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Barbara Eden, who rose to fame on I Dream of Jeannie, is looking better than ever at 95 after a recent health scare.

Eden, who became a TV mainstay in her role as Jeannie on the beloved sitcom, which ran from 1965 to 1970, made a rare public appearance at The Hollywood Show. Despite any previous health issues, the blonde goddess was thriving and vibrant as she joyfully signed autographs for fans who eagerly awaited her presence. There may be 56 years since her iconic series went off the air, but that smile hasn’t changed one bit!

“We Dream of Jeannie. #idreamofjeannie #barbaraeden #hollywoodshow1,” the caption read alongside the sweet video.

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Compare that to her look on the hit series!

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Eden’s Recent Health Scare

Back in September, Eden dropped out of the Cinecon Classic Film Festival at the last minute due to a “sudden illness.” The health scare sent fans and followers into a flurry of worry.

“We’re sorry to share that, due to a sudden illness, Barbara Eden will no longer be able to appear in person at Cinecon tonight,” event organizers announced through a Facebook post, PEOPLE reported, explaining that Eden was scheduled to attend the Cinecon Classic Film Festival in Los Angeles on Saturday, Sept. 5.

Despite the worry, Eden soon made it clear that she’s a-ok. She soon took to Instagram and shared that she’s not suffering from an illness. Instead, she had some “nasty” side effects from a medication her physician prescribed, and she’s on the mend.

“It’s okay everyone! I’m okay! Oh, my goodness there has been a bit of miscommunication. I’m not suffering from an illness; my doctor very recently prescribed a brand-new medication that turned out to have some nasty side effects. Due to the discomfort, my doctor ordered me to remain at home until it can be sorted out. What awful timing for this to happen! My deepest appreciation to everyone for the concern. This is just a speedbump! I expect to be out and about as soon as I’m given the go-ahead! Again, my love and thanks to everyone for all the concern. -Barbara Eden,” the star wrote.

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Related: ‘Bewitched’ Star Erin Murphy’s Sweet Birthday Message for ‘I Dream of Jeannie’ Icon Barbara Eden at 95

Men will never have to endure childbirth or navigate menopause, but they are at higher risk for heart disease, which is the number one cause of death in the US.

“Hormonal differences are one of the main reasons why men tend to develop heart disease earlier than women,” says Dr. Laura Dal Farra, MD, a cardiologist and the CEO of PALM Health. 

Dr. Dal Farra explains that estrogen (which women have higher levels of) protects arteries by prompting the thin inner lining of blood vessels to release nitric oxide, a natural signaling molecule that relaxes and widens blood vessels. This causes blood to move more freely, which reduces blood pressure. After menopause, women’s estrogen levels drop, so they lose this protective factor. Since men have lower levels of this protective hormone—at least before women hit menopause—their risk of heart disease is higher. 

Related: 7 Foods Cardiologists Always Eat for Heart Health

“Men and women also differ in the characteristics of the plaque they develop. Plaque is the buildup of cholesterol and other material inside artery walls. In men, plaque in the coronary arteries often has more fat and features that make it more likely to rupture, which triggers many heart attacks,” Dr. Dal Farra says. She also says that men tend to develop risk factors such as high blood pressure and unfavorable cholesterol levels earlier in life, which also increases the risk of heart disease.

Fortunately, heart disease is almost entirely preventable. Diet and lifestyle matter greatly when it comes to heart health. There’s one common breakfast habit in particular that many men do that could be increasing their risk of heart disease without them even realizing it.

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The Common Breakfast Habit Cardiologists Wish Men Would Stop Doing

If you’re among the roughly quarter of Americans who skip breakfast, you could be increasing your risk for heart disease without even realizing it. A 2025 scientific study published in Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine shows an association between those who skip breakfast and a higher incidence of heart disease. 

Dr. Adedapo Iluyomade, MD, FACC, a preventive cardiologist and the medical director at the Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute, says that it isn’t skipping breakfast itself that increases this risk; it’s other unhealthy habits it can lead to. For example, both cardiologists say that people who skip breakfast are more likely to consume more calories later in the day. This, they say, can increase the risk of obesity, which is a risk factor for heart disease. 

Related: We Asked 3 Cardiologists About the Best Afternoon Habit for Heart Health, and They All Said the Same Thing

“People who regularly skip breakfast often have other eating habits that may contribute to weight gain, including eating irregularly and late at night, at times that do not align with the body’s usual sleep and wake cycle. They also often report feeling hungrier and less full and have higher levels of ghrelin, a hormone that stimulates hunger. Many compensate by eating more later in the day, often choosing more fast food and sugar and less fiber, fruit and vegetables,” Dr. Dal Farra says.

Dr. Dal Farra says that skipping breakfast can also raise blood sugar, which is another risk factor for heart disease. “Skipping breakfast may make the body less responsive to insulin, the hormone that helps move sugar from the bloodstream into cells for energy. The body may then need to release more insulin to keep blood sugar under control after a meal,” she says. 

She adds that eating breakfast can help the body control blood sugar after lunch. “Researchers call this the ‘second-meal effect,’” she says. She explains that insulin released after breakfast lowers levels of fatty acids, which are components of fat circulating in the blood. “Lower fatty acid levels help muscles respond more effectively to insulin and store sugar for later use. As a result, blood sugar rises less after lunch. When breakfast is skipped, blood sugar may rise more sharply after later meals,” she says. 

Dr. Iluyomade emphasizes that what matters most is total calorie intake and diet quality. Skipping breakfast may lead to less healthy dietary patterns for the remainder of the day, but it’s not skipping breakfast itself that increases the risk for heart disease.

Related: This Is the ‘Worst’ Healthy Food for Heart Health, Cardiologists Say

What to Eat for Breakfast to Support Your Heart

Inspired to stop skipping breakfast? If you want a morning meal that supports your cardiovascular health, Dr. Iluyomade recommends eating a morning meal that’s minimally processed and high in fiber. To this point, scientific research shows an association between a high-fiber diet and a lower risk of heart disease. 

If you want your diet to support your cardiovascular health, Dr. Dal Farra recommends an eating plan like the Mediterranean diet or DASH diet, which are both scientifically shown to reduce the risk of heart disease. Both of these eating plans emphasize foods that are minimally processed, such as plant-based proteins, lean animal proteins, seafood, vegetables, fruit and whole grains. Additionally, minimizing sodium intake is a core part of the DASH diet.

Breakfasts that are full of fiber and fit within the Mediterranean or DASH diet ways of eating include oatmeal with Greek yogurt and berries, chia seed pudding with walnuts, and scrambled eggs with veggies and avocado.

Other Ways to Reduce Your Risk of Heart Disease

Eating a heart-healthy breakfast can set the tone for the rest of the day, inspiring even more healthy habits. Dr. Iluyomade says that staying physically active is key to heart health. The American Heart Association recommends engaging in at least 150 minutes of aerobic exercise a week, which is roughly 21 minutes a day. It’s a guideline that only one in five Americans meets.

“Regular aerobic activity, including walking, lowers cardiovascular risk. It improves how well blood vessels work and helps the body respond more effectively to insulin, the hormone that regulates blood sugar. It also raises HDL, often called ‘good’ cholesterol, and lowers LDL, often called ‘bad’ cholesterol,” Dr. Dal Farra says.

Both doctors say it’s also important to know your numbers, monitoring your blood pressure, cholesterol, blood sugar and inflammation levels measured through blood tests. If any of these numbers are outside a healthy range, work with your doctor to address them.

And, just in case you need another reminder, both doctors say it’s important not to use tobacco in any form. It’s the worst habit for every aspect of health, including your heart. 

By maintaining healthy habits, you can reduce your risk of heart disease significantly. It all starts with how you choose to spend your morning, including taking the time to sit down and eat a balanced breakfast.

Up Next:

Related: ‘I’m a Cardiologist—Here’s Exactly How I Prepare Eggs for Heart Health’

Sources

• Leading Causes of Death. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
• Dr. Laura Dal Farra, MD, cardiologist and the CEO of PALM Health.
• Buckner, S. L., Loprinzi, P. D., Loenneke, J. P. (2016). Why don’t more people eat breakfast? A biological perspective. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 103(6):1555-1556. 
• Zhang, H., Zhang, S., Liu, Y., et al. (2025). The association between skipping breakfast and cardiovascular disease: a meta analysis. Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine. doi: 10.3389/fcvm.2025.1565806.
• Dr. Adedapo Iluyomade, MD, FACC, preventive cardiologist and the medical director at the Miami Cardiac & Vascular Institute.
• van der Heijden, A. A. W. A., Hu, F. B., Rimm, E. B., et al. (2007). A prospective study of breakfast consumption and weight gain among US men. Obesity. 15(10):2463-9.
• Diabetes and Your Heart. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
• Zhang, L., Chen, Y., Yang, Q., et al. (2025). The Impact of Dietary Fiber on Cardiovascular Diseases: A Scoping Review. Nutrients. 17(3):444.
• American Heart Association Recommendations for Physical Activity in Adults and Kids. American Heart Association. 

Max Casella is a well-known actor who has been in the industry for decades. He played Benny Fazio on The Sopranos, Leo D’Alessio on Boardwalk Empire, and Vinnie Delpino on Doogie Howser, MD. Even though he has had an illustrious career, he recently opened up to Page Six about a medical condition that he had in his twenties that he worried would derail his career. It involved a growth hormone deficiency.

“It was insane. Wouldn’t have been my choice, but you know, given the cards you’re dealt. You make the best of it,” he said, explaining that he was already an established actor when he “went through the awkward phase that most people go through in high school.”

He continued, “I had to start all over again. It was a humiliating experience. You know what happens to especially boys when they go through puberty. They get awkward and zits and fat, chubby, whatever.”

Related: In 1912, Cleveland Candy Maker Clarence Crane Invented a Mint That Wouldn’t Melt in Summer; A Year Later He Sold Life Savers for $2,900

Casella, who is currently 59, is now starring in Jimmy, which is a biographical film about Jimmy Stewart acting as a pilot during World War II and eventually returning to Hollywood to film It’s a Wonderful Life. Casella plays the director of the famous 1946 film, Frank Capra.

When speaking with Page Six, Casella also explained how he prepared for the iconic role. “I read his book,” he explained. “I watched some documentaries about him. What I was really trying to find out is how to play him. What kind of a person is he? How does he smoke a cigarette? How does he sit in a chair? Just get a vibe from, you know. There’s not a lot of footage of him at the time when he was younger, so it was challenging.”

Related: Jennifer Meyer Addresses Ex-Husband Tobey Maguire Officiating Her Hawaiian Wedding: ‘A Little Unconventional’

Jimmy was directed by Aaron Burns, written by Justin Strawhand, and stars KJ Apa as the title character. The film hits theaters starting on November 6.

My Chemical Romance is facing a lawsuit from the owner of the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders brand over a recent concert performance featuring dancers in outfits resembling the cheerleaders’ signature uniforms.

According to TheWrap, Pro Silver Star Ltd., which owns the Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders brand, is seeking a temporary restraining order and injunction over the band’s alleged misuse of its uniforms.

The performance in question took place during My Chemical Romance’s first of five sold-out The Black Parade shows at the Hollywood Bowl on October 21. During “Teenagers,” dancers dressed in Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders-inspired outfits performed a routine before picking up rifles and appearing to protect the band from soldiers. 

“On Oct. 21, 2026, Defendants staged ‘The Black Parade,’ a theatrical concert production set in a fictional dictatorship and featuring pyrotechnics and armed conflict,” the company said in its filing.

“As part of that production, female performers took to the stage in the DCC Uniform — and then armed themselves with rifles in a staged firefight, only to be depicted being shot.”

The company also argued that the costumes could leave concertgoers and social media users with the wrong impression about who was performing. “Audience members and online commentators understandably believed that the performers were the real Dallas Cowboys Cheerleaders and said so in social media posts that continue to circulate,” the filing added.

In the lawsuit, Pro Silver Star claims it asked My Chemical Romance to stop using the uniforms, but the band refused to do so. While the cheerleaders’ brand owner said it has no issue with the band’s music or creative choices, it argued that the performance crossed a line by using its recognizable uniforms.

“Silver Star is not litigious, and it takes no issue with MCR’s music, its artistic ambitions, or any message Defendants seek to convey. Silver Star does not ask Defendants to change their setlist, narrative, politics, choreography, or even their decision to put gun-toting performers on stage. Silver Star asks only that those performers not wear the DCC Uniform while doing it. The universe of alternative costume designs is effectively unlimited.”

Pro Silver Star Ltd. is also asking the court to award monetary damages, though it has not specified an amount.

Related: 1991 Rock Album Surpasses AC/DC on ‘Best-Selling Albums of All Time’ List

Cheryl Hines is supportive of husband Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s dedication to his diet, but there are limits to what she’s willing to do to help him stick to it.

During the latest episode of The Girls podcast, Hines joined Rachel Campos-Duffy, Harris Faulkner, Melissa DeRosa and Brett Cooper for a conversation that included Kennedy’s eating habits.

Kennedy, who serves as Secretary of Health and Human Services, has become known for an eating regimen heavy on meat and fermented foods, including sauerkraut. And according to Hines, he takes that sauerkraut very seriously.

So seriously, in fact, that Kennedy sometimes wants his wife to carry it around for him. In her purse.

Hines revealed that when the couple is heading to a nice restaurant, Kennedy has asked her to put steak bites and sauerkraut in her purse so he’ll have his preferred foods available. But whether she agrees depends heavily on which purse she’s carrying.

Hines explained that if she’s taking one of her smaller, nicer bags to dinner and Kennedy asks, “Can you put this in your bag?” her answer is simple.

“No,” she said, adding that she refuses “for so many reasons.”

Fortunately for Kennedy, he has another solution.

“He will just bring a jar of sauerkraut into a restaurant,” Hines revealed.

Kennedy’s fondness for fermented vegetables isn’t exactly a secret. His dietary habits have previously attracted attention for the amount of steak and sauerkraut he eats, and other members of the administration have reportedly embraced similar eating habits.

But Hines also revealed that Kennedy isn’t immune to temptation.

She said her husband is extremely disciplined about what he eats most of the time, but if he decides to indulge in dessert, moderation can become a problem.

“If you’re eating, like, a piece of cake or something, the problem with Bobby is he can’t have a bite,” Hines said. “He has to have the whole thing.”

Hines has her own indulgences, too. She admitted Kennedy occasionally catches her eating potato chips, but she isn’t about to hide them just because they don’t fit into his preferred diet.

When Kennedy asks whether she’s really going to eat them in front of him, Hines said her answer is “Yes.”

After all, she joked, “I’m not shoplifting.”

So while Hines may be willing to accommodate some of her husband’s unusual food habits, sacrificing one of her good handbags to a bag of sauerkraut is apparently where she draws the line.

Related: Prince Harry Told to ‘Grow a Set’ During Fiery Meghan Markle Debate

When you think of potassium-rich foods, bananas are probably one of the first things that come to mind. But they aren’t the only way to get this essential mineral. Plenty of vegetables—especially potatoes, winter squash and leafy greens—deliver substantial amounts of potassium in a single serving. You just have to know where to look.

Potassium plays a vital role in normal nerve transmission, muscle contraction and kidney function. It’s also essential for heart health as well.

Back in 2021, Jaclyn London, MS, RD, CDN, the former Head of Nutrition & Wellness at WW, shared with Parade that “potassium is critical for maintaining healthy blood pressure.” She also added that “low potassium is associated with a risk of heart disease, stroke, arthritis, cancer, digestive disorders, and infertility.”

Despite its importance, though, many Americans fall short of recommended daily targets. Current NIH guidance suggests 3,400 milligrams per day for adult men and 2,600 milligrams for adult women.

While a medium-sized banana contains about 422 milligrams of potassium, several vegetables can provide considerably more. Here are 12 options worth knowing about.

Related: 15 High-Fiber Fruits That Can Help You Reach Your Daily Goal

What Vegetables Are High in Potassium?

The amounts below come from USDA food-composition data and the NIH Office of Dietary Supplements’ potassium fact sheet. Serving sizes vary because the most useful comparison is the standard amount typically listed for each food.

UliU / Getty Images

1. Beet Greens

• Potassium: About 1,300 milligrams per cup, cooked

Beet greens are one of the most potassium-rich vegetables you can put on your plate. If you’re buying beets with the leafy tops attached, don’t automatically toss them. Cook the greens as you would spinach or other sturdy leafy greens.

2. Swiss Chard

• Potassium: About 960 milligrams per cup, cooked

Swiss chard is another leafy green that brings a surprising amount of potassium to the table. Sauté it with garlic, add it to soups or fold it into grain dishes for an easy boost.

3. Edamame

• Potassium: About 675 milligrams per cup, cooked

Edamame, or immature soybeans, is technically a legume but is commonly served as a vegetable. A cup provides considerably more potassium than a medium banana, along with protein and fiber.

4. Acorn Squash

• Potassium: About 644 milligrams per cup, mashed

Acorn squash is a particularly good source of potassium. The flesh becomes naturally creamy when roasted or cooked, making it an easy side dish for fall and winter meals.

Sanja Baljkas / Getty Images

5. Potatoes

• Potassium: About 610 milligrams per medium baked potato

Potatoes have a reputation for being nutritionally suspect, but the whole vegetable is a significant source of potassium. The NIH lists a medium baked potato with the flesh only at about 610 milligrams.

6. Sweet Potatoes

• Potassium: About 570 milligrams per medium sweet potato

Sweet potatoes provide a substantial amount of potassium, along with beta-carotene and fiber. Roast one as a side dish, or use the cooked flesh in soups and grain bowls.

7. Pumpkin

• Potassium: About 564 milligrams per cup, cooked

Pumpkin isn’t just for pie. Cooked pumpkin is another potassium-rich squash that works well in soups, oatmeal, pasta dishes and savory side dishes.

8. Brussels Sprouts

• Potassium: About 490 milligrams per cup, cooked

Roasted Brussels sprouts are an easy way to add more potassium to dinner. Their slightly sweet, caramelized flavor also makes them considerably more versatile than their old-fashioned reputation suggests.

Bogdan Nicolaescu / Getty Images

9. Spinach

• Potassium: About 334 milligrams per two cups, raw

Spinach shrinks dramatically when cooked, so serving size makes a big difference when comparing potassium amounts. The NIH lists 334 milligrams for two cups of raw spinach.

10. Tomatoes

• Potassium: About 292 milligrams per medium tomato

A medium raw tomato provides nearly 300 milligrams of potassium. Add sliced tomatoes to sandwiches and salads, or use canned tomatoes in soups, sauces and stews.

11. Broccoli

• Potassium: About 230 milligrams per ½ cup, cooked

Broccoli isn’t as potassium-dense as potatoes or leafy greens, but it still contributes meaningfully to your daily intake. The NIH lists 229 milligrams in a half-cup serving of cooked, chopped broccoli.

12. Asparagus

• Potassium: About 200 milligrams per ½ cup, cooked

A half-cup of cooked asparagus supplies about 202 milligrams of potassium. Roast the spears, steam them or add them to omelets, pasta and grain bowls.

How Much Potassium Do You Need Each Day?

Claudia Totir / Getty Images

Potassium needs depend on age and sex. For adults ages 19 and older, the current adequate intake is 3,400 milligrams a day for men and 2,600 milligrams for women. Pregnant and breastfeeding women have different targets.

You don’t need to get all of your potassium from vegetables. Fruits, beans, lentils, dairy products, meat, fish and nuts also contribute. In fact, the NIH recommends getting nutrients primarily from a varied diet rather than relying on supplements.

One important caveat: People with kidney disease or certain medical conditions, as well as those taking medications that affect potassium levels, may need to limit potassium. If that applies to you, check with your doctor or a registered dietitian before deliberately increasing your intake.

Which Vegetable Has the Most Potassium?

Among the vegetables on this list, beet greens are the standout potassium source, followed by Swiss chard and edamame. But you don’t need to seek out specialty vegetables to get more potassium. Potatoes, sweet potatoes, squash, Brussels sprouts and spinach are all practical choices that can contribute a significant amount to your daily intake.

A few of these familiar vegetables can make it much easier to move beyond the banana when you’re looking for potassium-rich foods.

Related: We Asked Registered Dietitians the Best Fruit To Eat Every Day To Lower Blood Pressure and They All Said the Same Thing

Sources

• National Kidney Foundation. ‘Potassium.”
• National Institutes of Health: Office of Dietary Supplements. ‘Potassium: Fact Sheet for Health Professionals.’
• USDA. Food Data Central Database.

This article was drafted with the assistance of AI and thoroughly reviewed, edited and fact-checked by Parade editors. See our complete AI Policy.

Nicole Kidman is giving beachwear a glamorous makeover with a dazzling Chanel bikini covered in sparkling embellishments.

The Oscar-winning actress stars in a new Vogue Australia cover shoot, photographed by Lachlan Bailey and styled by the magazine’s editor-in-chief, Christine Centenera. 

According to Vogue Australia, the November issue features Kidman in looks from Chanel’s Cruise 2026/27 collection, showcasing the actress in a series of striking fashion ensembles.

One standout image shows Kidman posing in the ocean wearing a plunging Chanel bikini top adorned with shimmering sequins and sparkling fringe. She pairs the embellished piece with matching swim trunks and a glittering bracelet, bringing a touch of luxury to the seaside setting.

Her damp, blonde waves and smoky eye makeup complement the look, creating a combination of effortless beach style and classic Hollywood glamour.

The photoshoot marks Kidman’s 12th cover appearance for Vogue Australia, highlighting her longstanding connection to the publication and the fashion industry.

The shoot is about more than designer fashion. In the accompanying Vogue Australia interview, Kidman reflects on returning to the beaches and landscapes that shaped her childhood.

The actress recalls family holidays at Avoca Beach and Barrington Tops, including memories of spending Christmas in Australia during the summer. Sunshine, gardenias and festive decorations were among the details that made those holidays special.

Although Kidman now lives in the United States, those memories remain close to her heart. She has also spoken about wanting to recreate some of those traditions for her children and future generations of her family.

Sharing the magazine cover on Instagram, Kidman highlighted the experience of returning to Australia’s beaches and sunshine, describing the familiar surroundings as an important part of the shoot.

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Her latest fashion moment also reflects her relationship with Chanel, the luxury fashion house with which she has maintained a connection for years.

When I was a kid, if I wanted to make plans with a friend, there was a chain of steps involved: I’d have to be in my house, look up their phone number, make sure the landline was free, ask permission to use the phone, call my friend’s landline and ask whoever answered the phone if my friend was home.

But these days, getting in touch with a friend is easier than ever. With smartphones in our pockets, we can shoot a text to someone in a matter of seconds at literally any time. And because contacting someone is so simple in this day and age, it can feel extra hurtful when a friend never reaches out to you.

If you ever feel like you’re the one who always reaches out first in a friendship, it’s understandable to wonder if that’s normal, or if it potentially signifies a toxic friendship.

To learn more, we spoke with Dr. Annia Raja, PhD, a licensed clinical psychologist and the founder of Helm Psychology. At her therapy practice, she specializes in treating high-achieving professionals and those with people-pleasing tendencies.

Below, Dr. Raja shares a few reasons why someone might never reach out first in a friendship, ways you can determine if this dynamic means things are toxic and a simple method for compassionately discussing this with your friend. Keep reading for her insights.

Related: Psychologist Warns: This 1 Subtle Sign Reveals a Friendship Is ‘Definitely Unhealthy’

4 Reasons Why Someone Might Never Reach Out First in a Friendship

There are a few reasons that some people never reach out first in a friendship, “be they temperamental or reflective of something problematic,” according to Dr. Raja.

1. Fear of rejection

“Sometimes people can be really afraid of rejection, or alternatively, fear being a burden, and so they wait for others to ‘choose’ them so that they don’t risk feeling unwanted or rejected,” Dr. Raja states.

2. Their attachment type

“Sometimes attachment dynamics can play a role,” Dr. Raja explains. “Avoidant people tend to be more distant, and anxious people freeze up in paralysis over reaching out.”

However, one’s attachment style “shouldn’t be used as an excuse,” she says.

3. Family patterns

“Family patterns can sometimes influence people’s aptness to reach out,” Dr. Raja explains.

For example, she states: “If they grew up in an environment where others frequently took the lead and so they don’t have adequate modeling or practice on mutually reaching out, or alternatively, where they grew up in family systems where needing people felt unsafe, so it was better to not express a desire to connect.”

4. Not invested in the friendship

While the above three reasons can justify that a friend’s lack of initiative to spend time with you isn’t personal, sometimes, they’re just not that into you.

“Sometimes, as one factor in a broader constellation of factors in a friendship, it can be reflective of low investment in the friendship,” Dr. Raja shares.

This isn’t always personal, though—a lack of investment in the relationship could stem from a number of things they’re dealing with themselves.

Related: How To Stop Being Codependent, According to a Trauma-Informed Therapist

If You Always Reach Out First, This Is When the Dynamic Becomes Toxic

Janina Steinmetz / Getty Images

Being the one who always reaches out first “can become toxic when things become overwhelmingly one-sided in the relationship, whether it’s about the first-to-reach-out dynamic or not,” according to Dr. Raja.

“If your outreach is typically met with indifference or frequent cancellations, or if they only reach out to you when they need something, then it’s understandable that you may start to feel resentful or diminished, which can make people even more apt to start keeping track of ‘trackable’ things like who reached out first last time, etc.,” she tells Parade.

If you do find yourself keeping score, the relationship may be veering into toxic territory.

As you become aware of a potentially one-sided dynamic, Dr. Raja recommends casually broaching the topic with your friend from a place of “genuine curiosity (rather than accusation or resentment).” The way they respond to this will tell you a lot.

“If your feelings are dismissed, or if you feel like your efforts start to be taken for granted, or if you’re generally doing all the emotional work of listening, bringing things up, remembering important things, initiating repair, etc., then cumulatively yes, being the first to reach out can be a stand-in for representing deeper potentially toxic dynamics with friends,” she explains.

Related: 9 Phrases That Give Off a Bad Vibe Without You Even Realizing It, According to a Psychologist

What To Do if You Think You’re in a One-Sided, Toxic Friendship

The first step is to acknowledge and accept this toxic dynamic to yourself.

“If it’s really toxic, then it can be helpful to first name your own feelings to yourself without self-blame or minimization,” says Dr. Raja. “Acknowledge that you feel dismissed.”

From there, she suggests you “give yourself permission to stop initiating for a while to notice what happens; this can often give you meaningful information.” Perhaps your friend will notice your absence and reach out to you.

Either way, when you do speak to your friend next, it’s time to have a sit-down conversation with them about the dynamic you’ve been experiencing.

“If the friendship really is meaningful and worth it to you, it’s good to raise the issue, but do so directly and without accusation,” she advises. “Share your feelings from a place of earnestness and vulnerability,” and see how your friend responds.

At that point, “let yourself set limits on how much you’re willing to give, allowing yourself to put that energy into relationships that feel more mutual,” Dr. Raja shares. “And at a deeper internal level, it can sometimes be helpful to ask yourself whether this is a familiar role for you such that overfunctioning in relationships serves as a way to earn/deserve closeness.”

Related: 22 Surprising Habits That Make You ‘Instantly Unlikable,’ Psychologists Warn

If You’re the Friend Who Always Reaches Out First in a Friendship, It’s Not Necessarily a Bad Thing

Brasileira / Getty Images

“Someone’s gotta be the first one to reach out, otherwise no one’s reaching out!” says Dr. Raja. “People bring different temperaments to friendship, and if you’re naturally more apt to reach out, that’s OK.”

However, if you are always the one to reach out first, it’s something to keep an eye on.

“It’s more the overall patterns over time that are meaningful,” she tells Parade. “If there’s a sense of reciprocity and mutuality that shows up in other ways besides who happens to be the first one to reach out, that’s what matters more than having a transactional sense of keeping tabs on who’s the first mover. Staying warm and engaged, rather than reluctant or absent or secretly resentful, that’s what creates strength and bonding in relationships.”

If you aren’t sure, she recommends asking yourself: “Do I feel wanted and engaged with once I do reach out and we’re together?” If you do, then the relationship likely isn’t toxic—your friend just has a different communication style.

“If it’s not toxic, then let yourself acknowledge that people can have different styles of showing care and warmth,” Dr. Raja explains. “Their care and warmth may show up in other ways like presence when you’re together, follow-through, loyalty, thinking of you in unexpected ways, being there when you need them, etc.”

Up Next:

Related: Psychologist Says People Who Like To Read Every Day Don’t Just ‘Want To Escape’—They Actually Often Share These 5 Unique Qualities

Source:

• Dr. Annia Raja, PhD, is a licensed clinical psychologist and the founder of Helm Psychology.

If you’ve ever taken a Disney cruise, you probably know all about the cult-favorite Churro Mickey Waffles. Rolled in warm cinnamon-sugar so they taste just like a classic bakery churro while keeping the fluffy, nostalgic shape of a Mickey waffle, they have spent years topping the list of the most celebrated morning treats at sea. On land, snagging them previously meant paying upwards of $50 per person for the sit-down character buffet at Magic Kingdom’s Crystal Palace.

Now, the legendary waffles have quietly popped up on the mainland in the least expected spot imaginable—a poolside counter-service window at a Moderate Disney Resort—and they cost just $11.99.

The unexpected arrival was first reported by longtime Disney travel authority Tom Bricker of Disney Tourist Blog, who stumbled onto the menu addition during a recent resort stay.

“If you gave me 100 guesses, I would not have correctly chosen the home to Walt Disney World’s new best breakfast prior to eating there,” Bricker writes. “It’s obviously apples to oranges when comparing pricey character meals at fancy table service restaurants to quick-service cuisine from a pool bar, but I’m still going to argue that this is #1 overall.”

That number-one spot is Spyglass Grill, a small, unassuming counter tucked into a pink building next to the Trinidad quiet pool at Disney’s Caribbean Beach Resort. For $11.99, you get a trio of freshly made, sugar-coated Mickey waffles served with sides of bacon and sausage.

Related: 15 Free Things You Can Do at Walt Disney World Without Entering a Park

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While Bricker admits he is usually skeptical of overhyped viral food trends and standard theme park churros, he says this combination hits differently.

“The Churro Mickey Waffles deserve every bit of the hype, and then some. The internet was right on this one,” Bricker says. “Churro Mickey Waffles are far better than the sum of their parts, with a freshness and flavor that packs a powerful, sugary and buttery punch. What does it for me is that the delicious exterior gives way to a fluffy and hot interior. There is something special about this alchemy of ingredients… Disney truly captured lightning in a bottle with this breakfast/dessert.”

Because Spyglass Grill is making them to order in small batches all morning rather than letting them sit under heat lamps on a buffet line, Bricker found the quality outshines even the high-end venue versions. In fact, his only warning for families and couples is a practical one: order your own plate.

Related: Disney World Quietly Rolled Out Two Rare Perks for Annual Passholders

“Additional advice for ordering the Churro Mickey Waffles is do not, under any circumstances, share,” Bricker advises. “These little puppies come 3 to an order, and it might seem like that’s enough where you could split them among 2-3 people and each have one… Not here. Sharing the Churro Mickey Waffles is the biggest mistake you can make, aside from not ordering them in the first place.”

Beyond the food, the location is surprisingly easy to work into a park day—even if you aren’t staying at Caribbean Beach. Spyglass Grill sits directly across the water from Walt Disney World’s central Disney Skyliner hub, connecting it directly to Pop Century, Art of Animation, Disney’s Riviera Resort, and the parks. Guests rope-dropping Disney’s Hollywood Studios can knock out headliner rides early, then hop on the Skyliner for a relaxing, scenic ride over to Caribbean Beach for a quiet late breakfast on the patio before service wraps at 11 a.m.

“The Cast Members are a big part of that, helping bring the location to life and giving it warmth,” Bricker notes of the laid-back Caribbean atmosphere. “Spyglass Grill isn’t just the cheapest way to eat Churro Mickey Waffles, it serves up the best version of them.”

Related: I’m 57 and Spending My Retirement at Disney World Instead of Buying a Condo

Ben Napier never imagined his small-town renovation show would cross international borders, but now that Home Town Takeover is expanding into Canada, the HGTV star says the experience feels “surreal.”

Ben and his wife, Erin Napier, helped launch Home Town Takeover Canada on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, before handing over hosting duties to fellow HGTV stars Sarah and Bryan Baeumler. The new series follows the couple as they revitalize Port Alberni, transforming local businesses, public spaces, and homes.

Speaking to PEOPLE, Ben reflected on how far the franchise has come since he and Erin began sharing their efforts to revitalize their hometown of Laurel, Mississippi.

“This was never something that we even dreamed of, being on TV,” he explained. “And so, the fact that this show about us working to bring back our little town has now gone to multiple states and now across the border to Canada is just crazy.”

While Ben and Erin remain the faces of the original U.S. series, they were able to take a backseat as the Baeumlers led the Canadian project. The couple helped kick off the initiative, including redesigning Port Alberni’s community sign, but Sarah and Bryan saw the ambitious makeover through to completion.

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For Ben, stepping aside came with a welcome perk.

He described the experience as “wonderful,” explaining that it sometimes felt as though he and Erin were on vacation. When the Canadian team asked him for input, he joked that he was “on vacation” and that the project was now in their hands.

“It was fun, and also, Bryan and Sarah are rockstars. They’re crazy popular in Canada, so it felt good handing it off to them,” Ben said.

Erin also praised the new hosts, calling them the perfect fit for the Canadian edition because of their love for the country.

The Baeumlers acknowledged that following in the Napiers’ footsteps was exciting but also nerve-wracking. They said they wanted to preserve the heart of the original series while bringing their own construction and design expertise to the project.

The expansion marks a significant milestone for the Home Town franchise, which began with the Napiers restoring homes and helping local businesses in Laurel. Now, the couple hopes Canadian viewers will see their own communities reflected in the new series.

Home Town Takeover Canada premieres Sunday, Oct. 25, on HGTV Canada and will stream on Citytv+.

Randy Mantooth spent the 1970s playing a TV paramedic who helped make real-life first responders heroes in the eyes of millions of Americans. Now, months after the Emergency! star died at 80, the Los Angeles County Fire Department is honoring the actor whose impact extended far beyond Hollywood. Mantooth died on July 9, and a special flag ceremony was held in his honor on October 18 at Fire Station 127 in Carson, California, celebrating a legacy that included not only a beloved television role but also decades of advocacy for firefighters and paramedics.

Why Randy Mantooth Was Honored Months After His Death

Mantooth died on July 9, 2026, at age 80, in Ventura, California, following a long illness. In October, the Los Angeles County Fire Department held a flag ceremony at Fire Station 127 in Carson to honor his life and legacy.

The ceremony took place months after his death as a formal tribute organized by the department whose work he helped bring into the national spotlight. Mantooth was named an honorary fire chief and remained a close friend and longtime supporter of the department and the Los Angeles County Fire Museum.

The ceremony included a commemorative message from the Los Angeles Communications Center and a moment of silence. The department praised his advocacy for first responders and his lasting contributions to emergency medicine.

Related: Trisha Yearwood, 62, Shows Off Chic New Hairstyle and Slim Figure During Rare New York Red Carpet Appearance

Randy Mantooth Became a TV Icon on Emergency!

Mantooth became a household name playing firefighter-paramedic Johnny Gage on NBC’s Emergency!, which premiered in 1972 and ran until 1977. The show followed the work of Los Angeles County firefighters and paramedics, bringing the emerging field of paramedicine into American living rooms.

At the time, paramedic programs were still relatively new, and many viewers had little understanding of the profession. Through Johnny Gage and his partner, Roy DeSoto, played by Kevin Tighe, the series showed the skill, compassion and quick thinking required to respond to medical emergencies.

The show helped inspire people to pursue careers in emergency medical services and firefighting. Mantooth later said he was proud that his best-known role had helped make a real difference in people’s lives.

His Career Continued Long After Emergency!

Although Johnny Gage remained his signature role, Mantooth continued working in television, film and theater for decades.

He became well known to daytime television audiences through roles on Loving and its spinoff, The City. His other credits included General Hospital, One Life to Live and As the World Turns, along with film appearances and stage productions.

His career extended well beyond his 1970s fame, but his connection to first responders remained a defining part of his life. He attended firehouse events, spoke at conferences and advocated for the health and safety of firefighters and emergency medical professionals.

Rena Sofer Remembers Her Lifelong Friendship With Mantooth View this post on Instagram

Actress Rena Sofer, known for General Hospital and other television roles, shared a heartfelt social media tribute after Mantooth’s death. The two became friends when Sofer was 18 and worked together on the daytime drama Loving.

In her tribute, Sofer remembered Mantooth as a generous mentor who welcomed her into his life and treated her with kindness and respect. She described a friendship that lasted for decades, recalling how he helped guide her during her early years as an actress, including helping her find her first New York City apartment.

Her message offered a glimpse of the man behind the TV icon: someone who made younger actors feel supported and who remained a loyal friend throughout his life.

Now, the ’70s TV icon is embarking on his “next great adventure.”

Related: Janet Jackson, 60, Has Fans Convinced She’s Aging in Reverse After Stunning Red Carpet Appearance at Missy Elliott Tribute

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Stephanie Garber has a talent for creating fictional worlds that feel like stepping into a particularly enchanting—and occasionally dangerous—fairy tale. Her books are filled with mysterious bargains, elaborate games, unforgettable villains and romances that keep readers guessing. And once you’ve entered one of her magical worlds, it’s tempting to stay for another book.

The bestselling fantasy author made her debut with Caraval in 2017, introducing readers to a dazzling competition where nothing is quite what it seems. She followed that trilogy with Once Upon a Broken Heart, another three-book series that brought fan-favorite character Jacks, the Prince of Hearts, into the spotlight. Her more recent return to the Caraval universe has given readers even more reasons to revisit the stories.

But with interconnected characters, multiple trilogies and a newer novel set in the same universe, figuring out where to begin isn’t quite as simple as picking up the first book you see. Fortunately, Stephanie Garber’s books are easy to organize once you know how the series fits together.

Related: Every Ali Hazelwood Book in Publication Order—From ‘The Love Hypothesis’ to Her Latest Release

How many books has Stephanie Garber written?

As of October 2026, Garber has published seven full-length fantasy novels and two companion novellas in her principal fantasy bibliography. Six of the novels belong to her interconnected Caraval and Once Upon a Broken Heart trilogies, while Alchemy of Secrets introduces a separate fantasy world. Her latest release, The Mirror of Infinite Endings, arrived on September 22, 2026.

Related: Every Ana Huang Book in Publication Order, Including the ‘Twisted’ and ‘Kings of Sin’ Series

Every Stephanie Garber Book in Publication Order 1. Caraval (2017)

Macmillan

Garber’s debut novel introduces Scarlett Dragna, who has spent years dreaming of attending Caraval, a mysterious annual performance where the audience participates in an elaborate game. When Scarlett finally gets her chance, her younger sister, Donatella, disappears, leaving Scarlett to navigate a world of illusions and dangerous secrets.

Published January 31, 2017, Caraval launches the trilogy and establishes the magical setting that connects several of Garber’s later books.

2. Legendary (2018)

Macmillan

The second Caraval novel shifts its focus to Donatella, better known as Tella, as she becomes involved in another dangerous game. This time, the stakes extend beyond Caraval itself, drawing her into the world of the mysterious Fates.

Published May 29, 2018, Legendary expands the mythology introduced in the first book and brings several important characters into sharper focus.

3. Finale (2019)

Macmillan

The original Caraval trilogy concludes with Scarlett and Tella confronting the consequences of the events that have transformed their lives. With the Fates threatening the world around them, both sisters must make difficult decisions about love, loyalty and freedom.

Published May 7, 2019, Finale resolves the trilogy’s central storylines while establishing important background for Garber’s next series.

4. Once Upon a Broken Heart (2021)

Macmillan

Evangeline Fox believes in true love, but when the man she wants to marry becomes engaged to someone else, she makes a desperate bargain with Jacks, the Prince of Hearts. Unfortunately, bargains with a Fate rarely unfold as expected.

Published September 28, 2021, the novel begins a new trilogy set in the same magical universe as Caraval. Readers familiar with the earlier books will recognize Jacks, although Evangeline’s story has its own central romance and conflicts.

5. The Ballad of Never After (2022)

Macmillan

The second book in the Once Upon a Broken Heart trilogy follows Evangeline as she faces new magical dangers and struggles to decide whether Jacks can be trusted. Their increasingly complicated relationship takes center stage as the mysteries surrounding the Magnificent North deepen.

Published September 13, 2022, this installment builds directly on the first novel and should be read afterward.

6. A Curse for True Love (2023)

Macmillan

Evangeline’s story reaches its conclusion in the third book, which finds her confronting missing memories, powerful magic and a version of her happily-ever-after that may not be what it seems.

Published October 24, 2023, A Curse for True Love completes the main trilogy and brings Evangeline and Jacks’s romance to its resolution.

7. Spectacular (2024)

Macmillan

Garber returned to the Caraval universe with this illustrated holiday novella, which takes place after the original trilogy. Featuring familiar characters and a festive atmosphere, Spectacular offers readers another opportunity to visit the world of Caraval without launching an entirely new series.

Published October 22, 2024, the novella features illustrations by Rosie Fowinkle and is best enjoyed after Finale.

8. Alchemy of Secrets (2025)

Macmillan

Garber made her adult fantasy debut with Alchemy of Secrets, a novel set in a magical version of Los Angeles.

The story follows Holland St. James, whose fascination with local legends leads her to a mysterious figure known as the Watch Man. When he predicts that she has less than a day to live, Holland must search for a powerful object that could save her.

Published October 7, 2025, the novel introduces a separate fantasy setting and can be read without any knowledge of Caraval or Once Upon a Broken Heart.

9. The Mirror of Infinite Endings (2026)

Macmillan

Garber’s newest book is a companion novella to the Once Upon a Broken Heart trilogy. It offers readers another visit to the fairy-tale world associated with Evangeline Fox and Jacks.

Released in September 2026, the book is companion material rather than a fourth full-length novel in the original trilogy. Readers should finish A Curse for True Love before picking it up.

Related: 26 Best Book Series You Won’t Be Able To Put Down

What is Stephanie Garber’s newest book?

Stephanie Garber’s latest release is The Mirror of Infinite Endings, published September 22, 2026.

The illustrated companion revisits Evangeline Fox and Jacks after the events of A Curse for True Love. According to Macmillan’s official description, the story includes more than 20 full-page illustrations by Lotusbubble and explores what happens when a seemingly perfect happily-ever-after conceals another secret.

Her newest full-length novel is Alchemy of Secrets, released October 7, 2025. It also marks her first novel written for adult readers.

Should you read Caraval before Once Upon a Broken Heart?

You don’t absolutely have to, but reading Caraval first is the better choice if you want to experience Garber’s interconnected fantasy world without encountering major spoilers.

The recommended reading sequence is:

1. Caraval
2. Legendary
3. Finale
4. Once Upon a Broken Heart
5. The Ballad of Never After
6. A Curse for True Love
7. Spectacular
8. The Mirror of Infinite Endings

This order keeps the main trilogies together and saves the two companion novellas until after their respective stories have concluded. Jacks’s appearance in Caraval provides valuable context for his role in Once Upon a Broken Heart, particularly his history and motivations.

Are all Stephanie Garber’s books connected?

No. The Caraval and Once Upon a Broken Heart trilogies share a fictional universe, with recurring characters and magical mythology. Their companion novellas, Spectacular and The Mirror of Infinite Endings, also belong to that universe.

Alchemy of Secrets, however, introduces a separate setting, new characters and an entirely different magical mystery. You can pick it up without having read any of Garber’s previous novels.

For readers discovering her work for the first time, Caraval is the natural starting point for the complete interconnected experience. But if a contemporary Los Angeles setting and adult fantasy sound more appealing, Alchemy of Secrets offers a completely independent entry point.

Related: Bestselling Fantasy Franchise Being Adapted For TV 25 Years After First Publication

This article was drafted with the assistance of AI and thoroughly reviewed, edited and fact-checked by Parade editors. See our complete AI Policy.

Clarence Crane was a candy maker from Ohio who went on to become the inventor of one of the most popular candies in the world, Life Savers. Crane was the son of a poet named Hart Crane, who wrote the collection White Buildings. His work was praised by icons like E.E. Cummings and William Carlos Williams. He died by suicide in 1932 after jumping overboard from a ship.

In 1912, his son Clarence Crane invented a summer candy that could handle the heat better than chocolate. He knew that customers needed a product like this because he sold less chocolate in the summer months. Air conditioning wasn’t popular at the time, and the chocolate would melt quickly.

Related: 1966 Hit, Featured in Many Movies, Was About Working in the Coal Mines Even Though the Singer Had Never Actually Been in One

Crane was inspired by the machines that pharmacies used to make round pills. He decided to use the same machines to make mints, which were mostly square at the time. He realized that the machines could also punch a hole in the center, so he named the candy after their shape, which resembled a life preserver.

There is an urban legend about the candy that many people wrongly believe. As Mental Floss described, “There is an urban legend that Crane’s child tragically died by choking on a mint, and that this tragedy forced him to create the hole in the center so that if the candy was lodged in your throat, you could still breathe. Hence, the name Life Savers!” However, that is entirely false. The name is entirely due to the shape of the candy.

Related: 1958 No. 1 Hit Written by a 17-Year-Old, Inspired by His Dad’s Tombstone, Launched the Career of a Future Killer

Life Savers are still popular to this day, but they have evolved over the years. In 1919, there were only seven flavors available, including Pep-O-Mint, Wint-O-Green, Cl-O-Ve, Lic-O-Rice, Cinn-O-Mon, Vi-O-Let, and Choc-O-Lat.

Now, the standard flavors include cherry, raspberry, watermelon, orange, and pineapple. Of course, that’s not the only Life Saver product available. There are now Gummi Savers, which are chewy, gummy versions of the original hard candies. There are also Life Saver Minis, Crème Savers, and Life Saver Fusions.

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As a fashion writer, I’m always on the hunt for three wardrobe MVPs: the perfect jeans, a crisp white tee and a killer pair of knee-high boots. They’re the foundation of countless great outfits, and the right pair will carry you season after season. So when I find chic boots that come in wide-calf sizes and are 40% off, I have to share.

These Madden Girl Admyre Stovepipe Blade Heel Tall Dress Boots are currently just $59 at Macy’s and come in 4 cute colors. Available in regular and wide calf sizes, they’re the perfect boot for your fall skirts, football game day fits, and work looks. These knee-high boots pair a sleek silhouette with a sculpted heel for a fashion-forward finish. That’s a pretty compelling deal for a versatile pair of boots you can wear throughout fall and winter.

Madden Girl Admyre Stovepipe Blade Heel Tall Dress Boots, From $59 (were $99) at Macy’s

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The Admyre boots have a streamlined, stovepipe-inspired shape that looks especially chic with skirts, dresses and tailored coats. A square toe adds a modern edge, while the distinctive flared heel adds architectural interest without going overboard. The 2.25-inch heel adds height while keeping the profile wearable for everyday outfits. A full-length zipper makes them easy to slip on and off, and the jersey lining adds a smooth layer inside. The upper is made from polyurethane, with an artificial outsole.

One of the best details is the four-color options: black, caramel, dark cherry, and pebble. Black is the classic option that works with practically everything, from sweater dresses to leggings and oversized blazers. Caramel brings warmth to denim and cream-colored knits, making it an easy choice for casual fall outfits. Dark cherry offers a rich burgundy-inspired shade that feels especially on trend this season, while pebble provides a softer neutral for anyone who prefers a lighter color palette. With four options, and sizes 5 to 11, there’s a shade for just about every wardrobe.

Madden Girl Admyre Stovepipe Blade Heel Tall Dress Boots, From $59 (were $99) at Macy’s

Courtesy of Macy's

Shop at Macy's

The wide-calf sizing is another reason these boots deserve a closer look. Tall boots can be frustrating to shop for when the shaft feels too snug, particularly if you want to wear them over jeans or with thicker tights. Regular- and wide-calf options give shoppers more flexibility when choosing a fit.

Styling them is easy, too. For an office-friendly outfit, try the black pair with a knee-length skirt, a fitted turtleneck and a tailored coat. The caramel version looks great with straight-leg jeans and a chunky cream sweater, while dark cherry boots add a pop of color to an otherwise neutral outfit. You could also pair them with a sweater dress and a long wool coat for a simple weekend look that feels put together but cozy.

Shop More Deals

• Madden Girl Monday Cozy Faux-Fur Ballet Flats, $41 (were $59) at Macy’s
• Steve Madden Calico Split-Toe Tabi Ballet Flats, $83 (were $119) at Macy’s
• Steve Madden Kit Cap-Toe Leather Ballet Flats, $76 (were $109) at Macy’s

Related: Clarks’ ‘Elegant’ Leather Ankle Boots Are Nearly 50% Off and Have Equestrian-Style Details That Look So Chic

At $59, these Steven Madden boots offer an affordable way to add a classic tall silhouette to your fall and winter rotation. 

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When Timbuk 3 released “The Future’s So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades” in 1986, the catchy title and upbeat sound made it seem like the perfect anthem for anyone looking forward to a bright future. But the hit song had a much darker meaning than many listeners realized.

The track became a breakthrough for Timbuk 3, the musical duo made up of Pat MacDonald and Barbara Kooyman. Released as a single in 1986, it climbed to No. 19 on the Billboard Hot 100 and helped turn the pair into an unexpected success. The song’s optimistic-sounding refrain also made it a popular choice for graduations and other celebrations.

There was just one problem: The song wasn’t meant to be quite so uplifting.

The Real Meaning Behind Timbuk 3’s ‘The Future’s So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades’

MacDonald, 74, wrote the song from the perspective of a smug college student studying nuclear science who believes he has everything figured out. He has good grades, a lucrative job lined up after graduation and seemingly no reason to worry about what comes next.

But that confidence is part of the joke.

In a 1986 interview with the Los Angeles Times, MacDonald explained that the song was about a selfish attitude: the belief that everything is going well for you, so there’s no reason to worry about the rest of the world. The nuclear science references also gave the song a darker edge amid Cold War-era fears about nuclear weapons.

The title itself came from a comment Kooyman, 68, made about how bright the couple’s future looked. MacDonald heard the phrase differently and turned it into an ironic line for his character.

That distinction was lost on some listeners, who embraced the track as a straightforward celebration of success. In fact, the song became so associated with positive messages that the duo received offers to use it in advertising.

MacDonald and Kooyman were surprised by the requests, especially when companies wanted to use the song to sell products.

The Hit That Made Timbuk 3 Unexpected Stars

Despite the song’s satirical message, its success helped put Timbuk 3 on the map. The duo’s debut album, Greetings From Timbuk3, introduced listeners to a sound that blended folk-rock with an offbeat, distinctly alternative sensibility.

The song also earned Timbuk 3 a Grammy nomination for Best New Artist in 1987. Although the duo continued making music, it never matched the mainstream success of its breakout hit, and Pat MacDonald and Kooyman eventually went their separate ways in the mid-1990s.

More than a catchy ‘80s tune, “The Future’s So Bright, I Gotta Wear Shades” remains a reminder that a song can sound like a celebration while delivering a very different message underneath.

RELATED: 1985 One-Hit Wonder Became Impossible to Forget Thanks to Its Unusual Chorus

In 1984, Michael Dell was a 19-year-old college student with $1,000 and an idea that would change the computer industry.

The young entrepreneur had no way of knowing that the small business he started from his University of Texas dorm room would eventually become Dell Technologies, one of the world’s largest technology companies, or that the fortune he built would one day help fund a historic investment in children’s futures.

Forty-one years later, Dell and his wife, Susan Dell, announced a $6.25 billion pledge intended to help millions of American children get a financial head start.

The journey began with a simple idea.

While attending the University of Texas at Austin, Dell became interested in the personal computer market. At the time, customers typically bought computers through retailers, where prices were higher and options for customization were limited.

Dell saw an opportunity to do things differently.

With an initial investment of $1,000, he began buying computers and upgrading them with additional memory and disk drives before selling them directly to customers. By cutting out the traditional retail middleman, he could offer customized machines at competitive prices.

According to the Academy of Achievement, Dell’s early business quickly grew beyond his dorm room as he attracted customers and began fulfilling larger orders.

In 1984, he formally established Dell Computer Corporation. What started as a small operation run by a college student would eventually grow into a global technology business.

Dell’s approach helped reshape the way computers were sold, and his company expanded as personal computers became an increasingly important part of everyday life.

Today, Dell Technologies serves businesses, governments and individual customers around the world. But while the company became his best-known achievement, Dell and his wife have also built a substantial philanthropic legacy.

Their latest commitment marked a particularly ambitious new chapter.

In December 2025, the couple announced a $6.25 billion pledge designed to provide financial support to as many as 25 million American children age 10 and younger through the federal children’s investment-account program. The Dells said they hoped the contribution would encourage families to open accounts and begin saving for their children’s futures.

The pledge was announced on GivingTuesday and was described by the couple as the largest single private commitment made to American children.

Under the plan, the Dells’ contribution is intended to provide $250 for each eligible child who qualifies for the additional funding. The program is designed to give children an opportunity to build savings through investments that can grow over time.

The accounts are intended to help young people prepare for major milestones as adults, including pursuing an education, buying a home or starting a business. The Dells have also encouraged families to contribute what they can so the investments have more time to grow.

The pledge builds on years of charitable work through the Michael & Susan Dell Foundation, which has supported initiatives focused on children and families, including education and economic opportunity.

Of course, the accounts are not an immediate solution to childhood poverty, and the amount children ultimately accumulate will depend in part on investment performance and whether additional money is contributed. Still, the scale of the Dells’ commitment places their effort among the most ambitious private philanthropic initiatives aimed at American children.

For Dell, the announcement marked another remarkable milestone in a career that began with just $1,000 and a college student’s vision for a better way to sell computers.

More than four decades after launching his business from a dorm room, he and Susan are using a portion of their wealth to help millions of children begin building financial futures of their own.

RELATED: New Study Names the 2026 Horror Movie With the Most Jump Scares—and It’s Not ‘Scream 7’

If you grew up listening to classic rock radio, you can probably sing every word of Steppenwolf’s 1968 breakthrough hit from memory.

From its rebellious spirit to its unforgettable lyrics, the track stands as a timeless moment to an era when rock and roll was shifting into high gear. But even some die-hard music lovers are often surprised to learn that they’ve been calling the song by the wrong name for over fifty years.

For casual music listeners, the song has commonly been called “Get Your Motor Running,” taken straight from the song’s first line. Fans have also titled the song “Heavy Metal Thunder,” another famous lyric from the 1968 smash.

The website Am I Right also cited one famously misheard line from the Steppenwolf song. Many believe the song begins, “Get your motor runnin’, hit ’em off the highway” instead of “Get your motor runnin’, head out on the highway.”

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“Born to Be Wild” is also misrepresented as heavy metal due to the phrase used in the song. However, Steppenwolf frontman John Kay doesn’t believe the band included in that genre at all.

“For me, heavy metal music had its beginnings in Led Zeppelin and beyond,” Kay said in a Songfacts interview. “We always considered Steppenwolf to be a hard rock, blues-based band, with some exceptions in terms of the material.”

Behind the iconic track was songwriter Mars Bonfire, born Dennis Edmonton. His brother Jerry was the group’s drummer.

Bonfire told Songfacts, “I was walking down Hollywood Boulevard one day and saw a poster in a window saying ‘Born to Ride’ with a picture of a motorcycle erupting out of the earth like a volcano, with all this fire around it. Around this time I had just purchased my first car, a little secondhand Ford Falcon. So all this came together lyrically: the idea of the motorcycle coming out, along with the freedom and joy I felt in having my first car and being able to drive myself around whenever I wanted.”

The track’s iconic status was cemented in 1969 when it took center stage on the soundtrack for Easy Rider, the landmark film starring Peter Fonda and Dennis Hopper, according to U Discover Music. Since then, the song it has appeared in dozens of movies, cementing its place in pop culture history.

Decades after taking the world by storm, Steppenwolf’s defining anthem remains an absolute pillar of rock history. Whether you call it by its proper name or accidentally sing out the iconic chorus line, one thing is certain: that 1968 classic still has all the power to get your motor runnin’.

If you love the idea of an idyllic Mediterranean getaway but dread elbowing through cruise crowds in 95-degree heat, travel insiders have a bit of advice: book your island escape for autumn. Booking platform Omio recently ranked nearby Split, Croatia, as the number-one destination in Europe for shoulder-season travel, putting the sun-drenched Croatian island of Hvar front and center for travelers seeking mild weather, calm waters, and empty cobblestone streets.

Long known to jet-setters for its glittering summer harbor filled with mega-yachts, Hvar takes on an entirely different rhythm once September and October arrive. The air cools just enough for long seaside strolls, the Adriatic remains warm for swimming, and the island reclaims its authentic Dalmatian soul.

“Hvar is interesting because it can be many things at once,” says Iva Belaj Šantić, director of the Hvar Tourism Board. “There are yachts, beautiful hotels, excellent restaurants and a glamorous summer atmosphere, but walk ten minutes away and you can be completely alone by the sea. Drive inland and you are surrounded by dry-stone walls, vineyards, olive groves and villages where life still follows a much older rhythm. For me, that contrast is Hvar’s greatest strength, and May, June, September and October are perhaps when you can feel it best.”

If you’re planning a trip, here is why autumn is the ultimate sweet spot to experience this Adriatic gem.

Related: This Dreamy Mediterranean Hotspot Was Just Ranked the No. 1 Best Destination for a Screen-Free Escape

You Get Space to Breathe (and Authentic Quiet Luxury) DCIM\100MEDIA\DJI_0156.JPG

Hvar Tourism Board

During the height of July and August, finding a quiet spot to lay a towel along Hvar’s turquoise coast can feel like a contact sport. In the fall, the island slows down, opening up room for spontaneous adventures and peaceful mornings.

“There is still sunshine, the sea, long days outdoors and plenty happening, but there is also space,” Belaj Šantić explains. “Space to sit longer over coffee, to walk, to swim without wondering where to put your towel, or simply to notice the scent of pine trees and the changing light on the stone. To me, that is a kind of luxury in itself. The luxury is not necessarily having more. Sometimes it is having less around you and more time for yourself.”

That peaceful pace extends out onto the water. Instead of competing with packed tour boats, an autumn visit is the ideal time to hire a local skipper or kayak out to the neighboring Pakleni Islands.

“Don’t try to see everything in a single day,” Belaj Šantić suggests. “If you really want to feel the islands, go slowly. Take a kayak or a small boat with a skipper who knows where to stop, and let the day develop without too much of a plan. I can almost guarantee that somewhere along the way, you’ll find a bay where you wish the skipper would simply turn off the engine and leave you there.”

Related: Why a Small-Ship Voyage Is the Best Way to Experience the “Quiet Mediterranean”

A Fresh Wave of Nature-First Stays View this post on Instagram

Hvar’s hospitality scene is shifting toward serene, restorative getaways that highlight the island’s natural landscape. While waterfront classics like the historic Palace Elisabeth continue to anchor Hvar Town and the garden-wrapped Hotel Moeesy offers quiet in-town elegance, new boutique openings are leaning into total seclusion.

One of the season’s most anticipated debuts is Hotel Sirena, a 154-room property tucked into a pine-covered seaside cove just outside Hvar Town. Designed with sustainable architecture, it offers stargazing turndown rituals inspired by the island’s crystal-clear night skies.

“Sirena is another important new hospitality story, a seaside hotel surrounded by nature, very close to Hvar Town and yet completely secluded and restorative,” says Belaj Šantić. “I think Hvar’s next chapter is not about becoming bigger or louder, but about allowing people to discover what has been here all along.”

Related: Travel Advisors Say These Are the 5 Best Off-Season Trips to Take

Centuries-Old Wellness and Slow Food

Hvar Tourism Board

While wellness travel might feel like a modern trend, Hvar has actually been welcoming health-focused travelers since 1868, when the island founded Europe’s first organized health tourism association, the Hygienic Society of Hvar. This fall, the island celebrated that legacy with HVARMONY, a new four-day gathering centered on Mediterranean longevity and mindful living.

That philosophy is easiest to experience at the dinner table. Fall coincides with grape and olive harvests, when local konobas (traditional taverns) fire up slow-cooked peka dishes and pour local wines from the UNESCO-protected Stari Grad Plain—home to some of the oldest continually farmed agricultural plots on earth.

“For me, the restaurants worth remembering are the ones that still understand simplicity—Food that somehow takes you back to childhood and to a time when a tomato smelled like a tomato,” says Belaj Šantić. “The Mediterranean diet here does not feel like a wellness trend—It is simply the way generations before us learned to eat: locally, seasonally, simply and together, and that is exactly what I look for in a restaurant and what I recommend to friends. I would always tell visitors to eat inland at least once. Sit in a small konoba, order something that has been cooking slowly for hours and don’t rush.”

Rich History Behind the Waterfront

Hvar Tourism Board

Beyond the glamorous marinas, Hvar holds an extraordinary concentration of history. Exploring the island’s interior villages like Velo Grablje and Malo Grablje reveals abandoned stone hamlets, quiet olive groves, and workshops where Benedictine nuns still craft intricate lace from agave fibers.

For the ultimate vantage point, an easy morning climb up to the historic Fortica fortress offers sweeping panoramic views across terracotta rooftops, the harbor, and out toward the Pakleni archipelago.

“Fortica is one of those places everyone should experience because, from above, you suddenly understand the town, the harbor, the sea and the Pakleni Islands,” Belaj Šantić says. “These places tell a much older story of Hvar, long before it became a tourism destination. For generations, people here have worked the land, grown grapes and olives, fished and built communities around the island’s natural landscape. Exploring these places gives you a completely different understanding of Hvar and the way of life that still exists here today.”

Related: 5 Small Group Tour Companies That Get Travel Over 60 Exactly Right, According to Advisors

Two letters can do a lot of work in an online conversation. “FS” might be a quick show of agreement in a text, a comment on TikTok or a reply to someone’s suggestion. In another context, though, the same abbreviation can point to an item that’s available to buy or refer to something completely different.

The conversation around it usually provides the clue. Where you see “FS” and what the person is talking about can help narrow down which meaning they intend.

Related: What Does ‘WSG’ Mean in Texting? Here’s What It Stands For

What does ‘FS’ mean in texting?

Guido Mieth / Getty Images

In casual texting, “FS” most commonly means “for sure.” It’s a quick way to agree, confirm something or express confidence.

If someone asks, “Are you coming tonight?” and you respond, “FS,” you’re essentially saying “For sure” or “Definitely.” It can also appear within a longer sentence. Someone might write, “I’m FS going to that concert,” using “FS” to emphasize that they’re definitely going.

Neither Dictionary.com nor Merriam-Webster has an entry for “FS,” but they do define “for sure” as “for certain” or “without doubt.”

Related: What Does ‘FRFR’ Mean? The Slang Term You’re Seeing Everywhere

What does ‘FS’ stand for?

When “FS” is being used as texting slang, it stands for “for sure.”

The abbreviation uses the first letter of each word, making the phrase quicker to type. Depending on the sentence, it can communicate “definitely,” “absolutely,” “yes” or “I agree.”

For example:

“Want to get pizza later?”
“FS.”

Here, the response is a casual confirmation that the person is interested.

How is ‘FS’ used on TikTok?

Maskot / Getty Images

On TikTok, “FS” is generally used as shorthand for “for sure.” It can appear in comments, replies, captions or direct messages when someone wants to agree with another person or emphasize a statement.

For example, if someone comments, “This is the best song on the album,” another person might respond, “FS.” Someone could also write, “That was FS the funniest part,” meaning “That was for sure the funniest part.”

“FS” does not have a special TikTok-specific definition. In ordinary slang use, it carries the same basic meaning it does in texting and other social media conversations.

Related: What Does ‘ONG’ Mean in Texting and on TikTok?

What does ‘FS’ mean in a text conversation?

“FS” can function as a complete response or as part of a longer message. As a standalone reply, it usually confirms what the other person just said:

“Are we still meeting at 7?”
“FS.”

Within a sentence, it can add emphasis: “FS, you should watch that movie.” Or: “That was FS the best part.”

In both cases, “for sure” is the underlying meaning. The difference is simply how the abbreviation fits into the conversation.

Is ‘FS’ a positive response?

Usually, yes. When “FS” means “for sure,” it communicates agreement, certainty or a willingness to go along with something.

For example:

“Want to come with us?”
“FS!”

The response is positive and enthusiastic.

The exact tone can still depend on the conversation. A lowercase “fs” may feel more casual, while “FS!” can come across as more emphatic. The abbreviation itself doesn’t necessarily indicate a particular emotional tone.

Related: What Does ‘FR’ Mean in Texting? Here’s How People Use It Online

What does ‘FS’ mean on Snapchat?

On Snapchat, “FS” generally means “for sure” when it appears in a casual conversation.

Someone might send:

“You still coming?”
“FS.”

They’re confirming that they’re coming.

It can also appear in a Snap caption or reply as a quick way to agree with someone’s opinion. As with other platforms, the surrounding conversation is the best clue to the intended meaning.

What does ‘FS’ mean on Instagram?

“FS” can also mean “for sure” in Instagram comments, replies and DMs.

For example, someone might comment “FS” under a post about a movie they also enjoyed. In that setting, the abbreviation is essentially a quick way of saying “I agree” or “Definitely.”

Instagram can also contain other uses of “FS,” particularly in posts involving buying and selling. The subject of the post can therefore be important.

Related: Here’s the Skinny on 30 Iconic Baby Boomer Slang Terms

Can ‘FS’ mean ‘for sale’?

Yes. “FS” can mean “for sale,” particularly in online listings, classified ads and marketplace posts.

For example, a listing might say: “FS: vintage record player, $75.” Here, “FS” has nothing to do with “for sure.” It’s telling potential buyers that the item is available for sale.

The format usually makes this meaning easy to recognize. If “FS” appears next to an item, price or description of something being sold, “for sale” is likely the intended meaning.

Can ‘FS’ mean ‘full send’?

Yes, “FS” can sometimes mean “full send,” particularly in gaming, sports, extreme sports and other online communities where “full send” is already familiar slang. The phrase means to commit fully to an action without hesitation or holding back.

This meaning is much more dependent on context than “for sure.” If someone says, “Should we just FS this?” while discussing a risky move or bold decision, “full send” could be the intended meaning. In an ordinary text where someone is simply agreeing with you, “for sure” is the more likely interpretation.

Related: 35 ‘Groovy’ Slang Terms From the 1960s You’ll Want To Use Today

What is ‘FS’ in Gen Z slang?

“FS” means “for sure,” expressing agreement or certainty. It’s a common abbreviation among Gen Z, though the phrase “for sure” has been in use for a long time.

What does ‘FS’ mean besides ‘for sure’?

“FS” has several meanings beyond the common texting slang “for sure.”

Depending on the context, it can mean:

• “For sale” in a marketplace or classified listing
• “Full screen” when discussing computers, video or displays
• “Full send” in sports or gaming
• Other specialized terms in fields such as technology or business

The context usually makes the intended definition clear. A friend replying “FS” to an invitation is probably saying “for sure,” while “FS” next to a price is much more likely to mean “for sale.”

Related: Huh? What Does ‘MOG’ Actually Mean on Social Media?

Is ‘FS’ flirty?

“FS” isn’t flirty by itself. When it means “for sure,” it’s simply a casual expression of agreement or certainty.

It can appear in a flirtatious conversation, but the romantic tone comes from the rest of the exchange. For example, “Want to see me tonight?” followed by “FS” could be part of a flirtatious conversation, but “FS” itself doesn’t carry a special romantic meaning.

Is ‘FS’ the same as ‘FR’?

Not exactly. “FS” usually means “for sure,” while “FR” commonly means “for real.”

Both can express agreement or emphasis, but they aren’t interchangeable in every sentence.

For example, “FS, I’ll be there” means “For sure, I’ll be there.” Meanwhile, “FR, that movie was great” means “For real, that movie was great.”

Related: What Does ‘WYA’ Mean in a Text? Here’s How To Use It

How do you respond to ‘FS’?

If someone sends “FS” as a response, you can simply continue the conversation. There’s usually no need to acknowledge the abbreviation itself.

For example:

“Want to grab dinner Friday?”
“FS.”
“Perfect. I’ll text you the time.”

If “FS” appears as part of a longer message, respond to whatever the person is actually saying rather than treating the abbreviation as a separate question.

Is ‘FS’ formal or informal?

“FS” meaning “for sure” is informal slang. It’s best suited to texts, DMs, social media comments and casual conversations.

For a professional email, school assignment or other formal communication, writing “for sure,” “definitely” or another complete phrase is clearer.

If you encounter “FS” in a formal or specialized setting, don’t automatically assume it means “for sure.” The context could point to another abbreviation entirely.

Related: What Does ‘WYO’ Mean in Texting and on Snapchat?

Hank Williams Jr. spent this summer on the road again, playing amphitheaters from Florida to Maine. At 77, he’s still drawing crowds decades after a day in Montana nearly ended everything.

On August 8, 1975, the son of Hank Williams was climbing Ajax Peak, on the Montana-Idaho border, with rancher Dick Willey. At roughly 9,000 feet, the snow beneath him gave way. He slid and tumbled, striking several rocks before landing face-first on a boulder.

The damage was horrific. His face was split from chin to hairline, his teeth were gone and his right eye had been knocked out of its socket. He later said his head swelled to “the size of a watermelon.”

Willey hiked out for help and found a forest ranger, who radioed for a helicopter. Six men carried Williams to a landing spot, and he reached a hospital in Missoula about six hours after the fall.

Doctors warned he might never sing again. Over the next two years, he went through a long string of reconstructive surgeries and a slow, painful recovery. From then on, he hid the scars behind a beard, a cowboy hat and dark sunglasses, the look fans still know him by.

He didn’t just return. He came back bigger.

Starting in 1979, he rattled off a run of Top 10 hits, with songs like “Family Tradition” and “All My Rowdy Friends Are Coming Over Tonight” defining his hard-living, Southern rock-tinged sound. He was named CMA Entertainer of the Year in 1987 and again in 1988.

He won a Grammy for “There’s a Tear in My Beer,” a duet built around a recording by his late father. His reworked “All My Rowdy Friends” opened Monday Night Football for years and earned him four Emmys.

In 2020, he was inducted into the Country Music Hall of Fame, joining his dad.