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The 1980s were one of the most experimental decades in McDonald's history. By then, the Golden Arches had already cemented itself as the world's biggest fast-food chain, but it wasn't content to rely solely on classics like the Big Mac, Quarter Pounder and Filet-O-Fish. Instead, the company spent the decade introducing new sandwiches, expanding breakfast, testing lighter fare and reimagining some of its most popular menu items. Some of those experiments became permanent fixtures. Chicken McNuggets, for example, rolled out nationally in the early 1980s and quickly proved that customers were eager to order something not on a bun.

Not every new idea enjoyed the same success though.

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Throughout the decade, McDonald's introduced everything from bakery treats and healthier lunch options to burgers with innovative packaging. Some were victims of changing consumer tastes. Others proved too complicated to produce or simply couldn't compete with the menu's biggest stars. Even so, many of them developed loyal followings before quietly disappearing.

Decades later, many of those discontinued favorites continue to spark nostalgic conversations online. Whether longtime customers are reminiscing about the flavor of McDonald's original fries, debating whether the McDLT deserves another shot or wishing the chain would once again serve its crispy fried apple pies, these menu items have earned a lasting place in fast-food history.

Discontinued McDonald's Items From the 1980s

Here are seven McDonald's favorites that disappeared in the 1980s that fans wish would make a comeback.

1. Caramel Pecan Roll, 1982-1984 View this post on Instagram

Long before McCafé became commonplace, McDonald's experimented with expanding its breakfast bakery offerings. One of the sweetest additions was the Caramel Pecan Roll, a soft pastry coated in sticky caramel glaze and topped with crunchy pecans. It felt more like something from a neighborhood bakery than a typical fast-food breakfast.

While Egg McMuffins and hotcakes became breakfast staples, the Caramel Pecan Roll eventually disappeared as McDonald's streamlined its morning menu. Even today, fans regularly mention the pastry in online nostalgia discussions, remembering it as one of the chain's most indulgent breakfast treats.

2. Onion Nuggets, 1975-1984

McDonald’s Onion Nuggets advert from the mid or late 1980’s. Weird idea. Even gross sounding (in my opinion) LOL
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Before Chicken McNuggets became one of the most successful fast-food launches of all time, McDonald's experimented with another nugget-style snack: Onion Nuggets. Rather than serving traditional onion rings, the chain coated chunks of onion in seasoned breading before frying them until crisp.

Although Onion Nuggets developed a small following, they were never popular enough for the chain to release them nationwide. Available in various test markets for nearly a decade, they never caught on the way their chicken counterparts would just a few years later. Looking back, they're an interesting glimpse into McDonald's willingness to test new ideas before landing on one of the biggest menu successes in company history.

Related: McDonald's Brings Back Its 2000s Era With Limited-Time Sauce Launch

3. The McDLT, 1984-1990

The McDLT proved that sometimes presentation can be just as memorable as the food itself. Rather than arriving fully assembled, the sandwich came in a two-compartment foam container that separated the hot beef patty from the cool lettuce and tomato. Customers combined the two just before eating, giving rise to the memorable slogan, "Keep the hot side hot, and the cool side cool."

The concept captured plenty of attention, but the oversized foam packaging eventually became difficult to justify as environmental concerns surrounding polystyrene began to grow in the late 1980s. The sandwich began disappearing near the end of the decade and was completely pulled in 1990. More than any other item on the list, the McDLT's clever marketing campaign and unmistakable packaging have helped keep it alive in the memories of McDonald's fans.

4. Chicken L.T., 1986-1988

After Chicken McNuggets became a breakout hit in the early 1980s, McDonald's looked for new ways to capitalize on America's growing appetite for chicken. One of those efforts was the Chicken L.T., a grilled chicken sandwich topped with lettuce and tomato that borrowed the same innovative packaging concept as the McDLT. The two-compartment container kept the hot chicken separate from the cool toppings until customers were ready to eat, preserving the sandwich's fresh texture.

Despite the clever presentation, the Chicken L.T. never achieved the same popularity as the McDLT, its beef counterpart. The sandwich disappeared after a relatively short run, but it remains an interesting reminder of how aggressively McDonald's experimented with its menu throughout the decade. While grilled chicken sandwiches have since become a staple across the fast-food industry, longtime McDonald's fans still remember the Chicken L.T. as one of the chain's earliest attempts to bring a lighter sandwich option to the menu without sacrificing the signature McDonald's experience.

5. The Chopped Beefsteak Sandwich, 1970-1982

As McDonald's looked for ways to expand beyond its core burger lineup, it introduced the Chopped Beefsteak Sandwich in 1979. Served on a long roll with chopped beef, onions and steak sauce, the sandwich was an ambitious attempt to offer customers an experience that felt closer to a traditional restaurant meal than fast food.

Although it arrived at the tail end of the 1970s, the Chopped Beefsteak Sandwich remained on the menu into the early 1980s before being discontinued nationally. The sandwich never really found its footing, but it's still talked about as one of the chain's more intriguing experiments. For longtime fans, it's a reminder of a period when McDonald's wasn't afraid to test ideas that stretched well beyond the formula that made it famous.

6. Cheddar Melt, 1988-1989 and recurring limited releases

The Cheddar Melt wasn't your typical McDonald's cheeseburger. Introduced as a limited-time offering in the late 1980s, it featured a beef patty topped with grilled onions and creamy cheddar cheese sauce on a rye bun, creating a richer, more savory flavor than the chain's standard burgers.

Although it never earned a permanent place on the menu, the Cheddar Melt developed a devoted following. McDonald's even brought it back in select markets over the years, fueling hope that another comeback might someday be in the cards.

7. Original McDonald's Fries, 1949-1990

1980s McDonald’s Fries
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If there's one discontinued McDonald's favorite that still sparks passionate debate, it's the chain's original fries.

McDonald's used to cook its world-famous potatoes in an oil blend made up of 93 percent beef tallow, giving them the rich, savory flavor many longtime customers insist has never been duplicated. However, in the late '80s, the company began switching to vegetable oil in response to growing concerns about saturated fat. By July of 1990, the company officially switched to vegetable oil across all U.S. locations, fundamentally altering the flavor profile of one of its most iconic menu items.

More than three decades later, the debate refuses to die. When McDonald's nostalgia is discussed online, countless fans argue that the original fries were superior and urge the chain to bring back the old recipe. While that seems unlikely, their lasting reputation says everything about just how memorable they were. For many customers, no discontinued McDonald's item from the 1980s has left a bigger hole in the menu than the original fries.

Why These '80s Favorites Still Matter

McDonald's has never been afraid to experiment, and that's a big reason the chain has remained one of the world's most recognizable restaurants. The 1980s, in particular, saw the company push beyond its burger-and-fries formula with new breakfast pastries, lighter lunch options, inventive sandwiches and creative takes on familiar favorites. While not every experiment hit with consumers, each one helped the evolution of the menu.

Today, these discontinued favorites continue to fuel nostalgic conversations among longtime customers who remember exactly what made them special. Whether it's the unmistakable flavor of fries cooked in beef tallow, the clever packaging of the McDLT or the sticky sweetness of the Caramel Pecan Roll, these menu items prove that sometimes the foods we miss the most are the ones that dared to try something different. And if McDonald's ever decided to bring any of them back, it's safe to say plenty of fans would be scrambling to be first in line.

Related: 14 Beloved Regional Pizza Chains That Disappeared Without a Trace

When you hear the soaring notes of a legendary 1981 ballad, the word disturbing is probably the last word that comes to mind.

But while the chart-topping anthem "Endless Love" became a global symbol of romance, the teenage movie that spawned it was anything but sweet. Now, 45 years after the film's release, Brooke Shields is reflecting on the film's legacy in a new social media update.

Shields celebrated the 45th anniversary of the feature film Endless Love via Instagram on July 17. She wrote, "So hard to believe this movie came out 45 years ago today!! Have you watched Endless Love since 1981?"

The actress did not speak about the film's dark backstory in her social media post. Nor did she discuss the No. 1 Billboard hit it spawned, performed by Diana Ross and Lionel Richie, which was ultimately nominated for an Academy Award in 1982.

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Endless Love starred Shields, Martin Hewitt, James Spader, Tom Cruise, Don Murray, Shirley Knight, Beatrice Straight, and Richard Kiley. Shields and Hewitt took center stage, while the film served as a launching pad for a young Cruise in his very first screen role.

The film told the story of a passionate teenage romance between a young girl, Jade (Shields), and her boyfriend, David (Hewitt), that turned into a dangerous, consuming obsession. Her family attempted to separate the couple, but in a desperate reaction to the intervention, the boyfriend spiraled out of control and deliberately burned down her family's home, destroying their lives in the process.

Fans recalled the movie and its deep impact on their young years. They shared their thoughts in the post's comments section.

"The movie, the book, the song…such a big part of our 80s life," wrote one follower. A second fan penned, "This movie defined my teenage years, right along with The Blue Lagoon. I admire you, Brooke Shields. Thank you for being part of my adolescence."

A third admirer noted, "I watched it a few months ago. One of my favorite movies and song!" "I’ve watched this more times than I even know!!" concluded a fourth social media user.

The film was helmed by legendary Romeo and Juliet director Franco Zeffirelli, who brought his signature, intense flair to the controversial project. However, the legendary filmmaker's vision reportedly pushed the teenage actors to heavy, uncomfortable limits.

Shields later said of Zeffirelli in the Hulu Documentary, Pretty Baby: Brooke Shields, per Deadline, “The physicality and the exploration of sexuality felt really dangerous to me, and I didn’t trust the director to create a safe environment for me.”

While Endless Love's heavy themes left a complicated mark on Hollywood history, the song it left behind found a life entirely of its own. It became a timeless celebration of romance for generations of listeners.

Brooke Shields’ heartfelt retrospective proves that while the movie itself was controversial for its time, fans continue to celebrate it as an enduring part of their youth decades later.

Related: 1980 Soaring Oscar-Nominated Hit Ballad Remains an Anthem of Self-Reliance and Resilience

Natalie Portman may recognize some of the plot points and characters in Rachel Cusk's upcoming novel, Life of M. 

Unherd writer Valerie Stivers suggests in a July 17 column that Cusk’s upcoming novel is a thinly veiled portrait of Portman's life.

“Chatter in New York literary circles says that Cusk’s upcoming novel, Life of M, is based on Cusk’s relationship with Portman,” Stivers reveals in her Unherd column, entitled A Novelist’s Dark Portrait of Natalie Portman — Rachel Cusk’s New Book Mines the Actress’s Life.

Portman and Cusk are apparently real-life friends, although the Black Swan actress may feel differently after this literary portrayal. Stivers, who apparently accessed a copy pre-publication, claimed the portrayal is not flattering.

"Cusk is brilliant, but her skill has always been at reducing the human to the mathematical product of cold existential forces: the violent struggle between men and women; the primal wounds left by abuse; the emptiness at the heart of identity. In other words, obviously, a Cusk book about you is never going to be flattering," Stivers writes in her column.

Rachel Cusk attends the Ascona Literature Festival "Eventi Letterari Monte Verità - Un'altra vita" on November 11, 2021 in Locarno, Switzerland. (Photo by Maria Moratti/Getty Images)

The novel, set for an Aug. 25, 2026 release, focuses on a famous actress called M, and a writer hired to chronicle her life. “The movie star M is one of the most recognizable faces of our time. Her image is everywhere."

"It has been like that since she was a child. With such fame, her life has the appearance of freedom: people are instantly obliging, spaces are altered to accommodate her, time can be rearranged. M may live in the same places as real people. She may meet her friends or collect her children from school or walk her dogs as they do. But it seems the rules of reality have melted away,” a synopsis from Macmillan Publishers reads, per The Hollywood Reporter.

“Now, a writer has decided to pay close attention to M’s life in the hope of understanding who she really is. It is hard not to feel ugly next to M, hard not to feel insignificant. But what truths ― about the very experience of living ― might this proximity allow the writer to briefly capture?” the synopsis continues.

Portman has previously spoken highly of Cusk's work. When asked in a March 2021 Elle magazine column on her book recommendations and books which surprised her: “That you can know much about a protagonist through the people around them: The Outline Trilogy (Outline, Transit, and Kudos) by Rachel Cusk.”

In 2022, she hosted a discussion with the writer upon publication of Cusk’s 11th novel, Second Place, and picked it for her Instagram book club. She also picked Parade, published in 2024, as the June selection for her Instagram book club.

Before he had Graceland, sold-out concerts and the title "King of Rock 'n' Roll," Elvis Presley experienced a hardship that would shape the early years of his life.

On July 18, 1946, when Elvis was just 11 years old, his family was forced to leave their home on Berry Street in Tupelo, Mississippi, after they could no longer afford the mortgage payments.

The modest two-room shotgun house held special significance for the Presley family. It was where Elvis was born on Jan. 8, 1935, after his parents, Vernon and Gladys Presley, built the home with hopes of creating a better life for their growing family. Vernon had borrowed money to construct the house, but like many families in the years following the Great Depression, the Presleys struggled financially.

When they fell behind on the payments, they lost the home and moved to Commerce Street in Tupelo, beginning a period of frequent moves as the family searched for affordable places to live.

Despite the challenges, Gladys and Vernon worked hard to provide for their son. Elvis grew up surrounded by the music of the South, attending church services filled with gospel music while also hearing blues and country sounds throughout Tupelo. Those early influences would later become the foundation of the groundbreaking musical style that made him a global superstar.

In 1948, the family relocated to Memphis, Tennessee, hoping for better opportunities. It was there that Elvis' life began to change. As a teenager, he immersed himself in the city's rich musical culture before recording his first songs at Sun Studio and launching one of the most influential careers in music history.

The struggles of Elvis' childhood never left him.

Friends and family often recalled that Presley remained deeply aware of where he came from, and after finding success, he frequently helped relatives and friends financially. In 1957, he purchased Graceland, giving his parents the stability they had lacked during his childhood and creating the home that would become forever linked to his legacy.

Today, Elvis' birthplace on Berry Street has been preserved as the Elvis Presley Birthplace, allowing fans to see the humble beginnings of one of music's greatest icons.

RELATED: See Elvis Presley in a Rare Shower Scene From One of His Most Overlooked Movies

Pat Benatar released “Invincible” in 1985. It was the theme song for The Legend of Billie Jean, a drama about two siblings who become fugitives, which starred Helen Slater and Christian Slater. Although the film is now considered a cult classic, it was a box office bomb at the time that Benatar called, “one of the worst movies ever made.”

The song, however, became a massive hit. It peaked at No. 10 on the Billboard Hot 100, becoming the singer’s fourth and final top 10 hit in America.

When speaking about the song to Ultimate Classic Rock, Benatar said, "It has served so many situations. It's always had that kind of sentiment behind it, and, y'know, things are crazy right now; when I sing it now, it's pretty militant. I'm like, 'Listen to this!'"

She continued, "Whenever I was choosing a song that wasn't written by us, it was really important that the sentiment was something I would have written about had I thought of it. So it said everything I wanted to say, about strength and standing up and never giving up, that kind of thing."

She also spoke about how powerful it was when she had performed the song to an audience on September 11, 2001. "It was nuts,” she said. “I always sang it as a song of empowerment, but this took on a whole other life that night, and they went berserk. Everyone was sobbing. They had sheets that said 'God Bless America' on them, and it was such a moment because I was just shaking from the emotion of being afraid I couldn't do it. It was like the lights went on and the words were new, like it was the first time I ever sang it. It wasn't, of course, but it had such an impact on (the crowd), and us."

Related: 1982 Rock Hit, Recorded by an Icon and His 14-Year-Old Daughter, Became an Unexpected Anthem

Benatar had other massive hits throughout her career, including "Love Is a Battlefield," "Hit Me With Your Best Shot," and "Heartbreaker." She had two multi-platinum albums, five platinum albums, and was inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame in 2022. She is now 73.

The modern travel world has changed a lot over the last decade. Most of us stopped thinking of "all-inclusive" as a compromise a long time ago. The days of choosing between the thoughtful design of a boutique hotel and the total relaxation of a hands-off, wallet-free vacation are officially behind us. What we’re looking for now is simple: an effortless escape that still delivers real culinary depth, striking architecture, and spaces that feel genuinely connected to where we're landing.

A new resort partnership is taking that exact philosophy straight to the edge of the Pacific.
Hyatt has announced the upcoming debut of Grand Hyatt Los Cabos Resort, Golf & Spa, slated to open its doors in the second half of 2026. Tucked inside the oceanfront Oleada Pacific Living & Golf community in Cabo San Lucas, the 301-room property marks a major first: it is the first-ever fully all-inclusive resort for the classic Grand Hyatt brand.

By taking a strictly à la carte, chef-driven approach to its menus and pairing it with a layout that mirrors the natural texture of the Baja coast, the design captures a raw, sophisticated coastal elegance, building an atmosphere where the pressure to keep a schedule completely dissolves. Whether you’re sneaking away for a solo wellness reset, planning a long-overdue trip with close friends, or gathering a multi-generational family crew for a major milestone, the focus here is entirely on slowing down.

Here's a first look at what is coming to the Cabo coast.

Related: The First All-Inclusive Park Hyatt in Mexico Is a Quiet Luxury Game Changer

A New Approach to Life on the Coast Rendering of Outdoor Function

Grand Hyatt Los Cabos Resort, Golf & Spa

Bringing a brand like Grand Hyatt into the all-inclusive space is a deliberate move to match how people want to experience a beach vacation right now—where luxury is defined by the absence of signatures, checks, and interruptions.

Jason Ballard, Hyatt’s SVP and Global Brand Leader, notes that the destination naturally fits the brand’s perspective on hospitality. "This is an exciting milestone because it brings the Grand Hyatt brand into the all-inclusive space for the first time, and Los Cabos is the kind of destination where this evolution feels natural. Grand Hyatt hotels are designed to be destinations within a destination, with a sense of grandeur, energy and connection to place. We now can bring this to life through an all-inclusive lens, pairing the ease our World of Hyatt members and guests want with the distinctive design, culinary programming, service and elevated experiences they expect from Hyatt’s Classics Portfolio."

The resort will feature 301 rooms, including 57 suites and 42 swim-out rooms. The accommodations are built as breezy, light-filled retreats featuring marble bathrooms, deep soaking tubs, and private balconies that frame the ocean.

"What makes this resort especially compelling is the balance it offers, whether you are looking for a beachfront escape with your partner, a destination wedding venue or a memorable family and friends’ getaway," Ballard says. "It's a meaningful next step for Grand Hyatt and Hyatt’s broader all-inclusive growth because it demonstrates how the model can be elevated while still staying true to the brand."

Related: This Limited-Time World of Hyatt Deal Could Put You in a Five-Star Hotel Bed for Zero Dollars This Fall

Leaning Into the Natural Drama of Baja Rendering of Pool

Grand Hyatt Los Cabos Resort, Golf & Spa

Architecturally, the resort doesn't try to compete with its surroundings. Instead, the low-slung buildings hugs the coastline, blending clean lines with the specific textures of the desert and the sea.

"The design is centered around the Baja lifestyle while staying true to Grand Hyatt, which has always been about bold, memorable spaces that inspire guests to gather, explore and feel part of something special," Ballard explains. "In Los Cabos, this means leaning into the natural drama of the Pacific coastline, desert landscape, light, texture and sense of openness. The architecture and interiors are designed to feel refined, coastal and expansive, with natural light, thoughtful gathering spaces and an intentional indoor-outdoor rhythm."

The spaces are arranged to capture the natural light and the rhythm of the ocean. "The challenge was less about balancing two different ideas and more about making sure they enhanced each other," Ballard says. "Grand Hyatt gives us the scale, polish and sense of occasion, while Los Cabos gives the resort its soul, warmth and visual identity."

Related: Hyatt’s Global Summer Sale Offers Up to 25% Off the Ultimate ‘Euro Summer’ Escape

From Pan-Asian Classics to a Hidden Speakeasy Rendering of Ballroom

Grand Hyatt Los Cabos Resort, Golf & Spa

With five à la carte restaurants and five distinct bars, the property functions like a local culinary neighborhood. You can easily drift from casual daytime spots to lively evening lounges, with every menu offering curated, made-to-order dishes.

The standout of the culinary lineup is Sekai, a signature Pan-Asian restaurant built around a social, shared style of dining. "Sekai is the resort’s signature Pan-Asian restaurant, and it brings a dynamic, social dining energy that feels in line with how guests want to experience a resort today," Ballard says. "The menu draws from a range of Asian culinary traditions, with tandoori specialties, handmade bao, wok-fired dishes, curries, premium seafood, reserve cuts and craft cocktails."

For the rest of your itinerary, you can explore the beachfront Mexican flavors at Brasamar, the coastal Italian style of Casa Lido, a refined steakhouse, or head into the corners of the property to track down a hidden, intimate speakeasy for a late-night craft cocktail.

Related: 8 Hyatt Hotels That Quietly Just Got Cheaper With Points

Finding Your Own Pace Rendering of Guestroom

Grand Hyatt Los Cabos Resort, Golf & Spa

The layout of the property is built to allow different styles of vacations to happen at the same time without overlapping. If your main goal is total quiet, you can spend mornings at the adults-only pool, schedule time in the traditional Mexican temazcal sweat lodge, or head into the spa's private treatment cabins.

"Guests can spend the day at the adults-only pool, enjoy with a treatment in one of the spa’s private cabins, take part in wellness programming, visit one of the many on-property restaurants, play golf or simply spend time by the ocean," Ballard notes. "The resort is designed for both relaxation and discovery, so travelers can be as active or as slow-paced as desired."

If you want a bit more movement, the resort features an 18-hole golf course designed by Ernie Els, pickleball courts, and a high-tech fitness center. Families traveling with kids will also have their own dedicated infrastructure, including kids' and teens' clubs, family infinity pools, a beachfront pool, and an on-site water splash park.

But when it comes to the place that ties the whole resort together, Ballard points right to the horizon line. "The rooftop bar and lounge is going to be a hit with sweeping views of the Los Cabos coastline. It is sophisticated but still relaxed, which is exactly the feeling we wanted throughout the resort. This is also a great place to bring your families. I think a lot of memories will be made by the pool and along the beachfront."

With the countdown officially on for the grand opening, your next long-weekend escape just got a whole lot easier to visualize.

Related: Mexico City Is Finally Getting Its First-Ever Park Hyatt

Some of the biggest songs in music history almost belonged to someone else.

One of Bruce Springsteen's most recognizable hits was originally written with another legendary group in mind before it became a signature song for The Boss.

Springsteen revealed that he wrote "Hungry Heart" after seeing The Ramones perform in Asbury Park and wanted to create something specifically for the punk rock band. But after hearing the track, it was The Boss' manager, Jon Landau, who encouraged him to keep it—a decision that changed the course of rock history.

"We were talking for a while, and I was like, 'Man I've got to write the Ramones a song,'" Springsteen recalled during a visit to The Tonight Show With Jimmy Fallon. "So I went home and I sat at my table and I wrote it in about the time it took me to sing it. I brought it in and we went to make a demo for it or I played it for [Jon Landau], and he said, 'Nah, you better keep that one.' He was right about that. It did pretty well."

Indeed it did. "Hungry Heart" was Springsteen's first major hit, making it to No. 5 on the Billboard Top 100 chart. The upbeat track had more of a pop sound than some of Springsteen's earlier songs—but it was a massive success. Some might even say that "Hungry Heart" turned Springsteen into a mainstream radio artist.

Looking back, it’s hard to imagine "Hungry Heart" belonging to anyone else. While The Ramones helped inspire the song’s creation, Springsteen’s version became a defining moment in his career and introduced his music to an even wider audience. Decades later, the track remains one of his most recognizable hits—a reminder that some of rock’s biggest moments come from the songs that almost never happened the way fans know them today.

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It’s not easy to step out of your own shell, but after graduating high school, it’s essential. This is exactly what Emily pushes herself to do in The Introvert’s Guide to Kissing in Europe by Brenda Janowitz.

This YA romance is more than just a story of a teenager falling in love. Emily gets to find herself while reliving her grandmother’s younger years. It was always the plan, but not quite the way it played out.

Parade has an exclusive first read of the summer novel, coming out on Aug. 18, 2026. It’s a great chance to understand the heart of Emily’s journey — what was supposed to be, and what is happening now. There’s a heartfelt message within the passages, as we spend a little time with grief when Emily thinks about her sister, who has passed away at some point before the story.

There’s also the story of finding oneself. Emily doesn’t usually take risks. She wouldn’t normally head out on a solo trip around Europe, but the only way she can grow and learn is by doing so. As is brought up in the excerpt, the best way to learn a language is to immerse yourself in it, and anyone who has learned a foreign language will tell you the same thing.

Courtesy of Melissa de la Cruz Studio

As she’s taking risks, she comes across her favorite social media influencer. Don't they often say not to meet your heroes? Well, sometimes, maybe they're not too bad.

That chance encounter takes her on a wild journey of dancing the night away, pickpockets, and heartbreak. She experiences all the good and bad that life has to offer as she works her way through different countries to follow in her grandmother’s — who sometimes she wishes was more like a real grandmother — footsteps.

The excerpt is taken from the third chapter of the story. It’s a chance to see Emily’s first experiences of Spain, a country she thought she’d do well on thanks to high school Spanish. It turns out that her Spanish isn’t as great as she expected, and that’s certainly dented her confidence a little.

CHAPTER 3

My phone buzzed—Grandma Rose on FaceTime.

“Tell me everything,” she said.

“Um . . .”

“That bad already?”

“No,” I said, not wanting to seem ungrateful. After all, the gap year was her idea, and the airline miles it took to fly me here were hers, too. “It’s wonderful. The flight over was great, and the hotel is completely gorgeous.”

“Did you stay up all day to try to get yourself on Madrid time?”

“Um . . .”

“So, no,” she said, laughter in her voice. “But now it looks like you’re at some fabulous Spanish restaurant where you’ll no doubt meet a sexy stranger to help you practice your Spanish?”

“Um . . .”

“Okay, I get it,” she said, nodding. “You need to ease your way in. Nothing wrong with that.”

“I can’t understand anything anyone is saying,” I blurted out, “and no one can understand me.”

Grandma Rose laughed. “I toured the entire world four times, and I never spoke another language as well as you do. Give it time, and when all else fails, just flirt your way through.”

The edges of my mouth turned up. Grandmotherly advice at its finest.

You see, my grandma Rose isn’t like other grandmothers. She doesn’t bake cookies, she can’t sew, and she doesn’t do early bird specials. When we go for dinner, she takes me into the city for a “fabulous evening” (her words) of “delectable treats” (also her words), “unexpected adventures” (yup, still her words), and “thrilling conversation” (I think you get the pattern here).

And yes, she really talks that way.

Sometimes I wonder what it would be like to have a grandmother more like my best friend Amelia’s. A “grandmother” grandmother. Like the ones you see on commercials. Amelia’s grandmother knits a new sweater for her every fall. Amelia’s grandmother’s house always smells like garlic and onions being roasted, and sometimes freshly baked bread. Amelia’s grandmother’s house has floors that creak, lived-in couches that tell stories about Amelia’s childhood, and a cookie jar in the kitchen that’s somehow always full. And she gives great hugs.

My grandmother lives in a sleek, modern high-rise right on the boardwalk in Long Beach with a wraparound balcony and a view of the ocean. She redecorates every three years, and she doesn’t knit me sweaters. (Though she does love taking me into Manhattan for back-to-school shopping every fall.) She doesn’t eat sugar or carbs, her best friends are two married gay men, and her condo smells like Chanel No. 5.

To be fair, she gives great hugs, too.

But sometimes I feel like I can never quite measure up. Not in the way my sister, Liv, did. Grandma Rose and Liv always had this special bond—from their love of the stage to their matching heart-shaped faces and deep blue eyes, to their overwhelming confidence that seemed to come so naturally for them but was nonexistent for me.

“Liv was the flirt, not me,” I told my grandmother.

She sighed. “Oh, sweetheart, I know that when I first came up with the idea of sending you to Europe to re-create the itinerary of my 1966 Paris album tour, we talked about you doing it with Liv when you graduated high school and she graduated college as a joint graduation gift. Ever since you two were little, I had planned to send you two to Europe. It’s what we always talked about. You know, if . . . Well, if she hadn’t . . .”

Grandma Rose looked down as she left her words hanging. But I didn’t need her to finish the sentence. I knew what she was going to say next: If your sister hadn’t died.

“But she did,” I said quietly. I took a deep breath.

With tears in her eyes, Grandma Rose said, “I know, my darling. I know.”

“I wish she were here.”

“I do, too,” Grandma Rose said. “Of course, the offer still stands. Just say the word and I’ll be on the next flight out, ready to join you.”

“I think I should do this on my own,” I said, not convinced of it even as I said the words.

“I think you should, too. And I think it’s going to be fabulous. Call me if you need me.”

I was determined to do it on my own. Sure, things had changed, but the idea of re-creating my grandmother’s famous tour was simply too enticing to pass up.

The Paris album was made in 1966. To this day, it funds my grandmother’s lifestyle. (And truth be told, it funds part of ours, too.) Its songs—which my grandmother and Dahlia jointly wrote—have been used in two major motion pictures and six different TV shows and have been sampled by three different rappers.

And it was during the recording of that album that my grandmother fell in love. A head-over-heels, crazy-insane sort of love. The type that burns so brightly that it could never last, despite how badly they’d both wanted it to. The type that was never replicated in her life again. (Apologies, Grandpa Harold.)

A server came over to my table, so I hung up my call and ordered a short stack of pancakes. Pancakes were the first food that Liv ever learned to cook on her own, and she would make them for me whenever I asked. Even after she taught me to make them (her secret was adding a sprinkle of nutmeg), I was convinced that the ones she made tasted better.

After ordering, my phone dinged with a text from my mom on the family group chat. My parents were the tiniest bit—how do I put this gently?—overprotective. But how could they not be, given what they’d gone through? So, I always did the right thing. I had to. What choice did I have? Ever since losing Liv, I’ve known how important my role in the family is. My parents don’t have to worry—they’ll never lose me like they lost Liv. I’m the consummate good girl.

MOM: Settling in okay?

ME: Everything’s great!

DAD: That’s great!

MOM: Love you! Miss you!

ME: Love you miss you

Typing miss you made my eyes tear up, so I clicked over to PennyForYourThoughts’s page. There was a picture with Penny in the center of the frame, her fingers up in a peace sign, and she’s surrounded by people.

Today’s tip: Make new friends, but keep the old.

I went to my best friend Amelia’s page. She had posted about her college move-in day. It looked equal parts fun and overwhelming. I liked the post and then commented with four hearts. She immediately responded with four hearts of her own and then DM’d me.

AMELIA: Sooooooo?

ME: So far, so good. Sort of.

AMELIA: Sort of is right. College is great, but scary

ME: Europe too.

AMELIA: We’ve got this.

Amelia’s right. We’ve got this.I may have had a rocky start, but my gap year is going to be great. I looked at my phone again, only to find that I had 10 percent battery left. Maybe I don’t got this? I silently cursed myself for not charging my phone when I had the chance in the hotel room (those backpacks are packed tight!). I needed to befriend someone who had a charger, stat.

Looking around the bar, I saw a redhead unplugging her phone from a charger. Without thinking, I immediately rushed over to ask if I could use her charger next. This must’ve been the first stages of jet lag, because I never act without overthinking, and I never (ever) approach strangers.

When she spun around to face me, it was like time stopped. She was the living embodiment of a boomerang video as her red hair spilled over her shoulders, as if in slow motion. I was momentarily stunned, and even more so when I realized that she was someone I knew.

Well, not knew knew. It would be more precise to say that I knew of her. With her long red hair and bright blue eyes, there was no mistaking her—she was PennyForYourThoughts, my favorite influencer.

I would play this cool, nonchalant. After all, they always say that celebrities want to be treated just like regular people.

“Ohmygodyourepennyforyourthoughts,” I said in a jumble. So

much for playing it cool.

“Hi, nice to meet you,” she said, with a wide smile. “Yes, I’m Penny.”

“I love you,” I said. What in the world?! “I mean, I follow you and you have great content.”

“That’s so sweet!” she replied. “Thank you for following me.”

“You are so welcome,” I said. “Would you mind if I borrowed your charger?”

“I thought you said you loved my account,” she said, with a sly smile on her lips. “If you really followed me, you’d know that the most important item in your bag is always your charger.”

“And a water bottle,” I chimed in. “I totally don’t have that, either.” Penny laughed. Her laughter was absolutely infectious, and I laughed back.

“I really do follow you,” I said. “This whole day has been a disaster, though. And I didn’t unpack a thing—my backpack is packed way too tightly! But that’s the least of my concerns. I thought I spoke perfect Spanish, and doing Spain on my own would be a breeze, but it turns out I don’t and it won’t. The guy at my hotel thought that I was so American that he sent me here. No offense.”

“None taken,” Penny said, still smiling widely. Penny had a beauty mark on her left cheek that I’d never noticed.

“I’m rambling, I’m sorry,” I said. “And here you are, with it all figured out.”

“I didn’t always,” she said, shrugging. “And I don’t necessarily. How long have you been in Madrid?”

“Today’s my first day.”

“It’s our first day in Madrid, too!” Penny said. “I’ve been with this group of people for almost two months now, but we just got to Madrid.”

“It’s my first day in Europe,” I clarified.

“Your first first day?” she asked incredulously. “Then you absolutely, positively must give yourself a break. You just got started!”

I didn’t respond, because she was right. I never gave myself a break.

I didn’t really know how to. That was how I became valedictorian of my class. That was how I got into Dartmouth. But maybe that was why I’d come here? Break the old patterns, learn some new ones. “Yeah. I did just get started.”

“Everyone knows that the best way to master a foreign language is to go out and party,” Penny said. “A group of us are going to hit the bars after we eat. You up for some fun?”

J.K. Simmons has voiced one of the most recognizable characters in advertising for the past three decades, but landing the job wasn't exactly straightforward.

In a recent interview with TODAY, the Whiplash actor looked back on the process that led to him being cast as the Yellow M&M, jokingly calling the whole thing "ridiculous." Simmons recalled going in expecting to read for the Red M&M character, only for casting director Janet Eisenberg to steer him toward Yellow instead.

"We had this long discussion ... I was like, 'So I'm going to read for Red M&M,' and Janet Eisenberg, she was like, 'Oh no no no, J, I think you're more of a Yellow M&M,'" Simmons remembered. He joked that the back-and-forth felt as dramatic as debating which role to take in A Streetcar Named Desire, before ultimately telling Eisenberg he'd defer to her judgment.

That decision ended up shaping the next 30 years of his career. Simmons first appeared as the Yellow M&M in a commercial in 1996, taking over the role from John Goodman. Around the same time, Billy West stepped in to voice Red M&M, following Jon Lovitz, who had originated the character.

The M&M's mascots have become something of a launching pad, or at least a fun side gig, for a long list of recognizable voices over the years. Simmons, 71, is just one of several well-known actors to lend their voice to the campaign; Cree Summer, David Cross, Amber Ruffin, and Vanessa Williams have all played M&M characters as the cast of mascots expanded over the years.

Despite his other acclaimed roles, including his Oscar-winning turn in Whiplash and his current work on The Westies, Simmons has said the M&M gig holds a special place for him. He recently told Virgin Radio UK that voicing the character is "the sweetest job," and didn't hold back on his candy preferences, either, declaring peanut M&Ms the superior variety.

One of the most famous decisions in rock history happened because of $36.

On Feb. 3, 1959, Dion DiMucci was invited to join Buddy Holly, Ritchie Valens and J.P. "The Big Bopper" Richardson on a chartered plane following a stop at the Surf Ballroom in Clear Lake, Iowa, on the Winter Dance Party tour. The flight cost $36, exactly what his parents paid each month for rent, and the then-19-year-old singer decided he couldn't justify the expense. Hours later, the plane crashed, killing everyone on board in the tragedy later immortalized as "The Day the Music Died."

Today, July 18, DiMucci turns 87, celebrated not only as the last surviving headliner from that historic tour but as one of rock and roll's most influential pioneers.

Born in the Bronx on July 18, 1939, Dion first found fame as the lead singer of Dion and the Belmonts, helping define the street-corner harmonies that became synonymous with New York doo-wop. Hits including "I Wonder Why," "A Teenager in Love" and "Where or When" established the group as one of the era's premier vocal acts before Dion embarked on a solo career in 1960.

That move transformed him into one of the biggest stars of the pre-British Invasion era.

Backed by the Del-Satins, Dion reeled off an extraordinary run of classics including "Runaround Sue," "The Wanderer," "Lovers Who Wander," "Ruby Baby," "Donna the Prima Donna" and "Drip Drop." Between his solo work and recordings with the Belmonts, he amassed 39 Top 40 hits and 11 Top 10 singles, becoming one of the defining voices of early rock and roll.

His influence stretched far beyond the charts. Bruce Springsteen, Paul Simon and Lou Reedhave all cited Dion as a major inspiration, and in 1989 he was inducted into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame. More recently, Rolling Stone ranked him No. 154 on its list of the 200 Greatest Singers of All Time, recognizing a career that has now spanned nearly seven decades.

"DiMucci was often lumped in with the other teen idols of the day. But virtually none of them could match the grit, street style, and range of influences that he brought to his music. We first heard him as a doo-wop singer ('A Teenager in Love'), but his love of blues, R&B, and folk music added depth to his repertoire and his voice. Dion had the swagger of a teen Sinatra ('Runaround Sue'), but he also had the heart of a premature old soul ('Abraham, Martin and John'). In his eighties, he continues to make unvarnished blues and R&B records with a voice that can still growl and saunter," wrote Rolling Stone at the time.

Dion's story, however, has always been about more than hit records.

After battling heroin addiction that began in his teens, he experienced a life-changing spiritual transformation in 1968 and returned to the charts that same year with the moving civil rights tribute "Abraham, Martin and John." Rather than fading into nostalgia, Dion continued evolving as an artist, embracing blues music and earning widespread acclaim for a remarkable late-career renaissance. Since 2020 alone, he has released three No. 1 blues albums while collaborating with artists including Springsteen, Simon, Joe Bonamassa, Van Morrison and Jeff Beck.

His remarkable longevity has earned admiration from generations of musicians, but perhaps nothing captures his legacy better than the fact that he has never stopped creating. In 2025, he released The Rock 'N' Roll Philosopher, his latest album and companion book reflecting on his extraordinary life and career.

As Dion celebrates his 87th birthday, his story remains one of rock's most compelling. A young singer who narrowly escaped one of music's darkest days went on to build one of its longest, most influential and most enduring careers, proving that while history often remembers a single moment, a lifetime of great music can leave an even greater legacy.

Related: 26 Years Ago Today, Buddy Holly’s Long-Lost Glasses Were Found 21 Years After Deadly Plane Crash

On the “Talking Pictures” podcast, Ron Howard, 72, spoke about the creation of the 1976 Western, The Shootist. He revealed that he learned a lot while making the film, which starred John Wayne, but that the set was “uncomfortable” due to a feud Wayne was having with Don Siegel, the director.

“Wayne and Siegel were feuding. They did not get along,” Howard explained, as reported by PEOPLE. He went on to say that he would get an “earful” about the actor’s “dissatisfaction with Don Siegel and the way he was shooting it.”

Related: Country Music Legend, 93, Just Announced a New Project Coming This Fall

He revealed the feud started after Siegel gave an interview to the Carson City newspaper. “I’m walking to the set with John Wayne, and he’s holding the Carson City newspaper. And he says, ‘Why the f--- did he have to say that?’ And I said, ‘What?’ The quote was from Siegel. ‘You know, they say, John Wayne eats directors for breakfast. If he takes a bite out of me, he’s going to get indigestion.’ It upset Duke, and it just got worse.”

Howard also explained that he got along with both men separately on set. When speaking about his positive interactions with Wayne, he said, “I also had the guts to sort of say, ‘Hey, do you want to run lines?’ No one really would talk to him in between setups. It was John Wayne. It was Duke. He had a couple of people, a guy he would play chess with, who was the still photographer who had worked with him on a lot of films, but it was a very closed little bubble that he was operating in. He was perfectly friendly to me, and he said, ‘Yeah, I’d like to run lines.’ We had a lot of scenes together, heavy dialogue, and it was very interesting to see him take a scene and shape it into a John Wayne performance in the most positive ways.”

Related:How a Classic Frank Sinatra Song Changed ‘The Newlywed Game’ Forever

Howard wasn’t a fan of the way the situation was handled overall. “It was pretty intense,” he said. “But I remember saying, there’s a better way to deal with even superstars than this. I felt that the key was that a lot of things were allowed to fester for a long period of time. The strategy that I’ve followed over the years is that when there’s a difference of opinion, go right into it. You don’t have to make it a fight, but you’re there to achieve something together and talk it through. Don’t let it become something that’s petty and emotional when, in fact, it’s a creative concern or a neurotic concern.”

The Shootist, which was released by Paramount Pictures, received an Oscar nomination and a Golden Globe nomination. It was both critically and commercially successful.

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Jumpsuits often get a reputation for being tricky to fit, since finding the right balance between comfort and shape can be a challenge for many. A good jumpsuit stands out when it's made with comfortable stretch and designed to hug the upper body while the legs provide room to move. The attention to detail in this type of design means the jumpsuit adapts to curves, height, and proportions, making it a truly versatile pick for all body types.

Luckily, Jessica Simpson's Jolie Tiered Jumpsuit at Walmart makes it easy to join the jumpsuit trend, and it's on sale right now for just $14. With its flowy tiers, smocked bodice, and breezy silhouette, this one-piece captures a relaxed, feminine style that feels fresh and effortless.

Jessica Simpson Jolie Tiered Jumpsuit, From $14 (was $48) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Available in playful patterns like beige-and-white paisley and a cute rose-pink bandana print, the Jolie jumpsuit is designed to flatter a range of body types. The sleeveless cut and soft, smocked top offer gentle support and shape, while the wide, flowy legs create movement and comfort with every step. The jumpsuit comes in sizes extra-small through XXL, making it an inclusive pick for every shopper. 

The 30-inch inseam and longer length have especially caught the attention of tall women, who noted that it "runs rather long" and works beautifully with flats. (Don't worry, petites, you can cut the hem or wear this cutie with platform wedge sandals).

Reviewers praised the Jolie jumpsuit for its "cute and flowy" design, with many calling out how easy it is to wear for summer events, vacations, or casual days out. One customer who wore it for Mother's Day said they received several compliments, highlighting how the jumpsuit draws notice without feeling over the top. The tiered, woven fabric gives the piece a breezy quality that keeps you comfortable even on the warmest afternoons.

"I absolutely love this jumpsuit," one shopper stated. "It is very easy getting on, and it is very, very comfortable. I absolutely love the material, and the design is fantastic."

The adjustable tie closure allows for a custom fit, while the smocked bodice adds a touch of stretch and flexibility. The tiered legs create a soft, cascading effect that elevates the look from casual to chic, making it easy to dress up with statement jewelry or keep simple with sandals and a denim jacket. Its sweet construction details reflect Jessica Simpson's signature approach to blending comfort with trend-driven style.

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Related: JCPenney's Vintage-Style $29 Striped Paisley Quilt Set Is Perfectly ‘Lightweight’ for the Hottest Summer Nights

For anyone curious about the jumpsuit trend or looking to refresh their summer wardrobe, Jessica Simpson's Jolie Tiered Jumpsuit is a deal worth considering. Its flattering fit, lightweight feel, and playful patterns make it a standout choice for warm-weather style. At just $14, it's also easier than ever to make a fashion statement without stretching your budget.

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The Prince of Wales and Meghan Markle have both landed Emmy nominations, albeit for very different projects. William earned a Primetime Emmy nomination after his appearance on Apple TV+'s The Reluctant Traveler With Eugene Levy. The episode, titled "Living the Royal Life in the U.K.," received a nomination for Outstanding Writing for a Nonfiction Program, while the series itself is also nominated for Outstanding Hosted Nonfiction Series or Special. 

In the episode, the Prince of Wales, 44, gives Levy, 79, a personal tour of Windsor Castle alongside a touchingly candid conversation about life, legacy, and the future of the monarchy. William opened up about watching both his wife, Kate Middleton, and his father, King Charles, go through their respective cancer journeys - a level of vulnerability Levy said caught him off guard.

Following the episode's release, Levy praised the royal for making him feel comfortable during their candid conversation. "I was taken aback by how at ease he made me feel right from the first second we met," Levy previously told ITV. "He was just very approachable."

Meanwhile, Meghan is celebrating her own milestone. Her Netflix lifestyle series, With Love, Meghan, earned its first-ever Daytime Emmy nomination in the Outstanding Lifestyle Series category. The Duchess of Sussex marked the achievement on Instagram by congratulating the show's production team. "A huge congratulations to the amazing crew, producers, and team who worked on With Love, Meghan on @netflix," she wrote alongside artwork from the series.

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William's Emmy fate will be decided at the 78th Primetime Emmy Awards, airing Sept. 14 on NBC and Peacock. Meghan, meanwhile, will learn whether With Love, Meghan takes home the trophy at the 53rd Annual Daytime Emmy Awards on Oct. 30. While the two royals may be estranged, they'll both have reason to celebrate as Emmy nominees this awards season.

There are few films from the 1970s that invoke as emotional a response from Gen Xers quite like Ice Castles. The Robby Benson-starring film, about a talented 16-year-old figure skater from Iowa (Lynn-Holly Johnson) whose ascent to stardom is destroyed when a training accident leaves her blind, was overwhelmingly dismissed by critics. Despite the criticism, the film became a box office sensation and a generational rewatch that still holds up. A new ranking names the best ice skating movies of all time. No surprise to the movie’s fans (raises hand), Ice Castles stands on the podium of ice skating’s best films.

@culturapop101

Una joven promesa del patinaje artístico ve cómo su vida cambia de forma inesperada tras un accidente que pone a prueba su talento, su fortaleza y su capacidad de seguir adelante. #IceCastles #CineClásico #PelículasQueInspiran #DramaRomántico #MovieLovers

♬ sonido original - Solo pumas Lauro

Judging the best ice skating movies ever is about as difficult as judging which is better: Alysa Liu’s triple axel or Ilia Malinin’s quadruple axel. We say they’re both awe-inspiring. The same goes for the best ice skating movies ever made. They’re all good, but one has to earn gold.

In the new ranking, the “schmaltzy” (according to critics) romance Ice Castles is one of the top three ice skating films ever made. Here’s why:

“If you haven't seen Ice Castles, you've most certainly heard of it. Perhaps the most romantic sports drama of all time, the film by Donald Wrye follows Lexie Winston (Lynn-Holly Johnson), a talented 16-year-old figure skater from Iowa whose rapid ascent to stardom is shattered when a training accident leaves her blind. With the support of her boyfriend, Nick Peterson (Robby Benson), she overcomes despair to skate again, competing in a national championship while navigating her new reality. As a triumphant story of overcoming adversity through determination and love, Ice Castles is a beautiful film that uses the sport as an entry point.”

It’s not a gold medal, but just ask Canada’s Elizabeth Manley: sometimes a bronze medal can feel like gold.

If you’re a child of the 1970s or 1980s scratching your head and wondering what ice skating movies could be better than Ice Castles, this writer’s opinion is none. According to the new ranking, however, Blades of Glory ranks No. 2 and, drumroll please, I, Tonya is the best-ranked ice skating movie ever made.

It’s tough to compete with the Margot Robbie-starring film, not to mention the bird on Allison Janney’s shoulder for much of the movie, but No. 3 is still in the top three. A win is a win.

Related: Skating Legend, Who Entered the 1988 Winter Olympics as an Underdog, Delivered One of Figure Skating's Greatest Routines

Why Ice Castles Remains a Beloved Ice Skating Classic

Regardless of its placement on the best ice skating movies of all time podium, there are few films that invoke nostalgia and the feelings of young love quite like Ice Castles. That’s because Ice Castles was about more than sports and competition—it was about hope, perseverance, love, and the emotional power of chasing a dream.

For fans, Ice Castles wasn’t sappy or overly emotional. It captured a generation’s angst in the form of an ice skating fairy tale at a time when Olympic ice skaters dominated fascination and headlines with their superhuman skills and grace on the ice.

How Ice Castles Defied Critics and Won Over Fans @cryatthemovies

🎵 When the Music Hits | 🎬 Ice Castles (1978) A small-town figure skater rises toward national fame, only to have her future shattered by a devastating accident that leaves her blind. As she struggles to reclaim her confidence and identity, the rink becomes less about winning and more about belief — belief in herself, and in the love that refuses to let her quit. When the music swells, the scene stops being about skating and becomes about standing up in the dark. Credits: Directed by Donald Wrye, written by Donald Wrye, produced by Robert W. Cort, music by Marvin Hamlisch Starring Lynn-Holly Johnson, Robby Benson, Colleen Dewhurst, Tom Skerritt. The Song: “(Theme from) Ice Castles (Through the Eyes of Love),” composed by Marvin Hamlisch, lyrics by Carole Bayer Sager, performed by Melissa Manchester. Reflection on the Song: The song feels inseparable from the film because it was written to carry the emotional arc of the story — gentle at first, then soaring, mirroring Lexie’s fall and rise. The lyrics don’t just accompany the scene; they articulate what she cannot say. It’s not background music — it becomes the voice of hope itself, perfectly timed to lift the moment from tragedy into triumph. WhenTheMusicHits CryAtTheMovies IceCastles MovieMusic SoundtrackMoments 1970sFilms CinemaEmotion 10w

♬ original sound - cryatthemovies - cryatthemovies

Critics initially dismissed Ice Castles, but the film is a testament to the power of fans. At a time when ice skating culture was reaching a fever pitch of popularity in American culture, along came Ice Castles, tearing at fans’ heartstrings one spin at a time.

The film’s theme song, “Through The Eyes of Love,” sung by Melissa Manchester, would go on to earn an Academy Award nomination, and cable TV and streaming platforms have kept this ice skating romance a part of the cultural zeitgeist.

More than 50 years later, critics have changed their tune, with a newfound appreciation for the film. Fans have remained steadfast, loving this film as much in 1978 as they do today.

Related: Olympic Skating Legend, Who Captivated Fans at the 1984 Winter Olympics, Names the Greatest Performance of His Career

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Imagine a seven-day cruise where you spend nearly 100 hours of port time exploring one of the world's most coveted bucket-list destinations instead of watching it drift by from the ship's deck.

On Kauai, that might mean soaring by helicopter above the dramatic emerald cliffs of Waimea Canyon and the towering Manawaiopuna Falls, made famous in Jurassic Park. On Maui, it could be an epic road trip along the legendary Road to Hana, with stops at cascading waterfalls and lush tropical landscapes. And at sunset, it can mean celebrating Hawaiian culture at a traditional luau, complete with fresh flower leis, fresh local cuisine and hula dancing under a starry sky.

For travelers who want to maximize their time ashore rather than spend days at sea, one itinerary consistently rises to the top. We asked three travel advisors which Hawaii cruise they'd recommend to clients looking for the most immersive island experience—and all three pointed to the same seven-day sailing.

Related: How To Book Your First Cruise, According to Samantha Brown

The Ship Built Specifically for Hawaii Norwegian Cruise Line's Pride of America sails its 7-day Hawaii itinerary year-round.

Photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Renowned for its exceptional biodiversity, rich Polynesian cultural heritage and picture-perfect beaches, Hawaii has continually topped lists of places travelers worldwide most want to go—and Norwegian Cruise Line built a ship specifically for Hawaii cruises.

The line’s Pride of America is the only large cruise ship in the world registered in the United States, a distinction that allows it to sail exclusively through Hawaiian waters without stopping at foreign ports. First launched in 2005, the 2,180-passenger ship was refurbished in 2025 and offers an experience that can’t be found anywhere else.

“Both this ship and its itinerary are incredibly unique to Norwegian Cruise Line and the islands of Hawaii,” said Melissa Gutting, director of sales development for Travel Leaders—Market Square Travel. “It’s one of the only ways to see Hawaii by cruise without having to sail on a long voyage with multiple days at sea.”

Related: The Best Summer Cruise on the East Coast Isn't Where You Think

Why More Port Time Changes Everything Pride of America's extended time in port translates to free time for waterfall hikes and exploring.

Photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Sailing year-round from Honolulu, the ship’s route covers Oahu, Maui, Kauai and double stops on the island of Hawaii, with overnight stays in both Maui and Kauai.

“The legal status of being a U.S.-flagged ship eliminates the need for international stops,” said travel advisor Siera Duiser, owner of Dreamworthy Destinations. “Because there aren't any all-inclusive resorts in Hawaii, this cruise is especially appealing for people who appreciate the all-inclusive style of vacationing.”

The ship’s route is also uniquely optimized to maximize time in port compared to repositioning cruises or traditional foreign-flagged Hawaiian cruises. The itinerary features 100 hours of port time versus the industry average of 32 to 40 hours of time in port for a week-long itinerary.

“This is an active cruise that provides seamless access to Hawaii’s islands,” said travel advisor Kim Parizek of Boutique Travel Advisors. “It’s best for travelers who like to have their days planned out and like to get up early each day to get to their excursions or planned destinations.”

Related: This is the Best Cruise Line for Couples, Says a Virtuoso Top 1% Travel Advisor

Four Islands, Two Overnights and Evenings Free for Luaus With fewer time constraints, true relaxation is possible during Hawaii port stops.

Photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

The ship’s inter-island route and overnight stops give passengers something close to a choose-your-own-adventure week: time to chase set-jetting locations like Oahu's west coast, where Disney filmed scenes for its live-action Moana, or hike into the Kauai rainforest where Jurassic Park was filmed.

“Pride of America’s extended port time offers a great chance to explore independently by renting a car, which feels very easy because you’re still in the United States,” Gutting said. “It’s an amazing opportunity to seek out destinations on your own, like driving to the Big Island’s southeast coast to see the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Hawai'i Volcanoes National Park, home to the active Kīlauea volcano, and the black sand of Punalu'u Black Sand Beach.”

Without the pressure to get back to the ship on the overnight stops, this means that attending a traditional Hawaiian luau is not only possible, but a not-to-be-missed, once-in-a-lifetime activity.

“This itinerary is special because there are two opportunities to experience an authentic luau—in either Maui or Kauai,” Gutting said. “The one I would recommend is the Old Lahaina Luau in Maui, which is a gorgeous spot. It has beautiful grounds for taking photos, and it features a wonderful show and dinner. Everyone that I send to it loves it.”

Related: Why Repositioning Cruises Are the Low-Cost, Slow-Travel Trend to Watch Right Now

No Passport Needed—and it Sails All Year A view from the balcony of Pride of America's Deluxe Owners Suite.

Photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Pride of America sails an identical itinerary every week of the year, making it easy to accommodate travelers’ schedules.

“These sailings provide a great taste of Hawaii for travelers with limited vacation days from work, or for multigenerational groups with school schedules to plan around,” Duiser said. “It’s a really efficient way to see the islands and cover as much ground as possible.”

And a rare bonus to this sailing: U.S. citizens do not need a passport to sail on Norwegian Cruise Line’s Pride of America. Because the ship is registered in the U.S., it sails entirely within U.S. waters between islands. All you need to board is a valid government-issued REAL ID, such as a REAL ID-compliant driver's license (though guests should also always review current travel document requirements before departure).

“This is a very convenient, affordable Hawaiian vacation for many American families, and there’s no passport required,” Parizek said. “It’s a great value proposition because you get to visit all these incredible islands without the hassle and expense of switching hotels and flying between islands. It’s a great sampler in a four-star environment.”

Related: Norwegian Cruise Line Announces Major Renovations For Two of Its Most Beloved Ships

Nine Tips for Booking the Sailing Norwegian Cruise Line's Pride of America sails year-round from Honolulu.

Photo courtesy of Norwegian Cruise Line

Book a Club Balcony Suite. “Major additions from the ship's refurbishment last year include 12 brand-new balcony suites, which are bigger, brighter and worth the upgrade,” Parizek said.

Extend your trip. “I highly recommend adding several days before or after your cruise to see Oahu. This will give you time to explore Honolulu and see significant historic sites like Pearl Harbor and Waikiki Beach. You could even plan a pre- or post-cruise stay at Disney’s beachfront resort Aulani,” Gutting said.

Look into a cruisetour. “Norwegian Cruise Line offers several different land-based tours with preset itineraries that travelers can add on prior to their cruise. It’s a great chance to see iconic destinations like the Dole Plantation, Polynesian Cultural Center and Kualoa Ranch,” Duiser said.

Book excursions early. “Especially in peak season, the luaus and any overnight-stay excursions in Maui and Kauai often sell out, so I always recommend booking nine or ten months in advance,” Gutting said.

Read fine print carefully. “If you decide to book third-party excursions, make sure there is a guarantee that they get you back to the ship on time,” Duiser said.

Rent a car for independent exploring. “Many of the car rental agencies can either have your car waiting for you at the pier or provide transportation to pick it up. Or if you don’t want to drive, it’s very easy to use a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft,” Gutting said.

Pack smart for the water. “If you want to go snorkeling, you can bring your own gear and avoid high rental fees. And make sure to bring reef-safe sunscreen, which is required by Hawaiian law in many areas,” Duiser said.

Double check your ID. “Even though you won’t need a passport, a REAL ID-compliant driver's license or ID is still mandatory for American citizens. A standard license that doesn’t qualify as a REAL ID isn’t enough,” Gutting said.

Work with a travel advisor. “An experienced travel advisor knows the ship and destinations well and can help guide your decisions. They’ll know where the best staterooms are on the ship, how far in advance to book a rental car and what tours will be best for your family group,” Parizek said.

Related: 15 Included Extras That Make a Disney Cruise Worth Every Penny (Including One Most Passengers Skip)

Family memories don't just happen — for these four birth months, making the best memories with their loved ones this summer will be an intentional act. Every summer sets the stage for magic to be made with your nearest and dearest. From days spent gabbing by a glistening pool to road trips to your nearest beach, getaways at a beloved destination to backyard BBQs, festivals, and outdoor concerts, the sunniest season has something to offer just about everyone. But some of us might be uniquely destined to make the best memories with our family over the course of 2026’s summertime, based on when we came into the world. After all, particular planetary shifts tell a story about joyful moments on the horizon for people born during certain months.

4 Birth Months That Will Make Incredible Memories This Summer

Read on to learn if you’re destined to have an especially heartfelt summertime, thanks to your birth month.

RELATED: Mercury Retrograde in Cancer Is Stirring Up Family Drama for These 4 Zodiac Signs

March: You’ll Enjoy Playfulness and Release

Born during the month that hosts the spring equinox, you came into the world when the sun was moving through either dreamy, empathic, mystical water sign Pisces or go-getter, dynamic, competitive fire sign Aries. If you’re a Pisces, you’ve experienced a surge of joy, playfulness, and self-expression, thanks to a flurry of action in your romance sector, and if you’re an Aries, Jupiter’s recent shift into your fifth house is also a green light for more lighthearted, spontaneous fun. The best summer memories could stem from making impromptu game plans with your loved ones. And as we move toward the lunar eclipse in Pisces on August 28, impacting either your twelfth house of spirituality or first house of self, moments in which you focus on releasing the past might also serve to bolster your bonds. 

July: It’s Time to Step Into the Spotlight

Born when the sun was rolling through either sentimental, intuitive, heartfelt water sign Cancer or bold, loyal, theatrical fire sign Leo, you cherish summertime no matter what the planets are up to, given that it’s your birthday season. But this year, you’ll be even more inclined to allow yourself to be the center of attention and welcome even more celebration, because Jupiter, the planet of expansion, is moving through your astrological sphere of self or income. Your confidence, optimism, and desire to be seen and applauded will soar, so book that family photo shoot, plan that over-the-top birthday party, or book a luxury-filled spa day with your loved ones.  

August: You’ll Center Your Heart and Spiritual Growth 

If you were born in August, your natal sun falls in either buoyant, positive, passionate fire sign Leo or practical, analytical, service-oriented earth sign Virgo. If you were born during Leo, you’re enjoying Jupiter’s shift into your first house of self, which is magnifying your self-image, confidence, and optimism. And if you were born during Virgo, Jupiter is beginning to boost your focus on nurturing your spirituality and psychological well-being. Either way, you’ll be feeling more centered as you move through this bright season, which encompasses your birthday month. When it comes to making plans with loved ones or finding more time for quality time, you can speak more from the heart. Instead of saying “yes” just to keep the peace, you’ll be empowered to share your truth and move in a direction that feels intuitively right, laying the groundwork for truly meaningful, heartfelt moments with your loved ones. This will be especially true once Mercury is in Leo and Virgo from August 9 to September 10.

READ: Your Perfect Nature-Inspired Color Palette, According to Your Birth Month

November: Broaden Your Horizons and Ask for the Support You Deserve

You came into the world when the sun was moving through either magnetic, fearless water sign Scorpio or fiery, wanderlust-fueled fire sign Sagittarius. As it has moved into Leo this summer, Jupiter is now magnifying your ninth house of adventure or tenth house of career, leading to more visibility, excitement, risk-taking, and feeling even more like you’re running the show and making the bold moves you’ve been dreaming of. Find opportunities to celebrate this transformation with your loved ones by detailing your biggest professional dreams with them and inviting them to support you in thrilling new ways. You might also plan—or actually take—long-distance trips with your nearest and dearest, ideally after July 23 once Mercury forges ahead following its retrograde. 

UP NEXT:

Retail's current climate is tumultuous, considering the recession-indicator state of retail, but Costco as a company has a stronghold, with members keeping their loyalty for good reason. The warehouse giant holds steadfast as a trustworthy go-to.

According to24/7 Wall St., the brand keeps surviving the inflation wave due to its functioning as an accessible utility to its wider customer base that goes beyond just retail members, holding tight to their memberships, as "these customers pay annually for the right to shop, and roughly nine in ten of them re-up each year." It makes sense given that inflation stretches budgets and household goods at warehouses, and bulk deals gain wallet share for families.

Related: Costco Surprises Shoppers Nationwide While Celebrating 50 Years

Upcoming openings signal more ways for average folks to provide for their families and close communities mutually. Earlier this year, during Costco's Q1 earnings call, CEO Ron Vachris outlined adjusted plans for not only this year but the next 5-10-year period: "Our planned net new openings for fiscal year 2026 down to 28, we continue to plan for 30-plus net openings per year in future years." He was quoted in a transcript published by The Motley Fool.

Related: World Cup Tourists Are Obsessed With These American Fast Food Stops and Convenience Stores

According toKTLA5 News, loyal shoppers and prospective members can expect a breather on their budgets as three new locations have been confirmed by the outlet to be opening this month in Albany, NY, Oconomowoc, WI, and Otsego, MN. Making the brand accessible through expansion and online viral support through trending on shoppers' scouting for deals seems to play a huge role in continuing to be a go-to resource during periods of inflation. Hey, nothing beats 5-buck rotisserie chicken, a 10-buck pizza, and of course the beloved hot dog combo for $1.50. The Costco food court is a prime example of how the brand remains unmatched in the eyes of its members, who eagerly await the next product drop and newest food item, such as the viral to-go chicken strips.

Here's a look at them from Costco influencers therealkirklandking and costcodeals:

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Costco is also aiming to improve the shopping experience, with the previously announced automated pay stations spotted rolling out in stores.

"We're also piloting automated pay stations that will allow members to pay for their pre-scan orders seamlessly with an average transaction time of around eight seconds," CFO Gary Millerchip said in an earnings call earlier this year. "Early results show this is improving the flow of traffic, and we've received great member feedback."

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A Costco employee will still scan every item in your cart, but it will happen in line, without you having to load items onto a conveyor belt. When you reach the kiosk and scan your membership card, your items will automatically appear on the screen, so all you have to do is pay. 

Ella Langley, fresh off a historic run at the top of the charts, brought her Dandelion Tour to town this week, delivering what she later called the "biggest show" of her career so far. For the thousands of fans packed into the venue, the tour stop felt more like a victory lap for an artist who has spent the last year rewriting the genre's playbook.

Langley took to Instagram after stepping offstage to share the milestone with her fans. “The biggest show of The Dandelion Tour so far,” she wrote, pairing the caption with an orange heart emoji. “Thank you, Hamilton!”

The post instantly became a landing pad for a fan base that feels invested in her rise to fame. Langley songs seem to be turning casual listeners into lifelong fans.
“Took my 9yr old daughter for her first concert. This will be hard to top!!” one parent commented under the post, anchoring the night in the kind of core memory that builds decades-long careers. Another longtime supporter added, “Been a day one fan and can I just say I’m so proud of all you’ve accomplished angel.”

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That fierce loyalty is the engine driving Langley’s current sprint to the top of the charts. While generating massive numbers on streaming platforms is impressive, translating that digital momentum into a live concert experience is an entirely different challenge. In Hamilton, Langley seamlessly accomplished both.

Her rise might look sudden to outsiders, but fans say Langley possesses a raw vocal style that cuts right through the typical Nashville polished style. They say she commands the stage with the confidence of someone who knows how hard she worked to get there, leaving the audience with the impression that they are witnessing the ground floor of something massive.

As the Dandelion Tour rolls on, the venues will most likely get larger, and the crowds even more excited to see the breakout star. Hamilton was a milestone, but if the current trajectory holds, Langley will be breaking her own attendance records by next month.
Country music has a new star, and she is done playing small rooms.

Bravo's Andy Cohen is Instagram official with boyfriendKevin Sobieski, and fans couldn't be happier for the new couple.

Cohen shared the news on Instagram with a simple caption: "Date Night," alongside a photo of himself and Sobieski. While the pair had previously been photographed together, the post marked Cohen's first public acknowledgment of their relationship. Bravolebs and fans quickly celebrated the romance, with Real Housewives of Atlantaalum Marlo Hampton summing up the reaction by commenting, "Date night looks good on you." Others, including Brittany Cartwright, Shannon Beador, Kyle Cooke, and Cohen's SiriusXM co-host and ex-boyfriend John Hill, also shared their excitement and support for the new couple.

In early June, Cohen teased that he was in a new relationship on his SiriusXM show but kept his boyfriend's identity private. "I feel like if you've been listening to this show, maybe you've gotten a sense that something's going on with me," he said. "And this fella and I have been holding hands all over town, you guys."

Cohen said he had long believed he would know when he met the right person. "People have asked me for a long time, you know, 'When are you going to get a boyfriend? Why don't you have a boyfriend?' And I have always said I will know when I meet the person," he shared. "I am really happy to say that I met the person."

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Although he didn't reveal Sobieski's identity at the time, Cohen described his new partner as "kind and strong and smart" and praised the way he fit naturally into his family life.

"He is an adult and he loves my children and they love him and I love him," Cohen said. "We have been so slow and deliberate and methodical about getting to know each other and introducing him to the kids and just entering him into the equation of my family so slowly. And I have to say it has been so easy."

Now that their relationship is public, Cohen is also poking fun at their 16-year age gap. While discussing Summer Housestar Kyle Cooke's age difference with Next Gen NYC's Ava Dash on Watch What Happens Live, Cohen joked, "Don't put the camera on me!" before adding, "I'm only in a 16-year age-gap relationship." Cohen is 58, while Sobieski is 42.

When Rush released "Fly by Night" in 1975, the band wasn't just introducing a new song, it was unveiling the songwriting voice that would help define its future.

The title track from the band's second album was among the first songs written by Neil Peart, who had joined Rush just months earlier. Inspired by a life-changing experience he had at 18 years old, "Fly by Night" captured the excitement of leaving home, embracing uncertainty and chasing a dream, themes that have resonated with listeners for more than 50 years.

Peart wrote the lyrics by looking back on his first trip away from home in 1971.

Driven by both the urge to travel the world and aspirations of becoming a successful musician, the future Rock & Roll Hall of Famer left his small-town Canadian life behind and flew to England at just 18 years old. That journey became the emotional foundation for the song.

Rather than focusing on the fear of the unknown, Peart celebrated the possibilities that come with taking a leap of faith.

Opening with the now-famous line, "Fly by night, away from here," the song encourages listeners to leave behind complacency and pursue new opportunities, even when the destination isn't entirely clear. Its message of self-discovery and perseverance has made it one of Rush's most uplifting recordings.

"Neil had brought a distinct change to [the band]," Fly By Night producer Terry Brown told Louder. "There was real meaning to the songs, which were in a rock and partly progressive fashion. And I’d always wanted to do this rock music with a real meaning to it... To produce records with substance."

Musically, "Fly by Night" also marked an important turning point for the band.

It was one of the earliest showcases of Peart's lyrical style, pairing thoughtful, introspective writing with the hard-driving sound of guitarist Alex Lifeson and bassist-vocalist Geddy Lee. While Rush's debut album leaned heavily toward blues-based hard rock, Fly by Night pointed the trio toward the progressive direction that would define classics like 2112, A Farewell to Kings and Moving Pictures.

"We worked on songs as we traveled," Peart said in the 2010 documentary Rush: Beyond the Lighted Stage. "My little hand-written lyric sheets for the time, I think I wrote the cities that all of those songs were written, and they varied widely — all over the map. In a rental car, in a hotel room after a show, that’s how pretty much [the album] Fly by Night was written."

Although it wasn't one of Rush's biggest chart hits, "Fly by Night" quickly became a fan favorite. Its themes of independence, optimism and personal growth have continued to inspire generations of listeners, many of whom see the song as an anthem for embracing change and following one's own path.

Peart died in 2020 after battling an aggressive form of brain cancer. In an interview from 2005 that was rediscovered after this death, Peart described his unique approach to drumming as emblematic of how he lived his life.

"The way I play is an honest reflection of myself," Peart told Loudwire. "I like to challenge myself creatively to come up with lots of different parts for the songs, and make them challenging to play. But at the same time, I am driven by a personal sense of what I find exciting in drumming, and in rock music."

More than five decades after its release, "Fly by Night" remains one of Rush's signature songs. What began as one 18 year-old's reflection on leaving home ultimately became a timeless motivational anthem, reminding listeners that life’s greatest adventures often begin with the courage to take the first step.

Related: 1970 Classic Ballad, Written by a 17-Year-Old, Became a Soft Rock Anthem