Parade

The problem with Trader Joe’s is that I simply cannot resist indulging in a new seasonal snack. Whether it’s a decadent dessert, individually wrapped finger foods or any number of bagged chips creations, the second I lay eyes on the retailer’s colorful “new item” signage, I immediately start making room inside my basket. 

This week’s must-try treat? A limited-time arrival that goes by the name Tres Leches Cake. A familiar face that is currently on the tail end of its seasonal availability, this soft, moist and fluffy offering looks just as good as the quintessential Latin American dessert should be. Boasting a light, airy sponge cake that’s been soaked with milk and topped with a hefty crown of whipped cream, it took very little inner dialog before I snatched a box right out of the freezer.

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With summer coming to a close, I felt it only fitting to put a sweet and satisfying cap on the season with this decadent $8 freezer find. And since the box made it look strikingly similar to something you might get at a high-end restaurant, I felt it was my duty to report back on what I thought of Trader Joe’s take on this classic South American treat. 

Read on for my official review of the Trader Joe’s Tres Leches Cake and if it was as good as it looked on the box.

Tres Leches Cake, $7.99 at Trader Joe’s

Trader Joe's

Frozen in a 17.5-ounce box and retailing for just $7.99, Trader Joe’s Tres Leches Cake is conveniently sized for sharing and beyond easy to prep for service. Featuring a hearty loaf of airy sponge cake soaked in a blend of heavy cream, evaporated milk and sweetened condensed milk, it comes generously topped with a slab of whipped cream to create a fitting tribute to the classic confection.

As someone whose sweet tooth has remained the same since I was a kid, I couldn’t help but get excited to thaw this sucker out and try it for myself. And upon pulling it out of the box after letting it thaw properly in the fridge, I found myself beyond impressed by its enticing appearance and light, fluffy, moist bite.

How to Prepare Trader Joe’s Tres Leches Cake

Trader Joe's

Perhaps the only downside is the thawing process, but if you plan ahead, it’s hardly a knock against the cake, serving more as a reward for your patience than something you can enjoy right away. For the best texture, keep the cake in its plastic wrapping inside of the box and let it thaw overnight in the refrigerator. And if you’re short on time, you can take it out of the box, leave the plastic wrap intact and let it thaw on the counter at room temperature for 2 to 3 hours. 

From there, remove the plastic wrap, fold down the walls of the cardboard tray it’s displayed in and slice it evenly for plating. Or, dig right in with a fork and skip the plates altogether—no judgment here. If you don’t finish it in one sitting, however, don’t sweat it. You can safely keep the cake in the refrigerator for up to three days and snack on it periodically till it disappears.

Related: 5 Best Produce Items To Buy at Trader Joe’s (and 4 To Skip)

Is Trader Joe’s Tres Leches Cake a Repeat Purchase?

Trader Joe's

Would I buy this cake again? Absolutely. Should you try it out for yourself? Only if you’re ready to have your socks blown off. On its own, this cake is everything you need for a sweet and satisfying dessert, requiring zero upgrades to truly enjoy it.

In terms of its texture and flavor, it sits right up there with some of the amazing tres leches cakes I’ve had at restaurants, which honestly surprised me for a store-bought option. And if you’re worried about it being too wet or too dry, I found it landed somewhere right in the middle, with a satisfying balance of moist and fluffy textures that made every bite enjoyable.

As a solo snack, it might be a bit heavy, but when sharing with friends, this cake very much makes for the ultimate summer send-off. You might even want to grab an extra before it disappears to keep in the freezer if you have the space. 

Looking for more tasty Trader Joe’s treats? Keep your eyes peeled for Trader Joe’s Dark Chocolate Mango & Passion Fruit Crème Thin Cups or these PB&J and PB&C Snack Duos. 

Related: 10 Trader Joe’s Frozen Foods That Make Weeknight Dinner So Much Easier

Golfers, get ready, Taco Bell‘s inaugural sporting event is shaping up to be a hole-in-one.

The iconic international fast-food chain is doubling down on its love for the game, officially introducing its first-ever golf tournament with a big-name celebrity host, Kevin Hart.

Dubbed the Live Más Open, it builds on the hype of the franchise’s co-sponsored event with apparel brand Bad Birdie last summer (Taco Bell x Bad Birdie Invitational).

While last year’s event saw charitable donations and a viral “boundary-pushing” Taco Bell-branded merch collection, this year’s winnings are even higher-stakes. We’re told that in addition to the first-ever Live Más Open trophy, the champion team will score an exclusive collection of purple jackets and, even better, the power to bring back any Taco Bell menu item for a limited time.

Taco Bell Announces Inaugural Live Más Open, Hosted by Kevin Hart, With Sweepstakes, Live Draft and Menu-Changing Grand Prizes

Taco Bell

“I love golf, I love Taco Bell, what could be better than bringing them together for a day of competition and fun,” Hart, 47, joked in a statement shared with Parade. “The tournament is going to be a good time,” he added, “bring your swag, bring your swing, bring some personality and let’s play.”

Related: Taco Bell Sweetens Up Its Menu With 2 New Salt & Straw Desserts—for a Limited Time Only

The Live Más Open aims to be the “most unconventional golf tournament” fans will ever see, and it all starts with a live draft that brings together one fan, one celebrity, one pro athlete, and one creator across nine foursomes, each of which will compete as a team during the tournament at The Ranch at Laguna Beach in Laguna Beach, Calif., on Monday, Nov. 2 (which will be available to stream).

Taco Bell

The 36 players will compete through original challenges for Bell Awards and swing through the greens before making their way through Taco Bell’s on-course drive-thru for Live Más Open-exclusive menu inspired by golf’s most beloved food and beverages, according to the Sept. 10 press release. Then, when the final putt drops, the winning foursome will be awarded the first-ever Live Más Open trophy, purple jackets, and the “ultimate” grand prize: the power to bring back any Taco Bell menu item of their choosing for a limited time.

“Taco Bell has always been a disruptor when it comes to conventions, and we’re excited to bring that Live Más spirit to a sport like golf,” Luis Restrepo, chief marketing officer at Taco Bell, shared. “With the Live Más Open, we’re playing a different game, bringing pros, celebrities, creators and fans together on the course in a way that hasn’t been done before. Our fans have always shaped this brand, so when we create an experience like this, we want them to be a part of it, not watching from the sidelines.”

Want to be part of the inaugural event? You and countless others, we’re sure. Here’s how to qualify: You must be at least 21 years old. Got your ID ready? Great, now through September 27, eligible fans can enter the Live Más Open Qualifier by playing the Shot Shuffle game at participating Topgolf venues nationwide. Players who score 200 points or more will be invited to enter a sweepstakes. Fans can also enter for free (without buying a game or visiting a Topgolf location) via the official sweepstakes website.

Once the sweepstakes closes near the end of the month, Taco Bell will randomly select 100 entrants to receive a one-month Topgolf Platinum Club Membership and an invitation to submit a player bio and video. The brand will evaluate these submissions and select nine fans to travel to Laguna Beach and join the 36-player field at The Ranch for the big game.

To help more fans get in on the fun, Taco Bell said it’s teed up more than one million exclusive offer codes through its Taco Bell Rewards program, giving members $25 off a Topgolf reservation during the Live Más Open Qualifier window, while supplies last. For full offer details or to learn more about Taco Bell’s rewards program, visit the Taco Bell app.

As for which celebrities and pro athletes have gotten an invite, T-Bell isn’t ready to spill all the details just yet, so fans will just have to wait and see. That said, who are you hoping to see on the greens? Let us know in the comments!

Next: Viral Mountain Dew Trend Is Now a Menu Mainstay at Taco Bell

Before stepping into the spotlight as the lead of The Bachelorette, which is now no longer moving forward at ABC, Taylor Frankie Paul was already known online as a young mom documenting her life on TikTok. The influencer, who rose to fame as part of the MomTok community and later starred on The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, is a mother of three children.

Here’s everything to know about Taylor Frankie Paul’s kids.

Related: ABC Officially Cancels Taylor Frankie Paul’s ‘Bachelorette’ Season

Does Taylor Frankie Paul have any children?

Yes, Taylor Frankie Paul has three children total. Two are with her ex-husband, Tate Paul, while one is with former partner Dakota Mortensen.

Which children did Taylor Frankie Paul have with Tate Paul? View this post on Instagram

Taylor Frankie Paul married her ex-husband Tate Paul in November 2016. Less than a year later, the couple welcomed their first child together—Taylor and Tate’s daughter, Indy May Paul, was born on Aug. 31, 2017.

Taylor has often described Indy as both “sweet” and “sassy,” sharing photos of her daughter on social media throughout the years. She has also said Indy enjoys makeup, dresses and other girly activities.

Taylor and Tate welcomed their second child, son Ocean Paul, on June 18, 2020.

Related: Who Is Taylor Frankie Paul? Inside the Life of ‘The Bachelorette’ Season 22 Star

Taylor documented much of her pregnancy and early motherhood journey with Ocean on TikTok, where she began building the audience that eventually turned her into a viral influencer.

The couple later divorced in 2022 after Taylor revealed details about the viral MomTok “soft swinging” scandal involving members of their friend group. Although Taylor previously said she and Tate maintained a healthy co-parenting relationship for the sake of their children, their custody situation became more complicated in 2026. Tate sought sole custody of Indy and Ocean, and the two have continued to navigate the matter in court.

Related: What Is ‘Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’? Inside the MomTok Swinging Scandal That Made Taylor Frankie Paul Famous

Which children did Taylor Frankie Paul have with Dakota Mortensen? View this post on Instagram

Following her divorce, Taylor began dating Dakota Mortensen. The relationship, which was featured on The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, included several ups and downs before the couple welcomed a child together.

Taylor and Dakota welcomed their son Ever True Mortensen on March 19, 2024. Taylor later shared that the name Ever symbolizes “always” and “eternity.”

Although Taylor and Dakota eventually split, the two remain connected through co-parenting their son. Their custody arrangement has also been the subject of legal proceedings. In 2026, a judge lifted mandatory supervised visitation for Taylor with Ever, allowing her unsupervised parenting time, while Mortensen remained the primary custodial parent for holidays.

Related: ‘The Bachelorette’ Season 22 Cast Revealed: ‘The Book of More-Men’ is Now Open

Are Taylor Frankie Paul’s kids caught up in the recent controversies?

Taylor’s children became part of the public discussion surrounding her legal troubles after details of her 2023 arrest for domestic violence became public. According to charging documents, Taylor’s children were present during the altercation with Dakota, and one of her children was struck by a barstool during the incident.

Taylor ultimately pleaded guilty to aggravated assault under a plea agreement. The other charges, including domestic violence in the presence of a child and child abuse, were dismissed. In August 2026, a judge ruled that Taylor had completed her three-year probation and amended the aggravated-assault felony to a Class A misdemeanor.

The 2023 incident resurfaced in 2026 when video footage of the altercation was publicly released. The footage showed Taylor throwing metal stools at Dakota while a child was present. ABC subsequently canceled Taylor’s already-filmed season of The Bachelorette shortly before its scheduled premiere.

Taylor also faced additional scrutiny in 2026 after allegations involving Dakota were investigated by authorities. The Salt Lake County District Attorney’s Office ultimately declined to file new domestic-violence charges against Taylor following its review of the allegations.

Taylor’s custody arrangements with both Tate and Dakota have continued to develop as the legal proceedings play out.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of domestic violence, help is available 24 hours a day through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233.

Related: ‘The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’ Season 5 Cast: Who’s Returning, Who’s Not and Who Might Join

If you picked up a Cranberry Chicken Salad Wedge Sandwich from a convenience store in Florida or Georgia recently, you’ll want to check your fridge right away.

FreshPoint Central Florida, Inc. has issued a voluntary recall of 1,093 units of its Created Fresh! Cranberry Chicken Salad Wedge Sandwiches due to an improperly declared egg allergen. While egg is included in the product’s ingredients list, it was not listed in the allergen “Contains” statement on the package – *a critical omission for anyone with an egg allergy or sensitivity. Consumers with an egg allergy who unknowingly consume the product run the risk of a serious or potentially life-threatening allergic reaction, the FDA warned on its website.

FreshPoint Issues Recall Due to an Improperly Declared Allergen (Egg) in Chicken Salad Wedge Sandwiches https://t.co/gatVCIqpQI pic.twitter.com/arQjHorprb

— U.S. FDA Recalls and Alerts (@FDArecalls) September 9, 2026

The recalled sandwiches were distributed between August 19 and September 3, 2026, to a single convenience store customer across Florida and Georgia. They come in transparent plastic packaging with a Use By date printed on the container, covering dates between September 3 and September 17, 2026. The UPC code is 766375109617.

No illnesses related to the recall have been reported to date. The issue was identified during an internal label review by the company. Customers who have purchased the product are urged to discard it immediately. Anyone with questions can contact FreshPoint’s Hernan Martinez at 689-710-4467, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST.

Below Deck Mediterranean star Max Salvador is offering a very different perspective on his relationship with former love interest Cathy Skinner, accusing her of manipulating him and ultimately using him.

During a recent interview with the Above Deck podcast, Max was asked whether he still keeps in touch with Cathy, whom he dated during Season 10.

“Not a good relationship,” Max said before adding. “She used me, she manipulated me. She knows that I don’t care about the physical world, like Rolex, fake people, charter guests, nah, nah, nah, all this bulls—t.”

Max’s comments come months after Cathy revealed that the two had gone their separate ways following Below Deck Mediterranean Season 10. At the time, Cathy said Max canceled a planned trip to visit her in London just hours before his flight, later explaining that he wasn’t ready for an exclusive relationship after his previous breakup. Max subsequently invited her to visit him in Bali, but Cathy declined.

While Max said at the time that he was focused on his career, he also told The Daily Dish that he still hoped their romantic relationship could continue. Cathy, meanwhile, said they had maintained a friendship and occasionally checked in with each other.

Now, Max is sharing a much harsher account of what he believes went wrong between them.

According to Max, he was initially drawn to Cathy because he believed they shared similar values, particularly when it came to nature and helping others. He recalled meeting her in Barcelona and being impressed when she told him about doing humanitarian work in Africa.

“She showed me a picture of her, like, without makeup, you know, with like a giant turtle,” Max recalled. “And I was like, oh, OK, so perfect. If I can bring this girl on this kind of Bali experience in nature, helping other people.”

But Max said his perception of Cathy changed after the show.

“After the show, she knew my weakness, and she was just about, like, yeah, Rolex, fake friend, fake dinner…blah, blah, blah,” he said.

Max pointed to one social media post in particular, saying Cathy shared a Reel featuring Rolex sellers. He said the post prompted him to confront her about what he saw as a focus on material things.

“And I told her, you can influence people, and this is how you used to influence, on showing, like, important stuff,” he said. “That’s where you lost your soul, because you are attached to material stuff. And I think real power is inside.”

According to Max, the confrontation quickly escalated.

“From this Reel, we insulted each other so much, like, kaboom,” he said. “And after, we just blocked ourselves and we don’t speak. And that’s good like it.”

Parade aims to feature only the best products and services. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.

Elegant dishware can add a special touch to your tabletop, but only if it stays pristine for a lifetime. Fine china runs the risk of chipping and breaking, which is why so many save those pieces for special occasions only. But you don’t have to reserve beautiful dishes for rare moments when you have the Martha Stewart Opalton Dinner Plate Set as an option.

Right now this set is an amazing deal at Amazon, reduced from its usual $23 to just $20 for a limited time. The six-piece collection includes six crisp white dinner plates measuring 10 inches each. They’re break- and chip-resistant, so you can trust that no matter how often you use them they’ll continue to look their best through countless meals.

Martha Stewart Opalton Dinner Plate Set, $20 (was $23) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

At the lowest price in a month, the set earns high praise from hundreds of reviewers looking for simple yet polished dinnerware that complements any layout. These fit right into virtually any space thanks to their gleaming opal white hue, which looks glossy in any light and adds an exquisite finishing touch to the tabletop.

The plates are non-porous, so they won’t lose their structural integrity over time either. There’s no risk of set-in stains or odor buildup, and they’re also safe to put in the microwave and dishwasher. Slight ridges along the sides make them easy to grip, too. Unlike so many other fussy plates, these bridge the gap between opulent and practical, giving you an everyday-appropriate option that also happens to look fabulous.

Several people noted that while they’re substantial, they’re also lightweight — and one person even shared that they’re ideal for homes where kids may sometimes break plates. “They look more expensive than the price,” a customer wrote, while another shopper called them “durable, simple, and pretty.”

Shop More Deals

• Martha Stewart 10-Cup Food Processor, $85 (was $100) at Amazon
• Martha Stewart Autumn Harvest Kitchen Towel Set, $13 (was $20) at Amazon
• Martha Stewart Sheet Set, $55 (was $80) at Amazon

Related: This Vibrant 7-Piece Floral Comforter Set Brings a ‘Silky’ Feel and Farmhouse Charm for Under $25

You can’t beat a basic dinnerware set, especially when it’s as sleek and streamlined as this sextet. If you’re looking for something to round out your collection or are ready to level up your everyday dishes, the Martha Stewart Opalton Dinner Plate Set makes a standout option. Don’t miss it while it’s on sale at Amazon!

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

Billy Mumy was one of the most prolific—and likable—child actors of the 1960s, appearing in everything from Bewitched to The Twilight Zone to starring as Will Robinson in Lost in Space.

But one acting experience left the young actor with a bad taste in his mouth—and it was under the watch of legendary filmmaker and director Alfred Hitchcock.

During an appearance on the Pop Culture Retro podcast, Mumy, 72, recalled working on the 1961 Alfred Hitchcock Presents episode “Bang Bang, You’re Dead.” The episode was about a boy, Jackie Chester, who finds a gun in his uncle’s briefcase and takes it outside to play cops and robbers with his friends.

“Over the course of the episode, you see him spinning it, clicking it, adding another bullet, spinning it, clicking it,” Mumy told hosts Jonathan Rosen and Moosie Drier. “It’s a very dramatic show. It’s a very serious, you know, gun awareness, children type of show.”

“Alfred Hitchcock directed it,”  he added. “I was seven years old.”

Mumy noted that he appeared in almost every scene in the episode, but minors were only allowed to work nine hours a day. And on one of those days, the producers wanted to get one more close-up of Mumy before wrapping. The on-set social worker warned them that Mumy could only work for five more minutes due to child labor laws, so the production team thought it would be quicker to keep the young actor on his mark instead of bringing in his stand-in while they set up lighting for the shot.

“So, I have no problem,” Mumy said on the podcast. “I’m not tired. I have no I mean, I’ve been working nine hours, but I have no problem standing in for myself while they light me, right? I have no attitude or problem about that at all. However,  I’m not a trained stand-in. I’m a seven-year-old actor. I’m seven. So, I’m standing there, and they’re trying to light me, and I’m fidgeting around, right?”

“So Alfred Hitchcock, who was a very physically imposing presence—I’m a little guy—Alfred Hitchcock was a big guy. He was always sweating,” Mumy continued. “He gets up out of his chair, and he lumbers over to me on my mark, fidgeting around,  and he bends down. And this is exactly what he said to me: ‘If you don’t stop moving about, I’m going to get a nail, and I’m going to nail your feet to your mark, and the blood will come pouring out of your feet like milk. So, stop moving.’ That’s exactly what he says to me.”

Bettmann / Getty Images

While he knew Hitchcock wasn’t serious, Mumy recalled being “blown away” by his threat. Mumy’s mother later brushed the comment off, telling her son that Hitchcock was British and simply had “a different sense of humor.”

On the podcast, Mumy noted that if Hitchcock had told him he was only teasing, he probably would have forgotten about the incident.

“But what was real, was that it was very clear to me that I knew and understood that he liked scaring me, that he didn’t want to apologize for that,” Mumy revealed. “He liked it. And that is very sick. I think that was really lame. And I never wanted to talk to Alfred Hitchcock again. I worked for him again, but nothing he personally directed again. But really the more I think about that, you know, the more I think what a jerk he was. I don’t like Alfred Hitchcock.”

RELATED: Billy Mumy Recalls the Sweet Lucille Ball Moment That Shut Down Filming

In addition to “Bang, Bang You’re Dead,” Mumy appeared in the 1962 Alfred Hitchcock Presents episode “The Door Without a Key” as well as an Alfred Hitchock Hour episode that same year. Hitchcock died in 1980 at age 80.

Mumy previously told Fox News Digital that Hitchcock was “a monster” and a real jerk,” so he avoided him.

“He scared the s— out of this seven-year-old who was starring in his show,” the Lost in Space actor recalled. “It was incredibly scary. I just never wanted to see him again. Ever. I never spoke to him again – ever.”

Mumy, who worked at Universal on and off for decades after, added that he “would purposely walk around a different sound stage” because he didn’t want to see Hitchcock.

“He was a jerk. A real jerk,” Mumy added. “I just don’t understand why he would say that to a child. He didn’t respect actors very much. He just saw them as his props to use… I didn’t like him, but I can’t say I was traumatized after that. I didn’t need to go to therapy over it.”

Related: ‘Lost in Space’ Star Reflects on His Cult Classic 1978 Novelty Song: ‘Has Been Very, Very Good to Me’

Blue Bell is giving fans a peek at its newest ice cream flavor, and social media is melting down over the addition.

Yesterday, the cult-favorite creamery behind some of the top-ranking vanilla and chocolate ice cream flavors (as well as unique picks like its Brookie À La Mode, Chocolate Lava Cake and Southern Blackberry Cobbler) revealed it’s launching a new variety inspired by a popular coffee beverage.

While coffeehouses transition from vibrant, summery drinks to the autumnal staple of pumpkin spice, Blue Bell is choosing to embrace everyday favorites, announcing the arrival of its new latte-inspired ice cream flavor: White Chocolate Mocha.

Blue Bell Reveals New Limited-Time White Chocolate Mocha Ice Cream Flavor: “Your Favorite Iced Coffee, Now in a Carton”

In a first-look photo that Blue Bell teased in a Sept. 9 Instagram post, the brand touted the new flavor as something even “cooler” than your coffee run.

“Something NEW is brewing at Blue Bell, and it arrives in stores beginning tomorrow,” the caption continued.

Related: Blue Bell Quietly Brings Back a Peak Summer Flavor That First Debuted in 1975—But It Won’t Last Long

While Blue Bell wasn’t willing to share all of the details at the time, social media users took it upon themselves to guess the newcomer, suggesting that stores could soon be welcoming a caramel mocha or a salted caramel mocha-inspired ice cream.

Another declared, “It has to be a Mocha Frappe Coffee flavor.”

“I’m ngl I’m foaming at the mouth,” someone else teased of all the prospects.

View this post on Instagram

It wasn’t until Thursday that the ice cream brand revealed it would offer a creamy, frozen version of the classic and sweet espresso beverage that’s served hot, cold, and even as a blended Frappuccino.

“No need to complicate this coffee order!” Blue Bell declared in its Sept. 10 Instagram announcement. “One scoop of NEW Blue Bell White Chocolate Mocha Ice Cream, please.”

According to the brand, its new White Chocolate Mocha features a “delicious coffee-flavored ice cream with white chocolate-flavored flakes and a vanilla-flavored whipped cream swirl.” It’s everything consumers “love about the iced coffee, now in a carton.”

“Uh oh. I’m in trouble now,” one Instagram user replied. “This looks wayyyyy too good for me to be able to control myself.”

“Big back behavior,” another joked, while someone else said they “need this.”

“Oh I’m excited for this one,” a fourth cheered.

“Sounds like a banger,” another applauded.

“Ouuuu,” one more wrote, “I can’t wait to try that.”

View this post on Instagram

Blue Bell said the new flavor will be available as early as today in half-gallon and pint sizes, with a broader rollout to most stores that carry the brand over the coming days and weeks—but only for a limited time (prices may vary).

All that said, and despite most being hyped, a small group of fans explained they’re not impressed by the new latte-inspired ice cream, hoping for the return of more distinctive limited-time flavors like Monster Cookie Dough, Cookie Dough Overload, Pecan Pie, and White Chocolate Almond. What are your thoughts on the newcomer? Worth the wait, or would you rather the company revive an old favorite? Let us know in the comments!

Next: Girl Scouts Just Announced a First-Ever Cookie Collaboration, Unlike Anything Fans Have Seen Before

And the rose goes to…no one! Yes, mere days before its March 22 premiere, The Bachelorette season 22 was cancelled due to domestic assault allegations against its star, Taylor Frankie Paul, following leaked videos of a physical altercation between The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives star and her ex-boyfriend Dakota Mortensen.

“In light of the newly released video just surfaced today, we have made the decision to not move forward with the new season of The Bachelorette at this time, and our focus is on supporting the family,” ABC told Parade in a statement on March 19, 2026.

The taped incident led to Paul’s arrest in 2023 following a physical altercation with Mortensen. She was ultimately charged with aggravated assault, two counts of domestic violence in the presence of a child, child abuse with injury and criminal mischief. All but the aggravated assault charge were dismissed after Paul reached a plea agreement in March 2023. In August 2026, a judge ruled that Paul had completed her three-year probation and amended the aggravated-assault felony to a Class A misdemeanor.

However, the recent cancellation by The Bachelorette‘s parent network ABC is just the latest in a tumultuous few years for the on-and-off-again couple. Here’s a look back at Taylor Frankie Paul and Dakota Mortensen’s drama-filled romance.

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Taylor Frankie Paul and Dakota Mortensen’s relationship timeline May 2022

Taylor Frankie Paul takes to TikTok to publicly announce her split from Tate Paul, to whom she was married since 2016 and shares two children, Indy and Ocean. The separation announcement dropped amidst the couple’s “soft-swinging” scandal, in which they reportedly experimented sexually with a group of other couples in the Mormon influencer space known as “MomTok.”

@taylorfrankiepaul

An unfortunate announcement

♬ Malibu – Miley Cyrus July 2022

With the end of one relationship came the start of another: In summer 2022, Paul soft-launched her burgeoning relationship with Mortensen, again via her TikTok handle: “Been heartbroken twice this summer and this cute sweet mf comes out of nowhere,” she wrote. Mortensen himself revealed the identity of the mystery man by cheekily commenting: “Lucky guy whoever he is.”

@taylorfrankiepaul

I refuse, but what does his text say

♬ BROWS. – JOVIL👾 September 2022

In September, Paul hard-launches her new relationship by featuring Mortensen in, duh, a TikTok video featuring the couple performing a choreographed dance to Beyonce’s hit “Cuff It.”

November 2022

In response to a TikTok follower’s comment that “she definitely looks off,” Paul posted a TikTok video revealing that she and Mortensen were expecting their first child together. Sadly, the reality star ended up suffering an ectopic pregnancy.

Related: How Many Kids Does Taylor Frankie Paul Have? Meet the ‘Bachelorette’ Star’s 3 Children

December 2022

A month later, the duo broke up, with Taylor posting a video to her TikTok account with the caption: “Can someone please explain how ending a six-month relationship hurt worse than ending a six-year marriage?” 

@taylorfrankiepaul

make it make sense

♬ original sound – bratlyrz January 2023

Sike! Just a few short weeks later, Taylor and Dakota were back together and, yes, posting jokey TikTok videos about their reunion. In a comment beneath the post, she answered: “We did break up for a couple weeks, but decided we want to try things and not chance losing each other.” 

February 2023

And now for the legal issues: On February 17, Paul was arrested for domestic violence against Mortensen following a fiery fight between the couple. She was ultimately charged with aggravated assault, two counts of domestic violence in the presence of a child, child abuse with injury and criminal mischief after the incident, though all but the aggravated assault charge was dismissed. She reached a plea deal in March 2023. The arrest and subsequent scandal play out on Paul’s Hulu reality show, The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives.

Related: Taylor Frankie Paul’s Ongoing Domestic Violence Investigation Could Impact Her 2023 Plea Deal

June 2023

Despite the arrest, Taylor and Dakota remained together in the months following the altercation, with Paul confirming their romance via social media.

September 2023

About ten months after revealing her ectopic pregnancy, Paul and Mortensen announced that they were expecting their “rainbow baby.” Taylor posted photos from their pregnancy shoot onto her TikTok account.

View this post on Instagram March 2024

The couple welcomed son Ever True Mortensen, “our angel sent from heaven,” on March 19, 2024. Of the birth, Paul shared on The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives that Dakota “was such a good partner in the process and very supportive.” The mom of three added: “I’m like, on cloud nine, and this is like the first time I’ve been so confident in us, in a future. I just—I hope that I can trust him.”

September 2024

The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives premiered on Hulu on September 6, 2024, bringing a spotlight onto Taylor and Dakota’s relationship, including cheating claims made against both parties. For his part, Mortensen denied the rumors that he stepped out on Taylor with Jenna Jarvis, posting a TikTok video with the caption: “All that matters is my family at this point. Have i made dumb mistakes in my life? Yes. But idgaf anymore i am not my past.”

@dakotamortensen

All that matters is my family at this point. Have i made dumb mistakes in my life? Yes. But idgaf anymore i am not my past

♬ original sound – nbcnews October 2024

In an Us Weekly cover story, Paul revealed that rewatching her turbulent romance with Dakota on the Hulu reality series was “probably one of the hardest moments” of her life. As for the pair’s relationship status at that point, the Secret Lives star said: ““I would say we’re working on things and I actually have no idea where it goes with us from here. We are not fully together, but not fully done. I don’t know where the future holds with him and I.”

December 2024

By December, however, it looks like Taylor had more clarity about where things stood between her and Dakota: She posted a teary TikTok formally announcing their split, with the caption: “Chaos to pure silence. Wouldn’t wish this pain upon anyone, if you’re there take a drive, scream, cry, feel the pain, because I promise avoiding it will make it much worse.”

@taylorfrankiepaul

I was told you got through this once, you’ll get through it again. #coparenting #loss #relationships

♬ original sound – baibeckham January 2025

Despite some passive-aggressive back-and-forth over social media, Paul put on a supportive face for Mortensen’s birthday, posting to her Instagram Stories on January 27 a photo of her ex with their son Ever True. “Happy birthday baby daddy. Wishing nothing but the best for you,” she captioned the sweet pic.

April 2025

Dakota and Taylor were spotted getting cozy while attending the Stagecoach music festival, leaving fans wondering whether the exes have officially reconciled.

@callherdaddy

@Taylor Paul doesn’t think, she knows 👏

♬ original sound – Call Her Daddy – Call Her Daddy September 2025

Though Taylor confirmed that the exes had hooked up during that Stagecoach reunion a few months prior, she also revealed during a Call Her Daddy podcast appearance that their relationship was “over.” Cementing that fact was the announcement that Paul was chosen as The Bachelorette for the ABC program’s twenty-second season. Mortensen, meanwhile, seemingly wasn’t too happy with the news and took to TikTok with his displeasure.

@dakotamortensen

It’s a joke… everyone relax. Lol that being said I am happy for Tay and I hope she finds happiness ❤️‍🩹🫶🏽

♬ original sound – Calabasaswings March 2026

On Thursday, March 19, just a few short days before its premiere, Taylor’s The Bachelorette season was pulled by ABC after video leaked of her 2023 domestic altercation with Mortensen. ABC said its “focus is on supporting the family.”

The cancellation came after footage of the 2023 incident resurfaced publicly, showing Paul and Mortensen engaged in a physical altercation while a child was present. The incident had previously resulted in Paul’s arrest and aggravated-assault case.

Sources told PEOPLE that the exes were committed to co-parenting their son, Ever True, amid the renewed scrutiny.

April 2026

Paul and Mortensen’s relationship came under renewed legal scrutiny in April, when the two were granted mutual protective orders following additional allegations involving their relationship. The orders required the former couple to remain at least 100 feet apart for three years. The legal proceedings also addressed the couple’s parenting arrangement for Ever.

August 2026

Paul’s legal case stemming from the 2023 incident reached another milestone in August. A judge ruled that she had completed her three-year probation, and the aggravated-assault felony was amended to a Class A misdemeanor.

Meanwhile, Paul’s custody disputes involving her children continued. Her parenting arrangements with both Mortensen and her ex-husband Tate Paul remained subject to court proceedings.

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September 2026

Months after ABC shelved her Bachelorette season, Paul addressed the unaired reality dating show in a preview of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. She revealed that contestant Doug Mason proposed to her during filming—and that she said yes. Paul also explained that things became complicated after she returned home and reconnected with her ex, Dakota Mortensen.

The engagement—and the fact that the season was filmed but never aired—added another unexpected chapter to Taylor’s already complicated relationship history. As for Paul and Mortensen, their romantic relationship remains over, but the former couple continues to navigate co-parenting and legal matters involving their son.

If you or someone you know has been a victim of domestic violence, help is available 24 hours a day through the National Domestic Violence Hotline at 800-799-7233.

Related: ‘Secret Lives of Mormon Wives’ Fate Revealed After Filming Hiatus

Few songs in history carry a legacy as massive as Nirvana‘s “Smells Like Teen Spirit.”

Released 35 years ago today as the opening track for Nirvana’s legendary Nevermind album, the song crowned Kurt Cobain as the voice of Generation X. What began as an attempt to write the ultimate pop song ended up shattering cultural boundaries and cementing Nirvana’s place in music history.

When Nirvana released their debut album, Bleach, in 1989, few expected the Seattle trio to become rock’s next big phenomenon. Recorded on a shoestring budget of just $600, the record went on to sell 30,000 copies. It was a massive win for an underground indie act that set the stage for their major-label breakthrough, according to History.

“Smells Like Teen Spirit,” the album’s kickoff single, wasn’t expected to become a massive hit. In fact, all the record company hoped for was continued success among indie radio listeners and college students.

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“None of us heard it as a crossover song,” Nirvana’s manager, Danny Goldberg, said, as reported by History. “But the public heard it, and it was instantaneous. They heard it on alternative radio, and then they rushed out like lemmings to buy it.”

Interestingly, Cobain almost held the track back. After refining the song during rehearsals with Krist Novoselic and Dave Grohl, the frontman feared it sounded too much like alt-rock band Pixies and was reluctant to release it.

Per U Discover Music, the song’s name originated after Cobain’s friend, Kathleen Hanna, wrote the sentence ‘Kurt smells like Teen Spirit’ on his wall. It referred to a popular deodorant of the era.

“I mean, who names a deodorant Teen Spirit?” Hanna asked. “What does teen spirit smell like? Like a locker room? Like pot mixed with sweat? Like the smell when you throw up in your hair at a party?”

Ironically, Cobain had never heard of the product. It was widely reported that he believed it was more of a rebellious statement.

Novoselic said of the lyrics, as reported by U Discover Music, “I just didn’t get them the first time I read them. And then I started listening to it in the song format, and then I had an idea of what he was talking about.”

He continued, “[Kurt] was talking about kids, commercials, Generation X, the youth bandwagon. How he’s really disappointed in it, and how he doesn’t want anything to do with it.”

“Smells Like Teen Spirit” was recorded in just three takes. The second was ultimately remastered and released 35 years ago today, instantly changing the sound of mainstream radio and ushering in the grunge era overnight.

Nirvana has been named the 2026 Video Vanguard recipient at the MTV VMA’s. According to Billboard, the award will be presented on Sept. 27 at the Peacock Theater in Los Angeles.

Related: Evan Dando Claims Kurt Cobain Died Not Knowing the ‘Truth’ About His Relationship With Courtney Love

Whitney and Conner Leavitt, one of the most front-and-center couples on The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, welcomed their third—and last—child while the show was filming its second season. “We are most excited about having our family complete,” the couple shared after the baby’s birth in October 2024. “We’ve always wanted three kids and we’re so happy everyone’s here now.”

Keep reading for a guide to Whitney and Conner’s family of five, including a look back at the TikTok scandal involving their middle son. 

Related: ‘DWTS’ Fans Catch Whitney Leavitt’s Reaction as Halloween Night Elimination Is Announced

How many children does Whitney from MomTok have?

Whitney and Conner share three kids: Sedona, 6, Liam, who will be 5 in December, and Billy Gene, who turns 2 in October. 

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How old was Whitney Leavitt when she had her first baby?

Whitney was born on May 13, 1993, and she welcomed her first child, Sedona, in November 2019, which means she was 26 when she became a mom for the first time.

What was the controversy with Whitney Leavitt’s son?

In December 2021, Whitney sparked backlash after posting a TikTok video of herself dancing beside her then newborn, Liam, when he was hospitalized with Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) and low oxygen levels. She later deleted the post and shared a tearful response to the pile-on, saying she was merely trying to stay “positive” during a scary time. 

“I understand that people are upset with the video that I made. I just want to be clear and communicate that that was just me trying to be positive,” she said. “I think it’s important to not just assume what someone’s going through. I took it down because I can see how someone might get the wrong idea.”

She revisited the controversy in the first season of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives, saying how much it affected her mental health and reputation. But fellow MomToker (and highly skilled troublemaker) Demi claimed that Whitney once admitted during a ketamine therapy session that she filmed the video “for sympathy, likes [and] clout”—a bold accusation that Whitney denied.

Who are Whitney and Conner Leavitt’s kids?

The Leavitts, who exchanged vows in July 2016, share three little ones.

Sedona

Whitney and Conner welcomed their eldest child, Sedona, in November 2019. According to a birthday tribute Whitney posted for the girl’s 6th birthday in 2025, she and Conner didn’t know what to name their daughter until just a couple of weeks before her birth, when they heard the song “Sedona” by Houndmouth. 

View this post on Instagram

“Now, listening to this song, it reminds me of her bright and wild spirit,” Whitney wrote. “Someone who is full of life, light and a little bit of sass 🤭 Sedona, my doe and my princess, I love you more than words can say.”

Dancing With the Stars’ fans fell in love with Sedona during Disney Week, when she showed up to support her mom, a Season 34 competitor. Whitney shared a TikTok video of the girl arriving at her trailer (dressed a little like a princess) with overlaid text that read: “Sharing my dreams with my baby girl.”

@whitneyleavitt

A night I will never forget. I love you so much Sedona ❤️

♬ Hometown Glory – Adele

Related: Will ‘Dancing with the Stars’ Return for Season 35?

Liam 

Liam arrived earthside in December 2021 and was almost immediately hospitalized due to RSV and low oxygen levels. Whitney drew instant backlash when she posted a TikTok video of herself dancing beside his hospital bed, igniting a larger conversation about influencer culture and the lengths content creators will go to for engagement. 

Billy Gene

Whitney infamously revealed to her family that she was pregnant with the youngest Leavitt baby by hiding a positive pregnancy test—that she did, indeed, pee on—in a cake that they were meant to eat. 

“Look, I put the lid back on it. I Cloroxed the heck out of it before putting it in the cake,” Whitney told The Cut. “It was clean. I get how people were like, Ew. Maybe people tried to stay away and not eat the pieces surrounding the test, but that cake was good. So yeah, we did eat the cake.”

View this post on Instagram

Whitney and Conner welcomed Billy Gene on Oct. 24, 2024. “You’ve changed our world forever,” Whitney wrote on Instagram to mark his first birthday. “You’re so endlessly loved.”

What’s next for Whitney and Connor Leavitt?

Whitney and Conner have continued building careers outside the show. Whitney announced in May 2026 that Season 5 would be her final season of The Secret Lives of Mormon Wives. She has since completed filming Season 5, making the upcoming season her final appearance on the show. 

The couple launched Leavitt Media House, and Conner recently completed an off-Broadway run in 11 to Midnight. He is also now competing on Dancing With the Stars Season 35, while Whitney is returning to Broadway in Just in Time this winter.

Related: Get To Know Whitney Leavitt’s Husband, Conner—and Their Response to Those ‘Lavender Marriage’ Rumors

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As we transition to fall, it’s almost time to give your shoe collection a seasonal refresh and sadly put all those sandals into storage. While they offer comfort and easy wear, they don’t exactly do the best job at keeping your feet snug and warm in cooler temperatures. Fortunately, shoes like mules, clogs, and backless loafers are just as easy to slip into and provide just the right amount of coverage for unpredictable fall weather.  

If you’re looking to add a pair to your fall shoe collection, these Ecetana Suede Clogs at Walmart are a fabulous choice. While they look and feel quite similar to more expensive styles, you can currently score them on sale at a budget-friendly price. These clogs normally retail for $46, but they’re now 50% off, marked down to just $23 for a limited time with a Walmart flash deal.

Ecetana Suede Clogs, $23 (were $46) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

You can snag these clogs in three colors, including black, gray, and taupe. They’re available in sizes ranging from 5.5 to 11, and customers mentioned that they fit true to size. However, they’re designed to have a snug fit, so if you’re in between sizes, you may want to size up. 

Delivering all-day comfort, these clogs have cork footbeds that support your arches and heels. They’re designed to mold to the shape of your feet over time, making them a great choice for flat feet or high arches. Attesting to their support, shoppers noted that these clogs helped with plantar fasciitis pain. The footbeds also keep your weight evenly distributed to help prevent fatigue. 

These clogs are lightweight, making every step feel as effortless as the last. They absorb the impact of your steps, reducing the pressure on your feet and joints. Made of rubber, the soles have a non-slip design, offering traction and stability on all kinds of surfaces. The soles are wear-resistant, so they should remain in pristine condition for a long time. Whether you’re heading to the grocery store, strolling through the park, or sightseeing on vacation, these shoes are ready to handle all your outings. 

Ecetana Suede Clogs, $23 (were $46) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Offering ample coverage while still allowing your feet to breathe, these clogs are ideal for fall weather. They’ll protect your feet from chilly breezes on crisp days and promote airflow to prevent your feet from overheating when the temperatures fluctuate. 

Featuring a sleek silhouette with rounded toes and soft uppers, these clogs have a casual feel. However, they’re elevated by the genuine suede material, giving them an elegant look and a touch of quiet luxury. They have a backless design, making them effortless to slip into and take off. The uppers are fitted with an adjustable strap and buckle hardware. While they add a stylish accent, they’re functional and work to keep your feet securely in place. 

You can style these clogs with a plethora of outfits, ranging from athleisure to refined streetwear. Whether you wear them with a hoodie and leggings, or a blouse and jeans, they’ll add a relaxed and laid-back vibe to your look. Depending on the weather and your preference, you can wear them with or without socks — they look chic either way. 

@catsparklelife

here are some summer outfit ideas with the birkenstock clogs! 🤗🤗 #birkenstocks #pinterestoutfit #styleinspo #outfitinspo #summeroutfitinspo #fashiontiktok

♬ sonido original – B.sound

It’s no surprise that these Walmart clogs have racked up over 600 five-star reviews. One shopper raved that they’re “super cute” and said that they “look exactly like the name brand clogs at a really affordable price.” A second customer commented that they’re the “perfect shoes for fall” and mentioned that they’re “comfortable and easy to slip on.” 

Shop More Deals 

• Ecetana Pointed-Toe Mules, From $17 (were $26) at Walmart
• Ecetana Low-Top Sneakers, From $20 (were $31) at Walmart
• Litfun Faux Fur-Lined Suede Clogs, From $34 (were $70) at Walmart

Related: These Lace-Up Flats Nail the Balletcore Aesthetic, Offering Sneaker-Like Comfort Without Sacrificing Style

From warm fall days to crisp nights, the Ecetana Suede Clogs are ready for any weather fall throws at you. Head to Walmart and snag them while they’re still on sale for just $23, which is just a fraction of the price of name-brand styles! 

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There are plenty of reasons to be happy in Hawaii. Think of the beaches, the sunsets, the magical landscapes. They aren’t exactly a bad place to start.

But it seems that there is more to happiness than sunshine, ocean breezes and beautiful scenery. According to a new study from WalletHub, Hawaii has been named the happiest state in America for 2026. And while that may not come as a huge surprise, the state that landed right behind it just might: New Jersey.

WalletHub compared all 50 states across 30 measures of happiness, including depression rates, health, income growth, unemployment, productivity and other factors that can shape how satisfied people feel with their lives.

The findings are interesting at a time when happiness seems to be in short supply. A recent Gallup poll found that just 44% of Americans are “very satisfied” with the way their lives are going.

Related: America’s Favorite Small Towns 2026: Meet the Regional Winners

What Is the Happiest State in America?

So what makes a state happy? According to WalletHub, Hawaii has the highest level of life satisfaction in the country and the second-lowest depression rate.

About 84% of Hawaiian adults report being in good or better health, and the state has the highest life expectancy in America. Hawaii also has one of the country’s lowest unemployment rates and ranks third for the share of households earning more than $75,000 a year.

Why Is Hawaii the Happiest State in America?

“Hawaii is the happiest state, with residents reporting the highest levels of life satisfaction in the nation and the second-lowest depression rate,” says WalletHub analyst, Chip Lupo. So living in paradise may help. But the numbers suggest that health, financial stability and overall quality of life are important parts of the equation, too.

Related: Feeling a Little Bit Down? Here Are 25 Ways To Get Happier in 10 Minutes or Less

What Is the Second-Happiest State in America?

So what was ranked number 2? This is where the list gets really interesting.

New Jersey is the second-happiest state in America.

Why Did New Jersey Rank So Highly?

According to WalletHub, the Garden State has the lowest share of adults experiencing depression in the country. The rate is 2.4 times lower than West Virginia’s, which has the highest. New Jersey also has the fewest suicides per 100,000 residents. This rate is 4.4 times lower than Alaska’s, which has the highest.

The ranking is a good reminder that the things that contribute to happiness aren’t always the things we photograph on vacation. Mental health, economic stability, health and a sense of security matter, too.

Utah is number three, with two particularly interesting statistics. The state has the highest volunteer rate in the country, 2.5 times higher than Rhode Island’s, which has the lowest. Utah also has the lowest separation and divorce rate, 1.7 times lower than New Mexico’s, which has the highest.

So it seems that happiness has a lot to do with connection. “A happy life is built on meaningful relationships, a sense of purpose, personal growth, good health, and enough autonomy to make choices that reflect your values,” says Abbie Lambert, Ph.D., an associate professor at the University of Central Oklahoma.

What Are the 10 Happiest States in America?

Hawaii
New Jersey
Utah
Idaho
Maryland
Nebraska
Connecticut
Minnesota
California
New Hampshire

WalletHub’s experts point to many of the things we already know matter. But we may not always make time for them.

What Makes People Happier Where They Live?

Marybeth Gasman, a distinguished professor at Rutgers University–New Brunswick, says happiness comes from meaningful relationships, purpose-driven work, good health and having some control over how we spend our time. She also makes an important distinction: Happiness doesn’t mean feeling joyful every minute of every day. It’s about working toward a life that feels fulfilling. It’s about a life that can sustain you when things inevitably get difficult.

“I don’t believe happiness means feeling joy every day,” she says. “However, it means that you are working toward a life that is fulfilling and will buoy you even when life throws you punches.”

Community matters, too. Debra Kelly, an assistant professor at Carthage College, points to libraries, parks, recreation centers and community spaces as places where people can form the connections that support well-being. Sometimes, she suggests, the things that bring us happiness aren’t complicated at all: spending time with other people, getting outside, volunteering and helping others. “By providing safe spaces where children and families can gather, neighbors get to know one another and build systems of support to lean on during times of distress,” adds Kelly.

Of course, a ranking can’t tell you where you’ll personally be happiest. One person’s paradise may be another person’s nightmare. But WalletHub’s findings offer an intriguing look at what happy places have in common.

The happiest state may simply be the place where enough of the things that make life meaningful come together. They offer good health, supportive relationships, purpose, financial security, community and a little time to enjoy it all.

Next: The #1 Unexpected Trick to Feeling Happy—Even When the Odds Are Stacked Against You

Streaming services have unlocked the ability to watch so many vintage shows that would otherwise be lost to the ether. And the educational children’s show PB&J Otter is one of them.

It only ran for two years in the late ’90s, but it’s still worth checking out today. The low-stimulation show can help children observe important life skills, licensed psychologist Dr. Connie McReynolds tells Parade. Dr. McReynolds, also a certified rehabilitation counselor at Morningstar Educational and Psychological Services, specifically says that PB&J Otter can help with critical thinking skills in young kids.

“One of the strongest messages from this show is that getting stuck is a normal part of learning and that it is part of life,” she explains, adding, “Children can see that it is totally fine to pause, stop, reset and approach a problem differently, and that mistakes are part of developing good problem-solving skills and [don’t] mean they have done anything wrong.”

She thinks the lessons this show provides are especially important for children heading back to school this fall, as they’ll encounter all kinds of opportunities to employ critical thinking skills. If you’re looking for a TV show to help your little ones learn how to brainstorm and problem-solve that’s entertaining but not too overstimulating, keep reading to see all the reasons you should give this one a try.

Related: This 28-Year-Old Children’s Show Is Still One of the Best Ways To Teach Your Kids Life Skills, Psychologists Say

The ’90s Disney Classic Hiding in Plain Sight: What Was ‘PB&J Otter’?

Created by Jim Jinkins, the same cartoonist who made the ’90s Nickelodeon hit Doug, PB&J Otter premiered in 1998 and ran until 2000 on Playhouse Disney. It follows three otter siblings named Peanut, Butter and Jelly who live in a houseboat on Lake Hoohaw.

In the series, the siblings spend time with their animal friends and neighbors and frequently work together to solve everyday problems like dealing with hurt feelings, cleaning up messes and more.

Related: Child Psychologist Reveals: ‘This Is the Best Children’s Show To Work on Empathy in Kids and Grandkids’

The Psychology of the ‘Noodle Dance’: How Moving Helps Kids Think

The PB&J Otter “Noodle Dance” is a plot device used in every episode of the show as a way for the young characters to think their way through a problem. They pair their brainstorming sessions with freeform dance movements and a catchy jingle to help them more easily come up with solutions. Dr. McReynolds says there’s a reason movement and thinking are so linked for children.

@disneyjr

No thoughts. Just Noodle Dance 💃 🎥 PB&J Otter

♬ original sound – Disney Jr.

“This kind of ritual can help children shift out of feeling mentally stuck, as movement can create space for more flexible and creative thinking,” she says, adding that it serves as a healthy reminder that it’s alright to take a break when working through something.

“Movement can interrupt mental overload and help reset attention,” she continues. “Taking time out is part of problem solving, not giving up.”

Ultimately, Dr. McReynolds says that “physical activity can support attention, working memory and mental flexibility,” and the routine use of a catchy song like the “Noodle Dance” helps make “a reset playful rather than making frustration feel like failure,” she says, adding that it’s “a simple strategy [kids] can remember and use.”

Related: The One Feeling a Child Psychologist Wishes Parents Would Stop Trying To ‘Fix’

A 4-Step Masterclass in Toddler Problem-Solving

The plot lines in every episode are different, but PB&J Otter thrives in routine. Every episode, the otter siblings have to confront a problem, and they have a familiar four-step framework to solve it.

1. Identify the roadblock

For instance, in the first episode, the otters deal with feeling left out when their friends are planning something secret without them.

2. Step away to clear their mind

This is where they do the “Noodle Dance” to help them reset.

3. Brainstorm solutions

The siblings then offer different ideas to fix the problem. Not every idea is a winner, but that’s part of the process.

In the first episode, Jelly suggests building a giant telescope to peek into their friend’s house to see what they’re all doing. Instead, Peanut suggests just going and knocking on the door.

“Brainstorming several ideas teaches that imperfect ideas are part of the process, and then choosing and testing a solution builds flexible, practical problem solving,” Dr. McReynolds adds. “It’s a number of skills but done in a fun way.”

4. Execute on the best solution

The otters went up to the door, knocked and learned that the reason for the secrecy was that their friends were planning a surprise party for them. For children watching, seeing the otters communicate their frustration (we feel left out) in a clear, emotionally mature way can be really helpful modeling.

“Having a framework helps teach children to identify the actual problem before reacting, and this pause helps reduce impulsive responding,” Dr. McReynolds explains.

She says that parents can replicate this process in their own home by working with their children to identify the problem they’re trying to solve and taking a movement break to reset before exploring answers.

“I would also suggest that parents encourage their children to look at several possible solutions rather than supplying the answer,” she shares. “Seeing this modeled on a [TV show] means they will see mistakes as normal and know that persistence and trying again are just what we do.”

She continues: “Giving children that time, space and support to explore is a wonderful gift that costs nothing but time.”

Related: From Lemonade Stands to Scavenger Hunts, Here Are 150 Activities for Kids To Keep Them Entertained

Thanasis Zovoilis/Getty Images

Why ‘PB&J Otter’ Is the Perfect ‘Low-Stimulation’ Alternative to Modern Cartoons

Unlike some modern, flashy kids’ shows of today, PB&J Otter thrives with a lower-stimulation, slow-paced environment, as seen in many ’90s shows and cartoons for children.

“One of the benefits of this slower pace is that it gives children time to follow the story and understand what is happening,” says Dr. McReynolds. “Fewer competing sights and sounds can reduce demands on attention and allow them to follow and focus.”

The gentle, pastel-colored world of Lake Hoohaw acts as a comforting backdrop to the different issues the siblings face.

“The slower pacing and fewer competing stimuli may make it easier to follow and understand events,” she explains. “The emphasis stays on the characters, conversation and problem solving, and because of this, children have more opportunity to follow the sequence of cause and effect.”

Essentially, the low-stimulation nature of the cartoon gives children the space to actually process what they’re seeing so they can replicate it in their own lives.

Related: Child Psychologist Is Begging Parents To Teach Kids These 7 Daily Habits

How To Watch ‘PB&J Otter’ on Streaming Today

All three seasons of PB&J Otter are now available to stream on Disney+. There are 65 episodes total, with each one being about a half hour long, so there’s plenty of low-stimulation content for your little ones to check out.

Up Next:

Related: We Asked 3 Child Psychologists for the Best Question To Ask Kids at the Dinner Table, and They All Said the Same Thing

Source:

• Dr. Connie McReynolds, PhD, is a licensed psychologist and certified rehabilitation counselor at Morningstar Educational and Psychological Services.

Siobhan Fahey turns 69 today.

She left Bananarama in 1988, when the group was selling more records than it ever would again, and she has never pretended that was an accident. “I walked away from Bananarama when it was absolutely at its peak,” she said in an interview in 2017. She called it a habit of hers.

She co-founded the group in the early 1980s with Sara Dallin and Keren Woodward, and Guinness lists them as the all-female group with the most chart hits worldwide. Bananarama charted 44 times in Britain. Not one of those 44 reached the top.

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Three Times at No. 3

That was the British ceiling. “Robert De Niro’s Waiting” got to No. 3 in 1984. “Love in the First Degree” got to No. 3 in 1987. The Greatest Hits Collection got to No. 3 in 1988, which was the year Fahey left and Jacquie O’Sullivan took her place.

America was kinder. Four Bananarama singles reached the US Top 10 and “Venus” went all the way.

She Left Because the Music Got Too Cheerful

The band had moved to Stock Aitken Waterman by then and the hits were bigger than ever. Fahey had just married Dave Stewart of Eurythmics. She quit anyway.

The band, she said, had gone into “unashamed ultra-pop” while she was heading somewhere darker. She wanted to write things that would not have fit in Bananarama.

Then “Stay” Sat There for Two Months

She formed Shakespears Sister. “Stay” entered the UK chart in January 1992, reached No. 1 on Feb. 15 and stayed eight weeks, out of 22 on the chart altogether.

Eight weeks is a long time. Bananarama, across 44 British chart entries, never had one. That one did not last either. By 1993 she had fired her bandmate Marcella Detroit, and Shakespears Sister went on hiatus the year after.

The album that song came from, Hormonally Yours, reached No. 3 and hung around 55 weeks. Their other singles did respectable numbers, “You’re History” and “I Don’t Care” both at No. 7, “Sacred Heart” at No. 9. None of them is the one people remember.

Related: Legendary Member of Girl Group Bananarama Turns 66

The Charts Tell It Plainly Enough

Bananarama carried on without her, and the two remaining members have been performing as a duo ever since.

The three of them did play together again. In 2002 they did a twentieth anniversary show at a London club and called it their last ever.

Then in December 2016 Woodward phoned Fahey and asked her to come back. They toured Britain the following year, the first time the original three had ever toured at all. Fifteen dates sold out immediately. They added ten more.

Next: 1966 Motown No. 1, Reimagined by Phil Collins, Is Still a Powerful Hit 60 Years Later

Your birth date can reveal the relationship karma, patterns, and lessons you’re here to work through in this lifetime.

What is your relationship karma, and how can you break it? Numerologists claim that your relationship karma is based on your birth date. The cosmic and neurological energy of your birth date specifically highlights what needs to be addressed to have happy, spiritually fulfilling connections. Read on to discover what your relationship karma is and how to break it for birth dates 1 to 31.

RELATED: What Is A Karmic Relationship?

What is Relationship Karma?

Karma is neither good nor bad; it simply reflects how you experience the cause-and-effect of your actions and decisions throughout life. No one is exempt from karma, as it is an essential part of everyone’s spiritual journey. Among the various karmic lessons one can encounter, relationship karma is arguably the most significant. This type of karma carries over from past lives and influences how you connect with and interact with others in this lifetime. Your relationship karma can impact your love life, friendships, family dynamics, and more. The same lessons will continue to arise until you break these relationship cycles.

The Relationship Karma You’re Breaking, Based on Your Birth Date

Check if your date of birth is listed. Disregard birth months.

Born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, and 28th: The Fear of Codependency

Being stuck in an overly codependent relationship is the worst nightmare for someone born on the 1st, 10th, 19th, and 28th. People born on these dates embody the independence of 1 and the ego of the sun, so they’re self-assured individuals who value their alone time. However, these birth dates struggle with maintaining their independence in their relationships. As a result, they might pull back out of fear of becoming codependent. The relationship karma they must break is learning that the right connection will amplify their freedom and individuality rather than take away their independence. 

Born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, and 29th: Not Trusting Your Intuition

The most intuitive people are born on the 2nd, 11th, 20th, and 29th. People with these birth dates, along with the sensitivity of 2 and the emotional depth of the moon. Their cosmic and numerological attributes make them highly attuned to and susceptible to the energy around them. Although they’re uniquely intuitive, they often doubt their inner knowledge when they enter a relationship. Even the healthiest connection can cause these birth dates to second guess their gut feelings and discernment. Breaking their relationship karma means working through their anxiety and insecurity to trust their intuition.

Born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, and 30th: Not Looking Before You Leap

People born on the 3rd, 12th, 21st, and 30th are easily swept up when they fall in love. These birth dates align with Jupiter’s positive spirit and 3’s zest for life, so they go wherever the wind takes them. Regardless of past experiences, they’re surprisingly optimistic about romance. It’s easy for them to fall in love and get caught up in the moment; however, this leads to prematurely jumping the gun. Individuals with these birth dates don’t look before they leap, which can land them in unnecessarily hot water. Going slowly and taking their time breaks their relationship karma.

Born on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, and 31st: Treating Love Like a Chore

It’s no secret that people who celebrate their birthdays on the 4th, 13th, 22nd, and 31st are hard workers. Both numerologists and astrologers agree that these birth dates embody the tenacity of 4 and the innovation of Uranus. Although their determination and perseverance is admirable, this can lead to treating love like a chore. They may see a romantic connection as another responsibility or obligation. If they want to break this relationship karma, then these birth dates need to remember that love should always be something they want to work on, not something they have to.

Born on the 5th, 14th, and 23rd: Intellectualizing Your Relationship

Love, dating, and romance can be mentally overwhelming for someone who’s born on the 5th, 14th, or 23rd. Individuals with these birth dates can thank 5 for their never-ending mental agility and curiosity. This mental flexibility is also amplified by Mercury, the astrological planet of thinking and communication. While these birth dates are highly intelligent and witty, they’re also prone to analysis paralysis. Ruminating on their connections is a karmic lesson for them. Luckily, they can break this relationship karma by making peace with waiting for things to unfold instead of trying to mentally control the outcome.

Born on the 6th, 15th, and 24th: Overcompensating in Nonreciprocal Connections

The most selfless partners share birthdays on the 6th, 15th, and 24th. People with these birth dates feel strongly about their partners, friends, and family thanks to being guided by relationship-oriented 6. They’re also aligned with Venus, the astrological planet of love and connection. Since relationships are a huge part of their lives, they undergo immense relationship karma. The biggest karmic lesson for them is that they cannot overcompensate in their relationships. People with these birth dates eventually understand how to rebalance their connections and stick to their boundaries by disengaging from nonreciprocal partnerships.

MORE: The 3 Birth Months Entering Their Luckiest Era This Autumn

Born on the 7th, 16th, and 25th: Illusion, Confusion, & Delusion

Love is tricky for those born on the 7th, 16th, and 25th. Numerology says these birth dates are highly introspective and wise thanks to being influenced by 7. They know exactly what karma, connection, and love require. However, astrology says Neptune’s murky energy distorts their typically profound perception. As a result, these birth dates have to overcome illusions to break their relationship karma. This might look like taking off the rose-colored glasses, addressing limerence, or even being more present while dating. Regardless, these birth dates know healthy love will flourish when they can address the reality of their love life.

Born on the 8th, 17th, and 26th: Power Struggles & Imbalances

Who wears the pants? No matter the relationship, this question plagues those born on the 8th, 17th, and 26th. According to numerology, 8 bestows abundance and ambition on these birth dates. They’re known for being highly successful as they build a beautiful, lavish life. However, these birth dates are destined to go through immense tests because they’re ruled by Saturn, the planet of karma itself. They experience power struggles and control issues by making themselves small to stay with their partners. Breaking their relationship karma means finding a partner who’s comfortable with their level of success and innate authority.

Born on the 9th, 18th, and 27th: Being Conflict Avoidant

Addressing the elephant in the room is a touch-and-go experience with those born on the 9th, 18th, and 27th. Numerology says these individuals are guided by 9, so they’re blessed with a higher perception. Being overly understanding interferes with their Martian qualities, since they may struggle with aggravation and frustration. They’d rather avoid an argument, but this leads to letting too much slide and being taken advantage of. People born on these dates must learn to be comfortable with confrontation. It might be initially difficult, but they’ll handle conflict and problems like a pro in no time.

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In 2001, as Americans got ready for a day of work and school on Tuesday, September 11, millions had their TVs tuned to one of the network morning shows on NBC, CBS, or ABC. News junkies with cable TV were likely tuned into 24-hour news pioneer CNN, or one of the newer cable networks, FOX News and MSNBC, which were both five years old at the time.

No matter which morning show people were watching, no one could have imagined that they were about to witness the deadliest terrorist attack in American history unfold on their TV screens. But moments after American Airlines Flight 11 crashed into the World Trade Center’s south tower at 8:45 a.m. ET, each network’s morning teams went live with images of smoke billowing out of the tower.

With producers scrambling in the background to get answers and footage, the morning news anchors who Americans trusted to keep them informed, from NBC’s Katie Couric to ABC’s Diane Sawyer, tried to make sense of what they were witnessing in real-time.

In honor of the 25th anniversary of 9/11, and the 2,977 victims who perished that day (not including the 19 hijackers involved), Parade takes a look back at how the reporting unfolded on multiple national morning broadcasts.

NBC’s Today Show Anchors Katie Couric & Matt Lauer Shocked by 9/11 Attacks

In 2001, NBC’s Today dominated the morning ratings, anchored by Katie Couric and Matt Lauer. The morning broadcast that Tuesday began as usual, with headlines from Ann Curry, weather reports by Al Roker, and numerous interviews — including Lauer speaking with a Howard Hughes biographer — until executive producer Jonathan Wald tersely told him in his earpiece: “Go to commercial. Breaking news: A plane has hit the World Trade Center.”

In the clip above, Couric and Lauer returned from the commercial break and she told viewers, “Apparently, a plane has just crashed into the World Trade Center here in New York City.” They immediately spoke with an eyewitness, Jennifer Oberstein, who said it was a “terrifying” scene after seeing a huge fireball and debris falling from the building (though she was unaware at that point it was caused by a plane).

One of the most chilling moments of the broadcast occurs around the 9:26 mark in the video, as Couric and Lauer were talking on the phone with Today producer Elliott Walker. She was reporting from near the site when she screamed, “Oh! Another one just hit! Something else just hit — a very large plane just flew directly over my building and there’s been another collision.”

As a giant fireball enveloped the second tower, voices in the studio could be heard gasping, “Oh my God!” Within a few moments, they went back to Oberstein, who sounded panicked as she told Lauer she’d “never seen anything like it,” describing how she watched a huge jet fly straight into the building.

Five years later, in 2006, Lauer recalled, “That was the realization, in an instant, that this is a major act of terrorism. And where there were two, there could be more, and by the way, we’re sitting in Rockefeller Center, a landmark and iconic attraction in New York City.”

ABC’s Good Morning America Hosts Charlie Gibson & Diane Sawyer React to Second Plane on 9/11

In 2001, ABC’s Good Morning America was hosted by Charlie Gibson and Diane Sawyer who also couldn’t fathom what they were seeing when the show aired live footage of smoke billowing out of the first tower.

Gibson called the Twin Towers the “beacons of New York” and recalled the 1993 terrorist bombing there, but noted, “We don’t know anything about what’s happened here, other than the fact that there’s obviously been a major incident there.”

They then broke in on all ABC stations across the nation, with Gibson telling viewers that there was “one report, unconfirmed, that a plane has hit the World Trade Center.” When the second plane hits, at about 12:35 in the video above, someone in the studio shouts, “Oh my God,” and Sawyer can be heard gasping, “Dear Lord.” Gibson, talking to a witness on the phone about seeing the plane and the second explosion, said, “So this looks like some sort of concerted effort to attack the World Trade Center.”

In 2006, Gibson told Today.com, “For the rest of my life, I will second-guess what happened then. Diane had the human reaction, and she said, ‘Oh my God.’ And I had the reporter’s reaction, which was, ‘Well, now we know what’s going on — we’re under attack.’ And I wish I had her reaction.;”

CBS’ The Early Show Lean On Anchor Bryant Gumbel to Handle Initial 9/11 Coverage

In 2001, CBS’ morning program was called The Early Show, hosted by Bryant Gumbel and Jane Clayson. After a pre-recorded segment about granting a “Week of Wishes” to deserving viewers, they shifted to a nationwide CBS Special Report at 8:52 a.m., with Gumbel announcing over footage of the towers that “a plane has crashed into the World Trade Center.”

While Gumbel spoke on the phone with an eyewitness, Theresa Renaud (wife of the show’s producer, Jack Renaud), she was speaking with him as she saw the second plane hit at the 22:45 mark in the above video. As a fireball appeared in the lower left corner of the screen and Clayson gasped in the background, Renaud exclaimed, “Oh, there’s another one, another plane just hit! Oh my god, another plane has just hit, it hit another building! It flew right into the middle of it!”

When Renaud noted that it “definitely looked like it was on purpose,” Gumbel asked, “You saw a plane?” and she insisted, “Yes, I saw a plane go into the building!”

Eric Shapiro, who was director of the CBS Evening News and special events, told Esquire he raced from a doctor’s appointment and took over the broadcast an hour later, around 10 a.m., with Dan Rather in the anchor chair, and ran their coverage until 2 a.m. the next morning.

CNN’s Carol Lin Was First to Break the News on the Morning of 9/11

On the morning of 9/11, CNN cut into a commercial at 8:48 a.m. with a “very disturbing live shot” of the World Trade Center, morning anchor Carol Lin told viewers. She is widely considered the first person on 9/11 to break the news on television.

Lin recently revealed on the On The Knows podcast that while she was anchoring the coverage, “there were still many things we were not telling you that I was hearing in my earpiece,” including that then-Mayor Rudy Giuliani was “sending 10,000 body bags to Ground Zero” and that “there might be a car bomb outside the State Department.”

Meanwhile, you can also watch how FOX News covered the attacks here. Footage of when MSNBC broke into its daily simulcast of radio icon Don Imus’ morning show to report live can be found here.

The day after the attacks, the New York Post called 9/11 the “most-widely broadcast news story in the history of television.” It also reported that in an unprecedented move, news division presidents at each network gathered for a conference call and agreed to share “whatever videotape any of them had shot during the day and provide the footage to any news organization that wanted to use it.”

There’s something undoubtedly special about King’s Hawaiian rolls. The subtle sweetness and pillowy-soft bread make just about any meal a little more exciting. And just in time for cozy autumn mornings, that signature sweetness is getting a cinnamon-swirled, bite-sized twist.

Even better, Costco is now carrying them in a big, warehouse-sized tub, making it easy to keep plenty on hand for breakfast, afternoon snacking, or whenever something sweet sounds good.

Take a look at the grocery-store size in this TikTok from BJ | Food & Lifestyle Finds (@brndij):

@brndij

EXCUSE ME?! Since when did @KING’S HAWAIIAN make CINNAMON SWIRL BITES?! 😭🤤🔥 I couldn’t leave these behind! #fyp #kingshawaiian #cinnamonbites #newfinds #groceryshopping

♬ original sound – Kosi King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Soft Swirl Bites Arrive at Costco in Warehouse Size

The King’s Hawaiian Cinnamon Soft Swirl Bites combine the soft, subtly sweet bread the brand is known for with a cinnamon filling swirled through each little piece.

At Costco, they come in a generous 20.8-ounce tub for $8.89, although prices and availability can vary by warehouse. According to Warehouse Runner, the bites are Costco item #2072116, which can make them easier to track down at your local club.

And Costco’s larger size comes with a pretty significant value advantage. For comparison, Kroger currently sells King’s Hawaiian Soft Cinnamon Swirl Bites in a 10.2-ounce tub for $6.99. So for just $1.90 more at Costco, you’re getting more than double the amount. 

Related: Costco’s New Fall Dessert Is a S’mores Lover’s Dream Come True

And while you can certainly reach into the container and enjoy one as is, warming them up sounds like the way to go.

The package includes directions for heating the bites in the microwave, oven, or air fryer, so getting that soft bread and cinnamon swirl warm takes very little effort.

That idea has already caught the attention of people who have tried them. After one viewer told BJ, “These are AMAZING! Try them heated up,” she did exactly that, noting, “I did & omggggg.”

With about 10 servings per container and five bites per serving, there’s enough to set out for a weekend breakfast or brunch, share with the family, or keep nearby when the cinnamon craving hits.

They also seem especially well-timed for this part of the year. Cinnamon is one of those flavors that feels right at home as mornings get cooler, and these deliver it without requiring you to mix batter, roll dough, or wait for anything to rise.

Pair a few warm bites with a hot cup of coffee, add them to a brunch spread, or enjoy one (or three) straight from the tub. However you serve them, Costco’s newest King’s Hawaiian arrival makes soft, sweet cinnamon-bun flavor about as easy as it gets.

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If you’ve been looking for an easy way to bring more color into your home, Kelly Clarkson’s Home collection has a pretty pink option worth a look. Whether you want to brighten up a bedroom, add a playful touch to a kid’s room, or warm up a neutral living room, a pink area rug can make a space feel instantly more cheerful. 

The Kelly Clarkson Home Geometric Rose Pink Area Rug at Wayfair checks several boxes if you’re looking for a colorful rug that still won’t clash with your decor. Right now, the rug is on sale at Wayfair for $83, down from $198, for the 5-foot-3-inch by 8-foot rectangular size — that’s 58% off. Shoppers are loving the combination of style and comfort, with one reviewer calling the rug “good quality” and saying it complemented their decor perfectly.

Kelly Clarkson Home Geometric Rose Pink Area Rug, $83 (was $198) at Wayfair

Courtesy of Wayfair

Shop at Wayfair

This rose pink area rug pairs a diamond geometric pattern with a soft, cheerful pink that warms up a room and works with just about any decorating style. The 0.33-inch low pile feels surprisingly cushiony underfoot, which makes it an especially cozy pick for your home.  However, a rug pad is recommended for extra cushioning and to help keep it firmly in place.

The rug comes in a range of rectangular sizes, from a compact 2 feet by 3 feet to a spacious 10 feet by 14 feet, making it easy to find an option that suits your space. It also comes in octagon, square, round, oval and runner shapes. For shoppers who prefer a different shade, additional colorways such as navy, gray and yellow are also available under other labels.

The rug is power-loomed from polypropylene and designed to stand up to kids, pets and everyday wear and tear. It’s also stain-, shedding- and fade-resistant with proper care, making it a practical choice for frequently used areas of the home. 

Keeping the rug looking fresh is simple. Spot-treat stains with water and mild detergent, then vacuum regularly to keep dust and dirt at bay. 

The rug has earned positive reviews for its color and feel. One reviewer called it “super soft” and said they loved its “beautiful” color, adding that it helps hide imperfections. Another said the rug was “perfect” in their bedroom, while a third called it a “wonderful” and “easy-to-clean.” 

Shop More Deals

• Martha Stewart Murray Leaves Reversible Queen Quilt Set, $90 (was $150) at Wayfair
• Martha Stewart Bloomfield Lots of Lemons Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Mat, $16 (was $21) at Wayfair
• Bayou Breeze Hence 31.5-Inch Wide Sideboard Set, $160 (was $500) at Wayfair

Related: Joanna Gaines’ ‘Super Soft’ Stain-Resistant Area Rug Has the Prettiest Vintage-Inspired Look

The Kelly Clarkson Home Geometric Rose Pink Area Rug is now just $83, making it an affordable way to add designer-inspired style to any room. If you’ve had your eye on it, this is a great time to snag it before the deal ends!

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

If you’ve ever tried planning a cruise with your best friends or extended family, you already know the universal headache: stateroom Tetris. Cramming four adults into a single cabin with one tiny bathroom is an exercise in patience nobody actually wants on vacation—and paying full freight for a second stateroom can instantly blow the trip budget.

Enter one of the most unexpected travel hacks quietly taking off at sea: cruise casino status.

Rather than relying on standard cruise promos, Margaritaville at Sea is going all-in on casino incentives with an expanded Casino Players Club launching October 1. Buried beneath the standard casino jargon is an absolute unicorn of a travel perk: “Sail with Friends,” which hands top-tier players a completely free, second oceanview stateroom for two guests.

Yes, an entire extra cabin just so your friends or family can come along for the ride.

Even better? You don’t have to spend years grinding out slot points on Margaritaville’s ships to get your hands on high-tier perks.

Related: How to Pack for a 7-Day Cruise With a Single Carry-On

View this post on Instagram The “Casino Offer Match”

Most casual vacationers throw away the glossy mailers they receive from land-based casinos (think Vegas, Atlantic City, or your local regional resort) or other megaship cruise lines offering “complimentary nights” or discounted getaways.

Don’t throw them away.

Under Margaritaville at Sea’s Casino Offer Match program, you can take an existing casino offer or mailer you’ve received from another cruise line or land-based casino and submit it directly on their website. Instead of forcing you to start at zero, Margaritaville evaluates your proven play elsewhere and matches your established tier from day one.

In short: that weekend trip to Vegas or local gaming floor you visited six months ago could be your ticket to immediate VIP perks at sea.

Related: The One Thing You Should Never Do the Day Before Your Cruise

Why Casino Perks Beat Standard Cruise Loyalty

Ask any seasoned cruiser about loyalty programs, and they’ll tell you that traditional cruise loyalty (where you earn one point per night sailed) is notoriously slow. You often have to spend months at sea just to earn a free bag of laundry or priority boarding.

Casino loyalty plays by completely different rules. Because gaming drives serious revenue for cruise operators, the perks scale much faster—and they cross over into everyday vacation comfort far beyond the blackjack tables.

Under Margaritaville’s revamped Gold and Platinum tiers, high-value perks that usually run up a hefty tab on your final folio are bundled in for free:

• Complimentary Wi-Fi: Gold members get basic Wi-Fi, while Platinum members receive premium streaming-speed Wi-Fi (saving you roughly $15 to $25 per day).
• Complimentary Room Service & Laundry: Platinum players can order breakfast in bed without delivery upcharges and send out laundry for free—a dream for anyone trying to pack light in a carry-on.
• Up to $100 in Onboard Credits: Usable across the ship for spa treatments, shore excursions, or the arcade.
• A Dedicated VIP Host: Personal onboard attention to handle restaurant bookings and requests, skipping the guest services lines entirely.

“Whether someone has been playing with us for years or is considering Margaritaville at Sea for the first time, we want them to feel recognized and rewarded,” says David Gromak, Vice President and Head of Gaming at Margaritaville at Sea. “Our Casino Offer Match program gives established players an easy way to experience Margaritaville at Sea for the first time, while these new benefits give our most loyal players even more value throughout their vacation, both inside and outside the casino.”

The Bottom Line for Travelers

You don’t need to be a high-stakes whale to benefit from the shifting casino loyalty landscape. With cruise lines aggressively competing to pull travelers away from traditional land-based casino resorts, loyalty programs are offering far more value outside the casino pit than ever before.

Before you book your next weekend cruise or toss out your next casino mailer, check what that card in your wallet is actually worth—you might just find yourself gifting your best friends their own private oceanview cabin on the house.

Related: Margaritaville at Sea’s New Beachcomber Is Coming to Galveston With Caribbean Cruises and a Zac Brown Venue