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College Move-In Day Is Stressful Enough—Professional Organizers Say to Avoid These 8 Mistakes
For college freshmen, move-in day is often one of the most significant days of their lives thus far. This day sets the tone for a student’s four-year college career, and keeping items organized and staying level-headed throughout the move-in process can really help set a freshman up for success.
That said, there are a number of common mistakes that college students make when moving into the dorms.
To learn more, we turned to three professional organizers: Dr. Regina Lark, PhD, a Certified Professional Organizer and the founder and owner of A Clear Path; Christina Keen, the founder and manager of Custom Home Organizing; and Marie Jackson, the founder of Organized Marie.
“A lot of families don’t plan ahead for this major life transition,” Dr. Lark tells Parade. “My company is called by frenzied parents and anxious students who just want to get to the other side of packing, get into the new environment.” However, as all three pro organizers can attest, you can avoid the common move-in day mistakes by planning ahead.
Keep reading for insight from Dr. Lark, Jackson and Keen on why college move-in is so stressful, the eight most common move-in mistakes and tips on how to have a smooth move-in!
Why College Move-In Is Often Stressful“Moving is already an incredibly stressful event,” Keen explains to Parade. “To then layer in third-party institutional rules, high emotions, time constraints and severe spatial limitations in the August heat with about 9,000 other people, it’s going to be an intense experience.”
Not to worry, though—Keen says that “with some thoughtful pre-planning and a great attitude this day can be a favorite family memory!”
Plus, moving into a college dorm is “a very big life change,” adds Jackson. “You’re going into an entirely new environment that is smaller than what most college students are used to.”
Related: The 3 College Majors That Lead to the Most Regret, According to Career Coaches
The 8 Biggest College Move-In Mistakes, According to Professional Organizers 1. Bringing too much stuff“The more you bring with you, the more it will cost to get it there,” Dr. Lark says. “Also, having a lot of stuff is a lot to track and you’ve got a lot of other things on your mind.”
To avoid this, Dr. Lark recommends a “less is more” mindset. “Bring the bare minimum with you,” she advises. “Pre-arrange with your parent or someone from home who can send what you need if you’re missing a few things.”
2. Buying organizing products in advance“Dorms are small and every inch matters,” Jackson says. “When you don’t have the right measurements or haven’t seen the space, you show up with bins that may or may not fit. The additional clutter adds more stress.”
To avoid this, she recommends waiting to buy organizing products until you’ve seen the dorm in person, or at least until you’ve obtained a floor plan with measurements.
“The return aisles at the Container Store, IKEA, Target—all the places—are packed and crowded with enough stuff to fill thousands of dorm rooms all around the country,” jokes Dr. Lark. “Seriously, purchase only what you need.” If you do wind up needing more, she recommends looking in secondhand stores.
3. Inadequate planning and researchIn Keen’s opinion, the biggest mistake a family can make “is under valuing the pre-planning, or stopping at the university’s recommended checklist.”
As she explains, these provided packing lists “are not a one-size fits all instruction and often leave out key details that can catch a family unaware.” To better prepare, she recommends following the school on social media, reading up about college move-ins online and even consulting with students who recently have lived in dorms for advice.
Related: 50 Career Goals That’ll Help You Climb That Corporate Ladder in No Time
4. Packing without categorieszamrznutitonovi / Getty Images
The only way to have an organized unpacking process is to start with an organized packing process.
“Keep like with like items together to make the unpacking process run much more smoothly,” says Jackson. “It makes it easier to create zones when you arrive. Packing by category also allows you to bring what you only need.”
5. Not organizing your stuff at home before moving out“Think carefully about how you want to leave your stuff while you go off to college,” advises Dr. Lark. “At some point you’re going to have to deal with it both emotionally and physically. So my best advice is to start decluttering in a big way before you head out the door to your new life.”
This can also be helpful in case you decide you want a family member to mail you items you didn’t pack for move-in day. “Wouldn’t it be easier if the person who’s shipping your stuff knows exactly where to find it and can get it to you quickly?” she says.
6. Hyper-focusing on décor“We Southern mamas especially love this part when we have a daughter going off to college,” says Keen. “Enjoy the fun of creating a beautiful space, but make sure you really play devil’s advocate for every major item. I promise you, the space can be beautiful and functional at the same time!”
Not only will reducing your focus on décor help make sure your dorm room isn’t too crowded with stuff, but it “will also reduce your logistics the day-of because you will have thought through exactly what purpose each piece will perform,” Keen explains.
7. Not optimizing vertical spaceOlga Yastremska / Getty Images
“Dorms are small and ignoring vertical space is wasting prime real estate,” notes Jackson. “Utilize the back of the door with a door organizer, stackable drawer bins that can be placed under the bed and add hooks to the wall to hang up items for quick and easy access.”
8. Not discussing expectations with your family“Part of what makes college move-in day tough are the contrasting emotional needs and expectations connected to it,” explains Keen. “Moms and dads are processing fear, grief and pride at launching their baby bird, while sons and daughters are managing nerves, fear and a natural desire for independence.”
To help keep all these emotions in check on move-in day, Keen recommends sitting down with your family in advance and discussing the big day. “Walk through the trip from packing to unloading to meals, photos and goodbyes,” she advises. “Listen to learn from each other and identify those needs that speak love to the other person. Verbalizing our expectations organizes the day tremendously by keeping everyone on the same page.”
Pro Organizers Share 5 Other Tips for College Move-In“There are some easy ways to bring order to this fun, but chaotic, day,” says Keen. Here are a few tips from the pro organizers to keep things running smoothly.
1. Set up systems to encourage less clutter“I cannot overstate how important it is, and will be to your future, if you can put a lot of thought and effort into how to live with less clutter in your life,” says Dr. Lark. “There’s no one there to pick up after you any longer. The sooner you know how to take care of yourself when it comes to stuff and clutter, that ability will serve you in a variety of ways.”
One way to do this is setting up systems from day one “that are simple and accessible makes it easy to maintain,” says Jackson. “For example, utilize drawer organizers to keep drawers in order. This makes them efficient and creates easy access to pens, highlighters, etc.”
Jackson also recommends “grouping things together by zone,” as this “prevents them from getting lost and keeps the stress level down.” You can create zones for studying, getting ready, laundry and more.
2. Have an ‘unpack first’ boxMediaNews Group/Reading Eagle via Getty Images / Getty Images
For “anything that you need to have immediate access to, put that all together in a box so you don’t have to search through it in another box while trying to unpack,” advises Jackson.
This box should include the things you’ll need to use first upon arriving in your dorm, such as cleaning supplies, drawer liners and your mattress protector and bedding.
3. Talk to your roommates about choresTo set yourself up for success in terms of keeping your dorm organized, Dr. Lark recommends “talking to your roommates roommates about how to keep common areas, how dishes will be done and when, who’s responsible for the trash, and when that needs to happen.” If you can work with your roomies on a chore chart or chore schedule soon after moving in, you might prevent a lot of arguments down the road.
4. Order essentials for pick-up from local shops“I highly recommend placing pick-up orders ahead for items you plan to purchase upon arrival,” says Keen. “This should include some fun snacks and drinks to keep you going for the long day, and a few extra basics like cleaning supplies, Command strips, scissors, etc.”
5. Do move-in day tasks in order of priorityKeen suggests breaking down tasks by priority, and assigning a leader for each task.
“For example, if you are building furniture, unpacking clothes and decorating walls don’t try to do all of that at the same time,” she warns. “It’s a small space and you will end up running over each other and getting frustrated. Tackle the furniture first, and then choose a second and third as makes sense.”
Up Next:
Related: 9 Back-to-School Organization Tips Professional Organizers Swear By
Sources:- Dr. Regina Lark, PhD, a Certified Professional Organizer and the founder and owner of A Clear Path
- Christina Keen, professional organizer and the founder and manager of Custom Home Organizing
- Marie Jackson, professional organizer and the founder of Organized Marie
5 Country Tours You Can’t Miss This Fall 2026
While the summer music festivals may have packed up their stages and returned the porta-potties, fall is just around the corner, which can only mean one thing: Pumpkin spice lattes cool country music tours!
This is not a comprehensive list of the best country tours of fall 2026, but it’s a good starting place. Consider these the must-see shows if you can only pick a handful.
Fall 2026 Country Music Tours You Need to Attend: Ella Langley’s Dandelion TourWhy It’s Worth Seeing: This woman is the best thing since sliced bread right now. She’s country music’s it girl, and her Dandelion album is so dang good. You’d be silly to turn down a ticket if you’re able to get one — and that’s a big if.
Who’s Opening: Ernest, Kameron Marlowe, Laci Kay Booth and Gabriella Rose in different pairings (two per show)
When Is It? Langley’s early-announced tour dates were so popular, she had to book a second leg. Now she’ll be zig-zagging across the United States through Halloween. Find dates right here.
Zach Top’s Cold Beer & Country Music TourWhy It’s Worth It: If you’re a fan of “real” country music, i.e. traditional, this is the tour to see.
Who’s Opening: Marcus King Band, Lukas Nelson, Marty Stuart, Wyatt McCubbin
When Is It? Top will hang up his hat on Oct. 30, but you have a whopping list of dates to choose from before then.
Kacey Musgraves’ Middle of Nowhere TourWhy It’s Worth Seeing: Musgraves is one of those artists you shouldn’t skip when she’s in town. She’s a Grammy winner and one of the most unique lyricists of her time. Seeing her is truly an ethereal experience.
Who’s Opening: Midland, Flatland Cavalry, Charles Wesley Godwin, William Beckmann, Carter Faith, Gabriella Rose, Estevie and The Brudi Brothers will take turns opening shows.
When Is It? The Middle of Nowhere Tour started Aug. 21 and runs through the end of October in the U.S., picking back up in 2027 for shows in Australia, Scotland, and England. Find dates here.
Thomas Rhett’s Soundtrack to Life TourWhy It’s Worth Seeing: Rhett puts on a fun show, and he has a lot of songs that you definitely know the lyrics to, but may have forgotten about.
Who’s Opening: Conner Smith, Ernest, Kashus Culpepper, Vincent Mason, Zach John King, Emily Ann Roberts — you’ll get some combination of two of these acts.
When Is It? The “Crash and Burn” hitmaker kicked this tour off in the heat of summer, but he’ll keep going until Oct. 24, when he puts on a finale performance in Omaha, Neb.
Koe Wetzel’s The Night Champion World TourWhy It’s Worth Seeing: Wetzel is a rowdy artist who puts on a fun show. He’s a great pick for a Friday night if you’re hoping to get a little wild.
Who’s Opening: Bayker Blakenship, Ole 60, Logan Jahnke, Shane Smith & The Saints, Wyatt Flores, Wade Bowen, Corey Kent, Kolby Cooper
When Is It? Wetzel has been on this tour for quite a while already (since May), but he’s not tired yet. Dates run through Oct. 30, with stops in cities like Knoxville, Tenn., Richmond, Va., Little Rock, Ark., Chicago and many, many more. Find dates here.
Kylie Jenner Says She's Done With Living an 'Enormous Life'
Birthdays have a way of sneaking up on people, but for Kylie Jenner, her 29th arrived with a full inventory of everything she wants to change before 30. In a new cover interview, the Kylie Cosmetics founder describes the past year as an overhaul of how big her life had gotten, and why she decided to shrink it back down.
Jenner spoke about this the same week she threw herself an early “princess kitty” birthday party at her Beverly Hills home, ahead of turning 29 on August 10. She said the milestone has her thinking less about age and more about regret, saying she wants to push herself toward new opportunities before she looks back and wishes she had.
Much of that push traces back to her own upbringing on camera. Jenner has spent nearly two decades in reality television, and she told Who What Wear that the scrutiny left her guarded, describing a life spent protecting herself down to which routes she takes leaving her house. That caution, she said, is something she is actively trying to loosen up on.
One clear sign of that shift came through an unlikely source: a comedic cameo in Charli XCX‘s mockumentary The Moment, which has been singled out as one of the film’s best scenes. Jenner said she called her sister Kim Kardashian for advice before agreeing to do it, then spent days rehearsing lines with friends and eventually canceled plans to work with an acting coach once she felt ready. She has since shot a commercial and is weighing television offers, though she says she has passed on two scripts while waiting for the right fit.
Jenner was also candid about the cost of scaling up too fast in her early 20s, when she bought one of the largest houses she could find in Beverly Hills and built a life to match. Looking back, she said plainly, “I think I lost control of my life a little bit for a while there.” She also said she’ll spend less time on her phone, have more boundaries around what she shares, and her fashion label, Khy, is moving away from splashy collaborations toward what she calls timeless, wardrobe-first pieces, including its first footwear line with Italian label Gia Borghini.
Don’t mistake the changes for her rejecting the work she’s done. Jenner still calls Kylie Cosmetics the thing she cares about most, and she remains as hands-on with her brands as ever. But what has changed is the appetite for constant expansion. As she puts it, the goal now is choosing a few things a year that genuinely scare her, rather than saying yes to everything at once.
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8 Fall Carry-On Essentials Every Traveler Needs
Getting ready for fall travel is more than jst packing the practical essentials. It’s also an opportunity to embrace the season with warmer tones, rich brown hues and clever accessories that can spruce up your travel wardrobe without taking up too much space. The best fall carry-on essentials can help balance function with style– from cozy layers that keep you comfortable in chilly airports to seasonal accessories that make even the simplest travel outfit look and feel more put together.
As someone who covers shopping and travel for outlets like Coveteur, Martha Stewart Weddings and Harper’s Bazaar, I’ve learned that the best things to pack are pieces that are practical enough for travel but still feel and look elevated. These fall-ready finds bring together useful travel staples with cozy textures, autumnal details that make packing for the season more intentional. Whether you’re heading out for a weekend getaway or a longer autumn vacation, here are eight fall carry-on essentials every traveler needs.
Related: A Minimalist Carry-On Packing List for Europe Trips
Luka Soft-Sided Carry-On Luggage in Walnutc
If you’re on the hunt for new carry-on luggage, consider this plush, soft-sided and functional CALPAK suitcase made with the brand’s signature Luka material for everyday travel. It has a secure laptop sleeve, easy-access front pockets, 360-degree spinner wheels and a spacious interior, plus this lovely brown hue feels perfect for the fall season.
Frasier Sterling Paisley & Gingham Headband
target.com
One of the simplest ways to make your hair look put together while traveling is with a chic headband in fall-ready patterns that takes up virtually no space in your suitcase.
Get it on Target.com Z Supply Off Duty Mid-Rise Bowed Ankle JeansZ Supply
I always recommend bringing at least one fashion-forward piece on a trip, and these cool brown jeans are an easy way to elevate the basics already in your suitcase. Made from 100% cotton denim, they have a flattering bowed-leg silhouette and gold grommet details, and the rich brown hue still works as a neutral you can wear throughout fall.
Get it on ZSupply.comRelated: 8 Lightweight Travel Essentials That Save Your Back and Shoulders
Abbode Travel Essentials Waffle Brown PouchAbbode
This spacious pouch is not only adorable but incredibly functional, keeping all of your smaller essentials neat and organized. If you prefer everything to have its own labeled place, they’re a great way to keep your suitcase from becoming cluttered.
Get it on Revolve.comRelated: 8 Carry-On Finds That’ll Make You Swear You’re in Premium Economy
LIGHT FLIGHT 8-Set Packing Cubes for TravelLight Flight
For fall trips, bulkier layers require a little more packing strategy, making lightweight, space-saving packing cubes especially useful. They keep clothing, shoes, toiletries and laundry neatly separated and the breathable mesh panels make everything easy to find. The autumnal hue of these bags is a stylish seasonal bonus!
Get it on Amazon.com Glow People Silk Sleep MaskGlow People
A silk eye mask is a travel and carry-on must for making any journey feel a little more relaxing. The blackout design helps you rest on long flights and the soft mulberry silk will feel cool and gentle against the delicate eye area.
Dream Soft
Made from 100% organic cotton, this warm yet elegant travel scarf is a versatile layer to keep in your carry-on. Use it as a light blanket on a chilly flight, then style it as a scarf, shawl or wrap to jazz up an outfit once you arrive. They come in multiple colors, too!
Get it on Amazon.com Thin Merino Wool Ruffle SocksAmazon
These thin merino wool socks are great pairs to pack for fall trips because they provide plenty of warmth without feeling bulky. They’re especially useful with booties or anytime your ankles need a little extra coverage and warmth.
Get it on Amazon.comShould Nashville's International Airport Be Renamed After Dolly Parton?
A petition to rename Nashville International Airport after Dolly Parton has surged past 132,000 signatures and is still climbing.
The Change.org petition, calling for the airport to be renamed Dolly Parton International Airport, was originally started in January 2025 by Lydia Popovich and Dan Dion, two figures in the Nashville comedy scene, as a counter-proposal to a separate Tennessee Legislature effort to rename the airport for President Donald Trump. The organizers describe the petition as a tribute to the woman widely known as the Queen of Country Music, citing her “outstanding influence in the music industry” and her decades of philanthropic work across Tennessee.
Signatures climbed steadily for months, then spiked dramatically once news of Parton’s death broke. Supporters have flooded the petition’s comment section with tributes of their own. “She was our neighbor,” one supporter wrote, describing Parton as a proud Tennessee girl who was never too big to stop and talk to people.
Not everyone is convinced the honor fits, though. Back in January, when the petition had only about 2,600 signatures, Parton herself weighed in, telling The Tennessean that renaming the airport after her was “probably more of a joke than anything” and that she couldn’t picture it “as an actual thing.” Some have floated other tributes that might better reflect her legacy, pointing to her Imagination Library program, which has mailed more than 100 million free books to children since 1995, as a more fitting namesake than an airport terminal.
Parton’s representatives confirmed she died in Nashville following a brief battle with cancer, about a year and a half after her husband of nearly 60 years, Carl Dean, died in March 2025. Dollywood, the theme park she opened in 1986, announced it would remain open in the days following her death, saying she always wanted the show to go on.
Whether officials ever act on the petition remains unclear, but its renewed momentum shows just how far Parton’s influence reached beyond music, into the everyday fabric of the state she never stopped calling home.
Walmart’s 'Sturdy' $43 7-Drawer Dresser Has ‘Spacious’ Drawers for an End-of-Summer Reset
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If you’ve somehow accumulated twice as many shorts, tanks, swimsuits, and sundresses as you remember buying this summer, you’re not alone. With fall getting closer, finding somewhere to put all of those warm-weather clothes can become its own project. Fortunately, Walmart has the Ledrem 7-Drawer Fabric Dresser on sale for just $43 right now, down from $90. The black seven-drawer version is the best deal, but the dresser is also offered in three- and five-drawer configurations, with black, rustic brown, and white styles available.
The seven-drawer model measures 39 inches wide, 12 inches deep, and 29 inches high. It has a reinforced steel frame, MDF-supported nonwoven fabric drawers, adjustable feet, and an anti-tip kit. The top supports up to 88 pounds, while the smaller drawers hold up to 11 pounds each and the larger ones up to 22 pounds each. The top surface can also double as extra display space or even hold a TV, making the piece more versatile than a basic set of drawers.
Ledrem 7-Drawer Fabric Dresser, $43 (was $90) at Walmart Shop at WalmartIts seven separate drawers make it easier to give everything its own place instead of cramming clothes into one overcrowded drawer or storage bin. You could separate shorts, swimsuits, tanks, accessories, pajamas, or anything else that might otherwise pile up. And because it costs less than $50, it’s a much smaller investment than buying a traditional wood dresser.
One reviewer called it a “beautiful, well-made fabric dresser” that’s “very sturdy,” while another described it as “a practical and stylish addition to small spaces,” noting it “offers enough storage for everyday essentials.” Someone else wrote, “The drawers are spacious and perfect for keeping clothes organized,” although clothes aren’t the only thing you can store in here. One shopper even mentioned using the drawers for craft supplies.
If you’re working with a small room, this lightweight fabric dresser is an easy way to gain extra drawer space without taking up floor space or breaking the bank. You can also move it from room to room as your needs change over the years, or tuck it inside a closet that could use a little more organization.
Shop More Deals- Lofka 6-Drawer Dresser With Solid Wood Legs, $110 (was $196) at Walmart
- Ojmx Modern 6-Drawer Wide Dresser, $110 (was $190) at Walmart
- Aiho 4-Drawer Tall Dresser, From $70 (was $130) at Walmart
If your closet is starting to look like summer overstayed its welcome, this is an affordable way to get some breathing room before fall clothes fully take over. The Ledrem 7-Drawer Fabric Dresser is currently less than half its original price at $43, so grab it at Walmart now while the clearance price is still available.
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King Harald V Dies at 89 — Now His 22-Year-Old Granddaughter Makes Royal History
King Harald V of Norway died this morning at the age of 89. Until his death he was Europe’s oldest living monarch.
In a statement the Norwegian royal palace said, “It is with deep sadness that we announce that His Majesty King Harald passed away today.
“King Harald passed away peacefully at Oslo University hospital on Friday 28 August 28 at 6.35am.”
The late king was hospitalized last week due to a bacterial blood infection.
He ascended to the throne in 1991 and was a great-great grandchild of the UK’s Queen Victoria.
He and Queen Elizabeth II shared the same great-grandparents, King Edward VII and Queen Alexandra, making them second cousins.
Queen Elizabeth’s grandfather King George V was brother to King Harald’s grandmother Queen Maud.
In a statement released on the royal family’s official Instagram account King Charles III said, “It is with the most profound sadness that my wife and I have learnt of the death of my dear cousin.”
He went on, “”For thirty-five years, King Harald served his people with unwavering dedication, guiding Norway through times of great change with warmth and humility.
“”As Norway mourns the loss of so towering a figure, my whole family join in remembering a much-loved kinsman and friend whose kindness, compassion and deep sense of duty echoed from across the sea and across the decades.”
King Harald is succeeded by his 53-year-old son King Haakon, whose wife Queen Mette-Marit has come under harsh criticism recently for her links to the late child sex offender Jeffrey Epstein.
Earlier this year it was revealed that Mette-Marit continued to correspond with Epstein after his conviction.
She subsequently released a statement in which she expressed the “deepest regret for my friendship with Jeffrey Epstein”, and expressed remorse for “the situation that I have put the royal family in, especially the king and queen.”
Her 29-year-old son from a previous relationship, Marius Borg Høiby, was convicted of rape earlier this summer and sentenced to four years in prison.
Related: This Is What Princess Charlotte’s New Title Will Be When Prince William Becomes King
The death of King Harald means that his 22-year-old granddaughter Princess Ingrid Alexandra is now the Crown Princess and heir to the throne.
She is the first female heir to the Norwegian throne in over 600 years.
The last female monarch in Norway was Ingrid’s ancestor Queen Margaret, who died in 1412.
Norway established absolute primogeniture in 1990 which meant that going forward the oldest child of the monarch, regardless of gender, would inherit the throne.
Until then the country had operated under the system of agnatic (male-only) primogeniture.
Last week the tiny country of Liechtenstein became the latest European monarchy to abandon the system of agnatic primogeniture, opening the doors for future princesses to inherit the throne.
Princess Ingrid is currently studying for a degree in social sciences at the University of Sydney.
Next up, Prince Harry Has “Very Few Friends Left” as Royal Family Rift Takes Another Turn
Under Canvas Just Dropped a Rare 50% Off Flash Sale—and It’s the Ultimate Way to Book Fall Glamping for Less
If you’ve been daydreaming about crisp autumn air, crackling campfires, and vibrant golden leaves without wanting to pitch a standard nylon tent on the cold ground, luxury outdoor hospitality brand Under Canvas just served up the perfect excuse to book a getaway.
The glamping leader rolled out a limited-time flash sale offering 50% off the second night of any two-night stay. For travelers looking to stretch their trip into a longer four-day escape, the fourth night is also 50% off.
The promotion runs for just four days—from August 27 through August 30, 2026—and applies to all remaining stay dates through the end of each property’s 2026 season with zero blackout dates. By using the promo code HALFOFF26 at checkout, travelers can lock in late-season getaways where the second night drops below $100 depending on the location and dates.
Related: The New England Fall Road Trip Travel Experts Swear By
The Best Way to Catch Peak Fall FoliageView looking out from inside a large open canvas glamping tent toward a wooden deck patio, lawn, and scenic coastline.
While the promotion is great for a spontaneous Labor Day weekend escape, autumn is widely considered the secret sweet spot for glamping. As summer temperatures ease and peak vacation crowds head home, national parks transition into their most colorful season of the year.
In the Northeast, Under Canvas Acadia in Maine and Under Canvas White Mountains in New Hampshire place guests right inside classic New England leaf-peeping corridors, where days are spent hiking alongside vibrant red and gold canopies and evenings end around the fire pit.
Down South, Under Canvas Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee puts travelers minutes from the scenic Blue Ridge and Foothills parkways, where higher elevations begin glowing with fiery autumn hues throughout October. For a Midwest retreat, The Fields of Michigan—located on a working blueberry farm near South Haven—offers cider, apple picking, and peaceful farm-to-table stays wrapped in cozy fall scenery.
Related: The 20 Most Stunning U.S. Destinations for Fall Foliage This Year
Cooler Desert Days and Stargazing in the WestUnder Canvas
For travelers headed west, autumn brings comfortable daytime hiking conditions and crystal-clear night skies across the American Southwest.
Properties near Zion, Bryce Canyon, and Moab in Utah, as well as the Grand Canyon in Arizona, offer an ideal home base for exploring dramatic red-rock canyons without the scorching midsummer heat.
The discount also covers Under Canvas’s ultra-luxury sister resort, ULUM Moab, a Michelin Key-recognized retreat featuring dipping pools, full-service dining, and panoramic views of Looking Glass Arch.
Related: Glamping Spots Near Me: The Most Amazing, Unusual Insta-Worthy Glamping Sites
Upscale Comforts Under the StarsLake Powell
Unlike traditional camping, Under Canvas properties blend deep immersion in nature with hotel-style luxuries.
Accommodations feature elevated safari-style canvas tents outfitted with plush king-size beds, luxe linens, private en-suite bathrooms with hot pull-chain showers, and wood-burning stoves to keep things warm on chilly autumn nights. Around the camp, guests can enjoy complimentary nightly s’mores around the fire, live acoustic music, morning yoga sessions, and locally sourced dining.
With the booking window closing on August 30 at 11:59 p.m. MT, locking in dates now is the most affordable way to trade the daily grind for an autumn retreat beneath the stars.
Related: Score a 6-Day Cruise for Less Than a Costco Run in Margaritaville at Sea’s Labor Day Sale
1978 Heartbreak Ballad, Sung by Neil Diamond and Barbra Streisand, Blew Up Before They Ever Recorded It
Long before Neil Diamond and Barbra Streisand‘s duet “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” dominated the Billboard charts, it existed in two completely different worlds.
Diamond had recorded his version as a quiet, somber track for his 1977 album I’m Glad You’re Here with Me Tonight. Streisand delivered her own aching rendition a year later for her Songbird LP.
However, neither music icon had any intention of turning the song into a duet. But when a creative radio DJ decided to play music matchmaker behind Columbia Records’ back, he ignited a pop-culture frenzy that the label couldn’t ignore.
Originally, Diamond wrote the song with Marilyn and Alan Bergman as a TV theme for a Norman Lear project, All That Glitters, reported American Songwriter. However, when the proposed series took a different turn, Diamond recorded the song himself and included it on the ’77 LP. Streisand also loved the song and recorded it, in the same key as Diamond, for her own album.
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Ron Galella/Ron Galella Collection via Getty ImagesThis element proved crucial to what would happen next. A radio DJ and program director named Gary Guthrie from WAKY Radio in Louisville, Kentucky, heard the similarities in the two versions and spliced them together, according to Stereogum.
Following overwhelming listener interest, other radio stations did the same thing. This response led Columbia Records to get two of their biggest artists in the studio to record an official version of “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers.” It hit the top spot on the Billboard Hot 100 in December 1978.
Diamond discussed the song with Mojo Magazine in 2008, as reprinted by Songfacts, “I suggested trying to write a torch song, which is typically a woman singing on-stage about how her man done her wrong, but having sung by a man. Therefore, the title ‘You Don’t Bring Me Flowers,’ which is not something that men really think about but a woman might.”
At the 1980 Grammy Awards, Streisand and Diamond performed the song to close out the ceremony. They received a standing ovation as neither was scheduled to appear.
Their on-screen chemistry felt real, and Streisand received cheers at the song’s end when she tenderly touched her friend’s face. “You Don’t Bring Me Flowers” was nominated for Song Of The Year, but lost to Billy Joel’s “Just the Way You Are.”
Ironically, both Barbra Streisand and Neil Diamond were classmates at Brooklyn, New York’s Erasmus High School, where they sang in the choir together. Their shared history and convincing vocal chemistry cemented this song in the history books as one of the most beloved love songs of a generation.
'80s Metal Band Anthrax Announces Intimate Show in New York
Anthrax, the veteran thrash metal band, is bringing their signature high-octane music and explosive stage performance for an intimate show in New York.
Amid their back-to-back performances at Iron Maiden’s Run For Your Lives World Tour and a series of festival appearances, the band, composed of founding and sole constant member Scott Ian on rhythm guitar, Joey Belladonna on lead vocals, Charlie Benante on drums, Frank Bello on bass and Jonathan Donais on lead guitar, will add a headlining concert to their run.
In an Instagram post, Anthrax announced that they will take part in the grand reopening of the legendary Saint Vitus Bar at its new location in Bushwick, Brooklyn.
Scheduled for Sept. 4, the quintet will be the first band to officially headline the new venue.
Anthrax also promised that they will turn the event into a memorable moment with a special performance at the re-opening.
Scott Ian performs onstage with Anthrax during Tons Of Rock on June 25, 2026Rune Hellestad - Corbis/Corbis via Getty Images
“NEW YORK CITY/ We’re honored to be performing at the grand re-opening of the legendary @saintvitusbar on September 4th. We’ll be filming the entire show, capturing every intimate moment. Bring the mosh and live forever with us in the history of New York Thrash,” the caption reads, adding that the tickets will be available on Aug. 28.
The announcement sparked excitement among fans who are eager to see Anthrax perform live.
View this post on Instagram“BRING BACK L’AMOUR,” a commenter said.
“This is amazing. I saw Anvil and Don Jameson at the original St Vitus Bar, what a fun night that was,” one wrote.
“I might need to skip work for this one. Insane!” a commenter mentioned.
Others expressed their surprise, saying “This can’t be real!!!” while a follower remarked, “This will be amazing.”
After ringing in the year with multi-city headlining shows in Australia in March, marking their first headline tour down under since 2019, they are currently in the middle of Iron Maiden’s North American tour, traveling across select major cities in the U.S. and Canada through September.
Adding to the list is their performance at America’s biggest rock festival, Louder Than Life.
Set to take place in Louisville, Kentucky, from Sept. 17 to 20, the annual music event will also showcase major acts including headliners My Chemical Romance, Limp Bizkit, TOOL and Iron Maiden.
Related: ’80s Metal Band Anthrax Announces New Song Amid 2026 Tour
1979 Soft Rock Hit, Featuring Stevie Nicks and Lindsey Buckingham on Backup, 'Meant Nothing' to Singer
In 1979, John Stewart scored a soft rock hit with “Gold.” Featuring Stevie Nicks on backing vocals and Lindsey Buckingham on guitar, the song from the album Bombs Away Dream Babies became the former Kingston Trio member’s best-known track as a solo artist. Still, Stewart later admitted that he found the track deeply unsatisfying.
Written solely by Stewart, “Gold” paired a radio-friendly ‘70s soft rock sound with a cynical reflection on success and sacrifice in Los Angeles’s music industry. “Driving over Kanan, singing to my soul, there’s people out there turning music into gold,” Stewart sang.
Complemented by Nicks’ unmistakable backing vocals on the chorus at the height of Fleetwood Mac fandom, the song reached No. 5 on the Billboard Hot 100 in August 1979.
But Stewart once claimed he wrote “Gold” after being “ordered to have a hit” by RSO Records. “It was totally unsatisfying, because it was a manufactured hit,” he told The Los Angeles Times in 1985.
Stewart was already a successful songwriter, having penned the Monkees hit “Daydream Believer” years before writing “Gold.” But in a backstage interview, he admitted “Gold” felt different—and he ultimately stopped performing it in his shows.
“I did ‘Gold’ for the money,” Stewart said. “And it just was vapid, and it just, it’s not one of my favorite songs I’ve ever done. It was the biggest hit I ever had, and I just don’t do it anymore because it just means nothing to me, you know.“
“I did what a record company wanted me to do, and it happened to work,” Stewart explained. “And I remember when ‘Gold’ came out and it was big, it was No. 5 and the album was No. 10. And I had an article in People magazine and I was doing interviews all over the place and I just sat and cried for two days. It was so empty, you know. I mean, there was People magazine, the picture, Billboard, on the radio. It meant nothing. It absolutely meant nothing.”
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Stewart added that he learned a “great lesson” from the experience. “Do what I believe in, don’t go for the money,” he said.
The singer-songwriter died in 2008. And while he didn’t want to be remembered for “Gold,” Stewart always saw the irony in how his biggest hit song came to be.
“I took ‘Gold’ to [record producer] Al Coury. It was the first song I took to him after he said, ‘You have got to get me a hit,’” Stewart once said. “I wrote a song about trying to write a hit song that turned out to be a hit song.”
NFL Announces Global Afrobeats Superstar as Halftime Show Performer
The NFL is bringing one of Afrobeats’ biggest stars to its international stage.
The league has announced that Ayra Starr will headline the halftime show during the 2026 NFL London Game between the Philadelphia Eagles and the Jacksonville Jaguars. The game will take place on Oct. 11 at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London.
Kickoff is scheduled for 9:30 a.m. ET.
The announcement was also shared by the NFL on Instagram.
Fans quickly reacted to the news, with many celebrating the singer’s latest major performance.
“Authentic star girl 💫 💜💜💜💜,” one fan wrote.
Another said, “This is huge 🙌 I’m super proud of my girl ❤️.”
The announcement also sparked some playful reactions. “Oh man! I thought for a second it was the Super bowl Half time! 😂😂😂” one person commented.
Ayra Starr at the 2026 Fifteen Percent Pledge Fundraising Gala held at Paramount Studios on Feb. 7, 2026 in Los Angeles, California.Photo by Gilbert Flores/Variety via Getty Images
“Well deserved STAR, next is the Superbowl 💜💜,” another wrote.
Other fans were already looking ahead to the London show. “See you in London starrgirl 💜,” one comment read, while another joked, “Oh that is awesome girl bring Zayn 😂.”
View this post on InstagramThe performance will put the Nigerian singer-songwriter in front of NFL fans during one of the league’s biggest international events.
According to Billboard, Starr is the first Afrobeats star selected to perform at an NFL International Game halftime show.
The performances, presented by American Express, will take place across seven countries and four continents as the league plays its largest number of international games in a single season.
“I am so excited to perform at the NFL halftime show in London,” Starr said, per NFL. “London is one of my favorite places in the world and to bring Starrgirl to the NFL global stage is a dream come true for me. I can’t wait to see you guys there!”e
The NFL halftime performance comes shortly after the release of Starr’s third studio album, Starrgirl, which arrived on Aug. 14 through Mavin Records and Republic Records.
The album includes collaborations with ZAYN, Leon Thomas and Wizkid. Starrgirl also reached No. 4 on Billboard‘s World Albums chart.
Starr has become one of the leading young voices in Afrobeats and global pop since making her debut in 2021. The NFL said she has earned more than seven billion global streams and one billion YouTube views.
She is also a two-time GRAMMY nominee for Best African Music Performance and a BET Award winner for Best International Act. Starr has also performed on the Pyramid Stage at Glastonbury Festival.
Born Oyinkansola Sarah Aderibigbe, the singer is professionally known as Ayra Starr. She first gained major attention with songs including “Away,” “Bloody Samaritan” and “Rush.”
“Rush” helped expand her audience and earned her a Grammy nomination for Best African Music Performance. Her music career has since included international tours, festival appearances and collaborations with artists from different parts of the music industry.
Related: Super Bowl Champions Announce ’90s Rock Band as Halftime Show Performer
Deep Plum Is Coming for Beige—Designers Explain Why It’s Fall’s New ‘It’ Color
It’s not uncommon for interior design buffs to update their homes each season. So, with crunchy leaves already around the corner, I got to wondering what home decor is going to be popular this fall.
And no, I don’t mean what jack-o’-lantern carvings are going to be on stoops—I mean what autumnal colors people are going to be using to decorate their homes.
To find out, I turned to three interior designers: Christina Cruz, Owner and Principal Designer of Christina Cruz Interiors in Austin, Andrea DeRosa, co-founder of Avenue Interior Design in Los Angeles, and Olga Naiman, founder of design studio Spatial Alchemy and the author of the book Spatial Alchemy.
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All three designers agree on one color they foresee making a major splash in home decor this fall—a gorgeous, rich shade that’s simultaneously a neutral and a jewel tone. “It brings warmth and personality to a space while still feeling timeless,” Cruz tells Parade.
Below, the designers share why they love this color so much for fall, how to incorporate it into your home and a few other hues you can expect to see popping in homes this autumn.
Related: 5 Outdoor Lighting Mistakes Designers Say Can Make Your Home Look Worse
Why Designers Say Deep Plum Will Be Everywhere This FallThe color that Cruz, DeRosa and Naiman think people will be using in their homes this fall is deep plum—a dark shade of purple with traces of red and brown.
“This fall, I think we’re going to see deep plum make a major return to interiors,” Cruz tells Parade. Here are three reasons these designers love deep plum for fall.
1. Deep plum is a more playful choice than autumnal browns.“It has the richness and warmth we naturally crave as the seasons change,” Cruz says of deep plum, “but it feels a little more unexpected than the browns and burgundies we typically associate with fall.”
DeRosa echoes this sentiment, explaining that “deep plum feels especially right for fall because it brings the richness we naturally gravitate toward as the seasons change, but with a little more personality than traditional burgundy or chocolate brown.”
2. Deep plum can serve as a neutral—and it nicely complements other neutrals.Deep plum has the unique ability to “almost behave like a neutral when it’s used in a deeper, muddier tone,” according to Cruz, and it can give “a room depth without making it feel overly colorful.”
The hue also compliments a variety of organic materials, such as walnut, marble and unlacquered brass, per Cruz, while DeRosa adds that deep plum looks fantastic alongside warm neutrals, natural woods and aged metals.
“We’re seeing people become much more confident about bringing color back into their homes,” Cruz adds, “and plum is a wonderful next step because it feels both dramatic and incredibly livable.”
“It’s dramatic enough to make an impact, yet its muted, earthy undertones keep it from feeling too bold or trendy,” DeRosa says. “We are collectively finished with the beige years, but people are not reaching for bright color,” adds Naiman.
Related: Amazon’s Magical Cottagecore Lamps Start at Just $20, and They Add Instant Cozy Charm
3. Deep plum can make a space feel calm and cozy.Naiman actually recently painted her pantry a shade of deep plum: Purple Brown by Little Greene.
“What struck me is how safe the room feels to stand in,” she says about her pantry. “At a time when so much outside the house feels chaotic, people want rooms that make them feel contained, rooted and grounded, and deep plum does that in a way a brighter color cannot.”
DeRosa adds that when used as an accent color, deep plum can “add depth and a coziness to a room.”
Olga Yastremska / Getty Images
Related: The One Paint Finish Designers Say Most Homeowners Should Never Apply Themselves
How to Decorate Your House Using Deep PlumHere are a few of the designers’ favorite ways to incorporate deep plum into home design.
1. Color-drench a small room.Meritage RC - Design by @aprillawrence849, Photo by @erinashkelly
“A powder room, library or cocktail room is the perfect place to fully embrace deep plum,” says Cruz. “Carrying the color across the walls, trim and even cabinetry creates an immersive, cocooning feeling that can completely transform a smaller space.”
Naiman also recommends saturating a small room’s “walls, trim and ceiling all in the same plum,” such as a study, back hallway or stairwell. “Small rooms are where people are most afraid of dark color and where dark color actually performs best,” she says.
2. Utilize deep plum upholstery.All three designers are fans of embracing deep plum upholstery (ideally in velvet!), whether it’s a headboard, chair, pillow, throw blanket or rug.
“If you’re not ready to commit to plum furniture or paint, textiles are an easy way to experiment with the color,” explains DeRosa. This can help give a “neutral room more depth and these pieces can easily be swapped out as your taste changes.”
Cruz suggests a headboard or chair in deep plum, alongside an earthy color palette. “It gives you that beautiful saturated moment without requiring the entire room to revolve around the color, and it looks especially beautiful paired with walnut, olive green and warm stone,” she says.
Naiman agrees, noting that just one deep plum accent piece of furniture “will hold a room for years in a way a trend color will not.”
3. Introduce deep plum lighting fixtures.Svetlana Repnitskaya / Getty Images
A lamp with a deep plum shade or base “is one of the chicest ways to use the color and one of the easiest,” says Naiman. “The light coming through a plum shade is warm rather than white, so it changes the whole feel of a room at night without your having to commit to anything permanent.”
Designers Say These Colors Will Also Dominate Homes This Fall 1. Chocolate brown“Painting a room chocolate brown will change its whole flavor, and it works especially well if the anchor pieces you already own are neutral,” says Naiman. “You do not have to replace anything. The walls do the work and the furniture you have suddenly reads differently.”
2. OliveAll three designers point to olive as a prominent color for this autumn. “Olive is one of those colors that almost functions as a neutral, which is why I think it has so much staying power,” says Cruz.
“Olive functions as a neutral in its own right, which is why it sits so easily next to other neutrals,” adds Naiman. “It gives you the depth of a real color without asking you to build a whole scheme around it.”
DeRosa is specifically a fan of “dusty” olive, which “has the earthy quality we love about green but its muted undertones make it feel warmer and more sophisticated for fall.”
Related: Fertilizing These 9 Plants in Summer Can Do More Harm Than Good—These 5 Still Need It
3. Burnt ochre“Burnt ochre has become a major color in interiors,” says Cruz. “It has that beautiful golden warmth we associate with fall, but in a more earthy, sophisticated way.”
Similarly, warm caramel is on DeRosa’s list for fall. She notes that the shade “introduces a soft autumn palette that still allows for versatility” and “can transition through most seasons effortlessly.”
4. MustardEarthy shades of yellow, such as mustard, are “yellow without the aggression, without the in-your-face quality that keeps people away from the color,” says Naiman. “That makes them usable in rooms where a brighter yellow would be exhausting to live with.”
Up Next:
Related: The 7 Best Flea Markets From Around the World, According to Interior Designers
Sources:- Christina Cruz, Owner and Principal Designer of Christina Cruz Interiors
- Andrea DeRosa, co-founder of Avenue Interior Design
- Olga Naiman, founder of design studio Spatial Alchemy and author of Spatial Alchemy.
Joanna Gaines' 'Beautiful' Checkered Area Rug Is an Effortless Farmhouse Upgrade, and It’s 51% Off
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The right rug can completely transform a room, infusing it with character and comfort while tying together your favorite furniture and decor. Joanna Gaines, beloved for her signature approach to cozy yet refined interiors, seems to have mastered the art of creating rugs that instantly add comfort and style to a space.
A standout piece in her popular home collection is the Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines x Loloi Ryder Area Rug, available now for just $44 at Wayfair. This beige and ivory checkered beauty is quickly earning praise from shoppers and designers alike for its subtle texture, inviting color palette, and remarkable versatility.
Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines x Loloi Ryder Area Rug, From $44 (was $89) at Wayfair Shop at WayfairThe Ryder rug offers a modern take on timeless style, blending creamy beiges and soft ivories in a pattern that feels both current and classic. Its understated design makes it an easy match for a wide range of aesthetics, from farmhouse and coastal to modern and transitional. Whether you are looking to anchor a living room, bring harmony to a bedroom, or create a welcoming entryway, this rug provides a great look and feel.
Shoppers appreciated that the neutral palette lets them easily switch out accent pillows or throws without clashing. Others mentioned the rug’s ability to brighten up a space, bringing a sense of calm and cohesion to even the most eclectic rooms.
One shopper called it “beautiful,” “high-quality,” and “easy to clean.”
Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines x Loloi Ryder Area Rug, From $44 (was $89) at Wayfair Shop at WayfairAnother shopper called it an “absolute dream rug,” adding: “It looks very good in my living room [that has] a modern heritage aesthetic.” Whether you are redecorating a single room or looking for that perfect piece to pull everything together, this rug offers a simple solution that feels both timeless and fresh.
Shop More Deals- Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines x Loloi Selena Accent Pillow Cover, $30 (was $45) at Wayfair
- Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines x Loloi Sinclair Turquoise 2-Foot Runner Rug, $35 (was $69) at Wayfair
- Magnolia Home by Joanna Gaines x Loloi Gigi 10-Foot Area Rug, $43 (was $59) at Wayfair
Related: Joanna Gaines’ ‘Unique’ $32 Rattan Mushroom Lamp Adds a ‘Cozy, Natural Vibe’ to Any Space
For anyone seeking to add a touch of Joanna Gaines’ signature warmth and effortless style to their living space, the Ryder Area Rug is a natural choice. Its blend of durability, elegance, and comfort makes it a standout addition to any home. Snag it while it’s still in stock at up to 51% off.
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30 Years After Diana and Charles’ Divorce, This Emotional Detail About Their Final Day Still Surprises
On this day 30 years ago Princess Diana and Prince Charles divorced, marking the end of what began as a fairytale romance (on paper, at least) and ended in the infamous ‘War of the Wales.’
By the time the Prince and Princess of Wales officially parted ways on August 28, 1996, they had already been separated for four years.
Their signing of the divorce papers brought to a conclusion their fraught fifteen years of marriage.
But there was an emotional aspect to the couple’s final day as a couple that few remember.
According to royal biographer Ingrid Seward, Diana told her that on the day that they signed the divorce papers both she and Charles sat down together on a sofa and cried.
Despite what is universally agreed to be their ‘disaster’ of a marriage, apparently Diana and Charles were on better terms by the time their divorce was finalized and their focus was on co-parenting their sons Prince William and Prince Harry, who at the time were aged 14 and 11 respectively.
It was a far cry from the fiery tumult of their separation period.
The irrevocable breakdown of their marriage began in 1992, when Andrew Morton’s unofficial biography of Diana, named Diana: Her True Story, was published and caused an outcry due to the rumors that the Princess of Wales herself was a source for the book.
The rumors turned out out to be true.
One of the bombshell moments in the book was an account of Diana confronting Charles’ mistress Camilla Parker-Bowles at a party.
Diana said that she told Camilla, “I know what’s going on between you and Charles, and I just want you to know that.”
Later that year came ‘Squidgygate’, when transcripts of private phonecalls that took place in 1989 between Diana and her lover James Gibney were published by The Sun in which he addressed her by the nickname ‘Squidgy.’
It came as no huge shock, therefore, that towards the end of 1992 Prime Minister John Major made the announcement that Diana and Charles had decided to separate.
Although Diana and Charles continued to attend some official engagements together in the aftermath of separation, with Diana also joining the royal family on their traditional Christmas morning walk to Sandringham in 1993, the drama didn’t end there.
In a televised interview in 1994 Charles admitted that he had been unfaithful in his marriage.
Related: This Is What Princess Charlotte’s New Title Will Be When Prince William Becomes King
The very next day Diana stepped out in her infamous ‘revenge dress’ to a dinner at the Serpentine Gallery.
Diana’s low-cut, the shoulder-baring midnight-blue dress was instantly seared into the cultural consciousness, as was the pearl and sapphire choker with which she accessorized it.
But the outfit’s real impact was due to how she looked in it: happy, confident, and utterly indifferent to the revelations made by her husband the night before.
Then in 1995 Diana gave an interview to the BBC in which she discussed Charles’ affair with Camilla, telling Martin Bashir that there “were three of us in this marriage, so it was a bit crowded.”
Her frank revelations prompted Queen Elizabeth II to request that she and Charles get an early divorce.
A statement from Buckingham Palace said, “After considering the present situation, the Queen wrote to both the prince and princess earlier this week and gave them her view, supported by the Duke of Edinburgh, that an early divorce is desirable.”
In July 1996 the details of Diana and Charles’ divorce settlement were agreed. Diana would lose her HRH status but would remain Diana, Princess of Wales.
She was also permitted to retain her private apartment in the grounds of the Kensington Palace complex and to use the private jets to which the royal family had access.
Her divorce settlement was reportedly worth $22.5 million in cash.
Sadly, just over a year after her divorce was finalized, Diana was killed in a car crash in Paris.
Tragically, Ingrid Seward said, Diana revealed that she would have liked to get married again at some point.
According to Seward when the pair of them discussed the topic Diana said, “But who would have me? I have so much baggage.”
Seward went on, “More than anything, she was just craving to be loved.”
Next up, Prince Harry Has “Very Few Friends Left” as Royal Family Rift Takes Another Turn
I Thought These Were Summer-Only Trips, but a Top Travel Advisor Convinced Me to Go in October Instead
When most travelers map out their dream vacations, summer usually hogs the spotlight. We instinctively default to July beach trips, sun-baked Mediterranean island hops, and August mountain hikes.
According to luxury travel advisor Nadia Bess—owner of Besst Travels and a veteran globetrotter who has explored more than 55 countries—sticking strictly to the summer calendar means missing out on the absolute best version of these destinations.
By shifting your trips into the autumn shoulder season, you swap sweltering heat, tourist gridlock, and inflated peak rates for empty trails, warm waters, and high-end luxury perks that are suddenly within reach. Here is why Bess convinces her clients to ditch summer and book their next getaway for the fall.
View this post on Instagram Southern Appalachia & Blue Ridge: Fall Feasts and Bourbon HeritageWhile the Blue Ridge Mountains draw massive summer crowds looking to escape coastal humidity, Bess notes that early-to-mid autumn transforms the region into a premier culinary destination.
For food-focused travelers looking for a high-end seasonal escape, she recommends The Lodge at Primland in the Blue Ridge Mountains of Virginia, which hosts an exclusive three-day Thanksgiving in the Highlands event over Thanksgiving week.
“It takes place over three days over the holiday week and is full of festive fall activities,” Bess shares, “including learning about the history of bourbon in Appalachia, a Thanksgiving Day Parade viewing party, stargazing, a massive Thanksgiving feast, and hikes and RTV excursions through the breathtaking fall foliage of the Blue Ridge Mountains.”
Related: A New Priceline Study Reveals Where Everyone’s Leaf-Peeping for Fall 2026—And It’s Not Vermont
The Greek Islands: Warm Seas and Restored HospitalityThe Mediterranean is famous for its midsummer cruise ship crush, but Bess advises shifting your Greek island getaways to a very specific window in September.
“I pretty much try to send every client who wants to visit the Mediterranean in September or October but, in particular, the Greek islands,” Bess says. “The sea has spent all summer heating up and is at its warmest in September! If you visit in mid-September, prices will start to drop, crowds will decrease significantly, and you’ll experience significantly better service at hotels and restaurants because the staff won’t be as overworked.”
Timing your trip for autumn also helps you dodge natural weather nuisances. “You will also avoid the famous summer winds, known as the Meltemi, that peak in July and August, making the sea rough and causing ferry cancellations,” she notes.
However, Bess emphasizes that the window is brief: “It’s a win-win! However, you have a short window and mid-September is ideal. By the second week of October, the temperatures start to dip, the winds pick back up, and seasonal restaurants and hotels begin closing for winter. At this time, I think it’s better to head to the Greek mainland, with the exception of a few spots where the locals actually live.”
Related: The New Greece Tour That Traces the Actual Path of ‘The Odyssey’
The Nordics & Scandinavia: The Ultimate ‘Coolcation’As travelers increasingly flee scorching summer heat waves in Southern Europe, Scandinavia has become a powerhouse destination for autumn travel.
“I absolutely love fall in the Nordics & Scandinavia,” says Bess. “You can do many of the same bucket-list type adventures, like floating saunas on the fjords, king crab safaris, hiking through the stunning scenery, kayaking in lakes with reflections of fall foliage, and dining at Michelin-starred restaurants in this foodie paradise, combined with stays at incredible nature lodges north of the Arctic Circle.”
The real magic of the season, however, happens after dark. “What I LOVE about this season is that you can still do some of the summer nature activities in September, but you get the huge bonus of potentially seeing the Northern Lights in the evening because dark nights arrive in the fall,” Bess explains.
Best of all, the massive summer tour buses disappear. “You can also have fjords and rivers all to yourself as the crowds thin, which is the true beauty of Scandinavia! I had whole fjords to myself on my most recent trip and there is nothing more peaceful than having an entire glacier all to yourself and enjoying complete silence.”
Related: Why Everyone Is Swapping the Mediterranean for a ‘Coolcation’ Cruise This Summer
The Secret-Season Pick: Riviera Nayarit, MexicoFor travelers looking to bypass traditional European routes entirely for an under-the-radar warm-weather escape, Bess points straight to
“Riviera Nayarit in Mexico, a 200-mile stretch of coastline located just north of Puerto Vallarta, is my favorite spot to suggest for a fall getaway and offers significant advantages over other more popular Mexican destinations,” Bess reveals.
The region boasts distinct geographical and seasonal perks that make it ideal for an autumn trip. “First, unlike the Caribbean coast, Nayarit’s Pacific shoreline remains completely free of sargassum year-round,” she notes. “Secondly, the region’s unique topography combines coastal rainforests directly with the Pacific Ocean, creating stunning scenery and diverse activity options. Located further south than Los Cabos, Nayarit enjoys significantly warmer ocean and winter temperatures, ideal for extended water sports and warm weather enjoyment when it turns cold back home in the fall.”
While autumn is technically part of the rainy season, Bess notes that it rarely impacts a vacation: “Because late summer and autumn are the low season, it offers minimal crowds and ideal pricing right before the peak winter rush. It is technically the rainy season, but I’ve never experienced more than a brief tropical shower or overnight rain while you are sleeping.”
Related: This Luxury, Adults-Only Cruise Line Just Dropped the Ultimate 2027 ‘Coolcation’ Itineraries
The Shoulder-Season Pricing Sweet SpotFor travelers looking to maximize their luxury budgets, knowing when to book is just as important as knowing where to go.
According to Bess, the most notable pricing drops and high-end availability open up immediately after the summer crowds clear out. “Typically, you’ll see pricing drops right after Labor Day in most destinations and these drops usually last until prices increase around Thanksgiving,” she advises.
For travelers eyeing winter holidays, Bess shares another insider sweet spot: “Another sweet spot for pricing is typically the first two weeks of December. It’s after Thanksgiving but before the Christmas holiday rush, and many properties, even in popular destinations like the Caribbean, experience a travel lull, so it’s a great time to snag some fantastic pricing.”
Related: Travel Advisors Reveal Where They’re Booking 60+ Travelers This Shoulder Season
1965 Song, Thrown in the Trash by Label Head Lenny Shear, Became a No. 1 Hit
“Lightnin’ Strikes” was a popular pop song by Lou Christie and Twyla Herbert that was released in 1965. The song rose all the way to No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 chart.
Although fans loved the song, the label head wasn’t originally a fan. Christie told Goldmine magazine, “They didn’t even like it! (Label head) Lenny Shear threw it in the wastebasket and said it was a piece of crap! So we put up our own money to get it played around the country, and it started taking off once it got played. Three months later, Lenny was taking a picture with me for Billboard magazine, handing me a gold record. I loved that.”
When speaking about working with Herbert, who was over 20 years older than him, Christie said, “I never worked with anyone else who was that talented, that original, that exciting. She was just bizarre, and I was twice as bizarre as her.”
Ralph Casale, who played on tracks for Frank Sinatra and Simon & Garfunkel, told SongFacts how he came up with the guitar solo. “I was asked by producer/arranger Charlie Calello to play the six-string bass guitar, which sometimes doubles the same line the bass plays,” he said. “When the track was being played back without vocals, I started jokingly improvising a solo on the bass guitar with a fuzz box. I didn’t know what the song was about, but Charlie obviously did. He stopped the playback and said, ‘I love it!’ I laughed and asked if he was joking. He excitedly replied, ‘I’ll tell you where to play it!’ After recording it and listening to the entire song, I realized why he included my solo. It actually sounded like thunder and fit in nicely with the entire recording. That’s how the solo in ‘Lightnin’ Strikes’ was born!”
Related: 1978 Soft Rock Song From Iain Matthews Was His Only Hit as a Solo Act
Christie’s other big song was “I’m Gonna Make You Mine,” which spent 12 weeks on the Billboard Hot 100. It reached the No. 10 spot.
Christie died in 2025. He was 82.
1976 Classic Rock Album by Boston, Recorded in Basement, Ranked Among 'Greatest Rock Masters' of All Time
Tom Scholz was a 29-year-old product design engineer at Polaroid, moonlighting on music at night, when he finished recording Boston’s self-titled debut album in the basement of his rented Watertown, Massachusetts, apartment, reportedly working right next to a furnace in a space prone to flooding. Epic Records wanted the band in a professional Los Angeles studio; Scholz refused and did it his way instead.
Fifty years later, fans are still calling it one of the “greatest rock masters of all time.” That praise resurfaced in a viral Reddit thread this week, marking the album’s 50th anniversary, where listeners, including several who identified themselves as working audio engineers, broke down exactly why the record still holds up.
The first reason is separation. In the mid-1970s, rock records often sounded muddy because guitars, bass and drums bled into the same frequencies. Scholz, using his MIT engineering background, painstakingly EQ’d every instrument into its own space. “Every note is clear and doesn’t fight to be heard through the rest of the mix,” one commenter, who described themselves as a working audio engineer, wrote.
The second is the layering. Long before digital editing existed, Scholz built the album’s massive sound through hours of analog tape work, stacking dozens of guitar and vocal takes by hand to create what fans in the thread called a “wall of sound.”
The third is consistency: from “More Than a Feeling” to “Foreplay/Long Time,” commenters note there isn’t a weak track on the record, rare for a debut, let alone one made almost entirely solo.
The results back up the praise. Boston went gold and platinum within three months of its August 1976 release, sold roughly 17 million copies in the U.S. alone, and spent 132 weeks on the Billboard 200, all while Scholz kept clocking in at his day job at Polaroid, unsure the album would even sell.
Kate Spade Outlet’s 'Beauty and the Beast' Wristlet Is a Nostalgic Fairytale Find for Disney Fans, Now 50% Off
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If you were a kid in the ’90s, chances are Beauty and the Beast holds a particularly special place in your heart. You probably knew every word to “Be Our Guest,” desperately wanted Belle’s yellow dress, or spent time wondering what it would be like to wander through that enormous library. Maybe you identified with Belle’s bookish side, loved the idea of an enchanted castle, or simply considered her your favorite Disney princess. Whatever drew you to the story back then, that love for Belle and her enchanted world doesn’t have to stay in the past.
Now, you can bring a little of that nostalgic Disney magic into your everyday wardrobe with the Disney X Kate Spade New York Beauty And The Beast Medium L-Zip Wristlet. Inspired by the beloved animated classic, this functional accessory is packed with details that make it especially fun for fans who can spot a Disney reference from a mile away. Better yet, the $159 piece is currently 50% off, bringing it down to just $79 at Kate Spade Outlet.
Disney X Kate Spade New York Beauty And The Beast Medium L-Zip Wristlet, $79 (was $159) at Kate Spade Outlet Shop at Kate Spade OutletBe our guest, and take a closer look at the “adorable” details on this “very soft” leather wristlet. The sunny golden-yellow exterior feels like a nod to Belle’s iconic ball gown, while Mrs. Potts and Chip appear front and center in creamy white with powder-blue accents and fine black outlines. Mrs. Potts even has her familiar knowing expression, while a smiling Chip looks up at her from below. Tiny crystal-like starbursts scattered around the pair add a little enchanted-castle sparkle, and the gold-tone Kate Spade New York logo and signature spade sit subtly above the scene.
The magic continues in the construction. At just over 8 inches long and 4.4 inches high, the slim silhouette is roomy enough for the essentials without turning into a tale as old as time every time you dig for your card. A top zipper runs nearly the full length for easy access, while the attached wrist strap makes it convenient to carry on its own when a full handbag feels like more than this provincial life calls for.
Shop More Deals- Disney X Kate Spade New York Beauty And The Beast Medium Compact Bifold Wallet, $115 (was $229) at Kate Spade Outlet
- Disney X Kate Spade New York Beauty And The Beast Passport Holder, $65 (was $129) at Kate Spade Outlet
- Disney X Kate Spade New York Beauty And The Beast Small Slim Card Holder, $65 (was $129) at Kate Spade Outlet
Inside, you’ll find three dedicated credit card slots plus Kate Spade’s two-way script logo lining, with enough open space for cash, keys, lipstick, or a few other small necessities. And unlike the Beast’s enchanted rose, you won’t have to keep this beauty tucked beneath glass. The compact proportions make it easy to slip inside a larger bag — like the collection’s Disney X Kate Spade New York Beauty And The Beast Small Tote — during the day, then carry it by the wrist for dinner, drinks, or a night at the theater.
Related: Kate Spade’s ‘Fabulous’ $23 Chunky Huggie Earrings Look Like They’re ‘Triple the Price’
Your happily ever after could be as simple as adding the Disney X Kate Spade New York Beauty And The Beast Medium L-Zip Wristlet to your cart. Shop it for $79 at Kate Spade Outlet while it’s 50% off!
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1978 AM Radio Hit, Written By Ambrosia, Hides a Secret Heartbreak Behind Its Iconic Chorus
By 1978, soft rock was dominating the airwaves, but few tracks captured the bittersweet ache of romance quite like Ambrosia’s signature smash, “How Much I Feel.”
Written by lead vocalist David Pack, the song quickly became a soundtrack for a generation of lovers and heartbroken radio listeners alike. Yet while millions sang along to its iconic chorus, few realized the song’s genuine heartbreak. That honest emotion is exactly why the song clicked with millions, becoming one of the decade’s biggest, most iconic radio tracks.
When it came time to write songs for Ambrosia’s 1978 album Life Beyond L.A., Pack pulled straight from his own life. He channeled a past heartbreak into lyrics, for a song that felt like a painfully relatable, raw confession.
“How Much I Feel” captures that awkward, bittersweet moment when you run into an ex and realize you aren’t actually over them. Instead of playing it cool, Pack admitted that the old feelings are still very much alive. The song’s genius is how it pairs a vulnerable confession with a smooth, almost laid-back groove, making the heartache feel relatable rather than heavy.
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In the song’s lyrics, Pack asks a former lover, “How’s your life been goin’ on? I’ve got a wife now, years we’ve been goin’ strong. There’s just something that I’ve got to say. Sometimes when we make love, I still can see your face.”
The words capture a jaw-dropping moment of honesty that highlights a complex, painful reality: that one could still love their spouse while wrestling with the ghost of a past romance. By saying the secret part out loud, Pack gave voice to a very real human struggle that classic pop music rarely dared to touch.
However, Pack wanted this heartbreak song to have a different twist that distinguished the band from others in the music industry. He told The Huffington Post, “I wanted Ambrosia to have a signature vocal group call-and-response song,” a definitive sound of “How Much I Feel.”
CIRCA 1970: Photo of Ambrosia Photo by Michael Ochs Archives/Getty ImagesPack added that the song had a “lead vocal and wall of group harmony thing happening. I was in pursuit of a vocal sonic identity for us. This was back when radio and TV were all that we had. No internet, mobile phone, etc.”
In November 1978, “How Much I Feel” topped out at No. 3 on Billboard’s Hot 100. The song was stopped from reaching the top spot on the charts by Donna Summer’s “MacArthur Park,” and Foreigner’s “Double Vision.”