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Today's NYT Strands puzzle explores the idea of lifelike human representations to objects that resemble people. Move over, Wordle, Connections, Connections Sports Edition, and Mini Crossword—there’s a new NYT word game in town! The New York Times' recent game, "Strands," is becoming increasingly popular as another daily activity fans can find on the NYT website and app.

With daily themes and "spangrams" to discover, this is the latest addictive game to cross off your to-do list before a new one pops up 24 hours later.

We'll cover exactly how to play Strands, hints for today's Spangram, and all of the answers for Strands #878 on Wednesday, July 29.

How to Play Strands

The New York Times

According to the New York Times, here's exactly how to play Strands:

Find theme words to fill the board.

• Theme words stay highlighted in blue when found.
• Drag or tap letters to create words. If tapping, double-tap the last letter to submit.
• Theme words fill the board entirely. No theme words overlap.

Find the “spangram.”

• The spangram describes the puzzle's theme and touches two opposite sides of the board. It may be two words.
• The spangram highlights in yellow when found.
• An example spangram with corresponding theme words: PEAR, FRUIT, BANANA, APPLE, etc.

Need a hint?

• Find non-theme words to get hints.
• For every three non-theme words you find, you earn a hint.
• Hints show the letters of a theme word. If there is already an active hint on the board, a hint will show that word's letter order.

What Is Today's Strands Hint for the Theme: "A made man."

A hint for today's Strands game: Barbie and Ken.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Hints?

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

In today's puzzle, there are seven theme words to find (including the spangram). Here are the first two letters for each word:

• DO
• DU
• PU
• ST
• FI
• MA
• FA (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

Today's Spangram is a mix of vertical and horizontal.

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for July 29

Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Wednesday, July 29, 2026, isFABRICATED.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Tuesday, July 29?

• DOLL
• DUMMY
• PUPPET
• STATUE
• FURGURINE
• MANNEQUIN
• SPANGRAM: FABRICATED

Related: Today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram and Answers for Tuesday, July 28, 2026

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Whether you're looking to skip takeout to save money or want a healthy meal readily available, a reliable thermos can come in clutch at school, at work, or while traveling. There’s nothing worse than looking forward to your homemade lunch only to find it’s gone cold (or warm when it should be cold) by the time you sit down to eat. To help keep your food at the correct temperature on even the busiest days, we found an incredible deal on an insulated thermos at Walmart that's currently a whopping 64% off with a limited-time flash deal.

Normally $66, the Lylhzrmdgc Insulated Thermos is marked down to just $24 at Walmart, just in time for back-to-school season. It keeps food hot or cold for hours, eliminating the need for a microwave, and the multi-layered design makes on-the-go meal prep absolutely effortless. If you're looking to spend less eating out while you're away from home, this is one handy contraption you're going to wish you'd invested in sooner.

Lylhzrmdgc Insulated Thermos, $24 (was $66) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

This thermos' generous 40-ounce capacity is ideal for full lunches, overnight oats, soups, salads, or leftovers, making it especially useful for students and commuters, as well as during road trips, camping, or travel days when you want to enjoy homemade food without the hassle. The durable stainless steel construction holds up through everyday use, but it's lightweight enough to toss in a backpack or tote. Plus, it comes with a carrying case featuring extra storage pockets for condiments, and the included stainless steel spoon stores easily inside its own compartment in the lid.

A modular design with a removable tray means that you can keep different meal components separated. Reviewers mentioned keeping rice or pasta in the tray to prevent it from mixing with sauce stored in the thermos' main compartment until it was time to eat. The buckle-style lid features a silicone gasket that creates a leakproof seal to prevent spills in transit, so you shouldn't have to worry about any food sloshing into your bag.

For enjoying "a perfectly hot meal" at work or school, shoppers said this roomy thermos is the "perfect size" for lunch portions. Reviewers called the insulated design "very convenient," noting that "it keeps food hot or cold" for hours at a time. 

Shop More Deals

• Thermos Stainless Steel Insulated Food Jar, $28 (was $33) at Walmart
• Fit + Fresh Bloomington Lunch Bag, $20 (was $27) at Walmart
• Taimasi 34-Piece Glass Food Storage Container Set, $32 (was $56) at Walmart

Related: Walmart's Fluted Ceramic Utensil Holder Set Will Make Your Kitchen Look 'Elegant,' 'Expensive,' and Organized

Transform your lunch routine with the Lylhzrmdgc Insulated Thermos, while it's on sale for just $24. Walmart flash deals don't last long, so be sure to snag this handy thermos before it's gone!

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.

Today's New York Times Connections puzzle explores everything from ways to fasten things and plain, everyday descriptions to units of wisdom and classroom boards.. There's nothing quite as exhilarating as the feeling of completing the daily New York Times Wordle, Strands, Mini Crossword and Connections Sports Edition word games in one fell swoop. But sometimes that can be easier said than done. If you need help with today's Connections puzzle, keep reading.

Spoilers ahead! We've warned you. We mean it. Read no further until you really want some clues or you've completely given up and want the answers ASAP. Get ready for all of today's NYT 'Connections’ hints and answers for #1144 onWednesday, July 29, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Wednesday, July 29, 2026 / New York Times

New York Times

If you've been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Wednesday's puzzle, you're not alone, and these hints should definitely help you out. Plus, I'll reveal the answers further down.

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You'll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Hints About Today's NYT Connections Categories on Wednesday, July 29

1. Hold together.
2. You might pass them by.
3. Smart advice.
4. School days.

Related: 300 Trivia Questions and Answers to Jumpstart Your Fun Game Night

Ready for the answers? Scroll below this image (the image that represents your very appreciated patience!).

iStock

Today's Connections Game Answers for Wednesday, July 29:

1. FASTENERS: NAIL, RIVET, SCREW, STAPLE
2. NONDESCRIPT: BASIC, MID, PLAIN, VANILLA
3. UNITS OF WISDOM: GEM, NUGGET, PEARL, WORD
4. ___BOARDS IN A CLASSROOM: BLACK, CHALK, CORK, WHITE

How'd you do?

Up Next:

- 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day
- Hints, Clues and Answers to the NYT's 'Mini Crossword' Puzzle

Did You Miss a Few Days? Let's Catch You Up With Recent Connections Answers

Related: NYT ‘Connections’ Hints, Clues and Answers Today, Tuesday, July 28, 2026

Today's NYT Wordle answer reminds us of how fluids are controlled. But the day just isn't complete until I've solved all of the free word games from the New York Times, including Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Strands, and Mini Crossword. If you’re stuck on today’s Wordle answer, we’re here to help—but beware of spoilers for Wordle #1866 ahead.

Let's start with a few hints.

🎬 SIGN UP for Parade's Daily newsletter to get the latest pop culture news & celebrity interviews delivered right to your inbox 🎬

How many vowels are in today's Wordle?

There are two vowels in today's five-letter word.

What kind of letter does today's Wordle start with?

Today's Wordle begins with a consonant.

Are there any double letters?

There are no double letters in today's Wordle.

Can you give another hint about today's Wordle

A hint for today's Wordle is: a mechanical device that controls fluid flow.

OK, that's it for hints—I don't want to totally give it away before revealing the answer!

Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours

We'll have the answer below this friendly reminder of how to play the game.

SPOILERS BELOW—do not scroll any further if you don't want the answer revealed.

The New York Times

Today's Wordle Answer for #1866 on Wednesday, July 29, 2026.

Today's Wordle answer on Wednesday, July 29, 2026, is VALVE.

-If you missed it, catch up with the answer to yesterday’s Wordle.

Related: Every 5 Letter Word Wordle Hasn't Used Yet (Updated Daily)

Jen Hamilton's devastating divorce story might just turn into the next best-selling romance novel.

"Due to our horrifyingly (slightly) similar situations, I'm officially proposing a lavender marriage to Jen Hamilton," influencer Chris Olsen shared via TikTok over a clip of himself on one knee.

When the labor and delivery nurse responded with a reaction video, one New York Times best-selling author jumped at the chance to offer her services.

"100k likes on this comment and I'll write this book 👌🫶," Abby Jimenez commented via Instagram on Tuesday, July 28.

View this post on Instagram

"Abby PLEASE!!! Yes!!!" Hamilton responded.

As of publication, Jimenez — who recently published her eighth romance novel — had racked up nearly 35,000 likes on her comment.

Jimenez rose to fame after winning Food Network's Cupcake Wars in 2013. She would later appear on TLC's Fabulous Cakes.

Her debut novel, The Friend Zone, was released in 2019. In the years since, she has landed at the top of the NYT Best Sellers list multiple times, including for her books Say You'll Remember Me and Just for the Summer.

Like Jimenez, Hamilton was also named a New York Times bestseller for her book, Birth Vibes.

"Since finding out that a book I had written on a whim has become a #1 New York Times Best-Seller, my life has completely changed but in other ways has stayed exactly the same," she shared via Substack in May—one month before announcing her divorce.

The mother of two split from her husband of nearly 14 years, Brian Hamilton, in June. She later revealed that after signing separation papers, she learned of her ex's "double life."

"What has come out since has caused me to deal with this as a death," Hamilton shared via Instagram on Sunday, July 26. "That's what it feels like in my soul, because all the memories, all the tender moments—poof. I do not know this person. Truly."

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Summer is still in full swing, and if you're looking for stylish, lightweight bedding to help fend off the hot nights, Macy's has a new limited-time deal that's worth checking out. The top-rated Charter Club Seaside Patchwork 3-Piece Quilt Set has a pretty, beachy design that'll brighten up any bedroom, and right now, it's on sale for 75% off in all three sizes. 

Originally $335, the beautiful bedding is currently marked down to just $84 in the full/queen-sized option as part of a last-act clearance. You can also shop it in the twin size at $75, down from $300, and in the king size at $96, down from $385.

Charter Club Seaside Patchwork 3-Piece Quilt Set, $84 (was $335) at Macy's

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

The popular set comes with a reversible quilt and two matching pillow shams, each featuring a nautical striped patchwork pattern in soft shades of blue, white, and tan. All three pieces are made of 100% cotton fabric that's lightweight, Oeko Tex-certified and breathable enough for year-round use. The quilt offers two gorgeous looks in one, with the coastal-inspired print on one side and a solid pale blue color on the other.  

Related: Macy's Reversible Quilt Set Is 'Elegant' and Super Soft' With 'Gorgeous' Scalloped Edges

With chic neutral colors and an elegant pattern that's eye-catching yet subtle enough to complement any decor, this three-piece set is easy to style in any space. Use it on its own over the summer, and layer it over a heavier comforter in the colder months. Maintenance is also hassle-free. Simply wash it in cold water and tumble dry it on low heat whenever it needs a refresh.  

With over 150 five-star ratings, this popular quilt set has earned plenty of high praise among Macy's shoppers. Multiple reviewers praised its "pretty" design and "very soft" cotton fabric. One buyer said it has a "light beachy feel," while another said it brings a "bright coastal vibe" to their bedroom. 

Shop More Deals:

• Charter Club Jacobean Chenille 3-Piece Comforter Set, $100 (was $400) at Macy's
• Charter Club Bailey Scallop 3-Piece Quilt Set, $70 (was $235) at Macy's
• Charter Club Emilia Paisley 3-Piece Comforter Set, $100 (was $400) at Macy's

If you want to freshen up your sleep space before the end of summer, this three-piece patchwork quilt set is worth grabbing before it sells out for good. It's soft, lightweight enough for hot temperatures, and easy to maintain. Grab one while it's still on sale for 75% off at Macy's. 

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.

According to Felix Cavaliere, co-founder of the Young Rascals, many of his most famous songs were inspired by his first real love...and one of them was even written in a sort of attempt to make up not spending enough time with her on the weekends.

As Cavaliere explained in an interview with Songwriter Universe, the 1967 #1 hit "Groovin'" was penned about his girlfriend at the time, and the fact that his schedule as a musician kept them apart.

"What happened is, you know, musicians work primarily on Friday and Saturday nights," Cavaliere recalled. "And when you have a romantic situation, [working weekends] kind of interferes with everybody else’s schedule who are not musicians. They usually have Friday and Saturday off. So Sunday afternoon is the only time I can be with my significant other."

"I just felt like…I’m gonna write a song to make amends for the fact that we’re always busy on weekends," Cavaliere continued. "So [I wrote the line] 'Groovin’ on a Sunday afternoon.' It was really interesting…a lot of people relate to that in different ways, like a day off, picnics. But that’s what it was."

In an interview with the Wall Street Journal in 2013, Cavaliere shared more details about the "muse" who inspired so many of his songs.

"Back in 1966, I was hopelessly in love with a girl I was dating named Adrienne," Cavaliere said. "I had met her at a friend's house in Pelham Manor, N.Y., where I'm from, and she became my muse. Adrienne was my first serious girlfriend, and our relationship lasted about a year. Many of my best songs were written about her — or because of her — including 'Lonely Too Long,' 'Girl Like You' and 'How Can I Be Sure.'"

Cavaliere went on to say that "Groovin'" expressed "the bliss I felt relaxing with her on Sunday afternoons, watching the world go by."

Indeed, the song is all about chill Sunday vibes:

Groovin' on a Sunday afternoon
Really, couldn't get away too soon

I can't imagine anything that's better
The world is ours whenever we're together
There ain't a place I'd like to be instead of

Cavaliere wrote the music for "Groovin'" on an upright piano in the apartment he shared with fellow Rascal Eddie Brigati on 79th Street in Manhattan, with Brigati collaborating on the lyrics.

Michael Ochs Archives / Getty Images

"Even though the song was about my relationship, Eddie did a beautiful job on the verses," Cavaliere said.

Released as a single in April 1967, "Groovin'" went on to hit #1 on the Billboard Hot 100, where it stayed for four weeks over the months of May and June. As Cavaliere told the WSJ, Adrienne called the song "lovely" when she heard it.

"Adrienne was an angel who came into my life and left. We split up later that year, amicably, and eventually she married a dear friend of mine. Sadly, she died about 10 years ago," Cavaliere said.

Related: 1967 Rock Classic, Originally a Flop, Became a Surprise Hit 5 Years Later

When it comes to achieving country music stardom, only a handful of female artists can say they’ve reached that success as teenagers. Taylor Swift, Marie Osmond, LeAnn Rimes, and Tanya Tuckerall landed No. 1 hits in their teens. Another artist who accomplished that same feat but is often overlooked today is Jessica Andrews. 

By 2000, Andrews, now 42, had already spent years honing her craft as a performer, but it was that year when she released “Who I Am,” which became the biggest hit of her career.

RELATED: 1977 No. 1 Fleetwood Mac Hit, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Songs of All Time,’ Reimagined as a Duet With Ella Langley

“Who I Am” was the lead single and title track from Andrews’ album of the same name, which followed her debut project, Heart Shaped World. Released when she was just 15 years old, her first album produced multiple Top 40 hits, including “I Will Be There For You,” “You Go First (Do You Wanna Kiss)” and “Unbreakable Heart.” But it was “Who I Am” that truly resonated with listeners, dominating country radio and becoming her signature, career-defining hit. 

Written by Brett James and Troy Verges and released on Oct. 30, 2000, “Who I Am” is a reflective anthem of self-confidence and self-worth. Throughout the song, Andrews shares an uplifting message about being proud of where she comes from. 

She celebrates her identity while honoring the people closest to her heart, including her grandmother and both of her parents. Rather than seeking approval from the outside world or chasing grand accomplishments, she instead embraces what truly fulfills her — strong family values and life’s simple joys. That message has become a universal theme for fans who grew to love the song, and helped take the track to the top of the charts. 

In April 2001, six months after its release, “Who I Am” reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Singles & Tracks chart (now Hot Country Songs), where it stayed for three consecutive weeks. The tune also became a crossover hit, peaking at No. 28 on the Billboard Hot 100. 

“Who I Am,” according to Wide Open Country, served as the theme song to the police drama Sue Thomas: F.B. Eye and was featured on an episode of the Disney Channel’s Lizzy McGuire. To date, the song is Andrews' only No. 1 hit of her career, as she has never returned to the top of the charts. 

RELATED: Country Star Suffers Nasty Fall While Leaving His Concert in Michigan

Though it’s been over 20 years since the release of “Who I Am,” the song resurfaced in January 2026 when Jessie James Decker teamed up with Andrews for a duet rendition of the hit as part of Decker’s “Stair Session” social media series. 

View this post on Instagram

“Who remembers this one?” Decker captioned the video on Instagram as shown above. “One of the biggest country songs of our childhood! I’ve known Jess for many years, and I’m lucky to call her a friend. Such a sweet soul and incredible vocalist🌸 #whoiam #jessicaandrews #90scountry #countrymusic.”

Related: 1996 No. 1 Hit, With 14-Year-Old Singer, Became a Motivational Anthem

Sometimes a band's biggest breakthrough comes after one of its lowest moments.

That was exactly what happened with Free's iconic 1970 hit "All Right Now." The classic rock staple was written immediately after a poorly received performance at Durham University, where the audience reportedly left in silence. Bassist Andy Fraser, who was just 17 years old at the time, helped turn that disappointment into the song that would define the band's career.

The idea arrived almost instantly.

"Afterwards, in the dressing room, there was just this horrible silence… a really bad atmosphere," Fraser told Songwriting Magazine. "So to try and alleviate the tension, I just started singing… y'know, 'All right now, baby it's all right now,' over and over, kind of like a parent trying to gee their kids along! But it worked, the rest of the band started tapping along and so I thought, we're onto something here."

It proved to be exactly what Free needed.

Released in March 1970 as the lead single from Fire and Water, "All Right Now" became an international sensation. The song reached No. 2 on the UK Singles Chart, climbed to No. 4 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the United States, and helped propel Fire and Water to become the band's most successful album.

"The guitar riff, was me trying to do my Pete Townsend, who I always regarded as 'king of the chords,'" Fraser told Metal Talk. "Paul later wrote the verse and the lyrics while he was waiting for the band to pick him up for another gig, he said. We actually never took the song seriously, felt it was the most lightweight of our material, and argued against it being released as a single. One of the few arguments we lost with Island founder Chris Blackwell, but turns out he was right."

Its instantly recognizable guitar riff and singalong chorus made it impossible to ignore.

Unlike many hard rock songs of the era, "All Right Now" balanced bluesy swagger with an accessible hook that appealed to mainstream audiences. The chemistry between Paul Rodgers' soulful vocals, Kossoff's memorable guitar work, Fraser's melodic bass lines, and Simon Kirke's driving rhythm created a sound that has endured for generations.

The song ultimately became synonymous with Free itself.

Although the band released several acclaimed albums, "All Right Now" remains its signature recording and has become one of the defining rock songs of the 1970s. It continues to receive regular airplay on classic rock radio, has appeared in numerous films, television shows, and sporting events, and has been covered by artists across multiple genres.

More than 55 years after its release, "All Right Now" still captures the same energy that Andy Fraser hoped to create after that disappointing night at Durham University. What a 17 year-old songwriter helped craft in response to a failed gig ultimately became Free's career-defining hit and one of the most enduring anthems in rock history.

Related: 1970 Rock Ballad, Written by a 22-Year-Old, Is Still a Hit Song 56 Years Later

Just like so many others, singer-songwriter Dan Peek of the band America couldn't help but feel a bit heartbroken when he first heard "Eleanor Rigby" by the Beatles. Peek, however, was so troubled by the tune that he was inspired to write his own song in response, one that told a happier tale: America's "Lonely People," which was the second single from their 1974 album Holiday.

As Peek recalled in his book An American Band: the America Story, he felt "lacerated" by the "Eleanor Rigby" chorus:

All the lonely people
Where do they all come from?
All the lonely people
Where do they all belong?

To Peek, the song painted an "overwhelming picture...of the masses of lost humanity, drowning in grey oblivion."

Perhaps the song hit a little too close to home for Peek, who was struggling to find love himself. Thankfully for the musician, that changed when he met his wife, Catherine Maberry. Within a few weeks of their 1973 wedding, the newlywed couple penned the optimistic and encouraging "Lonely People."

This is for all the lonely people
Thinkin' that life has passed them by
Don't give up until you drink from the silver cup
And ride that highway in the sky

This is for all the single people
Thinkin' that love has left them dry
Don't give up until you drink from the silver cup
You never know until you try

"I always felt like a melancholy, lonely person. And now I felt like I’d won," Peek explained later, per Far Out.

When it came to recording "Lonely People," America was fortunate to have the help of famed Beatles producer George Martin, who produced Holiday (much to the band's delight).

David Warner Ellis / Getty Images

"Gerry (Beckley) had been in England, and we'd talked about using George Martin as our producer," Peek told Circus magazine, per Songfacts. "He's such a hot arranger, thinking about all the stuff he's done. There were several other people we wanted to use, but that idea sort of flashed and George was available. Gerry had a house outside of London where we knew we could rehearse."

The band members met with Martin at their managers' Los Angeles office.

"The first thing he did was take his shirt, sweater and shoes off. He said it was too hot in L.A.," Peek recalled.

"He put everyone at ease, and we just got along well from the first second," he continued. "He has a very musical mind, and as we began working we bounced ideas off of him quite a bit, with things like vocal arrangements and guitar parts. It was an amazing experience working for a mind-producer."

"Lonely People" ended up being the biggest hit Peek wrote with America, peaking at #5 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1975 and going all the way to #1 on the Adult Contemporary chart that same year.

Related: 1972 Classic Rock Hit, With 'One of the Finest Organ Solos' Ever, Became a Timeless Motivational Anthem

Brianna "Chickenfry" LaPaglia has built her social media following by doing the exact opposite of what many influencers once aimed for.

During a recent event at T-Mobile's MLB All-Star Weekend festivities in Philadelphia, the podcast host and internet personality opened up about why she stopped trying to present a "perfect" image online.

"I think in the beginning I definitely wanted to curate more of a perfect image because that's what social media was, especially when you're younger," LaPaglia shared. "But the more that you're behind the scenes, you realize it's kind of all lies. So I'd rather share the truth, and what people really go through online, and I think it's built a stronger community."

The PlanBri Uncut host said that the shift has changed not only the content she creates but also the relationship she's built with her audience.

"I think people don't expect perfection from me and don't expect a curated image," she said. "They kind of just expect like their friend is posting and they feel like they're FaceTiming me or they're hanging out with me. That's kind of what works."

View this post on Instagram

Chickenfry has amassed a following of more than 3 million across Instagram and TikTok by embracing her authentic self. The internet personality also admitted that constantly sharing her life publicly has changed the way she views herself.

"I think it kind of makes you more aware of the person that you are and how you move about in the world because you're constantly getting told what people like and what people don't like," she told Parade. "It's definitely kind of given me a different perspective on myself, but in a positive way."

Dark Star Orchestra, one of the most acclaimed Grateful Dead tribute bands, is giving fans a reason to celebrate after announcing the details of its 2026 tour.

The seven-piece band, composed of lead guitarist and vocalist Jeff Mattson, Rob Eaton on rhythm guitar and vocals, Rob Barraco on keyboards, Skip Vangelas on bass, Lisa Mackey on vocals and harmonica, Dino English and Rob Koritz on drums, is hitting the road again with a series of performances this fall.

In an Instagram update, the band shared the exciting news about its Northeast and Mid-Atlantic shows, kicking off on Nov. 12 in Providence, Rhode Island, followed by shows in New York, Massachusetts, Washington, D.C., Pennsylvania and more before concluding the run in Clearwater, Florida on Dec. 5.

The 15-date trek also includes the band's appearance at the Rex Foundation Benefit, a special concert event in Washington, D.C., in celebration of the 45th anniversary of Grateful Dead's acclaimed 1981 live album Reckoning.

Dino English, Rob Koritz, Lisa Mackey, Rob Eaton, Rob Barraco, Kevin Rosen, Jeff Mattson of Dark Star Orchestra at the Hardly Strictly Bluegrass Festival 2011.

Anthony Pidgeon/Redferns

Moreover, one of the highlights of the upcoming tour is the long-awaited four-night concert run in Florida, with scheduled performances in Fort Lauderdale, Jacksonville and Clearwater.

According to the band, tickets will be available on July 31, while the Dark Star Orchestra fan presale begins on July 29.

View this post on Instagram

Following the exciting announcement, fans can look forward to another round of high-energy performances as the band continues its longtime tradition of recreating the experience of a live Grateful Dead concert, performing beloved classics like "Casey Jones," "Truckin'," "Friend of the Devil" and more.

On the other hand, fans will get to see more of Dark Star Orchestra as the band headlines The Music Never Stops: A Rex Foundation Benefit & Tribute to Bob Weir, a special two-night charity concert event on July 31 and Aug. 1.

Dark Star Orchestra's Fall Tour 2026

Nov. 12 • Providence Performing Arts Center • Providence, RI
Nov. 13 • Palace Theatre • Albany, NY
Nov. 14 • Orpheum Theatre • Boston, MA
Nov. 19 • The Wellmont Theater • Montclair, NJ
Nov. 20 • The Wellmont Theater • Montclair, NJ
Nov. 21 • The Anthem • Washington, DC^
Nov. 22 • Warner Theatre • Erie, PA
Nov. 24 • Forum Theater • Binghamton, NY
Nov. 25 • Penn's Peak • Jim Thorpe, PA
Nov. 27 • The Paramount • Huntington, NY
Nov. 28 • The Paramount • Huntington, NY
Dec. 2 • Florida Theatre • Jacksonville, FL
Dec. 3 • War Memorial Auditorium • Fort Lauderdale, FL
Dec. 4 • War Memorial Auditorium • Fort Lauderdale, FL
Dec. 5 • The BayCare Sound • Clearwater, FL

Related: 1971 Rock Song, Never a No. 1 Hit, Ranked Among Best ‘Classic Rock Songs’ of All Time

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Looking to give your outdoor space the proper upgrade that it deserves? Look no further than Walmart. The retailer has amazing outdoor pieces that allow you to transform your space, even when on a tight budget. Some of our recent favorites include this whimsical solar light, this dreamy wind chime, and stunning outdoor area rug. Now, we're heading back to the store to shop for the Radiata Outdoor Foldable Hanging Egg Chair, while it's nearly 50% off.

The chair originally cost $245, but has been reduced to as low as $129 in the brown and beige colorways. The furniture is additionally being sold in dark gray and light gray at a slightly higher sale price, $158. You can purchase just the chair or the chair with a cover in each hue, which is being sold for full price at $188. The chair is marked as Walmart's overall pick and is already in over 25 customer carts, so you'll want to act fast to snag one for yourself. 

Radiata Outdoor Foldable Hanging Egg Chair, From $129 (was $245) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

The chair is 38 inches long, 38 inches wide, and 78 inches tall, and can hold up to 350 pounds. Make sure to measure your space before purchasing to ensure that it fits with ample room left. The piece features a wicker outer with a polyester cushion that's waterproof. To retain its quality, it's recommended that you wipe the fabric clean for best results. There's a powder-coated alloy steel frame that's designed to be secure with a stable X-shaped base. 

The beauty of this egg chair is that the basket is foldable, so you can easily store it in your garage throughout the fall and winter. Although the cushion is also UV-resistant, we advise storing it outside of direct sunlight. You will have to assemble the chair upon arrival, but it's delivered with all of the tools needed and can easily be done solo. 

Shoppers have cited the chair as "fabulous," "sturdy," "surprisingly comfortable," "charming," and "durable," adding that it "holds up beautifully outside." One reviewer wrote that "the design is cute without being flimsy, and it adds such a nice visual pop to the yard." It's cozy to sit in for long hours, whether you intend on reading, napping, or basking in the sun. 

This is the type of chair that offers ultimate relaxation throughout the warmer months. You, guests, family members, and even pets will never want to get up. Gift yourself this gorgeous hanging chair while it's over $100 off at Walmart! 

Related: Walmart’s ‘Lightweight’ Henley Pajama Set Is Cozy for Lounging Yet ‘Pretty’ Enough to Wear Out

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Few books are able to be gripping, thrilling, and heartwrenching all at once. Wild Dark Shore by Australian novelist Charlotte McConaghy is a novel that accomplishes exactly that and has continuously left readers moved, pensieve, and wanting more.

Inspired by the remote Macquarie Island located between Tasmania and Antarctica, Wild Dark Shore became a New York Times and Indieboundbestseller upon its publication in 2025. The novel remains massively popular among readers still a year later, and was recently ranked by Goodreads among the "Most Read Books of 2026." The novel was ranked number 14 on the list, and has been shelved by users on the platform more than 440,000 times.

A rare and coveted starred review from Kirkus said of the book:

"McConaghy writes about both nature and human frailty with eloquent generosity. Readers won’t want to leave behind the imagined world of pain and beauty that McConaghy has conjured."

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On top of its commercial success, Wild Dark Shore was critically acclaimed and has been nominated for and won several awards, including:

• The Indie Book Awards Book of the Year
• The Dymocks Book of the Year
• The Goodreads Choice Awards
• The Carnegie Medal
• The 2026 Stella Award
• The 2026 Women in Fiction Prize

Told from multiple points of view, Wild Dark Shorefollows the isolated Salt family who are the sole caretakers on the decaying, subantarctic Shearwater island of a global seed bank. When a shipwrecked, mysterious woman washes up on the shores of their island, secrets of the land, their lives, and the family unit begin to unravel as they attempt to learn more about her. Wild Dark Shore is a story about climate, heartbreak, healing, rebuilding, and survival by any means necessary.

Speaking to the Writers on Writing podcast, McConaghy revealed that a film adaptation of the novel is in the works, although no studio or major developments have yet to be announced.

Wild Dark Shore is out now and available wherever books are sold.

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Related: Beloved No. 1 Best-Selling Debut Novel Ranked a ‘Most Read Book of 2026’ on Goodreads

Following the success of last year’s Twin Peaks: Conversation With the Stars event, members of the cast are returning for an expanded reunion tour this year and next.

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According to The Hollywood Reporter, the tour kicks off in mid-September, making select stops around the country, with the show’s lead actors, Sheryl Lee (who plays Laura Palmer), Ray Wise (Leland Palmer), Michael Horse (Deputy Hawk), Dana Ashbrook (Bobby Briggs), Kimmy Robertson (Lucy Moran), and Harry Goaz (Deputy Andy Brennan), all appearing alongside Twin Peaks: The Returnexecutive producer Sabrina Sutherland.

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Unfortunately, the tour will not include Kyle MacLachlan, who plays FBI Special Agent Dale Cooper. But fans will have tons of nostalgia to look forward to, with the evenings filled with live panel discussions, behind-the-scenes stories, meet-and-greets, and photo ops. The tour will also honor co-creator David Lynch, who died in January 2025.

“We are going back to the water, back to the trees and back to the land … back to the places where it all began,” Lee said in a statement.

Related: 1990 Hit Ranked Among ‘Best Series of All Time’ Was Secretly Inspired by Marilyn Monroe

On Oct. 26 and 27, Lee and Wise will return to Everett and Poulsbo, Washington, where the series was filmed. Then on Halloween, the two will host “Trick or Treat With the Palmers” and “Halloween Dinner With the Palmers” events, complete with costumes, of course.

Come Jan. 20, the cast will converge at the United Theater in Los Angeles in honor of Lynch’s birthday.

“I’m looking forward to being part of the tour again this year,” Sutherland, who worked closely with Lynch over the years, said, per THR. “One of the things that has meant the most to me is seeing how deeply Twin Peaks still resonates with people and the connections it has created over the years. It’s wonderful that this tour gives us the opportunity to visit fans across the country and to return to the filming locations in Washington, both of which I will always treasure.”

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Twin Peaks premiered in April 1990 on ABC. It ran for 30 episodes over two seasons, spawned a feature film called Twin Peaks: Fire Walk With Me, which was released in theaters in August 1992. In 2017, the cult classic series saw a revival with its third season, Twin Peaks: The Return, premiering on Showtime in May.

More than 35 years later, it’s clear that the cast and the fans remain obsessed with the idiosyncratic town of Twin Peaks.

Related: Music Legend Adds Another Major Career Milestone, Celebrating Her Greatest Gift

When Chicago released "Colour My World" in 1970, the band added an unexpected moment of tenderness to its ambitious blend of rock, jazz, and brass.

Penned by trombonist James Pankow, who was just 22 years old at the time, the gentle ballad stood apart from the group's horn-driven sound. More than five decades later, it remains one of Chicago's most recognizable songs and a staple of weddings, proms, and classic rock radio.

Pankow wrote the song as a heartfelt expression of love.

"I titled it 'Colour My World' because it affected a lyric that again mirrors the emotion of love," Pankow told Songfacts. "In this case, I used the emotion of love and description as a technicolor movie that takes places in my heart. It colors, it gives color and vivid definition to my life, like bringing this emotion to it."

Rather than constructing an elaborate arrangement, Pankow intentionally kept the lyrics simple and direct, allowing the melody and emotion to take center stage.

That simplicity became one of the song's greatest strengths.

Featuring an unforgettable flute solo by Walter Parazaider and a warm lead vocal from Terry Kath, "Colour My World" offered a softer contrast to the band's sprawling jazz-rock compositions. Its understated arrangement helped showcase another side of Chicago's musical personality.

"I remember writing 'Colour My World' on the road in a hotel room in the middle of the night," Pankow said in an interview. "At 3 a.m. I got Walt out of bed to try the flute part and see if it would work. He's like, 'Jimmy! It's 3 a.m.!' He groaned, but obliged me. After he played it, I asked him if it was any good. He answered, 'Any good? That flute part will make me famous.'"

"Colour My World" wasn't originally intended as a standalone song. Instead, it serves as one movement in Pankow's seven-part suite, Ballet for a Girl in Buchannon, featured on Chicago II. The suite traces the arc of a romantic relationship, with "Colour My World" providing its quiet, heartfelt centerpiece.

"Colour My World" became the B-side of "Beginnings," which climbed to No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1971. Radio stations frequently played both sides of the record, giving the ballad extensive exposure and helping it become one of the band’s signature recordings despite never charting independently.

Its popularity has endured ever since.

Over the decades, "Colour My World" has become synonymous with milestone moments, particularly school dances, weddings, and anniversary celebrations. Its timeless melody and sincere message have made it one of Chicago's most requested songs in concert, while generations of musicians have admired its elegant simplicity.

Fifty-six years after it was written, "Colour My World" continues to resonate with listeners of all ages. What James Pankow created as a 22 year-old love song ultimately became one of Chicago's defining ballads, a timeless hit that has never gone out of style.

Related: '90s Rock Legend Announces New Album 47 Years After Beginning Career

Martina McBride is celebrating her 60th birthday on July 29 — and after more than three decades in country music, she shows no signs of slowing down.

McBride built her career on powerful vocals and songs that tackled real issues, picking up three ACM Top Female Vocalist awards and 14 Grammy nominations over the years.

McBride's love of music started young. Growing up, she would spend hours after school singing along to records by Reba McEntire, Linda Ronstadt, Juice Newton, Patsy Cline and others. 

She performed with various bands throughout her teens before eventually pursuing a solo career. 

In 1992, she released her debut album, The Time Has Come, through RCA Records. The title track reached No. 23 on the country charts, though the album's follow-up singles failed to reach the Top 40. 

Her second album, The Way That I Am, was where things started to click. Its first two singles both cracked the country Top 10, with "My Baby Loves Me" peaking at No. 2 and "Life No. 9" reaching No. 6.

It was the album's third single, "Independence Day," that would go on to define her career. McBride first heard Gretchen Peters' demo of the song and immediately knew she wanted to record it.

However, the song faced resistance on the radio. Its portrayal of a mother burning down the family home to escape abuse made many programmers uneasy, and their reluctance to play it kept the song from breaking into the Top 10. 

“We received initial pushback on the song, and I was so confused by that,” McBride told Rolling Stone in 2019. “I was like, ‘Why wouldn’t they play this song?'”

Despite that, "Independence Day" won Video of the Year and Song of the Year at the CMA Awards and went on to become McBride's biggest track. 

McBride has spoken about what the song meant to the people who heard it. While she couldn't personally relate to its story, "Independence Day" gave women a way to share their own experiences with abuse. 

“I started getting all these letters,” she told Rolling Stone, “handwritten letters back in the day, from women saying, ‘This is my song.’” McBride told the magazine, “I got a few letters that said, ‘I heard this song on the radio, I’ve been battered for 10 years, and I left.’”

The Washington Post once dubbed McBride the "queen of country-pop," arguing that she "seems to have a sixth sense about finding good songs and socially responsible material."

And the title certainly fits. She has racked up more than 20 Top 10 singles over the course of her career and won the CMA Female Vocalist of the Year award in 1999, 2002, 2003 and 2004. 

However, that doesn't mean everything has gone smoothly. More recently, McBride found herself at the center of controversy after withdrawing from the America 250 celebration.

"I will not be performing at the Great American State Fair on June 25th," she wrote, explaining that she had been "presented with an opportunity to perform at a nonpartisan event" that "turned out to be misleading."

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The songstress said she had thought the event was "a bigger version" of the state fairs she had performed at for years, but that "things started changing."

"I’ve spent my entire career singing songs about real people with real issues. I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to be a voice for those who have felt like they didn’t have one," she added.

Not everyone was supportive. Some fans took to social media to express their disappointment, with one writing, "I admired you. I thought better of you. You bowed down to pressure when pushback came. Sad. Yuck."

Another added, "You got pushback from people who were NEVER your fans to begin with, and you caved. Shame on you."

Despite the backlash, McBride is still hitting the road this fall for a tour running from August through October. "I've missed this. See you all on the road soon!" she announced on social media.

Related: 1977 Rock Epic, Lasting Nearly 16 Minutes, Remains a Classic 49 Years Later

The summer heat has fully arrived, leaving many Americans hiding away indoors and thus providing us a little spare time, dare we way.

Perhaps you've used your extra hours around the house looking for ways to spruce it up, particularly those windowsills that have been lacking ever since the spring flowers came and went.

Luckily, shoppers and fans of Trader Joe's recently discovered the "paw-fect" way to liven up said windows, and the internet is simply buzzing.

Keep an eye out for adorable dog-shaped planters at your neighborhood location, as multiple social-media accounts are now spreading the word about the brightly colored pups — which are quite literally donning sunglasses, by the way.

"These mini foliage plants come in the cutest seasonal dog pots for just $5.99, and honestly? The planter might be stealing the show," reads the caption of a recent Instagram post by @traderjoesaficionado. "They’re perfect for your desk, kitchen windowsill, or as a gift for your favorite plant (or dog) lover." See below.

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The @traderjoes_flowers account also plugged the planters on Instagram, with fans since flooding the comments section to express their excitement. "I neeeeeeeeeeedddddddddd it ❤️❤️," said one user, while another person commented, "These are so cute! My sister got the orange dog 🐶."

There is also a Reddit thread on r/traderjoes that's dedicated to the new offerings, with countless fans weighing in. "Couldn't resist this little guy with the lime green shades," wrote one Redditor, "And the sunglasses can be raised to see eyes underneath."

Plant varieties depend on your Trader Joe’s location, with Better Homes & Gardens spotting red peperomias, pothos, pink syngoniums, ferns and more inside.

Shoppers of the popular chain will find orange, yellow and pink dog-shaped planters on the shelves this summer, each one wearing a pair of sunglasses in pink, blue or green.

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With summer in full swing, there’s no better time than right now to lean into the coastal grandmother aesthetic. Consisting of ocean-inspired designs and pieces that radiate quiet luxury and old-money charm, it’s a trend that captures the essence of relaxed beachside living. By adding small touches of this aesthetic into your outfits, everyday life will feel a bit more breezy and posh. Effortlessly blending style and practicality, this Patricia Nash Laureana Scalloped Raffia Crossbody Bag is an easy way to introduce the coastal grandmother trend into your wardrobe. 

While this designer bag gives off major old-money vibes, you can currently score it for less than $100 because it’s currently on sale for a whopping 65% at Macy’s! Normally retailing for $169, this bag is now marked down to just $76, thanks to Macy’s Buy More, Save More sales event, offering an additional 25% off the original price. 

Patricia Nash Laureana Scalloped Raffia Crossbody Bag, $76 (was $169) at Macy’s

Courtesy of Macy's

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Featuring a gorgeous raffia exterior made of paper straw, this bag simply oozes with coastal grandmother charm. The woven construction combined with the natural material gives this piece a breezy beach-inspired feel. Complementing the aesthetic, this bag is accented with five tiers of scalloped rows that add a playful and whimsical touch. 

The opening of this bag is lined with brushed brass hardware that’s fixed with a kiss-lock closure, giving it an old-money look that adds to its coastal grandmother appeal. Each side of the opening has a knob that snaps together, ensuring that the bag stays securely fastened. Mimicking the look of vintage coin pouches and clutches, this bag boasts a rounded silhouette that tapers upwards toward the lock. 

Measuring 9.5 inches long, 3.4 inches wide, and 8 inches tall, the interior offers plenty of room for your essentials and then some. For size reference, a reviewer mentioned that they were able to fit their phone, keys, lipstick, small wallet, and a few other items in this bag. To keep those small items organized, the interior is equipped with two slip pockets and one zippered pocket. The interior has a leather trim and is lined with polyester to keep the raffia exterior protected. 

Shop More Deals 

• Steve Madden Bpriya Small Raffia Barrel Bag, $47 (was $78) at Macy’s
• Charter Club Imitation Pearl Collar Necklace, $13 (was $45) at Macy’s
• On 34th Crochet Raffia Shoulder Bag, $32 (was $80) at Macy’s

You can wear this bag multiple ways. Using the 6-inch top handle, hold it in your hand or rest it on your forearm for a polished and refined look. For convenience, this bag comes with a 23-inch long chain strap that can be easily attached. If you prefer to roam around hands-free, sling the chain strap across your body or drape it over your shoulder. 

Style this bag with nearly any outfit to add a summer-ready vibe to your look. Depending on how you wear the bag, it’ll complement both casual and dressy attire. You can wear it with anything from laid-back streetwear to chic sundresses to elevate your ensemble while adding a practical touch.  

One Macy's shopper described this bag as “beautiful” and said that it’s the “perfect neutral summer bag.” A second reviewer noted that it’s “gorgeous, surprisingly roomy, and fun to carry.” They also mentioned that they can “take it anywhere,” including “weddings, work, and grocery stores.” 

Related: Drew Barrymore’s Striped Flowy Pants Are the Breezy, Coastal-Chic Style We’re Shopping ASAP This Summer

Make everyday feel like a beach vacation while adding a touch of practicality with the Patricia Nash Laureana Scalloped Raffia Crossbody Bag. Head to Macy’s and score it on sale for just $76 while the Buy More, Save More event is still running! 

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Today’s NYT Mini Crossword takes you on a journey. Answers encompass everything from the Greek alphabet to world-famous acronyms, bodies of water and one of the earliest versions of the internet. Working on the daily Connections, Connections Sports Edition, Wordle, and Strands is a whole ritual for many of us. And we can’t forget about the NYT’s The Mini Crossword, too!

Although the NYT is known for "The Crossword," a larger puzzle for paid subscribers, The Mini has quite the fan following as well. This particular game resets at 10 p.m., unlike some of the others that start over at midnight.

So, if you're working on today's Mini Crossword on Wednesday, July 29, and need some help (I've been there), get ready to read the clues and solutions for each line. We have them separated into hints first for both "Across" and "Down" words, followed by "Across Answers" and "Down Answers," so be careful if you want to avoid spoilers as you scroll!

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Hints for NYT’s The Mini Crossword on Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Here are additional clues for each of the words in today's Mini Crossword.

NYT Mini Across Hints

1 Across: Work's opposite — HINT: Starts with the letter "P"

5 Across: Glass-encased flower in "Beauty and the Beast" —HINT: Starts with the letter "R"

6 Across: Stack on a nightstand — HINT: Ends with the letter "S"

7 Across: Tree or cobra, in yoga class — HINT: Starts with the letter "P"

8 Across: Not that many — HINT: Ends with the letter "W"

Related: 16 Games Like Wordle To Give You Your Word Game Fix More Than Once Every 24 Hours

NYT Mini Down Hints

1 Down: Measure of alcoholic content — HINT: Starts with the letter "P"

2 Down: Feelings relaxed — HINT: Ends with the letter "E"

3 Down: Slightly crooked — HINT: Starts with the letter "A"

4 Down: Rarely true response to "Have you read our terms and conditions?" — HINT: Starts with the letter "Y"

6 Down: ____-free (lable on water bottles) — HINT: Ends with the letter "A"

Answers to NYT’s The Mini Crossword for Wednesday, July 29, 2026

Don't go any further unless you want to know exactly what the correct words are in today's Mini Crossword.

NYT Mini Across Answers

1 Across: Work's opposite — PLAY

5 Across: Glass-encased flower in "Beauty and the Beast" —ROSE

6 Across: Stack on a nightstand — BROOKS

7 Across: Tree or cobra, in yoga class — POSE

8 Across: Not that many — AFEW

NYT Mini Down Answers

1 Down: Measure of alcoholic content — PROOF

2 Down: Feelings relaxed — LOOSE

3 Down: Slightly crooked — ASKEW

4 Down: Rarely true response to "Have you read our terms and conditions?" — YES

6 Down: ____-free (lable on water bottles) — BPA

Related: NYT Mini Crossword Answers, Hints for Tuesday, July 28, 2026