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Patti LaBelle's Marbled Red Velvet Cake Is the Perfect Dessert for Your Valentine

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 8:15am

Patti LaBelle is famous for her incredible voice, but she also has smash hits in the kitchen. Over the past few months, I've been lucky enough to make quite of few of her famous recipes—like her fried chicken, her shrimp scampi pasta and her knockout mac and cheese—and they've all been deliciously memorable.

With Valentine's Day here, I was looking for a dessert to make to celebrate the holiday and wondered if Patti might have something to offer. When I came across her Red Velvet Marble Cake With Boiled Frosting, I just knew I had to give it a try. Here's how it went.

Get the recipe: Patti LaBelle's Red Velvet Marble Cake With Boiled Frosting

Ingredients for Patti LaBelle’s Red Velvet Marble Cake Patti LaBelle's Red Velvet Marble Cake

Courtesy of Choya Johnson

Before you get started, it's good to know that there are two parts to this recipe. For the cake, you’ll need the following ingredients: Butter (for greasing the pans), all-purpose flour (for dusting), cake flour, baking soda, salt, unsalted butter, eggs, sugar, vanilla extract, buttermilk, natural unsweetened cocoa powder and red food coloring.

For the icing, you’ll need sugar, unbleached all-purpose flour (yes, flour), whole milk, unsalted butter, vanilla extract and red decorating sugar for sprinkling.

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How to Make Patti LaBelle’s Red Velvet Marble Cake Patti LaBelle's Red Velvet Marble Cake Unsliced

Courtesy of Choya Johnson

To prepare the cake, start by generously greasing the cake pans with softened butter and dusting them with flour to make sure the cakes don't stick. The recipe calls for two 9-inch baking pans, but I couldn't locate mine, so I opted to use my bundt pan instead. Preheat your oven to 350°.

In a large bowl, whisk the cake flour, baking soda and salt. In another bowl, cream together unsalted butter and granulated sugar until light and fluffy. Beat in the eggs and the vanilla. Then, alternate adding the dry ingredients and buttermilk to the butter-sugar mixture, beginning and ending with the dry ingredients.

Related: Patti LaBelle's Simple Roasted Vegetable Medley Is Worth Singing About

Divide the batter into two portions—one half will be the red velvet batter and the other you'll leave plain. To make the red velvet batter, add the cocoa powder to one portion of the batter and mix to combine, then tint with red food coloring. The amount you use depends on whether you have liquid or gel food coloring and how red you like your red velvet. 

To create the marbled look, Patti calls for spooning 1/4 cup of the red batter at the 12 and 6 o'clock positions of your cake pan and 1/4 cup of the plain batter at 3 and 9. Using a butter knife, swirl the batters together to create a marbled look.  Bake the cakes until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean. While the cakes cool, prepare the boiled frosting. 

To make the frosting, combine sugar and flour in a saucepan. Gradually whisk in whole milk and cook over medium heat until the mixture thickens, then let the milk mixture cool completely. In a separate bowl, cream together butter and vanilla extract. Slowly add the cooled milk mixture to the butter mixture, beating until the icing is smooth and creamy.

Frost the cooled cakes with the icing, then sprinkle the cake with red decorating sugar, if you'd like to get festive.

What I Thought of Patti LaBelle’s Red Velvet Marble Cake Patti LaBelle's Red Velvet Marble Cake Sliced

Courtesy of Choya Johnson

As a red velvet cake fan, I was really excited to give this one a try. One of my favorite cakes made with Patti LaBelle's recipe? What could be better than that?

I was looking forward to a moist cake with a balanced cocoa flavor and marbled good looks, but what came out of the pan was a little disappointing. To be honest, the result was a bit dry. Not to mention, the typical red velvet taste wasn't there either. And while the marbling was slightly there, my use of the Bundt pan didn't make it as prevalent as it should have been.

Related: 25 Valentine's Day Desserts That Range From Romantic to Super Cute

I'll be the first to admit that some of my recipe adjustments might be the reason the cake didn't turn out exactly as promised, namely the fact that I made my own cake flour by mixing flour and cornstarch together and I used a Bundt pan instead of two cake pans. Could changing those two things have affected this cake? Possibly. If I can find my pans and cake flour, maybe I'll give this another shot since I still have a few days before Valentine's Day. 

What I did appreciate, however, was the delicious boiled frosting. With the rise of buttercream frosting, old-fashioned boiled icing has fallen a bit out of favor, but this recipe makes me think we should bring it back. Sure, it's more work than buttercream, but that extra time and energy is well worth it. The frosting is sweet—but not too sweet—and lighter and fluffier than buttercream. I'll definitely be keeping this recipe in mind the next time I make a cake. 

Tips for Making Patti LaBelle's Red Velvet Marble Cake

Do your best to find cake flour. Sometimes, locating cake flour cake can be a little difficult, which was the issue I had when making this cake. You can make your own, as I did, but I think that was one of the reasons my recipe didn't turn out as I expected. This is the kind of recipe that requires a little pre-planning, so make sure you gather any tricky-to-find ingredients in advance, if possible.

Related: Audrey Hepburn's Simple Flourless Chocolate Cake Is a Timeless Classic

Ex-Foo Fighters Drummer Reflects on 'Mystery' Firing: ‘I’ve Got a Lot to Say'

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 8:11am

It has been nearly a year since thesurprising breakup between the Foo Fighters and Josh Freese, and he still doesn’t know exactly what happened.

The 53-year-old journeyman drummer joined the group in 2023, taking over the role after the death of founding member Taylor Hawkins. Two years later, the band fired him for no apparent reason. Freese landed on his feet—he toured with The Vandals, the punk rock band he’s been a part of since 1989, before joining Nine Inch Nails in a strange drummer-swap—but the shock of his dismissal still lingers.

"The Foo Fighters are such a big, mainstream band that everything I say gets taken out of context, reposted, and blown out of proportion," he said in a new issue of Modern Drummer. “People created headlines from one quick, simple comment I made on a podcast not long ago, it's crazy. I've got to be careful about what I say about it. But I've got a lot to say about it and I've been just trying to figure out how and when, to go about really articulating it."

"I have a couple [of] small theories [as to why I was let go]," said Freese, per Louder, "but I can't really go into them right now. I did really enjoy the two years I spent with those guys however, and they were good to me… until they weren't."

Related: Foo Fighters-Nine Inch Nails Drummer Exchange Isn’t Rock’s First High-Profile Switch-Up--Another Involved Ozzy Osbourne

Despite the disorienting dismissal, Freese says he has fond memories of his time as a Foo Fighter. "I loved having Daveas a bandleader,” he said. “I enjoyed being around those guys, they were generous and good to me… and that's what makes the whole thing even more of a mystery.”

“I think I'm a pretty good read on people, and I did not see that coming,” said Frese. “One day it was nothing but laughs, we're on stage and Dave's looking at me every night like, 'You're killing it, dude!!!' And then it was just - over."

Josh Freese’s resume of bands he’s played with is a mini-Rock & Roll Hall of Fame: Ahmet and Dweezil Zappa, The Vandals, DEVO, A Perfect Circle and Guns N’ Roses. He also has extensive session work, playing drums for artists such as Sting, The Offspring, Ween, Kelly Clarkson, and Weezer.

Freese also served as Nine Inch Nails’ touring drummer from 2005 to 2008. Following his Foo Fighters firing, Freese rejoined NIN after NIN’s drummer, Ilan Rubin, left to join Foo Fighters.

Related: Former Foo Fighters Drummer Breaks Silence on Being Fired From the Band

'RHOC' Alum Backs James Van Der Beek GoFundMe Amid Mounting Medical Bills

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 8:01am

Real Housewives of Orange County alum Braunwyn Windham-Burke has a message for critics attacking actor James Van Der Beek’s widow after friends launched a GoFundMe to help cover medical expenses, revealing her own family has depleted its savings and retirement funds due to mounting healthcare costs.

Van Der Beek’s GoFundMe, which has raised more than $2 million, was created to help his wife, Kimberly, and their children cover essential living expenses, bills, and education costs after the actor’s cancer battle drained the family’s finances, allowing them to maintain stability as they rebuild their lives.

Some online critics questioned why a well-known actor, who starred in hit shows like Dawson’s Creek and Varsity Blues, would need financial support. But financial experts note that public visibility does not always equal long-term wealth — especially for a family supporting six children while facing prolonged medical expenses.

News of the backlash struck a personal chord for Windham-Burke, who shared in the comments of an Instagram post that her own family is experiencing severe financial strain following her father’s cancer diagnosis. “Our family is drowning in medical debt because of my dad’s cancer, my parents saved, worked hard, and had a great retirement…all gone,” she wrote, explaining why she believes fundraisers like the one for the Van Der Beek family are necessary.

View this post on Instagram

Windham-Burke’s father, Dr. Brian Herman, an interventional neuroradiologist who became a central father figure in her life, has been battling brain cancer for the last few years. Her mother, who also appeared on RHOC, has been caring for him and recently reflected on the indiscriminate nature of the disease.

“Cancer doesn’t discriminate; it can strike the most powerful, beautiful, sexiest, happiest, funniest, smartest, young, and old, kind and loving,” she wrote alongside a photo montage. “We can do hard things — one of those is accepting change. Nothing stays the same.”

Beyond lost wages for caregivers, overwhelming medical expenses can drain even carefully built savings. Many commenters on Windham-Burke’s post shared similar experiences, describing debt and financial hardship following a loved one’s illness or death.

According to the American Cancer Society, cancer care frequently creates financial hardship due to high treatment costs, insurance gaps, lost income, and additional expenses, often forcing patients and families to make difficult financial and healthcare decisions. Those most at risk include people who are uninsured, unemployed, primary wage earners, or required to travel long distances for treatment.

The Smashing Pumpkins’ 35th Anniversary 'Gish' Vinyl Drop Has a Billy Corgan Twist

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 8:01am

The Smashing Pumpkins’ debut album Gishturns 35 this year, and the band is marking the milestone with new 35th-anniversary vinyl editions scheduled to ship May 29, 2026, which was the album’s original 1991 release week. Preorders are live through the band’s official hub, with multiple configurations designed for both everyday listeners and collectors.

Billy Corgan is also offering an autographed preorder option via his Madame Zuzu’s: an 'Autographed Gish 35th Anniversary Edition 180G Color LP,' with the product page explicitly stating 'AUTOGRAPHED BY BILLY CORGAN.' As of the most recent listing view, that signed edition is marked sold out, underscoring how quickly specialty versions can move.

For context, Gish is the Pumpkins before the arena-scale singles. It also introduced early standards that remain among the band’s most enduring tracks, including 'I Am One,' 'Siva,' and 'Rhinoceros.'

Related: Famed ’90s Alt-Rock Band to Release Long-Lost Songs for Record Store Day

Originally, Gish helped establish the band’s identity at a time when alternative rock was just starting its massive explosion into the cultural mainstream. The band remained a touring draw across multiple decades, and their catalog that continues to pull in new listeners. It's nearly impossible to listen to any '90s-focused radio station for more than 30 minutes without hearing one of the Pumpkins' classics like '1979,' 'Ava Adore,' or 'Bullet With Butterfly Wings.'

The centerpiece of the rerelease campaign is a 180-gram vinyl reissue paired with original 1991-style packaging, a detail that matters to collectors because later pressings can alter artwork, inserts, or overall presentation. Several retailer listings emphasize that the anniversary editions are intended to match the look and feel of the first-era release.

A limited color variant is part of the rollout, described as gray with pink and purple splatter on 180-gram vinyl, again paired with the 1991 packaging. This version is being offered through multiple outlets, including Corgan’s Madame Zuzu’s.

Fans are ready. 'Not a fan of marbled vinyl like this,' one fan wrote, 'but I love how the classic artwork is being used, much better than the 2011 LP artwork.' Another fan agreed, '
Happy to see the original covers returning!'

Forums showed some surprise at the cost of the version with Corgan's autograph, but die-hard fans saw the value. '$100 for his auto(graph). Seems like a fair price to me.' one fan added. 'When people buy and then throw on ebay for 200+ for his auto. I wish artists would increase their auto cost and demand that it is personalized. I would rather have a to my name than a flat artist auto.'

For buyers choosing a version, the decision will likely be driven by the use. If the goal is a classic copy with minimal variables, the standard black 180-gram edition is the obvious pick. If the appeal is display value and collectability, the splatter variant is the more distinctive shelf piece, but availability will vary by retailer and may fluctuate as allocations change.

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Costco Shoppers Call Returning Bakery Item ‘Pure Dessert Heaven’ Ahead of Valentine’s Day

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 8:00am

Costco has lined up the perfect bakery item for your Valentine's Day celebrations.

The warehouse giant reintroduced the Tuxedo Chocolate Mousse Cake, much to the delight of chocolate lovers everywhere, and gave it a little Valentine's Day makeover.

The Kirkland Signature Tuxedo Chocolate Mousse Cake is a rich and indulgent five-layer dessert, boasting chocolate cake, white chocolate mousse, chocolate mousse, brownie chunks and chocolate ganache, adorned with decorations made out of, you guessed it, chocolate.

The cost depends on location, with prices starting at around $18.

Social media account CostcoFam4U shared a video of the bar cake, highlighting the little Valentine's Day upgrade with pink frosting decorations that spelled "Love" across the top, making it the ultimate choice to share with your favorite people at parties and celebrations.

"If you love rich desserts that look bakery-level but come ready to serve, this is one of Costco’s fan-favorite cakes for a reason," the post read.

View this post on Instagram

While the cake has racked up its share of die-hard fans, even those trying it for the first time since it's returned to shelves walked away impressed.

"Tried the chocolate tuxedo mousse cake from Costco for the first time, and oh my God… it is so good. I’m obsessed with all the layers—the mousse, the chocolate, everything just melts together. It tastes even better when you let it sit at room temperature for a bit. Highly recommend if you haven’t tried it yet!" one wrote,

"It's not enough to make me run out and get a membership, but if you love chocolate cake, you might experience a little FOMO without snagging one of these for your next party (or just for yourself)," someone else shared on Reddit after trying it from their co-worker.

"Woah... that's pure dessert heaven!" someone else chimed in, as yet another said that it was "devoured" during their recent Super Bowl party, with guests calling it a "hit."

"I remember eating a piece of this. You never forget. It's that decadent," another recalled.

According to Food & Wine, Costco's latest strategy introduces regular fresh offerings on a monthly basis for consumers to obsess over, adding plenty of baked goods and desserts perfect for the holiday celebrating love in February, including Filled Heart Madeleines and Valentine's Day cupcakes.


Next, Costco Just Issued a Recall for a Popular Bakery Item Sold in 22 States — Here’s What Shoppers Should Know

Amazon's 'Fancy' Industrial Bookshelf Is Now 50% Off and Features 5 Roomy Tiers

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 7:45am

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

Furniture that works twofold is a spring essential. A piece that helps keep you organized but also adds charm is an especially great find. If you're on the hunt for a stunning new piece to elevate your home decor, look no further than Amazon's fabulous Tangkula 5-Tier Bookshelf

With its chic industrial style and a whopping 50% discount, it's the perfect time to snag this beauty for just $45, down from its original price of $90! 

Tangkula 5-Tier Bookshelf, $45 (was $90) at Amazon

Courtesy of Am

This adorable bookshelf is not just pretty. It's durable, too. Crafted from premium alloy steel and engineered wood, it's built to last while providing a charming accent to any room. You can display your favorite books, lush plants, or treasured collectibles on its five open shelves. The rustic brown finish adds a warm and inviting touch, making it a versatile addition to your bedroom, living room, office, or even your kitchen.

One of the best features of the Tangkula bookshelf is its vintage-style industrial aesthetic. Its sleek yet sturdy design features outstretched legs that enhance stability, while adjustable foot pads protect your floors from scratches. Not to mention, the anti-toppling device ensures your bookshelf remains securely anchored to the wall, so it’s ideal for homes with young children or energetic pets.

Related: Amazon Is Selling a ‘Colorful’ $30 Patchwork Quilt Set with ‘Vintage’ Cottagecore Vibes

The spacious tiers, measuring 31.5 inches wide, 13.5 inches deep, and 67.5 inches high, provide ample room for customization. Whether you want to create a mini-library, showcase your favorite plants, or organize your home office essentials, this bookshelf offers endless possibilities. Plus, with a maximum load capacity of 220 pounds, you can store all your beloved items without worry.

Assembly is straightforward thanks to the included, easy-to-understand instructions and required accessories. You'll have your stylish bookshelf ready to impress in no time! Maintaining its sleek look is simple thanks to its smooth surface, making cleaning a breeze.

"I didn't expect it to be so easy to assemble," one shopper said. "This was an amazing buy. It's perfect for holding all my books and some sports equipment. The wood also looks fancy."

Shop More Deals

So, if you've been dreaming of transforming your space with durable and stylish furniture, the $45 Amazon 5-Tier Bookshelf is your answer. Don't miss out on this fantastic deal. Grab yours on Amazon while the offer lasts! 

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‘Top Chef’ Judge Gail Simmons Opens Up About Her Brother’s Schizophrenia (Exclusive)

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 7:42am

For nearly two decades, Gail Simmons has been a familiar face at the judges’ table on Top Chef. But in a recent campaign, the food expert and television host stepped into a far more personal conversation—one rooted in her own family’s experience with schizophrenia.

“Schizophrenia is something very personal to me because I had a brother who lived with the condition,” Simmons tells Parade. “His diagnosis was a long emotional journey that affected my family, and it was a struggle to find the right treatment for him and get him the help he needed.”

Simmons’ older brother, Alan, ultimately passed away. But the impact of his illness—and the stigma that often surrounds schizophrenia—has stayed with her.

RELATED: ‘Top Chef’ Season 23 Revives Voltaggio Sibling Showdown With Identical Twins

“Through my family’s experiences, it became really clear to me just how important it is to talk about schizophrenia, as it is still one of the most misunderstood and stigmatized conditions,” she says.

That deeply personal connection led Simmons to partner with Bristol Myers Squibb on the COBENFY Connections campaign, which encourages open dialogue and connection among people living with schizophrenia, their care partners and healthcare providers.

'You're Not Alone'

As part of the campaign, Simmons hosted an intimate gathering where people living with schizophrenia and their loved ones came together around a shared meal.

“I realized I hadn’t had the chance to talk with people who have similar experiences in a very long time, and I found it incredibly powerful,” she says.

Among those she met were Avary and his wife, Ashleigh, and Chanel and her mother, Fines. Both Avary and Chanel live with schizophrenia, while Ashleigh and Fines serve as their primary care partners.

RELATED: ‘Top Chef’ Star Joins Padma Lakshmi’s New Culinary Competition Show

“We were able to cook together, then sit down at the table to share a meal,” Simmons says. “Over that meal, we were able to get to know each other and have an open, honest conversation about their stories—their diagnoses, what has helped the most in their treatment journeys, and how vital their care partners have been.”

For Simmons, the experience was a reminder that while every family’s journey looks different, there are striking common threads.

“It was a really special reminder that, even though every individual’s journey looks different, there are so many commonalities between my experience as a care partner to my older brother and their stories,” she says. “Having these conversations allows you to feel connected and that you’re not alone.”

The Importance of Advocacy

Simmons also spoke with Dr. Patricia Ares-Romero, a board-certified psychiatrist who participated in the campaign.

“Dr. Ares-Romero certainly did shed light on a lot of information for me,” Simmons says. “There have been so many innovations and learnings about schizophrenia since I was supporting my brother.”

RELATED: ‘Top Chef’ Fan-Fave Shows Off Slim Figure Returning to Show as a Judge

One message stood out.

“The most impactful thing she said to me was about advocacy—learning to advocate for yourself and as a care partner,” Simmons explains. “Ask the right questions, be honest with your care provider and find someone you can connect with and trust.”

Being transparent about symptoms and how they affect daily life is critical, she says, because it helps providers determine the right course of treatment.

“That starts with you too; be honest about symptoms and how they are affecting you, so that you can get the right treatment.”

While the campaign centers on schizophrenia, Simmons believes the message extends to all aspects of healthcare.

“Whether it's mental health or physical health, it starts with finding a provider you can speak honestly with,” she says. “Honest conversations can help lead to the right treatment and the right support that you need.”

RELATED: ‘Top Chef’ Star Recalls Wild On-Set Romance

Breaking the Stigma

For Simmons, one of the biggest takeaways from participating in the campaign was the importance of community.

“It’s very easy to be isolated and withdrawn when you’re struggling with schizophrenia,” she says. “Driving change around stigma starts with education and dialogue, and having community and support is crucial.”

Sitting at the table with people who shared similar experiences was, she says, “so meaningful.”

“It reinforced the importance of talking about mental health conditions like schizophrenia more openly. It’s nothing to be ashamed of or to keep inside, and you usually find out that more people can relate to it than you would think.”

Through sharing her family’s story, Simmons hopes others living with schizophrenia and the people who love them feel less alone.

“Having the right support and finding the right treatment for you is important,” she says. “And it begins with conversation.”

Top Chef season 23 premieres Monday, March 9, at 9 p.m. ET/PT on Bravo.

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The Simple Way To Turn a Soda Into a Fun and Fancy Galentine’s Drink

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 7:40am

Galentine’s Day has become one of those unofficial holidays that many of us secretly love more than actual Valentine's Day. Born from pop culture and fueled by friendship (thanks, Leslie Knope!), Galentine's Day is the perfect excuse to gather your favorite gal pals, put on something pink and celebrate the people who show up for you all year long.

Unlike Valentine's Day, there's no pressure, no expectations—just laughs, snacks and a whole lot of fun. Whether you’re hosting a full-on brunch, planning a cozy movie night or simply treating yourself after a long day, Galentine’s is about joy, connection and perhaps a bit of indulgence.

And, naturally, every great Galentine's celebration needs a signature drink. Ideally, it's something cute enough to photograph and delicious enough that you immediately want a second glass. And if it also happens to hit on those quintessential pink and red Galentine's colors? Even better.

When I was scrolling social media looking for some Galentine's Day inspiration, I ran across a dreamy pink-and-red dirty beverage from Thirst Drinks. The bubbly, creamy, playful soda looked like the ultimate dessert mocktail.

I'm fully in my dirty soda era at the moment and have loved playing around with different soft drinks, creamers and even DIY cold foam to create light, fun sips. The Thirst Drinks mocktail starts with a citrus soda and layers on syrups and creamer, then adds a cherry on top (literally). What's not to love about that?

Keep reading for my full review of this fun, fizzy drink and everything you need to know to make it in your kitchen.

Related: 20 Valentine’s Day Breakfast, Dinner and Dessert Ideas the Whole Family Will Love

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Galentine’s Day Dirty Soda Ingredients

Courtesy Angel Albring

The base of this Galentine’s drink comes from three flavored syrups that bring both sweetness and color to the glass. To make it, you'll need cherry syrup, vanilla syrup and cranberry syrup, as well as Fresca or Sprite and coconut cream coffee creamer. The maraschino cherries for garnish are optional, but are they really?

@thirstdrinks

The PERFECT galentine’s dirty soda 🍒🎀💗🤭 Fresca, cranberry, cherry, vanilla, cherries, & coconut cream! #valentines #galentines #trending #fyp #sodamixers #fresca

♬ Scorsese Baby Daddy - SZA

Related: I Tried Every Flavor of Chobani Coffee Creamer To Find the Best One for Your Morning Brew

How To Make This Galentine’s Day Soda

This drink comes together quickly, which makes it ideal for hosting or spontaneous cravings. Start with a tall glass or mason jar (like I did) and fill it generously with ice.

Courtesy Angel Albring

Next, pour in equal parts cherry, vanilla and cranberry syrups, then slowly add the soda (they used Fresca; I used Sprite), stopping just shy of the rim to leave space for the creamer. The bubbles lift the syrup upward, creating a gorgeous gradient of pink and red.

Gently pour in the coconut cream coffee creamer, letting it cascade and swirl naturally before giving the drink a light stir. This blends the flavors while keeping the drink airy and frothy. Finish with the cherries.

Courtesy Angel Albring

The best part is that there’s no wrong way to make this. Prefer it sweeter? Add more syrup. Want a richer sip? Go heavy on the creamer. Want more fizz? Top it off with extra Sprite. It’s a drink that invites you to play with flavors.

Also, don't be surprised or alarmed if the creamer separates a bit when you mix it in. It's normal for dairy to separate or curdle a bit when mixed into something acidic, but it doesn't affect the taste of the drink at all.

Related: I Tried 8 Popular Sprite Flavors and the Winner Won by a Landslide

My Honest Thoughts About This Viral Drink

First, this drink is ridiculously pretty. The shades of pink and red layered in a mason jar instantly scream celebration. It feels festive without being fussy, which is my favorite kind of recipe.

Taste-wise, the drink completely surprised me. The cherry and cranberry bring tart and sweet notes, the vanilla adds that distinct warmth and the Sprite keeps it light. The coconut creamer is what really steals the show. I used more than the original creator did, which made mine extra frothy and creamy, and I wouldn’t change a thing. The texture was smooth, airy and almost milkshake-like without being heavy.

Courtesy Angel Albring

What I loved most was how balanced the drink was. It never crossed into syrupy territory, and the bubbles kept every sip refreshing. Another great thing? This drink doesn’t have to disappear once February ends. The bright flavors and pastel color make it perfect for spring brunches and even summer afternoons on the porch.

Related: I Tried Making ‘Hot Chocolate Coke’—and It’s My Family’s New Favorite Holiday Drink

3 Tips for Making This Galentine's Soda

Courtesy Angel Albring

1. Switch things up

One of the best things about this drink is how forgiving it is. If you don’t have all three syrups, you can easily swap flavors. Raspberry works in place of cherry, and strawberry would add even more fruity goodness. If cranberry syrup seems too tart for your taste, pomegranate syrup offers a subtler option.

2. Serve it your way

If you prefer a lighter finish, drizzle the creamer gently and skip the stir so it stays layered. Serving in clear glasses or mason jars really shows off the colors and makes the drink feel special.

3. DIY it

If you're hosting a group, set up a mini drink bar with different syrups and let everyone customize their own glass. It’s fun and means that you don't have to play bartender. Having folks DIY their drinks is also a good idea because the fizz fades quickly and the real magic is in the first fresh pour and the swirling colors in the glass.

Up Next:

Related: Michaels' Cutesy New Glassware Has Galentine's Day Party Written All Over It

Savannah Guthrie's Mom Was Likely Bleeding 'From Either the Hands or Face,' Expert Says

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 7:35am

It has been 13 days since Nancy Guthrie disappeared from her Arizona home and authorities are working around the clock for answers. The Pima County Sheriff's Department and the FBI are both involved in the investigation, but there are no suspects or persons of interest being named at this time.

During a Feb. 5 press conference, Pima County Sheriff Chris Nanos confirmed that the blood splatter found on Nancy's front stoop had been sent out for testing and it came back as Nancy's.

"The only DNA evidence we got back is on the porch," Nanos said, adding, "We saw the importance of that blood. It came back to Nancy."

In an interview with Fox News Digital, forensic pathologist Dr. Michael Baden shared some insight.

"Nancy Guthrie is bleeding from some area, either the hands or the face," Baden told the outlet. "The nature of the blood spots with little pale centers or donut shapes are typical for drops that come from the nose or mouth, because they're mixed with air."

Related: Savannah Guthrie’s Mom: Bitcoin Ransom Questions Answered by Cryptocurrency Specialist (Exclusive)

"That means she's coughing up blood or dripping from the nose. Otherwise, there would be a dripping from a cut from above, possibly from the hands or face," he added.

The ongoing investigation includes searches inside and around Nancy's home in the Catalina Foothills, just north of Tucson. Authorities have also been looking closely at Nancy's daughter's home about four miles away.

As part of the timeline put forth by Sheriff Nanos, Nancy, 84, took an Uber to her daughter Annie Guthrie's home (which she shares with husband Tommaso Cioni) for dinner on Saturday, Jan. 31. After dinner and some Mahjong, Cioni drove Nancy home, making sure that she was safely inside before heading out. It is about a 10-minute drive between the two homes.

READ NEXT: Savannah Guthrie’s Mom: TMZ Receives Second Note With ‘Chilling’ Words

75 Super Romantic Country Love Songs That Could Easily Become 'Your Song'

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 7:30am

You can't find a better genre for love songs and ballads than country music. The narrative lyrics of most country songs are perfect for relaying a romantic love story. Each story is heartfelt and has aspects that many people can relate to—whether good or bad, the feeling behind the music really tugs at your emotions.

It's not hard at all for a couple to find "their song" from all of the beautiful country love songs out there. Many of these love songs are sung as duets, which only deepens the romantic feeling. It makes sense that so many of these love songs are played at weddings or danced to on Valentine's Day.

With all of the beautiful lyrics and the smooth sound of country music, it wasn't hard to come up with some favorites. Here are 75 of the best country love songs to stir your heart and sweep you off your feet.

Related: The 100 Best Love Songs Ever—Consider It the Ultimate Date Night Playlist

75 Best Country Love Songs1. "If I Didn't Love You" - Jason Aldean & Carrie Underwood

This song was released in July of 2021 and describes two lovers who are having a hard time moving on from each other. It won the best single of the year in 2022.

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2. "Nobody But You" - Blake Shelton & Gwen Stefani

A love song duet that Shelton describes as honest and relates the song to his relationship with Stefani. The video accompanying the song offers a glimpse of the couple's day-to-day life. It features scenes of them cuddling and eating together at a diner.

3. "We Danced" - Brad Paisley

This is a popular wedding song from Paisley's debut album, released in June 2000. It's a romantic song of love found when a woman enters a tavern looking for a forgotten purse. The bartender has it and offers to give it to her for a dance. 

4. "Remember When" - Alan Jackson

A fantastic love song about growing old together and looking back on the memories of a life lived together.

5. "It's Your Love" - Tim McGraw & Faith Hill

This husband and wife duo topped the charts within its fifth week of being released in May 1997. The song stayed at the top for six full weeks.

6. "Remind Me" - Carrie Underwood & Brad Paisley

This is a heart-stirring love song about rekindling a love where the passion was once strong. 

7. "Bless the Broken Road" - Rascal Flatts

A long road of broken relationships leads to the one true love in this romantic love song. Although other artists have sung this song, it wasn't until Rascal Flatts' 2005 version that it reached number 1 on the Billboard country charts.

Related: These 50 Romantic Love Song Lyrics Will Give You All the Feels

8. "Amazed" - Lonestar

This hit was released on March 22, 1999. The powerful love ballad is the band's longest-lasting number one single and its biggest hit.

9. "Forever and Ever, Amen" - Randy Travis

The idea for the song's title stemmed from songwriter Schlitz's son, who, after saying his nightly prayers, would often remark to his mother, "Mommy, I love you forever and ever, amen." It's a fantastic love song and quickly became a number-one single on the Billboard Hot Country Singles chart.

10. "If Tomorrow Never Comes" - Garth Brooks

While watching his wife sleep, the song questions whether she will know how much she was loved if he were to die in his sleep. 

11. "From the Ground Up" - Dan & Shay

This song is all about finding true love and building a life together. It was inspired by the love shared by the duo's respective grandparents.

12. "Little Moments" - Brad Paisley

Brad Paisley's wife was the inspiration for this sweet romantic song. This song was released in September 2003.

13. "Your Man" - Josh Turner

A steamy love song that was released on January 24, 2006. It was Turner's first song to hit number one on the US Billboard Hot Country Songs charts.

14. "You Decorated My Life" - Kenny Rogers

This song was released in September 1979. The ballad won a Grammy for country song of the year.

Related: How Soon Is Too Soon To Propose? 25 Signs You're Ready

15. "The Kind of Love We Make" - Luke Combs

Part contemporary R&B, part country, this song has a perfect blend of sounds for a story about an older and a younger couple.

16. "I Swear" - John Michael Montgomery

"I swear" was released in November 1993 as the lead single from Montgomery's album Kickin' It Up. A song about being there for better or worse.

17. "Ring of Fire" - Johnny Cash

This love song was written by Johnny Cash's second wife, June Carter. The song hit number one on the country chart for seven straight weeks.

18. "God Gave Me You" - Blake Shelton

This is a romantic song about seeing a loved one as a gift from God through the ups and downs. 

19. "Don't You Wanna Stay" - Jason Aldean & Kelly Clarkson

Here is a beautiful ballad that wasn't originally written as a duet; however, it naturally lends itself to a duet. The song narrates the difficulties of finding and maintaining love.

20. "I Love You" - Martina McBride

McBride originally recorded this song for the 1999 soundtrack for the film Runaway Bride.

Related: Wondering If You're Falling in Love? Therapists Break Down 7 Things You Might Experience

21. "I Need You" - Tim McGraw & Faith Hill

The song is a ballad, in which the two lovers describe what their love means to each other. 

22. "You Were Always on My Mind" - Willie Nelson

You may be surprised to know that this song has had over three hundred recorded releases in different versions by dozens of performers.

23. "I Will Always Love You" - Dolly Parton

A beautiful love song that was first written and recorded by Dolly in 1973, then recorded by Whitney Houston in 1992 for the film The Bodyguard.

24. "You're Still the One" - Shania Twain

The song was released in the United States on January 27, 1998, and was Twain's first single to be released to pop radio.

25. "God Whispered Your Name" - Keith Urban

The single was released on 2 March 2020 as the second single from Urban's eleventh studio album The Speed of Now Part 1.

26. "When I Said I Do" - Clint Black

Another husband-and-wife duet, this song is about a vow to stay together until the end of their lives.

27. "Have I Told You Lately That I Love You" - Hank Williams Sr.

The song was originally written for the 1944 musical film Sing, Neighbor, Sing.

28. "In Case You Didn't Know" - Brett Young

A song about relaying the feelings of love that had been held back.

29. "Through the Years" - Kenny Rogers

Kenny Rogers performed this song at the 1983 Grammy Awards and at an April 2001 halftime ceremony honoring Charles Barkley at a Philadelphia 76ers game.

30. "Millionaire" - Chris Stapleton

Love is more precious than gold. Stapleton is accompanied by his wife and singing partner in this love ballad that was released on October 20, 2017.

Related: 25 Green Flags in a Relationship That Point to a Healthy Partnership

31. "You Make It Easy" - Jason Aldean

This love song was written by Florida Georgia Line members and released on January 26, 2018.

32. "The Dance" - Garth Brooks

Sometimes a song has a double meaning. This one is a love song about the end of a passionate relationship and also a story of someone dying because of something he believes in.

33. "Like I'll Never Love You Again" - Carrie Underwood

Released on October 23, 2015, this song finds Underwood singing to her man that she wants to love him "like the world's gonna stop, 'til the very last second, last tick of that clock."

34. "It Must Be Love" - Alan Jackson

This song was released in 1999 for the album Under the Influence.

35. "What Hurts the Most" - Rascal Flatts

A tear-jerker of a love song about losing the woman he loves and finding it difficult to handle.

36. "Simple" - Florida Georgia Line

An upbeat love song that expresses romantic love as a "simple" concept.

37. "Everywhere I'm Going" - Maddie & Tae

The song was written about being with the person that you love and just being grateful.

38. "Like a Rodeo" - Kane Brown

The lyrics bring about the feelings and emotions of meeting someone for the very first time and instantly feeling that spark. 

39. "Slow Dance in a Parking Lot" - Jordan Davis

The idea for the song came from co-writer Lonnie Fowler, who recalled slow-dancing to country music while on his first date with his wife.

40. "Always Gonna Love You" - Florida Georgia Line

This song was released on February 12, 2021. A love song for always and forever.

41. "Better Together" - Luke Combs

Some things just go better together. This song describes love as a  match made up in heaven. 

42. "Story of You and Me" - Sam Riggs

This song tells a bittersweet love story.

Related: 365 Reasons Why I Love You—Ideas for a Sentimental Note To Share Every Day of the Year

43. "What She Wants Tonight" - Luke Bryan

Bryan wrote this song to appeal to female listeners because the girl in the song controls the dynamic of the situation.

44. "Promise to Love Her" - Blane Howard

This song has become a popular wedding song for both a processional at the wedding and the first dance at the reception.

45. "Tennessee Whiskey" - Chris Stapleton

Chris Stapleton's version of this song caused it to reach number one on the Hot Country Songs Chart. He became an overnight star after performing it at the CMA Awards.

46. "All This Time" - Reba McEntire

This song was released in 1998 as part of the If You See Him album.

47. "Feels So Right" - Alabama

This mellow love song was released in May 1981 as the second single and title track from the band's album Feels So Right.

48. "Die a Happy Man" - Thomas Rhett

This love song talks about not needing anything but her to die a happy man. It was released in 2015 as part of his Tangled Up album.

49. "You Kissed Me First" - Carly Pearce

A cute love song about blame for falling in love with lyrics: "And I won't be the one to blame if this is meant to be. And I won't feel guilty if you fall in love with me".

50. "You Shouldn't Kiss Me Like This" - Toby Keith

A love story of two people who felt the electricity between them from the moment they first kissed, performed by the late singer.

51. "When You Say Nothing at All" - Keith Whitley

This song reached number one just months before Whitley died in 1989. The song leaves goosebumps from the tenderness.

52. "Together Again" - Buck Owens

This is a beautiful love song telling a story of love restored. The song was released on July 20, 1964.

53. "The Keeper of the Stars" - Tracy Byrd

Here is a beautiful song about how God's hand was in bringing the couple together.

54. "Lady" - Kenny Rogers

Lionel Richie wrote the song originally for the Commodores but they didn't want it. Rogers was looking for a power ballad, so Richie finished it for him in 1980.

55. "Crazy" - Patsy Cline

"Crazy" was written by Willie Nelson. The song is about that feeling of losing your mind after a breakup.

Related: 150+ Creative Date Night Ideas To Spice Up Your Love Life

56. "Look at Us" - Vince Gill

A song about a long-lasting love. It was released in 1991 for the Pocket Full Of Gold album.

57. "To Make You Feel My Love" - Garth Brooks

Both Bob Dylan and Billy Joel recorded this song before Brooks made it a huge country hit in 1998.

58. "I Believe in You" - Don Williams

This song was released in August 1980 as the first single and title track from the album I Believe in You.

59. "I Cross My Heart" - George Strait

A song about unconditional love and was released in September 1992 as the first single to his album Pure Country.

60. "Two Sparrows in a Hurricane" - Tanya Tucker

A sweet song of young love that endures the test of time, knowing they made it when the world said they wouldn't.

61. "Kiss an Angel Good Mornin" - Charley Pride

The song tells the story of a man and a woman who are happily married. His friends ask for the secret of their love. He says that he gets to "kiss an angel good mornin'"—referring to his lover, and to "love her like a devil," referring to himself.

62. "From This Moment On" - Shania Twain

This song was written by Twain at a soccer game in Italy. She later decided to record it as a duet with Bryan White.

63. "Strawberry Wine" - Deana Carter

This sentimental ballad describes a time in her youth when she lost her innocence, and compares her love to the sweetness of "strawberry wine."

64. "Making Memories of Us" - Keith Urban

This song was recorded by many artists. The third version of this song was recorded by Keith Urban on his 2004 album Be Here.

65. "She's in Love With the Boy" - Trisha Yearwood

The lyrics tell a love story about two young lovers defying a father's rules and how he eventually understands that he was acting too harshly.

66. "How Do I Live Without You" - Trisha Yearwood

This song is a wedding favorite, tells a story of romance and was featured in the film Con Air. The song was released on May 23, 1997.

Related: Welcome to the Era of Infla-dating—Here Are the 85 Best Cheap Date Ideas for You and Your Boo

67. "Could I Have This Dance" - Anne Murray

As a single, this song was released in August 1980 and became Murray's fifth number-one country hit as a solo artist. It was also used in the 1980 film Urban Cowboy.

68. "Gettin' You Home" - Chris Young

This is a song about a woman who, despite getting dressed up for going out on a date, is just as excited to get home. It was released in February 2009.

69. "Love Story" - Taylor Swift

"Love Story" is inspired by a boy who was unpopular with her family and friends and is based on Romeo and Juliet. However, the lyrics end a troubled romance with a marriage proposal, instead of a tragic conclusion.

70. "When I Said I Do" - Clint Black

Duets between husband and wife singers are so romantic. Clint Black and his wife, Lisa Hartman Black, sing this romantic ballad together, and it's about a vow to stay together until the end of their lives. They have been married for over three decades.

71. "Gentle on My Mind" - Glen Campbell

The lyrics of this song describe the reminiscences of the lost love of a man as he travels through the country. It was inspired by the film Doctor Zhivago.

72. "Breathe" - Faith Hill

Although Faith Hill is a country singer, this song leans more toward pop music. It's a romantic ballad that is perfect for weddings. 

73. "Hey Pretty Girl" - Kip Moore

This song was released in January 2013 and it tells a story of a man pursuing a woman, dancing with her, then marrying and having a child with her.

74. "Come a Little Closer" - Dierks Bentley

A sultry love song that was released in July 2005 and the song went to number one on the U.S. Country chart and held the position for a couple of weeks.

75. "Are You Gonna Kiss Me or Not" - Thompson Square

The romantic lyrics in this song describe a man sitting with his date and talking. He is caught off guard when she asks him, "Are you gonna kiss me or not?" Later in the song, he asks her to marry him and it ends with him lifting up her veil before asking her, "Are you gonna kiss me or not?"

Related: The 81 Best Songs of Summer We Listen to on Repeat Year After Year

'70s Rocker Compares Himself to Elvis Presley in New Post

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 7:30am

Rod Stewart surprised music fans with a playful post mentioning another music icon, Elvis Presley.

The British singer-songwriter stepped out at a star-studded event together with his wife, Penny Lancaster, for the U.K. premiere of the documentary EPIC: Elvis Presley in Concert.

On Thursday, the couple lit up the red carpet sporting a head-turning ensemble.

While the 54-year-old model arrived in an all-black outfit and golden cowboy boots, the Rock & Roll Hall of Famer wore a black-and-white polka dot shirt paired with checked trousers and layered with a black waistcoat and a textured leather coat.

Adding a classy vintage style, Stewart completed the look with black and white penny loafers, perfectly complementing his retro-inspired outfit.

Penny Lancaster and Sir Rod Stewart attend the U.K. Premiere of "EPiC: Elvis Presley In Concert" at BFI IMAX Waterloo on February 12, 2026 in London, England.

Grant Buchanan/Dave Benett/WireImage via Getty Images

The “Forever Young” hitmaker posted the moment online, giving a lighthearted shoutout to the "King of Rock and Roll" as he celebrated the music legend’s greatness.

“Elvis had it all! But I’m not doing too bad meself 🤩 great movie! @universalpicturesuk #epicmovie,” the caption reads, jokingly comparing himself to the late singer.

Stewart’s latest Instagram post drew rave reactions, with fans commending his youthful appearance and his cheeky reference to Elvis Presley.

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“WOW! You look like you did 40 years ago!” one wrote.

“Always a stylish bloke!” a commenter said.

“Looking good, Sir Rod,” a follower said.

“Wake up, Elvis, I think I got something to sing to youuu…” a commenter jokingly remarked.

The same goes for another who said, “Elvis was the king, Rod is GOD.”

Widely regarded as one of the most influential figures in the music industry, Presley cemented his name in the rock and roll scene by blending rhythm and blues with his electrifying stage presence.

Elvis Presley performing on the Elvis comeback TV special on June 27, 1968 in Burbank, California.

From his classic hits like “Can't Help Falling in Love” and “If I Can Dream” even notable musicians look up to him, among them Stewart.

In one interview, he once mentioned his admiration for the Mississippi native.

“Elvis was the king,” he said, as mentioned by Biography. “No doubt about it. People like myself, Mick Jagger and all the others only followed in his footsteps.”

Apart from Stewart, Bruce Springsteen also spoke about the late icon’s impact on him and how he sees music.

“When I heard it, it just shot straight through to my brain,” he shared, referring to the timeless song “Hound Dog” as cited by Far Out Magazine. “I realized, suddenly, that there was more to life than what I’d been living. I was then in pursuit of something, and there’d been a vision laid out before me. You were dealing with the pure thrust, the pure energy of the music itself. I was so very young, but it still hit me like a thunderbolt.”

Related: 80-Year-Old Rod Stewart Announces Change to ‘One Last Time’ Tour

Elvis Presley Settled for No. 2 After a 1993 Reggae Cover of His Greatest Love Song Hit the Top Spot

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 7:22am

Elvis Presley recorded some of the most unforgettable love songs in music history, yet his most iconic ballad was dethroned when a reggae cover claimed the top spot on the Billboard charts, 32 years after the original’s release.

"Can't Help Falling in Love" was first featured in the 1961 film Blue Hawaii. In the movie, Presley played Chad Gates, a discharged U.S. Army soldier who returned to Hawaii and chose to work as a tour guide at his girlfriend's agency rather than join his father's pineapple company. 

Presley and The Jordanaires released the song in late 1961. It reached No. 2 on Billboard in February 1962, and the tune would remain on the charts for 14 weeks.

The King of Rock and Roll's verison of "Can't Help Falling in Love" has a gentle, sweeping melody, adapted from the French love song "Plaisir d’amour," and the tune created an instantly romantic and memorable sound that fit perfectly with the singer's high baritone voice. Presley's warm, heartfelt vocals conveyed vulnerability and sincerity, and made the song feel deeply personal.

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However, when UB40 covered the song for the soundtrack of the 1992 romantic comedyHoneymoon in Vegas starring Nicolas Cage and Sarah Jessica Parker, it became a chart-topping hit thanks to its updated, infectious reggae groove and its association with Presley’s legendary original. The remake introduced the classic love ballad to a new generation, blending nostalgia with a fresh, island-inspired sound.

UB40's remake of the Presley original topped the Billboard charts in July 1993. It remained on the charts for 29 weeks in total.

Ironically, the film's star, Cage, would go on to have a short-lived marriage to Presley's daughter, Lisa Marie Presley. They wed on August 10, 2002, in a private ceremony in Hawaii. However, the actor filed for divorce 107 days later, on November 25, 2002, and their divorce was finalized on May 16, 2004. 

Both songs’ longevity speaks to the timeless appeal of Elvis Presley’s original and the enduring charm of UB40’s reggae reinterpretation. Decades apart, each version continues to capture hearts, proving that true love songs never go out of style.

Dollywood Unveils New Look at 'NightFlight Expedition'—The U.S.’s First Amphibious Ride

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 7:10am

If you were looking for a reason to plan a trip to Pigeon Forge this year, Dollywood just provided a major one. The park has officially pulled back the curtain on NightFlight Expedition, releasing another "sneak peek" video that offers the first real look inside the massive 44,000-square-foot facility where this first-of-its-kind adventure is coming to life.

While industry experts like Robert Niles of Theme Park Insiderare already betting on this to be the year's top attraction, this new footage makes it clear exactly how that will happen. This isn’t just another roller coaster; it’s an immersive "hybrid coaster/river boat" that blends four distinct experiences into one 5.5-minute journey.

"We've found a way to celebrate the beauty of the Smoky Mountains," says the creative team in the first video of the series, in what will be the largest attraction in its history. "All the colors of the ride vehicle exemplify a nighttime experience in the Smoky Mountains."

Related: Dolly Parton Announces Major Change to Iconic Theme Park

New Details From the Hangar

The "sneak peek" takes us to the Wildwood Grove section of the park, and inside Hidden Hollow Aviation, the themed hangar where guests will join twin scientists Cora and Jasper Oakley on a journey to figure out where the glow of the Wildwood Tree comes from.

"This is something that's never been done before," saysErica Rutledge, Creative Director of NightFlight Expedition in video two. "From the ride system to the show sets and the visuals our guests are going to see, we wanted this to feel like something really new."

The standout reveal in the this latest video is a closeup look at the "Smoky Mountain Tracker"—a custom-designed amphibious ride vehicle that holds up to 10 passengers. In the video, we see how these vehicles are engineered to navigate air, water and land. Unlike a standard boat ride, this system—the first of its kind in the United States—allows the vehicle to mimic the unpredictable motion of a whitewater rafting excursion. The footage shows the mechanics behind the "surge," which involves navigating through more than half a million gallons of water to recreate the thrill of the Smokies' famous river rapids.

Related: 10 New Dark Rides Theme Park Fans Should Be Excited About in 2026

What to Expect on Board

For those of us who prioritize a fully immersive, "no notes" experience where the story is as strong as the thrill, NightFlight Expedition looks to be a triumph. Beyond the splashing, the video teases the more traditional coaster aspects: a climb along a "beautiful mountain ridge" followed by a plunge into a bioluminescent lake. The interior is packed with multimedia projections and dynamic audio designed to make you feel like you’re soaring through the mountains at night—Dolly Parton’s favorite time of day.

Related: 25 Best Things to Do in Gatlinburg, TN (And Pigeon Forge) for Parents & Grandparents Planning a Trip

Mark Your Calendars

While the project was first announced back in September 2025, we now have a clearer window for when you can actually board. Dollywood is on track for its grand opening this Spring, with insiders suggesting a grand opening in late May or early June.

By housing the entire expedition indoors, the park has created a weatherproof anchor for Wildwood Grove that can operate regardless of Tennessee’s summer storms. This sneak peek proves that NightFlight Expedition isn't just a new ride; it's the culmination of family-friendly innovation that celebrates the magic of the Smokies in a way no park has attempted before.

Related: The 10 Most Anticipated Theme Park Launches of 2026

Walmart's $46 Rattan Floor Lamp Will Give Any Room a 'Retro-Looking' Refresh

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 7:10am

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When you want to change up your home decor, it can be tempting, albeit costly, to go all-out. But sometimes, a room refresh can be as simple as adding a colorful rug or a cute lamp to revamp your current aesthetic. Little decorative touches can go a long way, and if you want to give your home an instant upgrade without spending a ton, Walmart has plenty of incredible options — like this super chic rattan floor lamp for under $50.

Now just $46, the Coliware Boho Floor Lamp is currently on sale at a nice 25% off its usual $61 price. A little bit retro, a little bit farmhouse, and a whole lot of adorable, this lamp's design would fit beautifully in living rooms, bedrooms, reading nooks, or even home offices, adding an organic, textured touch that elevates any space.

Coliware Boho Floor Lamp, $46 (was $61) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

With a unique double-drum design featuring a woven rattan exterior shade atop a beige linen fabric shade, this lamp brings that relaxed, natural bohemian style that’s been everywhere lately. A perfectly neutral accent piece for any room, the metal base is powder-coated with a sleek black finish. With a tall, slim profile and arched design, it should easily fit in corners, next to a sofa, or beside the bed.

This lamp is designed to diffuse light softly to create a warm, layered glow that enhances the ambiance wherever it's placed. It has three color temperature options (warm, neutral, and cool), so you can switch from cozy evening vibes to brighter daytime light with just a tap of the foot switch. It comes with a lightbulb, and the shade can be tilted up to 180 degrees to direct the lamp's light exactly where you need it.

Related: Walmart Has an 'Elegant' Rattan Table Lamp With 'Coastal' Vibes for $21 That 'Looks Expensive'

One shopper said this "very cute lamp" matches well with their "boho decor." They also added that the size is "great for smaller spaces." Another said they "like the retro-looking shade as well as the texture."

Not only did shoppers say this lamp "looks classy," but they also appreciated that it's easy to assemble. Instructions are included, and assembly should take just a few minutes. 

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The $46 price combined with the stylish on-trend design makes the Coliware Boho Floor Lamp a can't-miss home lighting upgrade. Hurry to Walmart and snag one now while it's still on sale!

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.

'Southern Charm's Salley Carson Explains Awkward Dorinda Medley BravoCon Drama

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 7:07am

Dorinda Medley thought Salley Carson from Southern Charm was being unfriendly toward her at BravoCon, but Salley now says she was simply facing a wave of anxiety.

Dorinda said on a December The Talk of Shame SiriusXM episode that she didn’t find Salley particularly friendly — while emphasizing that she didn’t dislike her — and was also annoyed that Salley was wearing sunglasses at night.

Salley recently recalled interacting with the Real Housewives of New York City alum when she and Madison LeCroy sat near her on a bus on their way to an event. She remembered Madison and Dorinda talking, but after getting off the bus, Madison told her that Dorinda didn’t like her sunglasses.

"I think I was just like having anxiety," she told Page SixRadio. "It was my first BravoCon."

Dorinda said not only was Salley unfriendly, but she was also "being obsessed" with her Instagram image during the three-day event.

"Let me tell you something, I messaged that girl, and I was like I'm so sorry for coming off that way," Salley said about reaching out to Dorinda. "That is not how I intended it to be. She said I didn't say 'hey' to her on the bus." Unfortunately, Salley said Dorinda never responded to her message.

BRAVOCON -- "BravoCon Live with Andy Cohen Presents: The Bravos" -- Pictured: (l-r) Erin Lichy, Molly O'Connell, Rodrigo Reyes, Madison LeCroy, Salley Carson -- (Photo by: Ralph Bavaro/Bravo via Getty Images)

Ralph Bavaro/Bravo via Getty Images

"She hated the sunglasses," Salley recounted. "Hated them! I was like, my stylist did it. I was just listening to her."

Salley also admitted that she gets nervous around iconic Bravolebrities. "Because I'm intimidated and I'm new to this. So I'm like, Oh my God, what if I say 'hey' to her and she doesn't say 'hey' to me back? I'm in my head at the same time."

Craig Conover told Dorinda on her SiriusXM show that Salley has always been very friendly, joking, "I think the sunglasses bothered a lot of people."

5 Subtle Traits To Work On if You Have 'Black Cat Energy,' Psychologist Warns

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 6:40am

"Black cat energy" has taken the pop-psychology zeitgeist by storm, with TikTok videos on the topic tallying hundreds of thousands to millions of views. You may think, "Of course, black cat videos have high stats. Cats are adorable, hilarious and regularly break the Internet." Yes, some videos of literal black cat antics—like kittens zooming down the stairs—have snuck into the chat (we're not complaining. They represent the best of the Internet). However, "black cat energy" has come to mean something different when describing the roles people fill in relationships based on their traits.

"'Black cat energy' refers to a person who feels mysterious, confident and emotionally independent," Dr. Crystal Saidi, Psy.D., a licensed psychologist with Thriveworks, tells Parade. "Black cats don’t chase. They are grounded in their self-worth and comfortable in their own company."

If you have a black cat, you may agree that this sounds like a pretty great description of your "void," as many like to call them. But while black cats come close to perfection, people have more weaknesses, qualities and self-awareness to address. Here, Dr. Saidi shares five subtle traits to work on if you have "black cat energy." Plus, she underlines practical ways to turn that energy into power.

Related: These 11 Habits Will Make People Dislike You Fast, Etiquette Experts Warn

Alexander Sorokopud/Getty Images

‘Black Cat Energy’ Meaning

As Dr. Saidi has explained, if someone has "black cat energy," they're a pretty self-assured person who, like cats, is self-reliant. They might give off a bit of mystery as well. She notes that "black cats don't chase," but instead are more than OK in their own skin and company.

Indeed, one TikTok creator, Marian Bacol, shared in a video that there are two ways to tell if you're a "black cat" person.

"Black cats have boundaries," Bacol said about the first way. "Cats, in general, have boundaries. They will let you know when they are done getting petted."

If you know, you know—right, cat parents? Also, Bacol pointed out that cats "don't give love and affection to just everyone and everyone.”

Dr. Saidi agrees that the ability to set boundaries is a superpower of people with black cat energy. A couple of other benefits include "being secure in their own solitude... and being able to naturally create intrigue."

But there are also some subtle traits that these individuals may want to work on.

@marian.bacol

Theyre also highly intuitive and witchy #creatorsearchinsights #blackcat #blackcatenergy #darkfeminine

♬ original sound - Marian: WellnessTech Founder💜 5 Subtle Traits of Someone With 'Black Cat Energy,' Psychologist Warns1. Confusing detachment with strength

As mentioned before, no individual is 100% perfect, including those with "black cat energy." One trait that someone with this personality might need to work on is confusing detachment with being strong.

It's possible to be strong and show a full range of emotions. In fact, letting your guard down can be a sign of strength and bravery. Yet sometimes people with black cat energy struggle to build secure emotional attachments because they keep their walls up.

"True strength is not cold," Dr. Saidi points out. "Emotional distance is not maturity. It is often self-protection dressed up as confidence." 

Related: 7 Signs You Have a ‘Really Strong Personality,’ Psychologists Say

2. Struggling to compromise

Some literal cats may adhere to rigid schedules like meal times, and have distinct preferences for even flavor of their wet food. In relationships, it's cool to have your boundaries, likes and dislikes. However, it can become toxic if you have a my-way-or-the-highway mentality.

"Healthy relationships are built on mutual pursuit, not power dynamics," Dr. Saidi reports.

3. Avoiding vulnerability

This trait—common in people with black cat energy—is another product of building walls rather than bridges. It's often done to remain in control.

"When sharing feels 'too exposing', your nervous system may be protecting you from becoming close with anyone," Dr. Saidi says.

4. Not initiating emotional connection

Let's move on from the walls because we need to talk about doors. Closing the one to your heart can make it challenging to build genuine relationships. As a result?

"If you ever reach out, clarify or express your interest, others may assume you’re not interested even if you actually are," Dr. Saidi explains.

Related: 7 Signs Someone Feels ‘Emotionally Isolated,’ Even Around Loved Ones, According to a Psychologist

5. Misinterpreting 'mysterious'

This one builds on all of the above. Dr. Saidi says that people with "black cat energy" can sometimes mistake feeling mysterious for shutting other people out.

"If people often say they don’t know where they stand with you, your confidence may feel like emotional unavailability," Dr. Saidi shares.

Related: 7 Subtle Phrases That Suggest Someone Is ‘Vaguebooking,’ According to Psychologists

3 Ways To Use 'Black Cat Energy' To Improve Your Relationships1. Let people earn trust

There's absolutely nothing wrong with making people earn access to more personal information. Dr. Saidi says that's a healthy boundary. However, she advises that black cat types avoid making others play guessing games.

"Mystery is appealing, but confusion is exhausting," she states. "Be clear about your interest without over-explaining it. Be calm and direct." 

Related: People Who Were Considered 'Strong-Willed' as Children Often Develop These 10 Traits as Adults

2. Keep your standards high but your heart open

Trust us, Dr. Saidi is not anti-boundary. She's just pro-setting them intentionally.

"Boundaries protect you, but openness is what connects you," she notes. "Say no to what doesn’t align, but say yes to emotional honesty when it feels safe."

3. Pair your independence with emotional availability

Life and relationships are about balance.

"Independence builds attraction, but availability is what builds connection," Dr. Saidi says. "Make sure to be clear and share your thoughts and feelings. Allow people to not only see your poise, but also your warmth."

Up Next:

Related: 9 After-Work Habits That Are Secretly Harming Your Relationship, According to Psychologists

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1977 Hit Ranked ‘Best Dance Song of All Time’ Was Fueled by a Long Call With a Psychic

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 6:31am

Donna Summer was known as the Queen of Disco,  but she was also a pioneer of EDM in the late 1970s. Two years after recording her breakthrough disco hit “Love to Love You Baby,” Summer dropped the groundbreaking electronic dance track “I Feel Love.”

The 1977 hit was ranked the best dance song of all time by Billboard, beating out Chic’s “Good Times,” Gloria Gaynor’s “ I Will Survive,” and Madonna’s “Vogue” for the top ranking.

Billboard credited the song for introducing “dance music, as we know it today” and described the song as “timeless.”

Written by Summer and her longtime collaborators Giorgio Moroder and Pete Bellotte, “I Feel Love” appeared on Summer's fifth studio album, I Remember Yesterday. The song featured the extensive use of a Moog synthesizer.

Rolling Stone noted that “I Feel Love” was “meant to represent the future of music,” and that the single and Summer became "the de facto representatives of the bygone disco era and its iconic clubs, like Studio 54, as well.”

While not Summer’s biggest U.S. hit—that honor would go to “Bad Girls,” which went to No. 1 for 5 weeks in 1979— “I Feel Love” peaked at no. 6 on the Billboard Hot 100 in November 1977 and reached No. 1 in the U.K. and several other countries.

Donna Summer’s hit was fueled by  a last-minute call from an astrologer

The songwriting session for “I Feel Love” marked “the first time Donna wanted to be involved in a lyric,” Bellotte told Pitchfork in a 20917 interview.

The music producer revealed that he stopped by Summer’s house to work on the lyrics, and she was on the phone for another hour and a half on a call to her astrologer.

Summer had been seeking psychic counseling about her relationship with her then-beau Peter Mühldorfer, as well as a new man she was interested in, singer-songwriter Bruce Sudano. The advisor gave her all she needed.

“Donna had fallen for Bruce, deeply,” Bellotte shared. “When she came downstairs, Donna announced that her astrologer had told her, ‘this is the man.’ That was the night ‘I Feel Love’ was written: When she’d changed her whole life. And it was the best thing that ever happened to her, she and Bruce were together for the rest of her life. So when Donna flew back to Munich to record the vocal, that was the feeling she gave the song.”

Summer married Sudano in 1980, three years after she first met him around the time she co-wrote “I Feel Love.” The couple shared two daughters, Brooklyn and Amanda, per People, and remained married until Summer’s death in 2012 at age 63. Sudano also managed Summer’s career and co-wrote  her No. 1 hit “Bad Girls.”

‘I Feel Love’ was the sound of the future

In an interview, Moroder revealed that “I Feel Love” was meant to be the sound of the “future" on Summer’s 1977 concept album.

“I definitely wanted to explore it as a whole concept and come up with a sound that was of the future,” he told Library of Congress in 2015. “I did it by only using synthesizers, because I thought it was the instrument that would be used in the future--be the instrument of the future. We used it, and only it, to create all the sounds. …. Everything except the voice was created by the Moog.”

As for the lyrics, he added, “We always shared the credit for the song—Donna, Pete, and I. I did the music, and Donna and Pete wrote the lyrics, but I don’t know how that broke down between them.”

“I Feel Love” has been covered and sampled by Bronski Beat, Sam Smith,Beyonceand more.

Moroder told Variety that “nothing is as good” as the original version of “I Feel Love.”

“The sound was bold, very difficult to create, a moment in time where everything was right – the sound, tempo and melody was perfect,” he said. “Whenever I hear ‘I Feel Love’ I still think it is powerful. And I’ve heard every version of it.”

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‘80s Punk Rock Band Announces Update Ahead of 2026 Tour

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 6:30am

Post-punk rock band A Certain Ratio is turning up the excitement ahead of their upcoming tour.

Before the cheers and anticipation of fans as they witness the Sextet and Force Anniversary Tour scheduled in the fourth quarter, the Manchester band is set for a series of shows this spring and summer.

Sharing on Instagram, the “Do the Du” hitmaker announced the addition of a one-night concert to their May lineup, set for the 20th.

Moreover, this will be their first-ever performance in the historic town of Royal Tunbridge Wells in England.

“We are pleased to add another date to our summer shows and it's our first time in Tunbridge Wells,” the caption reads.

View this post on Instagram

Formed in the late 1970s, they are widely recognized as one of the icons of "punk-funk" music, offering a unique blend of dance-driven sound infused with upbeat rhythms and eclectic influences.

After undergoing lineup changes over the years, the current roster features core members Donald Johnson on drums and vocals, Jez Kerr on bass and vocals and Martin Moscrop on guitar and trumpet.

Martin Moscrop, Jez Kerr and Donald Johnson of A Certain Ratio perform live on stage during 2021 Wide Awake Festival at Brockwell Park.

Jim Dyson/Getty Images

For the month of May, A Certain Ratio will be performing at two festivals, including the Footsteps Festival in London and the Bearded Theory Festival in Derbyshire.

The festival appearances also lead to their much-awaited anniversary tour scheduled for October.

Early this month, they announced they would be hitting the road again for a 12-show run across the U.K.

The tour will kick off in the first week of October and wrap up in the third week, making stops in key cities such as Birmingham, Bristol, Newcastle, Edinburgh, Blackpool, Manchester and more.

Following the tour announcement, the band expressed their heartfelt appreciation to fans following the sold-out shows, including the Oct. 22 concert in Hebden Bridge.

A Certain Ratio Spring & Summer 2026 Shows + Sextet and Force Anniversary Tour Dates
  • May 19: London, Footsteps Festival at The Garage
  • May 20: Tunbridge Wells, The Forum
  • May 21: Walton-on-Trent, Bearded Theory Festival
  • May 23: Darwen, Darwen Live
  • Aug 7: Rochdale, Town Hall Square (with OMD and Peter Hook)
  • Oct 7: Birmingham, Castle & Falcon
  • Oct 8: Bristol, Exchange
  • Oct 9: London, Dingwalls
  • Oct 10: Lewes, Con Club
  • Oct 13: Newcastle, The Cluny
  • Oct 14: Edinburgh, Voodoo Rooms
  • Oct 15: Glasgow, Oran Mor
  • Oct 16: Blackpool, Bootleg Social
  • Oct 17: Leeds, Brudenell Social Club
  • Oct 22: Hebden Bridge, The Trades Club
  • Oct 23: Stoke-on-Trent, The Sugarmill
  • Oct 24: Manchester, Band on the Wall

Related: Country Music Star Announces 2026 World Tour

Princess Diana’s Romantic Dinner With Prince Charles Ended With One Covered in Salad Dressing: Royal Butler

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 6:26am

A royal butler claimed that what was meant to be a romantic evening for Princess Dianaand Prince Charles quickly went awry when one of them ended up drenched in salad dressing.

In his book The Royal Insider: My Life with the Queen, the King and Princess Diana, Paul Burrell, former personal butler to the Princess of Wales, recounted a night intended to ease tensions between Diana and Charles that instead became unforgettable for all the wrong reasons.

Burrell claimed to Fox News Digital that he was called upon to set up a candlelit dinner for the couple. However, the evening didn't go as planned.

"One evening, he rang the bell, and I went through after hearing this almighty row from the other side of the door, knowing I shouldn’t intrude until it went quiet," Burrell began.

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"The dinner table was upside down, broken china everywhere, food everywhere. And he was covered in salad dressing," the former royal butler alleged.

"He looked up at me in a rather sheepish way and said, ‘Oh, I’m terribly sorry. I seemed to have caught my sleeve on the edge of the table, and everything just tipped up.' ‘Of course.’ He knew, and I knew the real reason was that there’d been an almighty row and Diana had fled upstairs in tears."

Antony Jones/UK Press via Getty Images

Burrell claimed in the book that the couple regularly argued during that difficult period in their marriage. "Of course, they would argue, and I was there," he wrote.

"I stood there and watched them shouting and screaming, and I cleaned up the messes. I brushed up the broken china."

"The king is not a conciliatory man," Burrell wrote. "He certainly wasn’t in the Diana years."

He concluded, "I witnessed many arguments and fights between Charles and Diana behind closed doors. At times, they were more than a shouting match. Plates were smashed, tempers raised, and even tables overturned. When the prince lost his temper, which he often regretted, he was contrite and apologetic."

Burrell would continue to work for Princess Diana after her divorce from Prince Charles in 1996. He remained in her employ until her death in August 1997. She was 36.

Buckingham Palace told Fox News Digital of the allegations, "We don’t comment on such books."

Amazon Is Selling an 'Incredibly Soft' and 'Sophisticated' Modern Accent Chair for 40% Off 

Fri, 02/13/2026 - 6:15am

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Adding a cozy reading nook to a room is a great way to pull the space together. But, to complete your cozy and aesthetic reading nook, you'll need to acquire a gorgeous and comfortable accent chair — without breaking the bank. Luckily, Amazon has tons of amazing deals that are ready and waiting for you. The Malol Mid-Century Modern Accent Chair is up to 40% off, and it’s a sale you won’t want to miss. 

The midcentury-style accent chair originally cost $160, but has been reduced to as low as $96 in the green hue. The other two available colors, beige ($102) and brown ($119), are also on sale. You can also purchase a set of two chairs for $300. The chair is 28.35 inches long, 24.8 inches wide, and 33.66 inches tall. 

Malol Mid-Century Modern Accent Chair, From $96 (was $160) at Amazon

In the green version, it's made of faux leather, wood, and high-density foam to promote long-lasting comfort. The white hue is made from sherpa fabric that's breathable and soft against the skin. The design features patterned stitching along the back and the sides of the chair, making it a unique addition to any space. The thin black metal legs offer a "modern" and chic look. The chair can also support up to 250 pounds.

The curved backrest provides extra support for your upper and lower body, while the padded armrests offer a comfortable spot to rest your arms. Shoppers described the piece as "sophisticated," "incredibly soft," "beautiful," and "stylish." One reviewer also assured others that the chair is "easy to assemble" and "sturdy" once put together. 

Related: Amazon’s $11 Corduroy Tote Bag Comes in 21 Colors, and It’s ‘Perfect for Everyday Use’

"The chair is stable and does not wobble," one reviewer added. "Each leg can be adjusted…the seat is deep and supportive, and the backrest has a somewhat reclined angle, which means you're not sitting as upright as a typical office chair." Customers have placed the item at their desk, in their living room, and virtually everywhere in between.

Shop More Deals

This limited-time deal will upgrade your home in no time. Shop this stunning accent chair at Amazon while it's 40% off! 

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