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Flip-flops are basically the unofficial shoe of summer, but not all of them are built for the long haul. One minute you’re grabbing iced coffee, the next you’re circling a street fair or heading down to the beach, and those pairs start feeling a lot less cute. The goal this season is simple: A sandal you can slip on fast, wear everywhere, and still feel good in hours later.

Clarks, a brand known for combining comfort-first technology with adorable designs, has a take on the classic flip-flop that you won’t want to miss. At JCPenney, Clarks’ Cloudsteppers Breeze Dhalia Flip-Flops are now 50% off, dropping from the usual $60 to just $30. Shoppers said that they'll “let your feet breathe in the summer months” and feel “like walking on clouds.” Add in the playful bow detail, and they are instantly way more stylish than standard pool slides.

Clarks Cloudsteppers Breeze Dhalia Flip-Flops, $30 (was $60) at JCPenney

Courtesy of JCPenney

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This slip-on thong sandal is designed with both comfort and adjustability in mind, starting with a wide textile upper strap that feels soft against the foot while still offering structure. A hidden hook-and-loop closure allows for a more customized fit, while the oversized bow overlay adds a decorative finish that conceals the fastening and leans into a soft, feminine aesthetic. Tonal stitching and layered panel construction add subtle depth across the upper, giving the sandal a more refined, dimensional look.

Underfoot, the sandal is built on a cushioned foam footbed lined with jersey fabric for added softness and a more responsive, “bouncy” step. The midsole design focuses on impact absorption and everyday wearability, helping reduce strain during extended use. A chunky, flexible outsole provides traction and stability across a range of surfaces, while maintaining a lightweight feel for all-day movement. The silhouette is finished with a rounded toe, medium-width fit, and an approximate 30-millimeter heel lift that creates a slight rise for added support without compromising balance.

The sandal is offered in a full size range from 5 through 12, designed with a generous medium width that makes the fit more forgiving across foot shapes. It also comes in three colorways — pink, blue denim, and beige — giving shoppers a few versatile options to rotate between depending on their wardrobe or occasion.

Shoppers called this style “cute” and “comfortable,” saying they provide “excellent traction and support” and “hold up well” over wear. One shopper wrote, “The sole is very supportive but still flexible.”

Shop More Deals

• Clarks Cloudsteppers Breeze Reyna Flip-Flops, $30 (was $60) at JCPenney
• Clarks Cloudsteppers Breeze Opal Flip-Flops, $30 (was $60) at JCPenney
• Clarks Cloudsteppers Breeze Sea Flip-Flops, $30 (was $60) at JCPenney

Related: Amazon’s $31 Clarks Bow Sandals Feel Like 'Walking on a Cloud' and Come in 2 Classic Colors

If your current sandals aren’t cutting it, the $30 Clarks Cloudsteppers Breeze Dhalia Flip-Flops are a perfect replacement. Shop them at JCPenney while they’re 50% off!

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Dinosaur Jr., the iconic band celebrated as the pioneers of slacker rock, is back with new music.

After teasing fans with cryptic updates on social media, the trio, composed of J Mascis on lead vocals, guitar and primary songwriter, with Lou Barlow on bass and Murph on drums, officially announced the release of its 13th studio album.

In an Instagram update, the band revealed that the upcoming record There Near will be released on Aug. 28.

Adding to the excitement, Dinosaur Jr. gave fans another reason to celebrate by unveiling the album's first single, "Several Got Away," offering listeners a glimpse of what to expect from the upcoming record.

Dinosaur Jr. members J Mascis, Murph and Lou Barlow

Dinosaur Jr. members J Mascis, Murph and Lou Barlow

Apart from the album and lead single reveal, Dinosaur Jr. hinted at more exciting news to come, adding, "Stay tuned for more."

As fans await the highly anticipated launch, Mascis revealed he spent over a year recording the album at Bisquiteen Studio in Amherst, Massachusetts, the band's hometown.

View this post on Instagram

Moreover, the upcoming album  finds the band returning to the sonic approach of its early years by bringing the same style of Mesa Boogie amp that was used on the debut album.

“You always hear how Rick Rubin always makes bands he’s producing sit down and listen to their first album and say, ’ Let’s get back to that sound. So I just gave myself his advice,” he shared in a statement as cited by Consequence.

The soon-to-be-released studio album will be the band's first in five years after releasing Sweep It Into Space in 2021.

Dinosaur Jr. Announces 2026 Tour

The trio has an exciting way of ending the month with back-to-back surprises.

From an upcoming album to a new song, Dinosaur Jr. also revealed another major surprise.

In a separate Instagram post, the band revealed it is gearing up for a fall 2026 U.S. tour.

Supporting its 13th studio album, the band is set for an 18-date run, kicking off on Oct. 9 in Las Vegas and concluding on Nov. 7 in New Orleans.

Joining them is Detroit indie rock musician Stef Chura, who will serve as the special guest opener.

Dinosaur Jr. Fall 2026 Tour

Oct. 9: Las Vegas, NV @ Brooklyn Bowl

Oct. 10: Tempe, AZ @ Marquee Theatre

Oct. 11: Solana Beach, CA @ Belly Up

Oct. 15: Anaheim, CA @ House of Blues

Oct. 16: Los Angeles, CA @ The Bellwether

Oct. 18: San Francisco, CA @ The Castro Theatre

Oct. 20: Sacramento, CA @ Ace of Spades

Oct. 22: Portland, OR @ Revolution Hall

Oct. 23: Seattle, WA @ Neptune

Oct. 24: Seattle, WA @ Neptune

Oct. 26: Salt Lake City, UT @ Complex

Oct. 29: Denver, CO @ Ogden Theatre

Oct. 30: Fort Collins, CO @ Washington's

Nov. 2: Dallas, TX @ Granada Theater

Nov. 4: Houston, TX @ House of Blues

Nov. 5: Austin, TX @ Stubb's

Nov. 6: San Antonio, TX @ Paper Tiger

Nov. 7: New Orleans, LA @ Tipitina's

Related: '80s Rock Legend Makes First Live Appearance Since Major Health Scare

Nothing says rock 'n' roll like ice cream cake, right?

In an interview out Wednesday, Violet Grohl, daughter of Foo Fighters frontman Dave Grohl shared that when she scored her record deal, she celebrated in somewhat of a wholesome way.

"I signed the paper, and I called my dad, and I was like, 'Hey, I just signed my deal,' she recalled, while speaking on CBS' Anthony Mason's show, Alchemy. "He was like, 'Oh, let's like celebrate and have dinner.' And I went over to my parents' house, and we had a Baskin-Robbins ice cream cake and some dinner."

The 20-year-old daughter of the iconic rocker, who signed the record deal in January and released her debut album entitled Be Sweet to Me in May, also got to chatting about her dad's influence on her and how the phrase "nepo baby" fits into her life.

"I don't have problems with my association to my dad at all," she said. "It's really stepping into your own identity that I think was, or is still, the most intimidating, but it's not that I don't know who I am, it's more of a fear of being misunderstood or mischaracterized."

And while she shared how music has always been a presence for her without the help of her dad ("All I wanted to do as a kid was sit in front of a computer and watch music videos," she said), she recognizes that he gave her the push to start performing.

"It was around the time I was 12 that it was kind of like cemented in my brain that, like, that was the career path I wanted to take," she said. "I was on the road with my dad over the summer, and I had played a couple benefit shows here and there with my dad, he just kind of asked if I wanted to come up and sing a song with him, and I would come up and sing a song with him."

Related: Daughter of Rock Hall of Famer Releases Music Video Starring Legendary Adult Film Star

Specifically recalling a time where she sang back up with a few other singers at his shows, after initially being hesitant — she was hooked.

"Feeling that like connection and the synergy between everybody on stage and with the audience, it was so overwhelming but in the best way," she said. "It was so beautiful and exciting, and I think it was just kind of a [moment of] 'This is what I want, I want to do this, I love this.'"

And the rest may be history as Violet has gone on to perform at her own shows and release a music video for her single "Bug in the Cake" off of Be Sweet to Me.

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Summer layers that you can easily throw on for cooler evenings are essential, and a hoodie is a perfect starting place for building out your seasonal wardrobe. Hoodies go with everything and are extremely easy to take with you on the go. Right now, you can get this “warm” hoodie starting for as low as $5 at Walmart. 

The Sovlvnd Hoodie is on sale now for between $5 and $7 in a whopping 24 colors. You'll get the best deal on the army green color, which currently priced at a little under $5 and available in all sizes. There are plenty of other colors to choose from, so you’re sure to find one you love. And at such a low price, you can afford to buy one for every member of your household.

Sovlvnd Hoodie, From $5 at Walmart

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These hoodies are not only priced affordably but also available in many more colors than comparable options at Walmart, as well as other retailers. The hoodie is sold in sizes small to 3XL, but it runs small, according to reviewers. The manufacturer's recommendations say to go up to two sizes larger than your usual size for an oversized fit.

Though it’s labeled as a men’s item, this hoodie is a unisex style, so anyone can wear it. Just be sure to keep in mind that the sizes are based on men’s measurements and adjust accordingly. 

This “comfortable” hoodie is made of 100% polyester material that is “soft” and breathable, according to shoppers. You can wear it for running errands, your daily commute, or while traveling. Since it’s machine washable, it's easy to care for, and you can quickly add it back into your weekly rotation.

Shoppers appreciated that it didn’t fade or stretch after washing and drying. That makes it easy to preserve the vibrant hues and cozy feel over time. "The color is rich and looks even better in person," a reviewed noted.

Related: Dolly Parton's 'Pretty' $14 Scalloped Stoneware Pie Dish Radiates Country Kitchen Charm

This sale won’t last long, so hurry and snag the Sovlvnd Hoodie for as low as $5 now at Walmart while your preferred color is still in stock. 

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When it was first released, this 1992 social anthem faced unexpected pushback from country radio, despite coming from one of music’s biggest stars.

Garth Brooks experienced unexpected resistance early after the release of his 1992 song, "We Shall Be Free." It remains his most recognized patriotic and socially unifying release.

"We Shall Be Free" was the first single from his fourth LP, The Chase, released in September 1992. However, the song wasn't embraced in the early '90s as it is today.

Brooks wrote the song with Stephanie Davis. It had a message of inclusiveness, but at the time, mainstream country radio wasn't as accepting of the line “When we’re free to love anyone we choose," reported Rolling Stone.

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In a 1993 interview with Barbara Walters, Brooks explained his reason for writing the song. He responded to Walters' question by saying, "It is a known fact, by the tabloids, that my sister is gay."

"I love my sister to death. I'm sorry, but I just can't condemn somebody for being happy and loving someone else. I've been called everything from Judas to Brutus because of this song. I'm sorry if you think loving somebody is a crime."

Betsy Smittle, Brooks' sister, regularly played bass guitar for him during his live shows. She was an outspoken LGBTQ+ advocate who died in 2013 reported Billboard.

Despite pushback from country radio, the song peaked at No. 12 on the Billboard Country Chart in October 1992. It remained on the charts for a remarkable 20 weeks.

The song's video featured numerous celebrity cameos when it was first filmed in 1992. There were appearances by Marlee Matlin, Eddie Murphy, Patrick Swayze, Lily Tomlin, Harry Belafonte, Amy Grant, and Jay Leno. Other stars featured included Enrique Iglesias, Reba McEntire, Paula Abdul, Craig Nelson, and Mother Theresa.

While the song " We Shall Be Free " sparked debate when it was released, it also proved that country music could tackle difficult conversations without losing its audience. Today, it stands as one of the defining moments of Garth Brooks' career.

Related: 1990 Beloved Garth Brooks Classic, Written on a Napkin, Is Ranked His Greatest Song Ever

This summer, COVID-19 is very much still a risk for many—even if you're generally healthy, doctors warn.

"Nearly everyone remains at some risk of a severe COVID infection," Dr. Michael Mina, MD, Ph.D., chief medical officer of Invivyd, tells Parade. "However, those with the highest risk include the very young, older individuals, and immune-compromised individuals who cannot or do not mount appropriate immune responses to protect themselves against the virus. The immune-compromised population is varied and can include those who have autoimmune disorders or cancer, those who have had a recent organ transplant and those with cardiac, renal or liver diseases. Immune-compromised people are particularly at risk for severe COVID-19."

Dr. Kyle Hoedebecke, MD, MBA, MPA, MS, FAAFP, CPE, clinical advisor of Alpas Wellness NOVA, concurs, explaining, "As has been the case since the beginning of this pandemic, the groups at greatest risk for severe illness from COVID-19 are older adults, people with compromised immune systems, pregnant patients and people with pre-existing conditions (e.g., heart disease, lung disease, diabetes, obesity)."

That comprises a lot of people, so even if you're generally fine, you'll likely want to take at least some precautions to protect others who need it. Find out the most common COVID-19 symptoms in July 2026, plus why there are unique challenges right now in terms of staying healthy in the face of the pandemic that never really ended.

Related: Is It Long COVID or Cognitive Aging? Doctors Reveal How to Tell the Difference

What Are the Most Common COVID-19 Symptoms in July 2026?

The most common COVID symptoms this month are the ones you're used to hearing about, experts tell Parade: You can expect some combination of a persistent dry cough, sore throat, nasal congestion, fever, chills, fatigue and body aches, and a lucky few will also have the added delights of gastrointestinal issues (typically diarrhea, vomiting and/or nausea).

"Loss of taste and smell is less common than it was during earlier waves," Dr. Lora shares. "Vascular phenomena, such as 'COVID toes,' are also less frequently seen. Due to higher levels of immunity in the population, we also see fewer patients developing severe respiratory symptoms early in the course of illness compared with the beginning of the pandemic."

That is a relief, right? However, there are some important elements to consider now that you may not have before in terms of the level of COVID risk with which you're comfortable, because now, you may be sicker for longer and also at higher risk of cognitive impairment (which could be potentially longer term if you get long COVID).

"In terms of population health, it's not as much about the severity of the symptoms of COVID-19 changing in 2026 as it is about the next generation of Omicron variants’ ability to cause repeated infections," Dr. Ayesha Bryant, MD, MSPH, clinical advisor of Alpas Wellness, says. "Some patients are reporting fatigue, cognitive impairment and brain fog, GI issues and longer-than-expected recovery periods, but the most commonly reported symptoms remain in the upper respiratory tract."

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What COVID Variants Are Most Prevalent Right Now?

Right now, we're seeing a lot of descendants of the Omicron variant, specifically XFG, NB.1.8.1 and other variants of the JN.1 lineage, Dr. Bryant says. Experts are a bit divided on whether or not that's a good thing.

On one hand, Dr. Lora notes, "While [Omicron variants] remain highly contagious, we have accumulated immunity from vaccination and past infections, helping reduce the severity of illness for many people."

On the other hand, Dr. Bryant warns that newer Omicron variants have shown a potential for repeated infections, and really—it sucks enough getting COVID once. Having it multiple times just seems cruel.

Does COVID Risk Go Down in the Summer?

Unfortunately, unlike flu and the common cold, which tend to peak in the months during which we're huddled up indoors in close quarters, COVID risk isn't reduced just because we're outside getting fresh air and extra vitamin D.

"While age and comorbidities are still strong predictors of severe disease regardless of the specific variant of SARS-CoV2, the warmer temperatures associated with summer may result in less time spent in enclosed areas where airborne pathogens are more likely to be transmitted," Dr. Bryant explains. "However, increased mobility during summer months via travel and larger social gatherings also increases opportunities for airborne pathogen transmission."

What's more, you'll want to stock up on COVID tests, because a lot of common COVID symptoms overlap with those of seasonal allergies—and if you're anything like me, grass pollen has been trying to kill you since March.

Related: The #1 Unexpected Side Effect Doctors Are Now Noticing in Long COVID Patients

How Can I Protect Myself and Others From COVID-19?

Get vaccinated!

"While vaccines may not always prevent infection, they continue to provide important protection against severe illness, hospitalization and death," Dr. Lora urges. "Staying up to date remains especially important for high-risk individuals. The vaccine has also been shown to reduce the risk of complications after COVID-19, such as heart attacks or strokes."

"The most effective way to protect oneself from infection is through layering of protection, such as maintaining current vaccinations, testing for SARS-CoV-2 when experiencing symptoms, receiving antiviral therapy promptly if eligible and practicing additional caution around immunocompromised people," Dr. Bryant advises.

Dr. Hoedebecke agrees. "Regardless of seasonal activity level, using common sense practices to prevent the spread of respiratory illnesses remains effective," he says. That means staying home when you're ill, improving air circulation through ventilation systems, wearing masks in high-risk environments, hand washing and using hand sanitizer as needed.

Related: Does the Current COVID Vaccine Protect Against the Latest Mutation?

There’s a Medication That Could Help Prevent Long COVID—but Most Doctors Aren’t Prescribing It Yet

If you're a candidate for them, you'll want to grab some Paxlovid from your doctor, but even then, don't necessarily expect a miracle.

"The treatments available today are limited and researchers are working to develop new approaches and new classes of treatments," Dr. Mina tells Parade. "While certain antiviral medications such as Paxlovid remain on the market, many of their benefits have been shown in recent research by scientists to be significantly reduced since they were first introduced. Additional research has shown potential increases in rebound."

Dr. Mina recommends monoclonal antibody treatment if you can get it.

Other than that, experts recommend drinking a lot of water, getting a lot of rest and managing symptoms with over-the-counter medications like ibuprofen or acetaminophen for fevers and aches, lozenges for sore throat and cough and decongestants for sinus congestion.

Up Next:

Sources

• Dr. Ayesha Bryant, MD, MSPH
• Dr. Kyle Hoedebecke, MD, MBA, MPA, MS, FAAFP, CPE
• Dr. Alfredo J. Mena Lora, MD, FACP
• Dr. Michael Mina, MD, Ph.D.

Lionel Richie loves to be in the spotlight, and just days after a hospital scare rattled his fans, the music icon made a triumphant return to the stage for his fans. 

The 77-year-old music icon took over the stage on Tuesday night in Pittsburgh for his first concert since the hospitalization as per TribLive. The show, held at PPG Paints Arena, was part of his "Sing a Song All Night Long" tour alongside Earth, Wind & Fire. From his playful banter to crooning his biggest hits, Richie made it clear he was fully back.

A Lighthearted Return to The Stage

The Grammy winner made no effort to gloss over the scare. "I had you worried there for a minute, huh?" he asked the crowd.  "You have no idea what I have been through in the last 24 hours, listening to my friends tell me their advice on what I should be doing."

By his own admission, he'd waved off everyone telling him to stay home and rest, and the fans in Pittsburgh reaped the rewards. The American Idol judge moved through beloved tracks, including Hello and Running with the Night, then dipped into his Commodores catalog with Easy and Three Times a Lady from his years leading the band.

The good humor stuck around all night. Diving into the 1977 Commodores favorite "Brick House," Richie ribbed the audience, "I have the best seat in the house. I see everything. And that was absolutely the nastiest dancing I've ever seen in my life. If the grandchildren and the children could see Mom and Dad in this condition...", as per Tribune Live.

Inside the Onstage Scare That Cut His Set Short View this post on Instagram

His return to stage came on the heels of a scare that unfolded on the very first night of the tour.  Richie cut things short at the Grand Casino Arena in St. Paul, Minnesota, after admitting to the crowd that he felt "dizzy" and "strange." He was rushed to a hospital soon after, as per a June 25 TMZ report.

Video from that evening showed him performing "Dancing on the Ceiling" from a seated position, a first for the track. "What I have learned about my years of being in the business. When you are feeling dizzy, sit your [Expletive] down. And when you are feeling strange about yourself, sit your [Expletive] down!" he told the audience, as per WSVN. 

He added with a laugh, "Now, I want you to know, that's the first time in the history of 'Dancing on the Ceiling' I've done it sitting down. That's a bad sign, y'all."

He returned to the piano once more for "Three Times a Lady" before slipping into an early intermission. Not long after, saxophonist Dino Soldo had to intervene and tell the crowd that Richie was done for the night.

His manager, John Paris, shared an update shortly after, telling the Minnesota Star Tribune that Richie was just "a little dehydrated." 

As a precaution, the tour pushed back his next two dates, Friday, June 26 in Chicago and Saturday, June 27 in Columbus, Ohio. "Under advisement by doctors to rest and return to full health, Lionel Richie has postponed his next two shows," Live Nation said in a official statement, noting that he and Earth, Wind & Fire would take the stage again Tuesday, June 30 in Pittsburgh.

"Lionel is heartbroken to postpone these two shows and cannot wait to be back performing for his fans. We apologize for any inconvenience this causes fans who have tickets for these two shows. Rescheduled dates will be announced soon."

The music legend is back on his feet, back in his element, and clearly nowhere near done!

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Parade and ShopHQ are both owned by the same parent company. Featured products are selected independently by the editorial team at Parade.

Sure, round watches have their place, but a rectangular watch is an elegant staple that will never go out of style. This style of watch looks so classic, and you can wear it with anything in your closet. Fortunately, we found the perfect one on ShopHQ that looks just like a luxury watch for hundreds less. Even better, the Invicta Women's 25mm Celestial Quartz Rectangle Bracelet Watch is just $43 at ShopHQ until July 2 as part of the retailer’s flash sale. All Invicta watches and jewelry are 15% off until midnight.

Invicta Women's 25mm Celestial Quartz Rectangle Bracelet Watch, $43 (was $395) at ShopHQ

Courtesy of ShopHQ

The watch’s rectangular case and stunning gold-link bracelet make it look like it came straight from an antique shop. We’re obsessed with its rose gold colorway, but it is actually available in five more that you can wear all summer too: gold, silver/blue, gold/green, rose/pink, and silver/black. The silver/purple and silver/beige colorways are already sold out, so don’t wait to grab one if you’re eyeing this watch. 

Take an extra 15% off all Invicta Watches & Jewelry through July 2nd

The dial colors vary depending on which you choose, but the minimalist layout is the same for all. Each dial has Roman numerals at each hour and slender hands that track the time down to the second. In addition to the numerous color choices, another bonus is that it’s a petite watch. 

Related: Invicta's Sleek and Classic Watch Looks So High End, and It's Now 85% Off

Its stainless steel bracelet case is just 25 millimeters, so it will be relatively lightweight and easy to wear every day. In addition, the 16-millimeter bracelet fits wrist sizes up to 8.

Shop More Deals

• Invicta Women's 17mm Angel Quartz Crystal Accented Mini Ring Watch, $60 (was $495) at ShopHQ
• Invicta Women's 21mm Wildflower Quartz Crystal Accented Bracelet Watch, $65 (was $495) at ShopHQ
• Invicta Women's 39mm Speedway Quartz Chronograph Color Dial Bracelet Watch, $80 (was $495) at ShopHQ

Summer is here, and you need a chic watch fit for the season that you can wear every day. This sleek, vintage-inspired Invicta Celestial watch is that accessory. Grab one for yourself or as a gift for a loved one while it’s just $43 before the promo ends July 2. 

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.

It's not every day you see a mosh pit full of concert-goers dancing to Taylor Swift's music, but The Offspring managed to make it happen.

Last week, the iconic '90s band, known for hit songs like "Pretty Fly (For a White Guy)," "Why Don't You Get a Job?" and "The Kids Aren't Alright," took the stage at Hellfest in France. However, in addition to playing their classics, the rock group blew fans away with a cover of Swift's beloved 2008 song, "Love Story." They didn't stop there, though. The band, led by singer Bryan "Dexter" Holland, proceeded to incite the "biggest mosh pit to a Taylor Swift song ever.”

“We’re going to have the biggest mosh pit to a Taylor Swift song ever,” Holland told the crowd, NME reported. “You guys are going to help us, we’re going to make history tonight.”

Caught on video, the band knocked it out of the park. Watch the attendees having the time of their lives in the pit below:

View this post on Instagram

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Holland Returned to His Alma Mater to Give a Commencement Speech

Last month, Holland took a quick break from touring to return to his alma mater, the University of Southern California Dornsife, to deliver the commencement speech. Holland, who earned a bachelor’s degree in biological sciences in 1988, a master’s degree in molecular biology in 1990, and a PhD in molecular biology in 2017, spoke of straddling both his musical and academic passions.

“My story has had both a musical side and a scientific side,” Holland said in the speech. “I had these two great loves, how would I decide? Well, as foolish as it sounds, I decided to pursue both. I believe that there’s an intersection between art and science. And that even in our scientific field we draw upon our creativity.”

How Did Bryan 'Dexter' Holland Get His Nickname?

Thanks to his prolific academic background, Holland planned to be a physician. His love of academics earned him the nickname “Poindexter.” When he started to hit the stage as a musician, it was shortened to Dexter.

Related: What Taylor Swift Song Are You, Based on Birth Date

Happy birthday to July babies! This month brings us two distinct July birth flowers: the tall, colorful larkspur and the elegant water lily. These blooms represent midsummer's beauty and carry interesting symbolism and history.

Parade spoke to two floral experts to get the inside scoop on the July birth month flowers, as well as how to best care for them.

Whether your own birthday falls in this month and you want to learn more about the meaning behind your designated flowers, or you have loved ones you want to celebrate, you'll find plenty of fascinating and helpful information here. (Plus, we have some gorgeous inspiration for July birth flower tattoos!)

Related: Independence Day, Hot Dog Day, Ice Cream Month and More! Here Are the July Holidays and Observances

What Is the July Birth Flower?

Hannah Bonham Blackwell, founder and Lead Creative Director at Southside Blooms explains July's floral pairing: "July has two birth flowers: larkspur and water lilies."

These blooms capture the essence of the season. Blackwell notes, "Both larkspur and water lilies reflect July's bright, sunny, happy days and can bring a touch of wild nature into your home."

What Does the Larkspur Symbolize?

iStock

Larkspur is rich in symbolism. Carmela de Castro, owner of Orchid Republic Floral Boutique, describes its significance: "As a summer flower, it represents lightness, pure fun and a desire for laughter. But, generally, they represent strong bonds of love, affection and dedication."

The color of larkspur can change its meaning.

"For instance, white larkspurs symbolize pure happiness, while pink larkspurs represent fickleness and purple larkspurs are associated with first love," De Castro explains.

"Larkspur is the perfect birthday flower gift because they symbolize joy, love and affection," Blackwell adds. "Some say these flowers can also represent carefree levity, bravery or protection."

Related: 25 Types of Pink Flowers To Brighten Up Your Garden

Larkspur in History

The name "Larkspur" has an interesting origin. Blackwell shares, "The name 'Larkspur' comes from the Tudor era (between 1845 and 1603). The Tudors, a ruling family in England, reportedly decided the flower looked like a lark's spur."

Larkspur has played various roles throughout history.

"The flower became popular in English gardens in the mid-1500s in large part due to superstition that it could keep ghosts and evil spirits away," Blackwell continues. "Throughout the centuries, it's also been used to make dye."

De Castro adds some historical uses: "In the early days, Native Americans used its blue and indigo petals to create blue dye, while European settlers used the ground-up flowers as ink."

She also mentions a mythological connection: "It's most well-known for its connection to the Battle of Troy. According to Greek mythology, Ajax became enraged after the armor of the fallen Achilles was awarded to Ulysses instead of him. He threw himself on his sword, and larkspurs bloomed on the ground where Ajax's blood was spilled."

Related: 28 Different Types of Gorgeous Orchids for Your Home or Garden

How To Care for Larkspur

To keep larkspur fresh, Blackwell advises: "Cut larkspur last five to seven days in a vase. You'll want to change the water daily and give the stems a tiny diagonal trim each time. Avoid putting your vase in direct sunlight."

She also warns, "It's very important to keep larkspur away from fruit bowls. Ripening fruits release ethylene, which can cause your cut flowers to wilt before their time. Larkspur is especially sensitive to ethylene."

"Place them in a clean vase with cool but not cold water," De Castro adds. "Warm water can encourage bacterial growth, while cold water can be harder for the stems to absorb."

She continues, "Although larkspurs need at least six hours of sunlight daily while growing, once cut, they need to be kept away from direct sunlight—this helps them stay hydrated and prevents wilting."

Related: The Month of May Has 2 Birth Flowers To Choose From—Here's What They Symbolize

What Does the Water Lily Symbolize?

iStock

The water lily, July's second birth flower, has its own symbolism.

"If you want to celebrate someone's birthday who has made a major life change in the past year, the water lily may be the perfect flower to gift," Blackwell says. "That's because it symbolizes rebirth and renewal and can also represent spiritual awakening."

De Castro elaborates, "It has become a powerful symbol in many religions—it's closely tied to resurrection and rebirth. Because water lilies rise from murky water with beautiful blooms, they can also represent achieving spiritual enlightenment. This is especially true in Buddhism and Hinduism."

Related: 25 Gorgeous Flowers and Plants That Attract Hummingbirds

Water Lilies in History

Water lilies have a long history. Blackwell notes, "Ancient Egyptians used water lilies in religious ceremonies. They believed the flowers had calming psychoactive influences. There is a lot of myth behind them across cultures and religions."

"Water lilies have been around since the age of dinosaurs. [Their] imagery appears on Mayan stelae, murals and hieroglyphs, even in places where they wouldn't naturally grow," De Castro adds. "Some Native American tales depict the water lily as a fallen star, forever transformed into a beautiful flower upon touching the water."

This particular flower has also inspired artists. "The water lily has inspired countless artists," De Castro mentions. "Claude Monet was fond of them and had built his own water lily ponds; his famous water lily paintings have become some of the most iconic images of impressionism."

Related: 16 Different Types of Edible Flowers You Can Add to Your Garden

How To Care for Water Lilies

"These are typically outdoor plants but you can still have the smaller varieties indoors," De Castro says. "Use a wide, shallow container to allow for leaf spread."

She emphasizes light and temperature needs:

"Water lilies still need significant sunlight indoors. Aim for at least 4-8 hours of direct sunlight daily through a south-facing window. The tropical varieties need water temperatures above 70°F (21°C) to thrive. Consider an aquarium heater to regulate water temperature. Hardy varieties can tolerate room temperature (around 68°F, 20°C)."

For cut water lilies, Blackwell explains, "Water lilies aren't often used as a cut flower and need to be harvested at just the right time to give optimal vase life. Their funky, thick stems can add a really cool visual element so make them a part of the design with a nice clear glass vase."

"Keep them cool and well hydrated, after all, water is in their name!" she adds.

Related: What Is the April Birth Flower? Celebrate April Birthdays With This Fabulous Bloom

July Birth Flower Tattoo IdeasLarkspur @ma.ra.tattoo

#floraltattoo #tattoo #colortattoo #tattooprocess #tattooatlanta #tattoofeminina #smalltattoo #daintytattoos #tattooforgirls #larkspurtattoo

♬ original sound - Maria @blackpear_ink

Larkspur for Jasmin on her birthday 🎂 Done by single needle 🪡 . . . . . #larkspurtattoo #floraltattoo #flowertattoo #birthflowertattoo #armtattoo #singelneedletattoo #linetattoo #niagarafalls #niagarafallsartist #niagarafallstattoo #niagara #niagaratattoo #girlstattoo #girlwhotattoo #femaletattooartist #spiritualtattoo #finelinetattoo #tattooinspiration #blacktattoo #lineworktattoo #torontotattoo #minimalisttattoo #daintytattoo

♬ original sound - blackpear _ink Water Lily @bellaroseart__

Custom tattoos #tattoos #tattoodesign #waterlily

♬ original sound - Bella - Tattoo Artist @iconiktattoos

Loved doing this lil july piece🫶🏻 #fyp #foryou #tattoo #tattootok #julybirthmonth #julytattoo #tattooinspiration #viralvideo #sarasotaflorida #waterlily #waterlilytattoo #fypシ #finelinetattoo #floraltattoo #femaletattooartist #femininetattoo

♬ idyll - jonjthan @christinaphungtattoos

Water lily 🪷 Got to tattoo this pretty lil' thing for my recent giveaway winner! It was her very first tattoo and needless to say, she'll be coming back for more! Thank you Rochelle for your trust. I can't wait to add on to this! 🤍 #finelinetattoo #minimaltattoo #aesthetictattoo #finelinetattooartist #tattooinspo #tattoo #tattoos #tattooart #tattooartist #tattooideas #tattoodesigns #lasvegastattoos #lasvegastattooartist #vegastattoos #tattoostyle #floraltattoo #floraldesign

♬ The Last Goodbye (feat. Bettye LaVette) - ODESZA

Related: What Is the March Birth Flower? Celebrate March Birthdays With This Beautiful Bloom

Sources

• Hannah Bonham Blackwell, founder and Lead Creative Director at Southside Blooms.
• Carmela de Castro, owner of Orchid Republic Floral Boutique.

Small towns are known for their close-knit communities, but they’re also known for their dark and twisted secrets. Pretty Dead Things by Kelsey Cox brings just that and so much more.

After the success of Party of Liars, readers are certainly excited about Cox’s sophomore novel. For many, just the idea of small-town disappearances and pageants is all they need to know to delve straight into the novel. And there’s no doubt that the darkly beautiful cover also pulls readers in.

Pretty Dead Things is coming out on July 7, 2026, and is mostly set in 2025, but there are elements that give us a glimpse of events 25 years earlier. In 2000, Isabelle Whitmore vanished from Sherman Ranch in Anhalt, Texas. Despite the searches for her, she was never found. There were no traces of anything that could have happened to her, and it’s a dark story that the entire town has been shrouded in since.

Now, it’s 2025, and The Lone Star Princess Pageant is about to begin. In previous years, this pageant has gone without a hitch. This year is different. Not only is the competition stiffer than ever, but Ingrid Whitmore has returned.

Ingrid hadn’t been seen since her sister’s disappearance, but her mom is ill, and she needs to be home. This just happens to coincide with the construction crew getting ready to dig up the Sherman Ranch, and that could mean a body is discovered.

Pretty Dead Things is told across multiple POVs, covering both the adults who were just teenagers when Izzy disappeared and the children of those adults, as they prepare for the pageant. Secrets are about to come out, and old demons are coming out of the woodwork. With resentments reaching their boiling point, there’s no telling what could happen, except that there’s going to be at least one death!

Parade has an exclusive excerpt from Pretty Dead Things, picking up with the fourth chapter told from Ingrid’s perspective as she returns home. Don’t worry; it doesn’t give too much of the plot away, but the thrilling ending is certainly going to give you goosebumps.

Chapter Four 

Ingrid 

Five Days Before the Pageant 

Show up for the big things. That’s what my husband, Joel, always says. And it says a lot about where things stand with us that he isn’t here with me now. 

You can forget to text people back, cancel on happy hour, even blow off a birthday party every once in a while. But you show up for the big things—weddings, funerals, the births of babies. Because these are linchpin moments in a person’s life, moments when their identity shifts, when they become a new version of themselves, forever changed. And when you love someone, you show up to witness the change, to meet the new version so you can keep moving forward with them. 

So that’s what I’m doing. I’m showing up. I’m coming back home  to Anhalt, Texas. 

When my plane landed, I had another text from Dad, asking  one last time if I needed him to pick me up at the airport. But I’d  already reserved a rental car, the exact same make and model that  I own back in Colorado, because I don’t like driving a car I don’t  know. 

The drive from the Austin airport to Anhalt—about an hour west, along the Blanco River where the hills start to rise—is almost unrecognizable from the one I used to make years ago, after I first left home. Back then, the city fell away right after the airport—no  Tesla factory, no Amazon facility, no cookie-cutter subdivisions yet.  Just fields, mesquite, and sky. But every time I visit, the city has expanded, bleeding into the nearby towns—Buda, Kyle, even Dripping  Springs—encroaching closer to our little rural community. As I pull into town, I pass under a banner for the fiftieth annual lone star princess pageant, strung between Herman Smith’s boot shop and a new Aveda hair salon where Timeless Treasures used to be.  Back then, Mom dragged us there every Saturday, always on the hunt for something pretty to clutter up her already cluttered display cabinets. That’s where, on a whim, she bought me my first film camera, a 35mm Canon AE-1, which I used all through high school to snap photos of Izzy and me and all our friends. 

The Dairy Queen is gone now too, where in the parking lot out back, Jimmy Marino tried to get to second base. Y’all might look the same, but you’re cuter than your sister, he had said as his hand slid up my shirt. It was exactly what I wanted him to think, but not what I wanted him to say. It’s a drive-through smoothie place now,  touting acai bowls and fresh-pressed juices. They’ve repurposed the old DQ sign—the shape of something that once was, with something new plastered on top. 

I hate coming back home. I hate seeing the things that have  changed. And, probably even more, I hate the things that have stayed  the same. Everything’s a trigger, memories come like buckshot, little  pellets of remembering that burrow deep beneath my skin. 

So I’ve found excuses to avoid it these last few years, and before that, my trips have always been short. A few days for Christmas or a cousin’s wedding. In and out. 

And up until now, I’ve always had Joel by my side, a layer of protection, a separation between the person I was when I lived here and the person I am now. 

Mom has kept me up to date on the town’s changes. But it’s still odd to see. The woods have been dug up away from the narrow roads, streets widened, construction cones warning of the town’s hollowing. 

And, of course, there’s the new housing development. They sold the Sherman land, Mom had said one day on the phone. Oh? I’d said. 

They’re going to put a bunch of new houses there. They started digging. And before either of us could express what exactly that might mean, she told me about the newly painted benches at the library, and we didn’t say anything more about the Sherman land. We didn’t say Izzy’s name. But she was there anyway, like she always is, the oxidized layers of an antique mirror splotching the surface of our lives. 

I pass the developer’s signpost, announcing, sherman ranch.  build on your own lot! riverfront property available. I  can’t help but look over as I nudge through traffic that didn’t used  to be here when I was a kid. Trees have been swept away, wild earth leveled into neat, flat parcels. A few houses stand in various stages of completion. 

The construction vehicles tear the earth apart just outside my window, beeping, rolling, digging, tracks grinding over dry dirt. I  watch as an excavator jerks, like an animal being shoved forward against its will, before its metal teeth muscle down, audibly straining as the ground breaks and gives way. Its neck lifts, its mouth full. The long yellow arm spins and releases a bucketful of soil and chunks of limestone, white as bone. It gnaws into the earth again.  And again. And it groans. It gnaws at me—the sound—all those gears crunching, all that unearthing. 

I jump at the sound of a horn. I’ve missed the light turning green, and the rusty pickup behind me is annoyed. I look in the rearview to wave an apology and lock eyes with the driver. 

It’s him. It’s been twenty-five years, he’s let his hair get long and  scraggly, he’s grown a beard, but I would recognize Ben Sherman anywhere.

And he recognizes me. 

I know that for sure, because he’s looking at me now like he’s seeing a ghost. 

I stare back, certain I’m looking at a killer.

Pretty Dead Things will be published on July 7, 2026, and is a thriller perfect for the summer.

With a string of hits and millions of fans around the world, one rock star’s fame didn’t always land at home the way it did with the rest of the world. That changed when one of her favorite musicians covered one of his songs, and she saw his work in a whole new light.

Jon Bon Joviwas on top of the world in the early 1990s, after almost a decade in the spotlight. By then, Bon Jovi had become one of the defining rock bands of the era, packing arenas and dominating radio with a string of massive hits.

However, none of that mattered to his wife and high school sweetheart, Dorothea Hurley. Fame and success didn’t carry much weight at home, where life was kept refreshingly grounded despite his global superstardom.

In fact, Hurley was so unimpressed by Bon Jovi's success, that it barely registered in their day-to-day life. That was until a favorite alternative rock artist gave one of his songs a new life with an unexpected cover.

Ron Galella Collection via Getty Images

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In an interview with Entertainment Weekly, ”She’s very independent. Very independent. Her musical tastes are very alternative, and she thinks radio and MTV are bull."

He added, "Couldn’t care less! Her favorite is Elvis Costello. When Elvis covered my song ‘Bad Medicine,’ she was impressed. I was impressed!”

Bon Jovi and Hurley were married on April 29, 1989, in a quiet Las Vegas ceremony. The wedding was kept low-key and came as a surprise to many fans at the time.

Despite his growing fame, life at home stayed relatively normal, with little interest placed on his celebrity status. That balance would remain a defining part of their relationship as his career continued to soar.

"If you think I was ever gonna jeopardize anything for believing the narcissist in me was real? What a stupid thing to do. What kind of excess does a man need that's gonna fuel that fire. It is just not worth it. Not worth it," he told Good Morning America.

The couple maintains a New Jersey residence as well as a home in Florida. They are parents to four children: Stephanie, Jesse, Jake, and Romeo and grandparents of two.

Related: 2000 Rock Anthem, Which Revived a Legendary Band’s Career, Marks Massive Streaming Milestone

John Dutton originally had a very different fate in the Yellowstoneuniverse.

Series co-creator Taylor Sheridan revealed how Kevin Costner's character was originally meant to exit the hit Paramount Network drama during the Sunday, June 28, episode of The Bill Simmons Podcast, revealing that the Dutton family patriarch had a much earlier departure initially planned for him.

"Kevin was only supposed to be in the first three seasons," Sheridan revealed. "That was in his contract. In my mind, that's when his youngest son takes over, and then we have to watch [them] lose that ranch, or not lose the ranch, whatever the case is going to be."

And while Costner was "ready to go" by the end of Season 3, Sheridan said the network was "scared" not to have the Academy Award-winning actor on the show.

"He had other things he wanted to do, but he stayed on for another two seasons, and that was just because the show was such [a] behemoth," Sheridan explained. "It was such a huge hit that the notion of giving up a hit before it had run out of juice to squeeze is very foreign to a network."

He continued, "There was even pressure from some of the cable companies wanting to put it in their deals, that they were going to get an X number of seasons of Yellowstone to re-up what this cable company is. That's the power of a really big hit show."

Ultimately, Costner hit a point where he said, "I gotta do my own thing," Sheridan recalled. "We had originally conceived it together that it was three seasons, and then the baton is handed. I thought it wouldn't have been better for the show because we had tried to tread water for a bit there. I think it was pretty evident."

After Costner confirmed in 2024 that he would be exiting Yellowstone to pursue his own film project, Horizon: An American Saga, John Dutton was killed off in the opening moments of the Season 5 midseason premiere.

Costner's exit was surrounded by reports of scheduling and production conflicts, and Sheridan previously told The Hollywood Reporter in 2023 that he was "disappointed" in Costner’s decision to leave, as it "truncates the closure of his character."

In 1984, John “Cougar” Mellencamp was at the height of his fame with his album Uh-Huh. The Indiana-born heartland rocker had a hit with the song “Pink Houses,” which climbed the charts to No. 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 on Feb. 11, 1984.

Featuring a laid-back guitar riff, harmonica, and a chorus that proclaimed, “Ain’t that America, you and me/Ain’t that America, home of the free,” the song appeared to be a patriotic look at the U.S.A. at first listen.

But "Pink Houses” actually made The Hollywood Reporter’s list of  “America’s Most Patriotic (and Unpatriotic) Musical Offerings”—with an emphasis on “unpatriotic.” That’s because Mellencamp meant the song to be a look at the broken American dream.

Speaking with Rolling Stonein 2013, Mellencamp revealed he was inspired to write the future hit when he was driving down Interstate 65 and saw a Black man sitting outside of a pink house watching the cars go by.

“I thought, ‘Wow, is this what life can lead to? Watching the f---ing cars go by on the interstate?' Then I imagined he wasn't isolated, but he was happy. So I went with that positive route when I wrote this song."

Still, the rocker admitted the song was often misunderstood.

“This one has been misconstrued over the years because of the chorus – it sounds very rah-rah,” Mellencamp noted. “But it's really an anti-American song. The American dream had pretty much proven itself as not working anymore. It was another way for me to sneak something in.”

While “Pink Houses” features three verses, with the final stanza about working to pay the bills, Mellencamp once told American Songwriter he sometimes felt there were “holes” in the song.

“I’ll hear a song I wrote many years ago called ‘Pink Houses’ on the radio, and I’ll think, ‘Man, I wish I would have spent a little more time on the last verse,'" he admitted. “I never really view my songs as done. I just think they’re abandoned. You think, ‘Okay, well, I’m in the studio now, and now it’s time to think about what the guitar player is going to do, and what the bass player is going to do, and what the drummer’s going to do.’ So once you get to that point, the song is pretty much abandoned.”

Related: 1983 Classic Rock Hit, Inspired by a Motorcycle Trip, Remains an Anthem for the Open Road 43 Years Later

Collaborations in rock music really run the gamut. Queen and David Bowie's "Under Pressure" hit No. 1 in 1981 and makes regular returns to pop culture via films and TV shows, while Lou Reed's collaboration with Metallica on Lulu is considered one of the most polarizing collaborations of all time. And then there are the ones we never expected, but delight us all the same.

That seems to be the reception for The Rolling Stones' recent collaboration with The Cure's Robert Smith for their newest album, Foreign Tongues, set to be released on July 10. After all, the two rock behemoths have left their mark on the music industry for decades, and in a way, it only seems natural. However, Smith recently revealed that he certainly never had it on his bingo card.

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Related: 1981 The Rolling Stones Stadium Anthem Originally Started Life as a Reggae Track

How the Collaboration Came to Be

During a recent interview on the official Stones podcast, Speaking in Tongues, NME reported that Smith admitted he wasn't expecting anything to come from his meeting with the famous producer Andrew Watt, who was working on the Stones' upcoming album.

“Andrew Watt and I have kind of exchanged online conversations and phone conversations over the last few years, but we’d never met up,” he recalled. “Every time he’d wash up in London with some big cheese or other, either I wasn’t around, or it just didn’t seem the right time to hang out.”

Watt convinced Smith to come out for a beer while the Stones were recording at Metropolis Studios in Chiswick.

“He said that they’d pretty much done all the tracking and Mick was just left to pick up some vocal stuff,” Smith went on to detail. “He told me the day before, ‘Mick might still be around,’ and I was like, 'You know, that’s OK.'”

Still, Smith was hesitant to intrude on the session.

“I know what it’s like being in the studio, particularly when you’re singing,” he empathized. “The last thing you want is guests. It sounds a bit miserable, but the dynamic and the atmosphere is kind of a really crucial part of what you’re trying to get done. And the worst thing in the world is people bursting in, having a party when you’re trying to do something. So I said I’d wait in the bar until they’d be done.”

But apparently, Jagger was "happy" to have Smith come around and witness the studio magic for himself.

“So I went down, and I walked into the control room and through the glass, there was Mick Jagger singing, which was not what I was expecting at all.”

And that's when the ultimate "right place, right time" event happened. Smith admitted he was getting a bit liberal with the song's suggestions after imbibing, but it worked out in his favor.

“And then out of nowhere [Jagger] said, ‘Do you fancy doing something on the album?’ And I was like, 'Whoa, hang on!' And he said, ‘Oh, play a bit of guitar…’ And I was like, 'Well… I wasn’t really prepared for it.'”

“And so I, much to everyone’s astonishment, said, 'No, no thanks, I can’t do that.' I went up there expecting just to get drunk, really. And I wasn’t expecting to play on a Rolling Stones album.”

Jagger eventually went home, and Smith still found himself at the studio. “And then time elapsed, and I said to Andrew, 'Oh, come on then. Let’s plug a guitar in, and I’ll have a go at some of the songs,'” he revealed. “So I just started playing and, yeah, one thing led to another.”

Related: 1983 British Rock Icon, Who Once Refused to Chase Fame, Now Decides Who Gets the Spotlight

What to Expect From 'Foreign Tongues'

The latest album, Foreign Tongues, promises to be an amalgamation of their decades of playing music together. Aside from Smith, there are several other notable collaborations and important details:

• The band's late drummer, Charlie Watts, will be featured on the album, making it all the more special in light of his death in 2021.
• Steve Winwood plays keys and organ throughout the album, most prominently on their single "Jealous Lover." Anya Taylor-Joy actually ended up starring in the cinematic music video for it.
• Paul McCartneyalso makes a distinguished appearance on the album.
• Red Hot Chili Peppers drummer Chad Smith is also featured on the album.
• The Stones also threw in a cover of the Amy Winehouse classic, “You Know I’m No Good.”

While older bands making a major comeback aren't unprecedented, doing so with talent and grace is a thing of beauty. I'll be marking my calendar and counting down the days until July 10.

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It’s not every day that a $215 Walmart cabinet gets compared to a designer piece that costs $2,600, but Drew Barrymore’s Beautiful Drew Rattan 4-Door Buffet Sideboard makes a pretty convincing case. It’s available in two colors: black and warm honey. The black version has a moody, slightly gothic look that makes it feel more elevated than a typical storage cabinet, and the warm honey version offers the same shape and texture with a lighter, more natural feel.

The sideboard measures 70 inches wide, 18.5 inches deep, and 34.25 inches high, making it a great option for a dining room, entryway, living room, or hallway. The four-door design opens to spacious cabinets with adjustable shelves, and it has built-in cable cutaways for managing cords, which is especially helpful if you want to use it as a media console.

Beautiful by Drew Barrymore Rattan 4-Door Buffet Sideboard, $215 at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

At $215, this sideboard is especially well-priced compared to many similar budget-friendly storage cabinets, and it looks much closer to a designer piece than most options in the same range. The arched rattan mesh doors, long 70-inch shape, and hardware give it an uncanny resemblance to a designer cabinet that costs around $2,600, but the Walmart version still has the practical details you’d want for everyday storage, plus a touch-up pen if needed.

One reviewer said the sideboard has a “high-end look” and is “undeniably stunning,” adding, “If you want a designer-inspired piece on a budget, this is an excellent choice.” Another shopper described it as “beautiful” and “very sturdy,” while another wrote, “This piece is absolutely gorgeous! It has a ton of room for storage.”

The black finish is the better choice if you want the sideboard to feel moodier and more expensive-looking, while the warm honey finish gives the same rattan detail a lighter look. It’s also versatile enough to use beyond a dining room. It can hold extra linens, dishes, games, electronics, or anything else you want tucked away, which makes it just as practical in a living room or entryway as it is near a dining table.

Shop More Deals

• Beautiful Barrymore Teddy Accent Chair, $168 (was $211) at Walmart
• Beautiful Drew Round Dining Table, $194 (was $296) at Walmart
• Daybetter Vintage-Inspired Cordless Table Lamp, $20 (was $30) at Walmart

Related: Drew Barrymore's 'Luxurious' 2-Piece Curved Dining Chairs Set Adds Timeless Style to Any Table

The Beautiful Drew Rattan 4-Door Buffet Sideboard offers the look of a piece that could cost far more, but the four cabinets, adjustable shelves, and cable cutaways make it super practical for everyday use, too. At $215, this is a must-see find for anyone who wants more storage without settling for something that looks basic. Snag yours now while it’s still in stock at Walmart.

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It’s time to add a little more magic to your life, as Spotify and Pottermore Publishing have combined to bring an offer listeners cannot miss. All seven Harry Potter books are heading to Spotify Premium, so you can listen to them with the hours you get available each month.

It’s not just the seven Harry Potter books either. You can now also listen to The Tales of Beedle the Bard, Fantastic Beasts and Where to Find Them, and Quidditch Through the Ages.

For now, it’s only the English-language versions of the audiobooks. Across the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, Ireland, and Europe, the version narrated by Stephen Fry will be available, and you’re looking for the title Harry Potter and the Philosopher’s Stone. If you prefer Jim Dale’s narration, that will be available for those across North America, and you’re looking for the title Harry Potter and the Sorcerer’s Stone. They’re both the same story!

You can also still purchase the audiobooks if you’d like! When you listen to purchased books, the hours aren’t counted against your Premium available listening hours. When you download the Harry Potter books with your Premium subscription, you get around 15 hours per month — and Spotify can change that depending on your usage. Additional hours are available to purchase.

Courtesy of Spotify

As for the other magical universe books, The Tales of Beedle the Bard is narrated by Jude Law, Norma Dumezweni, and Bonnie Wright, among others. Eddie Redmayne narrates the first Fantastic Beasts book, and Andrew Lincoln takes on the narrating duties for the book that’s all about the fantastic sport of Quidditch.

Of course, if you still need more to immerse yourself in the Wizarding World, all the Harry Potter movie soundtracks are available through Spotify. You can listen to as much or as little of them as you like each month with your subscriptions.

This is the first time that the books, set within the Wizarding World by J.K. Rowling, have been available as part of Spotify Premium.

The full-cast narrations of the Harry Potter series remain exclusive to Audible.

Nancy Lee Grahn has portrayed Alexis Davis on General Hospital since 1996. The 70-year-old icon recently spoke about her experience acting on daytime television for 40 years during the “Soapy” podcast, pointing out one major problem she has with the way many people speak about soaps.

“I don't like when people go, ‘This is a training ground. It's a great training ground for actors,'” Grahn said in the June 30 episode, as reported by PEOPLE. “It's a f---ing war zone, man. You better know what you're doing because you won't last.”

Related: David Foster’s Daughter, 45, Defends His Age-Gap Relationship With Katharine McPhee, 42

Rebecca Budig, one of the cohosts of the podcast, who stars on The Bold and the Beautiful, agreed with the statement. “You're not training there,” she said. “Train outside, then come in, and if you're actually prepped and prepared, you can do it.”

Grahn added, “The repetition of doing it every day does make you a better actor, and so in that regard, it is great training. But training ground? No, no, no, no.”

Grahn also revealed that she recently signed on for a few more years of General Hospital. “I just re-signed my contract — another three years, and I’m so grateful for this part of my life,” she said. “It’s such a great job.”

Related: ‘Big Bang Theory’ Stars Filmed Their On-Screen Breakup Only Weeks After Their Real Breakup

Grahn concluded by saying more people should be watching soaps “right now more than ever because it's familiar, it's consistent, it's dependable, it's harmless.”

Grahn won two Daytime Emmy Awards for her work on General Hospital and was nominated 11 times overall. Some of her other credits include Babylon 5, Little House on the Prairie, Knight Rider, and Santa Barbara.

“I thought, ‘I'd have to have Murphy Brown's part to have a better part than I had on Santa Barbara,'” she stated, calling her time there “a very special growth time.” While working on the series, she earned another Daytime Emmy Award for Best Supporting Actress for playing Julia Wainwright Capwell.

The “Soapy” podcast, which releases new episodes every Tuesday, delves into behind-the-scenes-secrets and insider stories about soap operas from actors, writers, and producers. It is hosted by Budig and Greg Rikaart, from Days of Our Lives.

Anne Hathaway is already showcasing her chic maternity style!

The 43-year-old actress, who announced she was expecting her third child with husband Adam Shulman less than two weeks ago, highlighted her growing baby bump in a fiery red outfit as she stepped out to kick off the press tour for Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey this week.

Hathaway kept it stylish as she was photographed in New York City on Tuesday, June 30, sporting a bright red jumpsuit by Ashlyn New York that showed off her belly with a low waistline. She accessorized the look with a simple gold necklace and red strappy heels.

Anne Hathaway is seen in Financial District on June 30, 2026 in New York City. (Photo by Aeon/GC Images)

The Mother Mary actress, who is also mom to sons Jonathan, 10, and Jack, 6, with Shulman, announced on June 19 that she was pregnant with her third child.

Hathaway shared her big baby news on Instagram, sharing a video in which she dropped her arms to reveal her growing bump, clad in a white flowing dress, while "Baby I'm Yours" by Barbara Lewis played. The Verity actress then smiled, hugged her belly, and exited the video. "x Baby, I’m yours x," she simply captioned the post.

The proud mother previously spoke about how much she loves being a mom to her two boys during an interview with PEOPLE in April.

"I just feel very lucky," she told the outlet at the time. "I know that not everybody who wants to be a parent gets to be. I’m just blown away by how fortunate I am. It went really well for me twice, and that’s really lucky." 

Asked about her favorite part of being a mom, Devil Wears Prada star answered, "Being a mom is just this beautiful ongoing poem that I get to live inside of."

Melissa Gilbert is mourning the death of her Little House on the Prairie costar, Michael Landon, 35 years after his death.

On Wednesday, July 1, Gilbert, 62, took to Instagram with a carousel of photos of herself and her former onscreen dad, who died at 54 in 1991, after a battle with pancreatic cancer.

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Landon played Charles "Pa" Ingalls in the original historical drama series in addition to directing, producing, and writing for the show. Meanwhile, Gilbert was cast as his daughter, Laura Ingalls Wilder, when she was just 9. LHOTP aired for nine seasons from 1974 to 1983.

"Thirty-five years ago today, the world lost a creative powerhouse. Michael Landon was one of the most successful actor-writer-director-producers in the history of television," Gilbert began her message. "Every show he was a part of ran for years. His TV shows remain a part of many people’s lives to this very day."

She continued, "But more than that Mike was my friend, collaborator and mentor. I’ve always felt like the luckiest girls in the world because he chose me to be his 'Halfpint.' Working with him was more than formative. I learned most of what I know about our industry from him. I learned so much more too."

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Related: Melissa Gilbert’s Age Gap With Dean Butler in Little House on the Prairie: A Closer Look

Gilbert explained how Landon "loved his family fiercely," recalling how her family and his would vacation together.

The When Calls the Heart actress admitted, "I can’t begin to tell you how many times over the last 35 years, I’ve thought, 'What would Mike do?' I miss him. I miss his giggle. I miss his warmth. Mostly I miss the fact that he is not with us these days to make more of his art for all of us. We sure could use a dose of his perspective on things."

To conclude her update, Gilbert sent a message to Landon's children, writing, "I’m sending so much love to @michaellandonjr1@shawnalandon@thechrislandon and the entire Landon family today. Boy, I loved your dad…and I love you all so much."

The Little House on the Prairie reboot series premieres on July 9 on Netflix.

Next: Melissa Gilbert Issues Urgent Plea After Daveigh Chase’s Cause of Death Is Revealed