The Bluest Eye follows Pecola, an 11-year-old Black girl growing up in Ohio following the Great Depression. After facing criticism for her dark skin, she longs for the blue eyes she associates with America’s adoration of white children. The book’s themes of racism, sexual abuse and LGBTQIA+ representation—as well as false claims of illegal obscenity for minors—have fueled the book ban efforts against it in the U.S.
Morrison—who died in August 2019 from complications of pneumonia at age 88—spoke out against censorship in 2009’s Burn This Book, writing, “Efforts to censor, starve, regulate and annihilate us are clear signs that something important has taken place.”
Aldi's 2-Piece 100% Cotton Kitchen Towel Sets Are Vibrant, Plush and Absorbent
You can honestly never have too many kitchen towels. With the kitchen being such a high-traffic area of the home, there is constantly a mess to clean, a spill to wipe up or dishes to dry. Having extra kitchen towels on deck just makes life easier, and if you are looking for some new kitchen towels that are stylish and practical, these new sets available at none other than Aldi might be just what you are looking for this season. Even better, these towel sets retail for just $4.99, making each towel about $2.50 each—a total bargain.
Crofton's new 2-piece kitchen towel sets at Aldi are vibrant, plush and absorbent. Plus, they come in four cute designs, including strawberries and lemons, flowers, stars and gingham, and cherries. With these punchy prints, these towel sets will add a pop of personality to your kitchen while being super practical too.
Crofton Strawberries & Lemons Kitchen Towel Set, 2-Pack, $4.99 at AldiThese plush towel sets are constructed out of 100 percent cotton, making them exceptionally absorbent and durable for everyday use. Not only that, but these towels are so soft to the touch—no abrasive fibers here. Each kitchen towel measures 15 inches by 25 inches, making them a generous size for all of your kitchen needs.
Caring for these kitchen towels is easy too. All you need to do is machine wash them on cold with like colors and then tumble dry on low. Only use non-chlorine bleach as needed (you don't want the color to fade).
These Crofton kitchen towel sets are available now as part of Aldi's current selection of Aldi Finds, which are limited-edition product specials that change in and out every single week on Wednesdays. Aldi Finds include everything from chic clothing to stylish kitchen finds like these towel sets and so much more. Aldi Finds can be shopped in the center aisles of your local Aldi store.
If you are interested in other Aldi Finds, be sure to check out this sleek two-burner griddle that retails for just $15, this whimsical solar light that looks like a piece of art, this portable hammock chair that will seriously level up your summer hangouts, this portable multi-section charcuterie board that's perfect for hosting happy hour or this pretty washable rug that brings some boho-chic vibes to any outdoor space.
Related: Aldi’s $2 Limited-Time Potato Chips Are the ‘Best on the Market,’ Shoppers Say
Rare New Photos of This Beloved '70s Music Icon Have Fans Emotional Seeing Him Looking Well
Neil Diamond, 82, is back in the spotlight, and fans are emotional over the famed singer’s recent appearance signing copies of his latest album, Wild At Heart. Diamond slipped into a local Barnes & Noble to sign copies of the record, leaving fans nostalgic and thrilled to see the ’70s icon looking fit and healthy despite his Parkinson’s disease diagnosis.
In a post shared to social media, Neil Diamond can be seen sporting a gray beard and short hair, looking trim and healthy, smiling as he autographs copies of his latest release. The “Sweet Caroline” singer has drawn renewed attention thanks to the hit Broadway show about his life, A Beautiful Noise, and the Academy Award-nominated film Song Sung Blueabout a Neil Diamond cover band, with fans delighted to see rare photos of the music legend.
View this post on Instagram Fans React to Rare Public Appearance“You are looking great,” gushed one fan. Another added, “Does Neil realize how much he is loved? He was gorgeous as a young man and he is adorable as a senior citizen!! His music is fabulous and forever!!” “He's out and about, and actually looks good considering his Parkinson's,” added one more.
Related: Rock Legend’s Son, 53, Channels His Father in Emotional Live Performance: 'What a Voice'
Neil Diamond’s Wild At Heart Album and Career Legacy View this post on InstagramNeil Diamond has largely stepped back from performing following his Parkinson’s disease diagnosis. The ’70s icon’s latest album, Wild At Heart, contains 10 previously unreleased songs originally recorded during the sessions for his 2008 album Home Before Dark.
Described as reflective, stripped-down, and emotionally intimate, Wild At Heart showcases Neil Diamond’s signature storytelling style. The album is the third and final collaboration between the singer and legendary producer Rick Rubin.
One of the most prolific and well-known singer-songwriters of the 1970s, Neil Diamond is responsible for hits like “Red, Red Wine,” made famous by UB40, “Cracklin’ Rosie,” and “Song Sung Blue.”
In 2018, Diamond revealed he had been diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease, leading him to step away from touring. Despite stepping back from the road, Diamond’s rare public appearances, including the opening of his Broadway show, continue to be met with emotion from fans thrilled to see one of the music industry's best still creating music despite health setbacks.
22 Years Ago Today, This ‘Saved by the Bell’ Star’s Wife Filed to End Their 2-Week Marriage
It seemed like a match made in heaven when the stud from Saved by the Bell married the "Doritos Girl." But just two weeks after the couple's wedding, they ended their marriage. Of course, we're talking about Mario Lopez and Ali Landry, who tied the knot 22 years ago—and split shortly thereafter.
The romantic Mexico wedding was still fresh in the minds of many when news broke that Landry had filed for an annulment.
"He’s cheated on her for several years, and she just found out last week," a source close to Landry told People magazine at the time. "They never had a honeymoon, and he was out at a club last week without his wife."
Lopez and Landry had been together for six years before exchanging vows at Las Alamandas resort outside Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. And while everything may have seemed perfect on the outside, Lopez and Landry's union was doomed from the start.
"Not even a week after, I found out that it was, like, a Tiger Woods situation," Landry told Lacey Leone McLaughlin on the Unfolding Leadership podcast in 2022. "It was, you know, cheating across the board, with some women for one year, some women for two years."
"It was devastating," she continued. "And I made a commitment that moving forward, I was gonna take the blinders off, number one. And I was gonna walk through, you know, my life in full awareness and really being aware of my choices, and those choices were gonna represent who I was as a person. And with everything. Not just with the person that I chose but also with my career. And that was the biggest shift in my life."
Everything worked out for Lopez and Landry—separately—however.
"I look back on that situation, which was horrible, and I thank God every single day, because it changed me as a woman. It changed the way… I walk through this world, 100 percent," Landry said. "I am so much better because that happened. I am forever grateful for that."
Landry went on to find love with film director Alejandro Gómez Monteverde, whom she married in 2006, and the couple has three kids together. As for Lopez, he married Courtney Mazza in 2012, and they also have three children.
Taylor Swift’s Wedding Dress Could Include 3 Stunning Looks, Experts Predict
Taylor Swift's wedding dress is shaping up to be the fashion event of 2026—and if Travis Kelce's proposal was any indication, every detail of her big day with the Kansas City Chiefs tight end will be just as showstopping.
Back in August 2025, Kelce proposed in a custom-built garden setting at his Missouri home. Naturally, Swift announced it on Instagram in a way only she could: “Your English teacher and your gym teacher are getting married 🧨.” She later called the moment a “10 out of 10,” and between the thoughtful setup and her vintage-inspired diamond ring designed by goldsmith Kindred Lubeck of Artifex Fine Jewelry, it already felt like a preview of what’s to come.
"As someone who sings about love stories and enchantment, I think Taylor will channel her stage style," says Pnina Tornai, Kleinfeld’s top designer and self-proclaimed "queen of bling." "I wouldn't be surprised if each wedding event has its own aesthetic, but there will be a singular thread running through each look that ties it all together. I feel that her wardrobe will be very theatrical."
That prediction lines up with what bridal experts are seeing across the industry right now.
“I think Taylor’s wedding will be a major fashion event,” says Dorothy Silver, director of merchandising at Kleinfeld. “She will probably have numerous changes throughout. I expect her to have different looks from some of her favorite designers.”
Embracing multiple wedding looks isn't just a celebrity trend, either. According to The White Magnolia Bridal Collection's 2026 trend report, more brides are showcasing multiple looks, with about 15% more opting for outfit changes in the past year. The shift reflects a broader move toward personalization, where a wedding wardrobe feels more like a series of moments than a single statement.
For Swift, whose entire career has been built around storytelling and visual transformation, that approach feels especially fitting.
Taylor's Ceremony Dress: A Grand Entrance Look Taylor Swift performs in a ballgown during the Eras Tour.Photo by Bob Levey/TAS23 on Getty Images
For the ceremony, experts expect something dramatic, but still grounded in romance.
"I think Taylor will wear a romantic and perhaps whimsical ballgown or A-line for her ceremony, something that makes a grand statement for her walk down the aisle,” Tornai says. “I picture a lot of embellishment and texture, whether it's beading, a bold skirt with dimensional flowers or ruffles, or both.”
That vision also lines up with what’s trending. The same wedding trend report shows a rise in couture-inspired details like 3D florals, embroidery and beading, all of which are seeing significant growth among brides heading into 2026.
And while details about the dress itself remain under wraps, there’s already speculation that Swift could lean toward designers she’s worn before, including Oscar de la Renta.
Related: ‘Mastermind’ Indeed! Taylor Swift’s Net Worth in 2026 and How She Achieved Billionaire Status
Camilla Lace Ball Gown With Detachable Sleeves by Nicole + Felicia For Kleinfeld Check Price Gold Detailed Strapless Ball Gown by Pnina Tornai Check Price Maude Wedding Dress by Vera Wang Check Price June Strapless Sweetheart Ball Gown by Monique Lhuillier Check Price Taylor Swift's Reception Dress Will Shift the Tone Taylor Swift attends a gala in 2013.Photo by Mark Cuthbert on Getty Images
Once the ceremony wraps, the tone is expected to shift—and so is the outfit.
“For the reception, I imagine Taylor in a gorgeous fitted high-neck dress,” Tornai says, noting that the look would feel sleeker and more sophisticated while still tying into the overall aesthetic.
Other experts agree that an outfit change is almost a given, and that it’s likely to feel lighter and easier to move in.
“I wouldn’t be surprised if she opted for a second look for the reception,” says Kelly Malone, director of stores at The White Magnolia Bridal Collection. “Think soft draping, movement and perhaps even a playful cape.”
Zoe Burke—a wedding expert at Bridebook—expects something with a little more personality. “I’d expect her to change for the evening reception into a shorter, sparkly dress, perhaps paired with boots to hark back to her country roots.”
That mix—polished but still a little unexpected—tends to define Swift’s style.
Related: Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s Upcoming Wedding Plans: What We Know So Far
Crystal-Embellished Gold Bridal Mini Dress by Pnina Tornai Check Price Mother of Pearl Embroidered Shift Dress by Oscar de la Renta Check Price Chic And Dramatic Lace Bridal Mini Dress by Nicole + Felicia For Kleinfeld Check Price Moss Mini Dress by Monique Lhuillier Check Price The Afterparty Dress: Beading, Fringe and Showgirl Vibes
By the time the afterparty rolls around, the rules start to loosen.
“I imagine a fun, beaded mini dress for later on in the reception or for the after-party,” Tornai says. She also points to playful accessories and unexpected details, like feathers or statement pieces, that bring in a more relaxed, celebratory feel.
“I think beading, fringe and feathers are very ‘Taylor Swift’ right now,” she adds. “It’s all about that showgirl vibe. I could also see her wearing a print inspired by her songs. I see something written in her dress.”
It's a detail that feels especially true to Swift, who has always woven meaning and symbolism into her style choices.
Gregory Handmade Tailcoat Tuxedo by Ralph Lauren Purple Label Check Price Athletic Fit Stretch Tuxedo - Navy with Peak Lapel by State & Liberty Check Price Light Wool Pinstripes Jacket by Bottega Veneta Check Price Hopsack Wool Blazer by Tommy Hilfiger Check Price Travis Kelce's Wedding Suit: Expect a Classic Move Kelce exits a yellow cab wearing Tommy Hilfiger.Photo by Jose Perez/Bauer-Griffin on Getty Images
While Swift’s wardrobe will likely evolve throughout the night, Kelce may not stick to just one look either.
“I think Travis will add some fun elements to his look,” Tornai says. “I wouldn’t be shocked if he had some outfit changes throughout the night. For some reason I see him in a very vintage look, something historical or archival, perhaps with a pop of color in the shoes.”
Based on what we've already seen from him, that prediction tracks.
When Swift brought Kelce on stage during her Eras Tour stop in London in June 2024, he stepped out in a sleek tuxedo that felt polished, classic and surprisingly understated for such a high-profile moment. It didn’t compete for attention, but it didn’t disappear either.
Even so, experts say a traditional foundation is still likely. “Though some people would think that Travis Kelce would be very daring with his wedding wardrobe choices, I believe that he will go the opposite route and be very traditional,” Silver says.
That doesn’t mean it will be simple.
“Suits for grooms have become highly customized, from fabric color and stitching to buttons and overall fit,” says Lee Moffie, co-founder and CEO of State & Liberty. “No doubt a wedding with this cache would go the custom route.”
Kelce has also developed a distinct personal style off the field, frequently stepping out in tailored suiting and bold designer looks. He's worn custom pieces by Tom Marchitelli of Gentleman's Playbook and experimented with statement designs from KidSuper Studios. He's also been pictured in classic footwear from Louboutin—often mixing traditional tailoring with more playful elements. In March 2026, he announced a collaboration with Tommy Hilfiger, making it all the more likely that his wedding-day look will lean classic at first glance, with a few unexpected details woven in.
Because if everything we know so far is any indication, this won’t just be a wedding where you remember the dress. It’ll be one where you remember every outfit. For Swift, it may mark something even bigger—not just a wedding, but the start of an entirely new era.
4 Birth Months That Carry Their Parents’ Love & Legacy
Some families pass down heirlooms, while others pass down stories, habits, values, and subtle forms of strength that manifest in the individuals they raise for generations. Astrologers suggest that certain birth months are particularly linked to this sense of emotional inheritance. Whether it’s loyalty, resilience, creativity, or compassion, these individuals often carry aspects of their parents with them, shaping their approach to life. In every family, love leaves lasting imprints. Sometimes, these imprints are most evident in those born to continue the family narrative. Read on to discover which four birth months are most likely to carry forward their parents' love and legacy.
Which Birth Months Carry Their Parents' Love & Legacy?Check for your birth month.
FebruaryPeople born in February tend to absorb the emotional lessons of their upbringing more deeply than they let on. Either a thoughtful Aquarius or a deeply intuitive Pisces, they often grow into adults who quietly protect the people they love with the same devotion they once received at home.
February-born individuals are usually the ones who remember family traditions, old sayings, and tiny details everyone else forgets. Even when they carve out an independent path, there is often a strong emotional thread tying them back to their roots. Whether they express their affection openly or reserve it, they carry their family’s influence in how they care for others and remain loyal through difficult times.
MayMay-born people tend to inherit their parents’ determination and wisdom. Whether they fall under grounded Taurus or curious Gemini, they usually balance ambition with a strong need to keep family connections intact.
There is something dependable about people born in May. They often become the stabilizers in their households later in life — the sibling who checks in, the child who steps up during hard moments, or the parent who recreates the warmth they experienced growing up. Even when family relationships are complicated, they tend to hold onto the lessons that helped them become resilient and self-sufficient.
MORE: The Country That Calls Your Soul, Based on Your Birth Month
AugustAugust-born people frequently reflect the confidence and protective instincts they witnessed growing up. Whether they are charismatic Leos or detail-driven Virgos, they often carry themselves with a sense of responsibility that feels older than their years.
Many people born in August become caretakers and leaders within their families. They feel a strong urge to make their parents proud, even long after childhood ends. That drive can push them toward success, but it also gives them a deep appreciation for sacrifice and hard work. They are usually the ones who preserve family photos, retell old memories, and make sure no one feels forgotten.
RELATE?: 4 Birth Months With Strong Boundaries
NovemberPeople born in November tend to inherit emotional depth and inner strength from their ancestors. Whether they are passionate Scorpios or adventurous Sagittarians, they often possess a rare ability to stay strong while helping others heal.
November-borns usually understand struggle on a personal level, which is why they often become the emotional backbone of their families. They carry wisdom from both hardship and love, and rarely do they forget where they came from. Even when life pulls them in new directions, they keep their family’s values close, using them as a guide when everything else feels uncertain.
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1981 Dreamy Yacht Rock Classic Became a Fan Favorite its Band Couldn’t Stand
In 1981, Climax Blues Band’s "I Love You" soared into yacht rock history as a fan favorite, while behind the scenes, the band’s feelings about the song were far more complicated.
Climax Blues Band bass player Derek Holt wrote the romantic hit as a tribute to his first wife. However, the carefree love song would cause internal conflicts that the band couldn't overcome.
He told Songfacts, "That song was written in my house. It was about meeting my first wife, meeting the lady who was going to encourage me to do what I did best, and that was be a musician, with no qualms about it. After a couple of hours just sitting in my studio, I came up with this song 'I Love You' - words, solo, drums, the whole thing. And I thought, 'Well, it's a lovely song.'"
Holt continued, "Producer John Ryan helped the band do some pre-production on our album, Flying The Flag. So he came to England and spent probably two weeks with us, going through all the tracks. And he said, 'Does anybody have any more songs?' I'd already played the song to the band, and they didn't really like it; it was a little bit too lovey."
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Holt continued, "I plugged in my cassette, played it, and Ryan said, 'That's a hit.' Just like that. Everybody just looked at each other and said, 'Oh, bloody hell.' The song was recorded with just me and the drummer because the other two guys weren't really into the song."
RELATED: 1978 Nostalgic Yacht Rock Classic Written in 30 Minutes That John Lennon Couldn’t Stop Listening To
The band's story then took a downturn because no one in Climax Blues Band believed in "I Love You," even though the dreamy classic would ultimately reach No. 12 on the Billboard Top 100.
Holt believes the song's success was "probably one of the reasons why the band split up in the end, because they weren't into playing it live," despite a fully booked tour to support the song's success and the release of Flying the Flag. "Two guys in the band said, ‘We’re not going to go to America to promote Derek Holt’s career.’ How’s that for faith?”
RELATED: 1978 Timeless Friendship-Themed Yacht Rock Collaboration Still Sounds Fresh 48 Years Later
Despite backlash from the band, the songwriter said the track remains a beloved staple for many music fans. He added that he has received years of correspondence from listeners who chose “I Love You” as their first dance wedding song, a lasting reminder of how deeply the track resonated far beyond its initial release.
Holt left the Climax Blues Band in 1983. Ironically, the group continued into the '90s without him, but they reportedly never played "I Love You" live.
MORE: 1978 Timeless Yacht Rock Gem Ranks Among the Decade’s Greatest Hits
Under Armour Has the 'Perfect Summer Shorts' for $7 on Amazon, and They Come in 17 Colors
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Workout shorts are one of those wardrobe essentials you can always use another pair of, especially once the weather gets hot. It’s even better when they’re from a well-known brand and under $10, which is the case with Under Armour’s Play Up 3.0 Shorts right now. They’re on sale on Amazon for just $7, down from $30, with the lowest price currently on the astro pink color. The other 16 colors range from $18 to $30, with sizes running from XXS to 3X.
These shorts are made from 100% polyester and have a loose fit with a pull-on closure. They’re designed with a soft, lightweight knit fabric for breathability, plus material that wicks sweat and dries quickly. They also have an anti-pill and anti-pick finish, side hand pockets, and a 3-inch inseam.
Under Armour Play Up 3.0 Shorts, From $7 (was $30) at Amazon Shop at AmazonThe pockets are a super practical perk, since not every athletic short at this price point has them. The quick-drying fabric also gives them more versatility than basic cotton shorts when it’s humid, or you’re heading from a workout to the rest of your day.
With over 28,000 five-star ratings, it’s easy to see why these are an easy win. One reviewer wrote, “They’re lightweight, breathable, and perfect for everything from running to lifting at the gym. Another shopper said, “They are the perfect length,” while others called them “super cute and comfy,” “the perfect summer shorts,” and praised their “very breathable fabric for hot summer days.”
Related: Adidas' 'Very Comfortable' Sneakers Are Now 50% Off, and They Come in 3 Colors
The astro pink color would work with a white tank, a black sports bra, an oversized tee, or a gray sweatshirt. The wider color range also makes it easier to choose a pair based on how you’ll wear them most, whether that’s brighter shades for workouts or darker options for errands and lounging. They’d also pack well for a weekend trip since they take up so little space.
Shop More Deals- Under Armour Charged Assert 10 Shoes, $46 (was $75) at Amazon
- Under Armour Velocity Hoodie, From $20 (was $45) at Amazon
- Under Armour Tech V-Neck Twist Short-Sleeve T-Shirt, $13 (was $25) at Amazon
Now priced as low as $7, the Under Armour Play Up 3.0 Shorts are an easy add-to-cart item before summer really settles in. Between the loose fit, lightweight fabric, and quick-drying finish, these work for both workouts and everyday life. Be sure to grab them on Amazon while the lowest-priced color is still available.
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The 9 Email Sign-Offs You Should Stop Using in 2026, According to an Etiquette Expert
Remember when email was shiny and new? You'd finally log onto AOL after waiting for your dial-up connection to go through, and you'd get a rush when you heard your computer say, "You've got mail." Sure, it was a chain letter that said you'd get rich or meet the love of your life if you forwarded the message to 16 friends—which you did—and you may still harbor bitterness over your (lack of) results. But still, email was fun back then.
These days, though, texting, WhatsApp, Marco Polo and Facebook Messenger have made email look a bit stodgy, at least socially. But professionally, email is still royalty, and etiquette is crucial.
"Email remains the number one way we communicate with business associates— sometimes we know people for years via email before even finding ourselves on a Zoom with them," states Genevieve (Jenny) Dreizen, the COO and co-founder of Fresh Starts Registry and modern-day etiquette and boundaries expert. "Making sure you come across as you are and as you want to come across on email is vital."
Yet, people often discount the sign-off part of the email, and instead focus on making the best first impression with the greeting and nailing the body. Dreizen shares that this is an oversight.
"The sign-off is the last thing someone reads in your email," she says. "It can really determine how they feel about the email and therefore affect the response you get. In a professional context, especially, that final line is a small but telling window into how you operate and what expectations you have."
Certain email sign-offs make the wrong kind of lasting impression. To help you make the right one, Dreizen shares nine email sign-offs you should stop using in 2026, and why. Plus, she recommends what to use instead.
Related: 11 Best Phrases To Close an Email, Plus the #1 Way You *Don’t* Want To End Your Message
Fiordaliso/Getty Images
The 9 Email Sign-Offs You Should Stop Using in 2026, According to an Etiquette Expert1. "Thank you in advance"On the surface, it reads polite. But people don't have to dig too deep to read between the lines.
"This one presumes compliance before consent, which is a subtle form of pressure dressed up as gratitude," Dreizen explains. "It feels presumptuous when you mean to be collaborative."
To be fair, you may honestly be showing gratitude, but that's not how everyone will take this sign-off phrase.
"You're essentially telling the recipient that the decision has already been made—they just haven't caught up yet," she says.
2. "Warmly"Dreizen has a hot take on this common sign-off.
"This feels a bit too cozy for business interactions," she states. "Alternatively, it can feel performative or inauthentic. Real warmth shows up in the body of the email, not in the closing word."
3. "Hope this helps!"The punctuation choice hurts the cause here.
"The exclamation point is doing a lot of heavy lifting here, and it's not succeeding," Dreizen notes. "The phrasing feels passive-aggressive and dismissive at the same time."
4. "Sent from my iPhone"Technically, this one isn't a sign-off. It's a default setting. But let's not get caught up in technicalities.
"Leaving it in tells people you didn't care enough to change it," Dreizen points out. "It implies the email was dashed off without much thought, which may or may not be true, but isn't an impression worth creating."
She recommends taking five minutes to change the default message to at least sit under a signature (like your name and a line that says, "You and this communication do matter to me.")
5. "XOXO"Gossip Girlended in 2012. And just like how the short-lived reboot went away, your use of this sign-off should too.
"What are we doing here?" Dreizen asks rhetorically. "This is overly familiar and inappropriate for a workplace setting. Save the XOXOs for love letters."
Related: How to Politely Say ‘I Already Told You’ in a Work Email, Etiquette Expert Reveals
6. "Let me know if you have any questions!"This one is fine as a final line in an email before a sign-off. But Dreizen doesn't recommend using it as the sign-off.
"Inviting people to inquire more is great, but close your email with a sign off so people know you didn't just forget to keep writing," she shares.
Even a simple "Thank you" will suffice underneath this line.
7. "Per my last email"Dreizen doesn't recommend using this one in your email's last line—or ever.
"This one has become so universally understood as passive-aggressive that it's essentially a meme at this point," she says. "So, unless you're openly referencing the meme, or actively trying to be passive-aggressive—hey, there is a time and place—delete it."
8. "As per usual"Don't make this one your usual sign-off. Better yet, avoid using it altogether.
"A cousin to 'per my last email', and equally loaded, it signals mild exasperation even when none is intended," Dreizen says. "In a professional context, mild exasperation is a relationship tax you don't want to keep paying. If something is routine, just proceed as if it's routine. Naming it this way adds friction where none is needed."
9. "Yours truly"As with XOXO, "yours truly" is a no-go in Dreizen's book, especially for professional communication.
"It is work—professional," she says. "You are not theirs truly, delete it and replace it with 'best.'"
Related: An Etiquette Expert Is Begging People To Start Putting This One Thing in Emails
Which Email Sign-Offs You Should Use Instead1. "Thank you"Sometimes, there's no need to reinvent the wheel. Dreizen shares that "thank you" is simple, complete and honest. It's like the little black dress of sign-offs.
"It says exactly what it means without dressing it up," she explains. "It works in almost any context precisely because it doesn't try to do too much. There's a reason it hasn't gone out of style."
2. "Looking forward to it"This email sign-off is a winner—as long as it's genuine.
"When you mean it, this sign-off does real work," Dreizen states. "It creates a sense of momentum without pressure, and it positions the relationship as ongoing rather than transactional."
3. "With appreciation"This one is a bit unexpected, which is why Dreizen says it lands so well.
"It communicates that you see the exchange as meaningful and is a great replacement for 'XOXO' or 'yours truly,'" she shares. "Authentic gratitude is always in style."
4. "Talk soon"Dreizen loves that this sign-off is casual enough to feel human but still looks forward.
"It implies a relationship that continues past this email, which is often exactly the impression you want to leave," she explains.
5. [Your name, alone]It feels basic, but Dreizen says this sign-off is powerful
"Sometimes the strongest sign-off is no sign-off at all—just your name," she reports. "It's direct, self-assured and leaves nothing to misinterpret."
It lets the body of the email do the talking and set the tone.
"If the email was warm, the name carries warmth," she states. "If it were serious, the name carries weight. It trusts the body of the email to do its job, which is exactly what a good sign-off should do."
Up Next:
Related: 9 Workplace Habits That Make You 'Instantly Unlikable,' According to Etiquette Experts
Source:- Genevieve (Jenny) Dreizen is the COO and co-founder of Fresh Starts Registry and a modern-day etiquette and boundaries expert. She's also the co-author of Simple Scripts to Support Your People: What to Say When You Don't Know What to Say
1977 Hit, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Yacht Rock Songs of All Time,’ Was a Flop the First Time It Was Released
In 1977, Bob Welch had a Top 10 hit with the song “Sentimental Lady.” The soft rock classic written by Welch appeared on his debut solo album, French Kiss, and climbed the charts, peaking at No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 in January 1978. “Sentimental Lady” featured Fleetwood Mac legends Mick Fleetwood, Lindsey Buckingham, and Christine McVie as musicians and backup singers at the height of their band's Rumours fame.
It wasn’t the first time “Sentimental Lady” was released as a single. Five years earlier, Fleetwood Mac recorded a version of the song for their album Bare Trees. At the time, Welch was a guitarist and vocalist for the group, which included Fleetwood and John and Christine McVie. The 1972 Fleetwood Mac version of “Sentimental Lady” didn’t chart, likely because Fleetwood Mac had been known as more of an album-oriented rock band at the time and didn’t get much radio play, according to American Songwriter. Welch ultimately left the band in 1974 and was replaced by Stevie Nicksand Buckingham.
RELATED: 1981 Rock Duet Became the Biggest Hit Ever for Both Artists
Paste magazine ranked Welch’s solo version of “Sentimental Lady” as one of the greatest yacht rock songs of all time, describing his 1977 “do-over” as “so much better” than the original. “His tenure as the frontman of the Mac was short-lived, but I’d like to think this version of ‘Sentimental Lady’ is as good a look as any into what their trajectory might have become had he stuck around,” the outlet noted.
‘Sentimental Lady’ became Welch’s signature song“Sentimental Lady” would go on to become Welch’s signature hit, but he once expressed disappointment that it flopped for Fleetwood Mac. In a 1979 interview with Bay Area Music, Welch said, "I admit I was kind of disappointed that the song wasn't a hit when Fleetwood Mac put it out. But why be bitter?"
He added that with amid his solo success with “Sentimental Lady” and the follow-up hit “Ebony Eyes,” he never felt as though he missed out on what could have been with Fleetwood Mac. “In the sense that I contributed something to the sound of the group, I felt very proud that they were making it,” he said. “I didn't feel like I was missing the boat, because it's really a different group with Nicks and Buckingham.”
“I think I found my niche, though,” Welch added. “In hindsight, I realize the only thing I could have done was leave Fleetwood Mac when I did.”
Missouri Is Getting a Massive New Year-Round Amusement Park in 2027
The Lake of the Ozarks is officially trading in its quiet fishing-dock reputation for something much more high-octane. Construction is currently moving full steam ahead on Oasis at Lake of the Ozarks, a massive $400 million family resort and entertainment district in Osage Beach that is set to become the Midwest's premier year-round destination.
While early reports from last year hinted at a quicker turnaround, the sheer scale of the 25-acre project—which includes everything from high-speed roller coasters to a 401-room Marriott hotel—has shifted the focus to a multi-year rollout. As of May 2026, the project has hit its most visible milestone yet with the installation of its very first ride, signaling that the skyline is finally going vertical.
Related: 16 Best Indoor Water Parks in the U.S.
https://brinkmannconstructors.com/project/oasis-at-lakeport/
The first attraction to take its place over the water is The Plunge, a 100-foot-tall drop tower that offers as much scenery as it does adrenaline. Todd Schneider, operating partner of SkyView Partners, describes the attraction as a centerpiece that balances thrills with the area's natural beauty.
Standing at the same height as the iconic Natural Bridge at Ha Ha Tonka State Park, the ride is just the beginning of what is being built along the Grand Glaize Bridge. According to a new report from blooloop, Schneider notes that the ride carriage "slowly rotates, giving every rider a breathtaking lake view before the unexpected drop." The same report confirms that additional attractions will continue to be installed throughout the summer, "quickly reshaping the landscape into the new lakeside attraction.”
Related: Six Flags Just Signed Travis Kelce as Its Newest Brand Ambassador
The development is being paced to ensure that the heavy-hitting amusement features lead the way. According to the latest updates, the amusement park, massive parking garage, and 200 public boat slips are now scheduled to open in the first phase beginning in spring 2027.
This will be followed by the project's hospitality and wellness elements, including the 401-room Marriott property and what will be the largest indoor water park in Missouri. This climate-controlled water park is designed with a retractable glass roof, ensuring the Ozarks remain a legitimate destination for families even in the colder winter months.
For the regional community, Oasis at Lake of the Ozarks represents a significant leap forward in tourism infrastructure, aiming to draw a new wave of visitors to the area. Schneider told blooloop that the goal is to create a seamless, high-end experience where "guests can arrive by boat or car, ride a roller coaster, enjoy a high-quality dining experience, play games, and share thrilling ride experiences at their leisure."
By focusing on these "safe, high-quality attractions," the developers are looking to transform Osage Beach into a vibrant heartbeat for the region, proving that the "new" Lake of the Ozarks is about much more than just the water.
Related: Adventures by Disney’s 2027 Lineup Includes a Dreamy Amalfi Coast Escape
Sources:
Walmart's 'Elegant' $118 Rattan Shoe Storage Cabinet 'Holds a Lot of Sandals'
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As your summer shoe collection grows, so may your need for a convenient place to store them all. Instead of letting every pair of sneakers and sandals your family kicks off pile up by the door, a designated shoe rack is a great way to keep them all organized and easily accessible. Right now, Walmart has a limited-time flash deal on a multi-purpose shoe storage cabinet for over 40% off, with a stylish look and enough room inside to hold up to 24 pairs of shoes!
Normally $200, the Ktaxon 12-Tier Shoe Storage Cabinet is currently on sale for just $118 in black, white, and blonde rattan finishes. Designed with adjustable shelves inside and adorned with rattan-paneled doors, it's a versatile piece that's spacious enough to wrangle everyone's shoes and keep even the busiest households tidy.
Ktaxon 12-Tier Shoe Storage Cabinet, $118 (was $200) at Walmart Shop at WalmartMeasuring 44.5 inches wide, 15.7 inches deep, and 32.9 inches high, this rattan cabinet has a chic mid-century modern design that complements a variety of decor styles. According to several shoppers, it's spacious enough to accommodate more than 24 pairs of shoes, depending on the type and what else is stored inside. For example, one person said it "holds a lot of sandals" and that they also used the cabinet to store handbags and accessories in their entryway.
The versatility this cabinet offers means it also works great for storing things like small appliances in the kitchen, kids' toys in the living room, or toiletries and linens in the bathroom. It's totally customizable to your needs, with the three shelves inside each section that can be adjusted individually or removed completely, depending on what you want to put inside.
Though some shoppers found the instructions difficult to interpret at first, many commented that once they got the hang of it, assembly was straightforward. One customer even shared that they used the furniture anchors included with the piece to stack the three sections one on top of the other in order to fit the cabinet inside their walk-in closet.
Describing the "sturdy" design as "beautiful" and "elegant," shoppers were especially impressed by the cabinet's aesthetic. One reviewer shared that it "looks a lot more expensive" than they expected based on the cost.
Several shoppers also explained that the adjustable shelves and spacious interior helped keep their entryways and floors clear. "It keeps our shoes hidden away and organized in our small home," one person said. Another shopper who struggled to find a shoe cabinet that could fit her husband's size 10.5 shoes said, "It's deep enough to fit a larger-sized shoe."
Shop More Deals- Criusia Shoe Organizer, $27 (was $110) at Walmart
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- Sakugi 3-Tier Shoe Rack, $12 (was $25) at Walmart
Ready to organize your home in style? Snag the Ktaxon 12-Tier Shoe Storage Cabinet while it's on sale for just $118. Walmart's flash deals don't last long, so hurry and add it to your cart in your preferred finish while it's still available!
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1972 Box Office Flop, Written in Three Days, Named Among ‘Essential Movies to Watch’
A 1972 historical drama that struggled commercially at the time of its release is now recognized as one of cinema’s must-watch films. Aguirre: The Wrath of God, directed by Werner Herzog and starring Klaus Kinski, was recently ranked No. 6 on Rotten Tomatoes’ “300 Essential Movies To Watch Now” list.
The film currently holds a 96% Tomatometer score based on 56 reviews and a 90% audience score from more than 10,000 ratings. Rotten Tomatoes’ Critics Consensus describes the movie as: “A haunting journey of natural wonder and tangible danger, Aguirre transcends epic genre trappings and becomes mythological by its own right.”
Originally released in 1972, the film follows Don Lope de Aguirre, a ruthless conquistador searching for the legendary city of gold, El Dorado, deep inside the Amazon rainforest. As the dangerous expedition continues, Aguirre slowly loses control of his mind while fighting for power among the starving explorers.
The movie stars Klaus Kinski as Aguirre alongside Ruy Guerra, Helena Rojo and Del Negro. The film was written, produced and directed by Werner Herzog.
Although the movie did not become a major box office success during its first release, it later gained a strong international following. Critics praised its haunting atmosphere, difficult jungle filmmaking, and Kinski’s intense performance.
The story was loosely inspired by the real-life Spanish conquistador Lope de Aguirre. Herzog created much of the screenplay himself after reading about the historical figure in a book about adventurers. According to production accounts, Herzog wrote the script “in a frenzy” in just two-and-a-half days during a long bus trip.
The movie became famous not only for its story but also for the harsh filming conditions in Peru’s rainforest. Cast and crew members traveled through dangerous river rapids on handmade rafts while shooting scenes on real Amazon tributaries. Herzog even filmed the movie in chronological order so the actors’ exhaustion would match the characters’ physical decline.
Tension behind the scenes also became legendary. Herzog and Kinski frequently argued over how Aguirre should be portrayed. Kinski wanted the character to appear wildly insane, while Herzog preferred a quieter and more threatening version of madness.
In his review, famed critic Roger Ebert called the movie “one of the great haunting visions of the cinema.”
Ebert also praised the film’s unforgettable ending, writing: “The film’s final images, among the most memorable I have ever seen, are of Aguirre alone on his raft, surrounded by corpses and by hundreds of chattering little monkeys, still planning his new empire.”
The movie’s eerie soundtrack by German band Popol Vuh also became one of its defining features. The music mixed choir-like sounds with experimental instruments, helping create the unsettling mood that critics still discuss today.
Over the decades, Aguirre: The Wrath of God grew from a little-seen art-house film into one of the most respected movies ever made. The film appeared on Time magazine’s “All Time 100 Best Films” list and has been called a masterpiece by many critics.
The New York Times praised the movie upon its U.S. release, calling it “absolutely stunning” and “a splendid and haunting work.” The review highlighted Herzog’s detached storytelling style and the film’s powerful jungle imagery.
The story’s themes of greed, obsession, imperialism and madness have helped the film remain relevant more than 50 years after its release. Critics continue to praise the way Herzog combined historical inspiration with surreal imagery and psychological tension.Today, Aguirre: The Wrath of God is widely considered one of the defining films of world cinema.
Disney’s New CEO Vows to Use AI to Take the Stress Out of Trip Planning
It’s official: the "Disney of the future" isn’t just about new rides and movie sequels—it’s about using high-tech tools to make sure you actually enjoy the planning process as much as the park itself. During the company’s Q2 earnings call on May 6, newly minted Disney CEO Josh D’Amaro (who officially took the helm in March) laid out a vision for how artificial intelligence will reshape the guest experience.
For anyone who has ever felt like they needed a PhD just to book a dinner at O’ahu’s Aulani or navigate a "rope drop" at Disneyland, this news could be a welcome shift toward simplicity. D’Amaro, who previously oversaw the parks division, is making AI a cornerstone of his strategy to keep the Disney magic alive in a digital-first world.
Related: 7 Quotes From Disney CEO Josh D'Amaro's First Day That Reveal the Company's Future
View this post on Instagram Streamlining the "Planning Fatigue"We’ve all been there: staring at a screen trying to juggle dining reservations, Lightning Lane passes, and hotel stays. D’Amaro acknowledged that a Disney vacation "means a lot to our fans," and the company is now using AI to "reduce the complexities around planning and booking a trip and trying to make that whole experience specifically tailored to what our guests want most." The goal is to move the heavy lifting of logistics away from the guest and onto a smart system that understands your family's specific needs before you even arrive.
Related: Disney Has a New CEO—And Fans Already Know His Work
Hyper-Personalization and Real-Time OptimizationBeyond just booking, the vision includes using AI to help families "optimize all their time with us." Imagine a system that doesn't just give you a generic itinerary but suggests attractions and dining based on your real-time location, local weather, and your personal favorites. D’Amaro noted that there is a "significant opportunity to make it easier for families to plan their trip" and "to personalize their experience" in a way that feels intuitive rather than overwhelming.
Related: Disney Appoints New Parks and Cruises Chief as Josh D’Amaro Prepares for CEO Role
Behind-the-Scenes EfficiencyWhile much of the AI talk focused on the guest experience, CFO Hugh Johnston also highlighted how technology will improve the parks from the inside out. Specifically, Disney is implementing "precision labor demand forecasting across our theme parks." By using AI to predict exactly when and where staff are needed most, the company hopes to improve cost management and, more importantly, create a "better guest experience" with smoother operations and shorter waits for food and services.
Creativity Remains at the CoreDespite the push for more automation, D’Amaro was quick to reassure fans that the human touch isn't going anywhere. "We’re committed to implementing AI in a way that keeps human creativity at the center of everything that we do," he explained, adding that the company will continue to "respect creators and the tremendous value of our own intellectual property." It’s a balance of efficiency and the classic storytelling that has defined the parks for 70 years.
Related: My Daughter Shared This Travel Hack With Me, and Now I’ll Never Travel Any Other Way
Source:
Amazon's $31 Reef Sandals Feel Like 'Walking on a Pillow,' and They're the 'Perfect Summer Shoe'
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A comfy pair of sandals is a staple of any summer wardrobe. If you're looking for a supportive and breathable option to wear during all your warm-weather outings, Amazon has a new deal that's worth checking out. The Reef Water Vista Sandals are now on sale for up to 53% off in select styles, and they have a lightweight, cushiony design that's easy to pack for vacations and effortless to slip on for errands and beach trips.
Originally priced at $65, the top-rated sandals are now available for as low as $31 in the frosty green color that's perfect for spring and summer. You can also shop it in over 20 other color options, including brown, coral, tan, dusty blue, and more, ranging from $38 to $65.
Reef Water Vista Sandals, From $31 (was $65) at Amazon Shopping at AmazonAvailable in sizes 5 to 11, these popular sandals feature an ultra-supportive dual-density EVA footbed that's cushiony, super soft, and designed for all-day comfort, offering a responsive, bouncy feel with every step. It's made of flexible, waterproof material that's ideal for navigating beach or pool days and has an adjustable slingback strap that you can tighten or loosen based on your preferred fit.
Featuring an open rounded toe and a convenient slip-in design, these sandals have a lightweight, airy feel that supports ventilation and enhances breathability in hot temperatures. Inspired by the swells of the ocean, the dual-density foam rubber sole is designed for long-wearing durability and withstanding the elements, making it ideal for water activities.
These Reef sandals are a favorite among Amazon shoppers, with over 3,900 five-star ratings. Several highlighted the ultra-soft, "super comfortable" footbed, with one noting that it feels like "walking on a pillow." Another buyer said they're like "walking on clouds," also noting their lightweight, waterproof design makes them the "perfect summer shoe."
Shoppers especially love their incredible versatility, which makes them suitable for all-day use no matter whether you're traveling, heading to the beach, or just running daily summer errands. "You can wear them from the beach to the shower and then out to dinner," one reviewer wrote.
Shop More Deals- Mikarka Espadrille Wedge Sandals, $28 (was $50) at Amazon
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Between their supportive feel, comfy fit, and an impressive range of colors to choose from, these strappy Reef sandals are an excellent refresh for any summer shoe collection. Don't hesitate to grab a pair while they're up to 53% off at Amazon.
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Walmart's 'Perfect' $280 78-Inch Foldable Sofa Bed Is a Cozy Upgrade for Cramped Rooms
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A great piece of furniture can transform how a room feels, and that's exactly what shoppers are saying about Walmart's Homma 78-Inch Convertible Sleeper Sofa Bed. You know the struggle — trying to find something that's both comfortable enough for movie marathons and practical for hosting overnight guests, without taking up your whole living room.
This foldable couch bed, once $530 and now just $280, is earning rave reviews for making small spaces feel bigger, cozier, and a lot more inviting.
Homma 78-Inch Convertible Sleeper Sofa Bed, From $280 (was $530) at Walmart Shop at WalmartWhat sets this sofa bed apart is its versatile design and usability. The Hommpa Sofa Bed is built with a seamless high-density foam core and layers of aerated memory foam, creating a plush yet supportive seat that evenly distributes weight and cradles your body whether you're sitting or lying down. The triple-pillow system, with three square, zipper-secured cushions, provides stable, slip-free support for whatever your day brings, whether you’re lounging, working, or napping.
Switching from sofa to bed couldn't be easier. The quick-conversion system lets you transform the couch into a king-size bed measuring a spacious 71 inches wide, in under 30 seconds. For even more flexibility, the design splits into two separate loungers, perfect for sleepovers, movie nights, or hosting overnight guests. Independent lab testing has put it through thousands of cycles to ensure it stands up to everyday use, maintaining over 95% of its shape and comfort.
Style isn't sacrificed for practicality. The Hommpa convertible sofa is upholstered in a soft, breathable corduroy fabric that wipes clean in seconds, making it ideal for homes with kids, pets, or busy lifestyles. The high-density foam resists sagging over time, and the sleek gray color is easy to maintain, ensuring your furniture stays fresh and inviting with minimal effort.
Setup is refreshingly simple. The sofa arrives vacuum-packed and ready to use, no assembly required. Just unbox, let the cushions fully expand for 24 hours, and it's good to go. Shoppers love how easy it is, from setup to daily use.
"This was the perfect purchase for what I needed," shared one reviewer. "The size and the fact that it was very easy to put together made it a good buy."
Shop More Deals- Patbrela 83-Inch Corduroy Sofa, $249 (was $488) at Walmart
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Whether you need extra room for guests or a cozy spot to binge-watch your favorite shows, the $280 king-size convertible sofa bed offers comfort and flexibility, all at a fraction of the original price. This is the kind of living room upgrade that makes everyday living feel a little more special.
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Psychiatrist Alfred Adler on the 'Meanings We Give to Situations’ and Choosing Our Own Paths
We’ve written quite a bit about Austrian psychiatrists and psychologists recently, but for good reason; they have a lot of famous theories! And Alfred Adler is no different. Born in 1870 in Penzing, Austria, he later developed individual psychology and the psychological term “inferiority feeling,” which later became known as an inferiority complex, per Britannica. Adler was also a colleague of Sigmund Freud’s, but split from his circle in 1911, before Carl Jung did a few years later.
He was a medical doctor as well as a psychotherapist, and he believed that relationships within a family, feelings of belonging and even birth order played key roles in someone’s psychological development. SimplyPsychology reported that Adler also believed all behavior was goal-oriented, meaning that we all were working toward something; we just had different ambitions and ways of getting there.
With all of his teachings and theories, our quote of the dayfrom Adler highlights his belief that you don't need to be defined by your lot in life, but rather you determine how your situations affect you.
As Adler University’s website reported, he is “widely recognized as the first community psychologist,” because he put “community life, prevention and population health” first and at the center of his practice. He believed that we were really impacted by our social upbringing and the environments in which we grow up. He also proposed that helping others (“social interest”) is what makes someone feel they belong or have a sense of worth.
Adler died of a heart attack in 1937, and he was publishing books and articles up until then. And in one of his books, he wrote today’s quote about choosing how something impacts you and not the other way around.
Quote of the Day by Alfred AdlerCanvaPro/Parade
“Meanings are not determined by situations, but we determine ourselves by the meanings we give to situations.”
Adler wrote this line in his book What Life Could Mean to You, published in 1933 (sometimes the title is written as What Life Should Mean to You). As the novel's description says, this is one of his most popular books, and it gives “a complete guide to his work on personal development with a practical approach to self-understanding.”
He shared the “three tasks of life” that he came up with, which are marriage, work and social relationships. The book presents his theories and ultimately tries to share his point: that “we can overcome the limitations of our past, and develop the confidence to transform both ourselves and our world.”
Deeper Meaning of Alfred Adler’s Quote—Determining Our Own SituationsThis quote comes from his very first chapter of the book, titled “The Meaning of Life,” and right before the line, he gives examples of how different people might look at their childhood. He sets up a scenario: three men went through traumatic experiences as kids. The first man grew up with the mentality that he had to work to make sure his own kids didn’t go through the same things. The second two grew up with more of a victim mindset, with one believing that if he had to suffer, why shouldn’t other children? And the last man believed that he was owed forgiveness and grace for everything he did because his life was so hard.
With that example, Adler shares his point that they won’t change their actions if their minds and perspectives on their situations don’t change. He writes, “No experience is a cause of success or failure,” adding that any trauma we went through isn’t what we suffer from, per se, but rather “we make out of them what suits our purposes.”
In Adler’s opinion, “we are self-determined by the meaning we give to our experiences,” and we’re making a mistake if we use past experiences and/or traumas as the “basis for our future life.” Then he writes our quote of the day.
It’s important to point out that we get into dangerous territory when we start thinking that we can “choose happiness” or positivity to overcome mental health issues or disorders, such as PTSD. I’m not saying that Adler is saying this, exactly, but this quote could be interpreted in that vein. However, there is a way to look at this quote without doing that.
Essentially, analyzing this quote out of the context of his teachings, Adler is saying that you get to choose your own path forward. Even if you go through something traumatic during your life or you’re at a really low point, you can still choose to continue living and persevering through.
You also get to choose how good a person you are and how you help others (this, of course, doesn't count for people with personality disorders or others who have less control over themselves). Easier said than done, especially if other issues or something like PTSD are involved, but there is something powerful about being told that a situation doesn’t have to define you. You get to choose what that means to you and your life.
Related: Quote of the Day: Psychologist Carl Rogers on Self-Acceptance, Change and Personal Growth
More Quotes from Alfred Adler- “To see with the eyes of another, to hear with the ears of another, to feel with the heart of another. For the time being, this seems to me an admissible definition of what we call social feeling.”
- “It is always easier to fight for one's principles than to live up to them.”
- “It is the individual who is not interested in his fellow men who has the greatest difficulties in life and provides the greatest injury to others. It is from among such individuals that all human failures spring.”
- “This quote begins here. A simple rule in dealing with those who are hard to get along with is to remember that this person is striving to assert his superiority; and you must deal with him from that point of view. This quote ends here.”
- “There is no such thing as talent. There is pressure.”
- “Follow your heart but take your brain with you.”
- “It is easier to fight for one's principles than to live up to them.”
- “Trust only movement. Life happens at the level of events, not of words. Trust movement.”
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Amazon’s 'Comfortable' $10 100% Cotton T-Shirt Feels 'Super Soft' and It Comes in 17 Colors
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Spring and summer are the seasons when we all start reaching for easy, breathable basics that can be worn alone on warm days or layered when the temperature dips. A classic cotton T-shirt is a staple in any wardrobe — versatile, comfortable, and endlessly mixable with jeans, shorts, skirts, or under a light jacket. Right now, Amazon has a 64% off deal on a 100% cotton tee that makes it easy to refresh your wardrobe ahead of the warmer weather.
On sale for just $10, the Magcomsen 100% Cotton T-Shirt is worth stocking up on. It's available in 17 colors in sizes small through XX-large. Prices vary slightly based on color and size, but every style is currently marked down from the usual $28 price to between $10 and $19. Many options are under $15, which is a steal for a shirt made completely of natural cotton that feels far more luxurious than the price suggests.
Magcomsen 100% Cotton T-Shirt, From $10 (was $28) at Amazon Shop at AmazonMade of soft, breathable 100% cotton, this tee has a relaxed fit with a classic crew neck and short sleeves. The fabric is lightweight yet substantial, so it drapes nicely without clinging. Shoppers noted that the fabric feels "smooth and cool" and is thick enough that even the lightest colors are not see-through.
In my experience with clothing made with natural fibers, shrinkage can happen if you don't follow the proper care instructions. Thankfully, shoppers said this cotton tee "holds its shape nicely" when machine-washed in cold water and hung up or laid flat to dry, per the manufacturer's recommendation. True to the nature of 100% cotton, reviewers also said it gets softer with each wash.
Magcomsen 100% Cotton T-Shirt, From $10 (was $28) at Amazon Shop at AmazonReviewers appreciated that this "excellent quality" shirt feels "super soft" and "comfortable." This tee is also tagless, which shoppers said makes it an especially great choice for those with sensitive skin or a low tolerance for the feel of itchy paper tags. Several described it as "the perfect tee" for spring and summer, mentioning that it also layered well with a cardigan in the fall.
Related: Amazon's 'Very Cute' $8 Thong Sandals Are 'Comfy,' and 'Perfect' for Traveling
With a wide variety of colors available, you can easily stock up on neutrals for everyday wear or brighter shades to give your wardrobe a pop of seasonal energy. Whether running errands, enjoying a vacation, or just relaxing at home, this tee is the kind of reliable basic that shoppers said they reach for again and again.
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At just $10, you won't want to miss this deal on the Magcomsen 100% Cotton T-Shirt. Add it to your Amazon cart before the colors you have your eye on sell out!
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