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8 Types of Bell Peppers and Sweet Peppers for Cooking
Bell peppers and other sweet peppers come in a range of colors, sizes and shapes. Some have a mild, slightly bitter flavor, while others taste sweeter and fruitier. Their shape also affects how they work in the kitchen: large, hollow peppers are easy to stuff, while smaller or elongated varieties are useful for roasting, sautéing and serving whole.
The best pepper depends on the dish and the flavor you want. Here are eight types to look for and how to use each one.
Related: 22 Types of Peppers Every Cook Needs To Know About ASAP
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Green bell peppers are picked before they reach full ripeness. They have the familiar blocky shape of bell peppers, with thick walls, three or four lobes at the bottom and a firm, crisp texture. Their flavor is grassy and slightly bitter, with less sweetness than most mature colored bell peppers.
The USDA notes that bell peppers are dark green when immature and can turn red, yellow, black or purple at maturity. The University of Massachusetts Amherst explains that sweet bell peppers become sweeter as they mature, typically changing from green to red, although other mature colors are also common.
Best Dishes for Using Green Bell PeppersGreen bell peppers work well in dishes that benefit from their firmer texture and sharper flavor. Dice them into chili, jambalaya, gumbo or tomato-based sauces, or sauté them with onions for fajitas. They also hold their shape in casseroles and rice dishes. Their sturdy, hollow interiors make them a traditional choice for stuffed peppers.
For a recipe built specifically around green bell peppers, Food Network’s stuffed green peppers fills the peppers with ground beef, rice, tomatoes, mozzarella and herbs, then bakes them until tender. Green peppers also feature in Louisiana Cookin’s jambalaya-stuffed bell peppers, which combine chicken, andouille sausage, rice and Cajun seasonings in a whole-pepper presentation.
Related: Easy Stuffed Peppers Recipe
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Red bell peppers are fully ripened bell peppers from varieties that mature to red. They have the same broad, blocky shape and thick walls as green peppers, but their flavor is sweeter and fruitier, with little of the bitterness associated with green peppers. They are a good option when you want a pronounced pepper flavor without adding heat.
Best Dishes for Using Red Bell PeppersRed bell peppers are well-suited to roasting, grilling, and blending into sauces or dips. Their sweetness works in pasta dishes, grain bowls, salads and sandwiches. Roasting deepens their flavor and softens their flesh, making them easy to purée into soups or a red pepper sauce.
They also work well in dishes where pepper is a central ingredient rather than just part of an aromatic base. Try them in a roasted red pepper soup, a Mediterranean salad or a sandwich with grilled vegetables and cheese.
Related: This Crock Pot Italian Sausage and Peppers Recipe Basically Cooks Itself
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Yellow bell peppers have the same squat, lobed shape and thick flesh as other bell peppers. Their bright yellow skin signals a sweeter, milder flavor than green peppers, often with a fresh, slightly fruity quality. Yellow is a mature color for certain pepper varieties, although the sequence of colors a pepper develops depends on its variety.
Best Dishes for Using Yellow Bell PeppersUse yellow bell peppers when you want sweetness without the deeper flavor of a red pepper. They work in stir-fries, fajitas, kebabs, omelets and chopped salads. Their color also adds contrast to dishes with green vegetables or darker sauces.
For a cooked side dish, Food Network’s summer peperonata recipe uses red, orange and yellow bell peppers simmered with aromatics, olives, capers and other seasonings. Yellow peppers are a good fit for this slow-cooked preparation, which softens their texture and brings out their sweetness.
Related: Martha Stewart’s Stuffed Yellow Bell Peppers
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Orange bell peppers are typically rounded and blocky, with thick, crisp walls and a bright orange skin. Their flavor is sweet and fruity, often falling between the mild sweetness of yellow peppers and the deeper sweetness of red ones. As with other colored bell peppers, the precise flavor depends on the variety and its maturity.
Best Dishes for Using Orange Bell PeppersOrange bell peppers are versatile in both raw and cooked dishes. Slice them into salads or serve them with hummus, ranch dressing or another dip. Their sweetness also works in stir-fries, pasta, fajitas and roasted vegetable medleys.
Because they hold their shape when cut into large pieces, orange peppers can be threaded onto skewers with onions, zucchini and other vegetables. They are also a good choice for stuffed peppers when you want a colorful presentation and a sweet flavor to balance a savory filling.
Related: I Tried Princess Diana’s Favorite Stuffed Bell Peppers—And They Weren’t What I Expected
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Purple bell peppers are less common than green, red, yellow and orange varieties. They usually have the familiar blocky bell shape, with thick walls and a dark purple exterior. Their flavor is generally mild and slightly grassy, similar to green bell peppers, though it varies by cultivar. Some purple varieties change color as they mature, and their flesh may be green inside.
Best Dishes for Using Purple Bell PeppersPurple bell peppers add visual contrast to salads, crudités platters and vegetable trays. They can also be sliced for stir-fries or sautéed with onions and other peppers. Their flavor is mild enough to pair with garlic, herbs, cheese and grains.
For a recipe featuring purple bell peppers, Farm to People‘s stuffed purple bell peppers fills the peppers with mushrooms, brown rice, shallots, garlic and Parmesan, then bakes them until tender. This is a good option when you want to serve purple peppers as a main dish or hearty side.
Related: 33 Pinterest-Worthy Food Boards, From Butter Boards to DIY Mac ‘n’ Cheese Boards
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Mini sweet peppers are small, elongated peppers with tapered ends and thin, crisp walls. They are commonly sold in red, yellow and orange, and their flavor is usually mild and sweet. Unlike bell peppers, which are broad and hollow, mini sweet peppers have a narrower shape and a smaller cavity.
Best Dishes for Using Mini Sweet PeppersMini sweet peppers are convenient for snacking, lunch boxes and appetizer platters. Serve them whole or halved with a dip, or fill the cavities with cream cheese, herbed goat cheese, hummus or seasoned ricotta. Their small size also makes them useful for quick roasting and grilling.
For a simple side dish, toss them with olive oil, salt and pepper and roast until blistered and tender. You can also slice them into salads, omelets, tacos or pasta, where their sweetness adds a fresh contrast to salty or savory ingredients.
Related: 30 Types of Pasta, From Angel Hair to Ziti
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Sweet banana peppers are long, narrow and tapered, usually with smooth skin that ranges from pale yellow to yellow-green and red as the fruit matures. They have thin walls and a mild, tangy flavor. Although banana peppers are often associated with pickled toppings, sweet varieties have little heat; some similar-looking wax peppers are hotter, so check the label when buying them.
Best Dishes for Using Sweet Banana PeppersSweet banana peppers are popular pickled, making them a good topping for sandwiches, pizza, burgers and Italian-style subs. Their tangy flavor cuts through rich cheese and cured meats. Fresh banana peppers can also be sliced into salads or sautéed with onions and other vegetables.
They also work in cooked main dishes. Food Network’s stuffed banana peppers recipe fills the peppers with ground meat, sausage, cheese, herbs and breadcrumbs, then bakes them with tomato sauce. Choose a sweet variety if you want the pepper flavor without much heat.
Related: 18 Different Types of Olives and the Best Ways To Use Them
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Pimento peppers, also spelled pimiento, are small to medium-sized sweet peppers with thick walls and a rounded, heart-like shape. They are usually bright red when ripe and have a sweet, mild flavor. Their flesh is thick enough to roast and peel, and they are often sold jarred or canned after roasting.
Best Dishes for Using Pimento PeppersPimentos are commonly used in pimento cheese, where chopped peppers add sweetness and color to a creamy cheese spread. They also work in dips, pasta salads, deviled eggs and sandwiches. Jarred pimentos are especially convenient because they are already cooked and ready to use.
Whole fresh pimentos can be roasted, peeled and added to salads, sauces or antipasto platters. Their sweet flavor also complements olives, sharp cheeses and cured meats.
What Are Considered Bell Peppers?Bell peppers are mild, sweet peppers with thick flesh and a broad, hollow shape. They belong to the Capsicum annuum species and are also known as sweet peppers. Unlike hot chile peppers, they contain little to no heat.
Bell peppers are commonly green, red, yellow or orange, though some varieties are purple. According to the USDA, green peppers are immature, while mature peppers can develop several colors.
Botanically, bell peppers are fruits because they develop from flowers and contain seeds, but they are classified as vegetables in cooking.
This article was drafted with the assistance of AI and thoroughly reviewed, edited and fact-checked by Parade editors. See our complete AI Policy.
These 4 Birth Months Are As Wise As an Owl
Wisdom isn’t always about how much you know. In astrology, the following birth months are associated with personality traits that make one lead with thoughtful decisions, read between the lines, and understand life’s lessons on an intuitive, old-soul level. From emotional intelligence to sharp intuition, these four birth months embody the spirit of being “as wise as an owl.”
In the English language, the expression “wise as an owl” describes someone who is intelligent, thoughtful, experienced, and sound in judgment. Its origins are often traced to ancient Greece, where the owl was associated with Athena, the goddess of wisdom. The bird’s watchful gaze and quiet, observant nature helped cement its reputation as a symbol of insight and knowledge.
While birth month alone doesn’t determine a person’s wisdom, astrology offers a fun way to explore the different forms it can take. These four birth months stand out for their potential to approach life with patience, perception, and a deeper understanding of human nature.
Which 4 Birth Months Are As Wise As An Owl?Check if your birth month is listed for expert insights.
MarchPeople born in March possess emotional depth and an ability to see beyond the surface. Born while the Sun transited empathetic Pisces or pioneering Aries, astrologers associate March-borns with empathy, imagination, and sensitivity to the feelings of others. They pick up on subtle shifts in someone’s mood. Even when nobody has said a word, this intuitive birth month recognizes when something feels off almost instantly.
For these people, wisdom is synonymous with open-minded fluidity. This birth month understands that not every situation has a simple answer. Rather than rushing to judge, they try to understand the complex circumstances behind each individual’s behavior. Their compassion can help them see multiple perspectives, while their instincts encourage them to pay attention to what isn’t being said.
While they may be sensitive, these old souls also act with decisiveness and proactivity from their higher insight. These individuals learn through experience to trust their first judgment and act on what they know in their gut. Like an owl that senses movement in the dark, March-borns can pick up on the emotions and unspoken truths that others might miss.
MayMay-borns embody wisdom through their practicality and appreciation for what lasts. These individuals were born as the Sun traveled through sensual Taurus or communicative Gemini, marked by personalities strong in steadiness and persistence. You can count on them for a grounded approach as challenges arise. Rather than making impulsive decisions, they prefer to weigh their options and consider the long-term consequences.
This measured perspective often makes them some of the most excellent, thoughtful advisers. Meaningful progress takes time, and not every opportunity deserves an immediate yes. This birth month innately embodies this truth. Their ability to remain grounded when others feel overwhelmed also equips them with the ability to discern who and what truly matters in the end.
Although they carry resilient strength, they also hold curiosity and intellectual flexibility. Individuals born in May develop their soulful intelligence by asking questions and remaining open to new perspectives. Like an owl that conserves its energy until the right moment to act, May-borns know the value of patience and investing in what will truly last.
SeptemberSeptember-born individuals have a knack for noticing the most minute details that other people overlook. Born as the Sun transited mindful Virgo or intellectual Libra, this birth month is blessed with analytical thinking, discernment, and a desire to understand how things work. Their wisdom may show up in their ability to identify patterns and problem-solve. Many rely on their practical advice when life feels confusing.
Rather than accepting everything at face value, individuals with September birthdays prefer to examine the evidence and thoroughly consider the possible outcomes. They’re skilled at recognizing inconsistencies and finding small but meaningful ways to improve a situation. For them, choices must be based on careful consideration rather than appearances alone.
Perhaps the wisest part of their personality is their justice-oriented mindset. They value hearing different sides of a story. By balancing logic with an awareness of other people’s perspectives, they can approach disagreements with a thoughtful, measured attitude. Like an owl that can pinpoint the smallest movement in its surroundings, September-born individuals have a sharp eye for inconsistencies, overlooked details, and flaws in an otherwise convincing argument.
DecemberDecember-borns develop their owl-like wisdom through experience, resilience, and a willingness to think about the bigger picture. Curiosity, exploration, and a desire to understand life’s larger questions define their personality. With birthdays landing in the midst of philosophical Sagittarius season or ambitious Capricorn season, they learn by seeking new experiences. As humans, we tend to avoid challenging our assumptions, which can create many blind spots. These birth months welcome such reflection. This allows them to deeply assign meaning to what each life chapter teaches them.
This openness can help them recognize that wisdom isn’t about having every answer. Sometimes, it means admitting what you don’t know and being willing to change your mind. December-born individuals may be particularly drawn to conversations that expand their worldview, whether through travel, reading, or the people they encounter.
Those born during this chilly period may demonstrate wisdom through patience, responsibility, and an ability to plan for the future. Like the owl’s enduring association with careful observation, December-born individuals can learn to look beyond immediate gratification and consider what will serve them well in the long run.
In 2006, Warren Buffett pledged $36.1 billion in stock to the Gates Foundation; by 2026 he had given more than $47 billion
In June 2006, Warren Buffett pledged 10 million Class B shares of Berkshire Hathaway to the Gates Foundation, then worth about $36.1 billion, according to the Chronicle of Philanthropy. The pledge was one of five he made that year, and the total was worth more than $43.5 billion at the time.
The pledge was set to continue as long as Bill or Melinda Gates was alive and active in the foundation, the Chronicle said. The number of shares Buffett gave each year grew after a 2010 stock split.
By June 2023, Buffett had given the Gates Foundation nearly $39.3 billion, the Chronicle tallied. Across five different foundations, Buffett had given nearly $50.7 billion in total.
In July 2026, Buffett, then 95, announced nearly $6 billion in Berkshire stock for his family’s foundations, according to Fortune. None of it went to the Gates Foundation, which had received his stock gifts every year since 2006. It was the first time in that stretch that Buffett left the foundation out.
He is donating 12 million Class B shares: 9 million to the Susan Thompson Buffett Foundation, and 1 million each to the Howard G. Buffett, NoVo and Sherwood foundations, Fortune said.
The Gates Foundation says Buffett’s gifts total “more than $47 billion,” and Fortune put the figure at about $48 billion. He gave it 9.4 million shares worth about $4.6 billion the year before.
Buffett also said he plans to give away all of his remaining Berkshire shares, worth about $140 billion, by Dec. 31, 2034. His statement cited his children’s ages and the unpredictability of life as reasons for the timeline, per InvestmentNews. It did not explicitly say why the Gates Foundation was left out.
The outlet noted that the relationship between the two men had worsened after the Justice Department’s January release of files on Jeffrey Epstein’s ties to people connected to Gates. Gates has not been accused of crimes, and he has said meeting Epstein was a “grave error in judgment,” Fortune reported.
The Gates Foundation said it “continues from a position of financial strength to advance our work through 2045,” Fortune said.
Not every large gift comes from a billionaire. Geoffrey Holt had no car and little furniture in Hinsdale, New Hampshire, and when he died in 2023, he left the town $3.8 million.
Walmart’s 4-Tier Rustic Corner Shelf Turns Unused Spaces Into Stylish Storage Solutions
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Decorating a small room often means finding creative ways to make the most of the space you have. An empty corner can be a useful spot for a narrow shelving unit, giving you somewhere to display potted plants, books, framed photos, and other favorite finds. Walmart has a cute shelf on sale right now that can make your space feel more organized and put those awkward corners to work!
The Costway 4-Tier Corner Shelf is currently $38 at Walmart, down from $60. Its compact design fits into narrow corners and provides four tiers for displaying decor, organizing books, or holding small plants. It’s a practical addition to living rooms, home offices, and balconies, especially when you want extra storage and display space without adding a bulky piece of furniture.
Costway 4-Tier Corner Shelf, $38 (was $60) at Walmart Shop at WalmartMeasuring 14 inches long, 14 inches wide, and 49.5 inches tall, it’s designed to make use of vertical space while leaving more room for other furniture and decor. Its particleboard shelves and heavy-duty metal frame feature a brown-and-black finish that adds an industrial touch to your decor. The curved shelves have straight, rectangular edges that allow the unit to fit neatly into a corner, making it a practical spot to display plants, books, framed photos, and other decorative accents.
The shelves gradually increase in size from top to bottom, giving you more flexibility when arranging decor of different sizes. Each tier holds up to 33 pounds, with a total weight capacity of 132 pounds.
Walmart shoppers praised the shelf’s looks and easy assembly. “Looks gorgeous! Easy to assemble too!” one reviewer wrote. Another called it the “perfect” fit for a corner spot, while a third described it as a “cute little rack” for smaller plants.
Another buyer was impressed with its durability and appearance, writing, “It’s sturdy, attractive and large enough to be noticed, but not overwhelming.” They also said it looked ‘super cute’ while showcasing their pup-pup collectibles.
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If you’re looking for a space-saving shelf, the Costway 4-Tier Corner Shelf is a budget-friendly way to display your favorite decor, books, and more for just $38. Shop it now at Walmart while it’s still in stock and on sale!
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Julia Roberts Pays Heartfelt Tribute to ‘Steel Magnolias’ Co-Star Tom Skerritt
Julia Roberts is honoring her Steel Magnolias co-star, Tom Skerritt.
Skerritt, who is known for a variety of beloved roles ranging from Sheriff Jimmy Brock on the TV classic Picket Fences to his role as Viper in Top Gun, died on Wednesday, his family confirmed Thursday, NBC News reported. He was 93. But it was his role in the 1989 comedy-drama Steel Magnolias opposite Roberts that won the hearts of many filmgoers. Now, Roberts is honoring her late co-star with a touching remembrance.
In a sweet photo of herself alongside Skerritt, Roberts took to Instagram. She captioned the shot, “A shining light of a gentle man. RIP 💔.”
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How Did Tom Skerritt Die?Sonia Moskowitz / Getty Images
According to the statement released by his family, Skerritt died on Wednesday of natural causes.
“While the world knew Tom through his remarkable acting career, we knew him for his humor, curiosity, wisdom, generosity, and the love he brought into our lives,” his family shared. “He cared deeply about imagination, creativity, storytelling, service, veterans, the natural world, and helping others find and share their own voices.”
Tom Skerritt’s Role in Steel MagnoliasSteel Magnolias follows the highs and lows of a group of friends and family members in small-town Louisiana. Skerritt played Drum Eatonton, the father of Julia Roberts’ character, Shelby, who gets married as she battles type 1 diabetes. In one of Skerritt’s most memorable scenes from the film, he’s a proud dad on his daughter’s wedding day who utters one of the film’s classic lines:
“Nothing like a good piece of ass,” Skerritt’s character tells Shirley MacLaine.
Skerritt Was an Entrepreneur Into His EightiesWhile Skerritt was best known as an actor, he also served as a writer, director, and producer. But it was the unexpected role of entrepreneur he found for himself in his eighties. He started Heyou Media in 2016, a digital entertainment and content-aggregation company based in Seattle, NBC News shared.
“This is a new era, and we’re positioning ourselves to bring some light to new media and digital entertainment,” he told The Seattle Times in 2018. “My frame of reference is as big as this room.”
When Did We Stop Eating Together? What Family Therapists Want Parents To Know
There are so many benefits of eating together as a family. Family therapists say mealtimes with your people are even more important now, as technology advances and it becomes harder to tell what’s real, what’s human-generated and what technology dreamt (or made) up.
“Children need real-world reference points for what human conversation sounds like, what genuine connection feels like and what it means to be present with other people without an algorithm mediating the interaction or a virtual audience watching your every move,” Katie Rose, LCSW, a Manhattan-based psychotherapist with over a decade of experience treating individuals, couples, parents and families, tells Parade.
However, the decline of family dinners began before technological advances and smartphones—they only fanned an already-burning flame.
“Families have so many competing demands now—work, school, sports, activities and, of course, everyone having their own screen,” explains Suzanne Koch Eckenrode, LMFT, BACC, a clinical consultant and therapist at Carlsbad Beach Recovery. “It’s very easy for family members to move through the same house on separate tracks. A shared meal creates a natural pause where everyone is in the same place and provides an opportunity to reconnect.”
For Eckenrode, that’s the point.
“It doesn’t have to be an elaborate dinner or even happen every night,” she shares. “The value is in creating regular moments when a family stops, puts some of the distractions aside and is together.”
OK— but when did families stop eating together? Therapists dig deeper into the cultural shift and psychological benefits of family meals. They also share the effects of not eating dinner as a group and advice for parents on getting everyone around one table at the same time.
The Cultural Shift: When Did Families Stop Eating Together?Family therapists say the decline of family dinners has happened slowly and steadily. No single factor “ended” family mealtime.
“This has been a subtle change in our culture as family life became more scheduled and more fragmented,” Rose says.
Dual family incomes began rising in the late 1960s and 1970s. By 1978, more than half (51 percent) of married couples were dual-income—a 15 percent surge from 10 years prior.
“The rise of dual-income households meant that parents often had less time at home at the end of the day, while the explosion of after-school activities meant children were increasingly being shuttled from one activity to the next during the very hours when families once gathered for dinner,” Rose explains.
And then there is the advent of screens. Color TV entered the chat in the 1950s, and smartphones and other personal devices became commonplace in the late aughts. The iPhone made its debut in 2007.
“We’re now living in a culture that is extraordinarily good at asking families to prioritize the future: academic achievement, resume-ready activities, credentialing and more,” the therapist tells Parade. “These things aren’t inherently bad, but when we continually prioritize everything that might make our children successful in the future, we can accidentally deprioritize the mundane experiences that make them feel secure and connected in the present.”
Related: Psychologists Rank the 10 Most Emotionally Healthy Daily Habits
While there can be effects of not eating dinner as a family, therapists share it doesn’t make you a “bad” parent if you’re not doing it.
“I wouldn’t suggest that something bad automatically happens when a family doesn’t eat dinner together,” Eckenrode states. “What families can miss are the small, informal moments of connection that happen when people regularly spend unstructured time together.”
For instance, kids and teens don’t always sit down and say, “Hey, I need to discuss something important.”
“Often, things come out while everyone is doing something else—eating, driving, walking the dog,” she notes. “Regular shared time gives parents more opportunities to notice a change in mood, hear about a small worry before it becomes a bigger one, laugh together or simply know more about what’s happening in one another’s lives.”
Dr. Shannon Franklin, PsyD, a licensed psychologist and the Clinical Director of Element Q Healing, adds that kids miss opportunities to see adults listen, disagree respectfully and demonstrate interest in others.
Related: We Asked 3 Child Psychologists for the Best Question To Ask Kids at the Dinner Table, and They All Said the Same Thing
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Why is family dinner important? Therapists say there are many psychological benefits to eating dinner together as a family. They shared these effects below.
1. Language developmentLittle ones don’t learn language from flashcards—they generally learn it by hearing it, and dinner gives them space to do just that.
“Family meals naturally create opportunities for children to hear and practice language in a context that is meaningful to them,” Rose explains. “They listen to adults tell stories, learn new vocabulary, ask questions, interrupt, negotiate, explain what happened at school and learn how to follow a conversation.”
Beyond building vocabulary, Eckenrode notes that kids can develop communication skills in a safe space. That safe space is important because not all communication is “easy.”
“Children… practice listening, waiting for a turn to speak, asking questions, tolerating differing viewpoints and repairing minor misunderstandings,” Eckenrode says. “These basic conversation processes are repeated through family dinners, and children then take these skills to their eventual friendships, relationships, teachers and work associates.”
Parents often want to “plan” and “curate” their children’s lives, filling them with enriching adventures. There’s a time and place for these moments, but Rose is begging people not to overlook the little ones.
“Children don’t necessarily build their strongest relationships with parents through big, orchestrated conversations,” she notes. “They are built through small interactions in which they learn that their parents are interested in them, listen to them, laugh with them and show up consistently.”
Dinner provides a regular time for this connection.
Family therapists aren’t looking for parents to create rigid mealtime schedules, but rather for consistent opportunities to connect that help children develop.
“Children generally do better when life has a predictable rhythm, and a family meal can become an important anchor in that rhythm,” Rose says.
Dr. Franklin agrees that consistency is useful.
“Familiarity in an anticipated mealtime may allow the child to recognize that [they have] consistent access to [their] caregiver or caregivers, which may assist with making difficult communications less daunting due to the fact that communications are already part of the routine,” she reveals.
Does all of the above make you feel guilty about underestimating the importance of eating together as a family? Rose hopes not.
“There’s no one correct way to parent, and we don’t want families walking away from this feeling like they’ve failed because they aren’t sitting around a candlelit table eating a home-cooked meal every night,” she emphasizes.
Eckenrode also wants parents to loosen their grip on making “Pinterest Perfect” the goal of family dinner.
“The goal is connection, not perfection,” she points out. “If dinner isn’t realistic for your family, there are other ways to create that same opportunity to be together.”
Related: We Asked 4 Child Psychologists What Actually Motivates Kids—They All Said the Same Thing
Set the table? Absolutely. Set the number of family meals? Not so much, therapists say.
“Aim for consistency,” Rose says. “Ideally, families will eat together every night—seven nights a week. But if that’s unreasonable, maybe it’s just during the work week.”
She says you and your kids can still enjoy the benefits of eating together as a family once a week, “so long as that night is protected and everyone knows not to schedule anything during that time.”
“I would much rather see a family have one reliable meal together every week than set an unrealistic goal of seven nights and abandon the whole thing after two weeks,” the therapist states.
Breaking the routine of TV dinners (or breakfasts), or meals eaten while one caregiver takes one child to soccer and the other chauffeurs a kid to dance, can be hard. Here’s some family therapist advice for parents in reclaiming mealtime.
1. Make it specialYou don’t need to have candlelit dinners, but Rose likes the idea for reasons beyond aesthetics. She likes to make meals feel different by lighting a candle at the start and blowing it out at the end.
“There’s something inherently calming about watching a flame,” she says. “Lighting the candle signals that we’ve arrived at the meal and that this moment is a little different from everything that came before it.”
Plus, she says the chance to blow out the candle can often get kids to come to the table at all.
2. Have kids prepare the mealRose loves that this idea gets kids invested.
“Children are often more interested in eating food they’ve had a hand in making, whether that means shopping for the ingredients, washing vegetables, stirring a sauce or helping set the table,” she says. “But there’s another benefit: cooking together creates another opportunity for conversation and connection before you even sit down.”
3. Create screen time rulesThis one is hard but important.
“Create a time frame of no phone use—screen-free—to help children understand what you mean by ‘no’ as opposed to viewing technology as an enemy,” Dr. Franklin says. “For example, take all phones into another room and place them on a table. The phones will be off for 20 minutes, which includes Mom and Dad’s phones.”
She emphasizes that “children are much more likely to follow the rules when they see their role models doing the same.”
4. Be flexible about which meal happens together“It’s not like dinnertime is the best and only time to connect,” Rose reveals. “If mornings are more reasonable for your family, prioritize a sit-down breakfast together. The routine matters far more than the particular meal or time of day.”
So why all the fuss about dinner?
“Dinnertime is a kind of safety net because it naturally captures everyone at the end of the day and helps the family unwind together,” she explains. “It gives you a chance to transition as a family toward sleep and maybe process what happened that day. But you can create that same ritual in other ways.”
You have to do what works best for your family.
5. Keep conversation curious, not correctiveEckenrode says kids won’t look forward to family dinners that become an interrogation about grades, chores, missing assignments or what somebody did wrong that day.
“Be curious,” she says. “Ask questions. Let them tell stories. Laugh. Talk about something ridiculous that happened that day or something going on in the world.”
Around the dinner table, Eckenrode says children can learn: “My family doesn’t just want information from me. They enjoy knowing me.”
Sources:- Katie Rose, LCSW, is a Manhattan-based psychotherapist with over a decade of experience treating individuals, couples, parents and families.
- Suzanne Koch Eckenrode, LMFT, BACC, is a clinical consultant and therapist at Carlsbad Beach Recovery.
- Dr. Shannon Franklin, PsyD, is a licensed psychologist with Element Q Healing.
- Husbands and wives as earners: an analysis of family data (1981). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Jay-Z and his mother founded the Shawn Carter Foundation in 2003; its 20th-anniversary gala raised $20 million in one night
The Shawn Carter Foundation celebrated its 20th anniversary with a black-tie gala at Pier Sixty in New York City, per Complex. It was held on Friday, July 14, 2023, according to American Songwriter.
The night raised $20 million, Complex reported. The biggest gift was a $10 million legacy donation from Jeff Bezos and Lauren Sánchez, and Jack Dorsey gave $2 million, his annual contribution. The foundation and Robert Kraft’s Foundation to Combat Antisemitism gave $1 million each to a partnership opposing a nationwide book ban, Complex said.
The guest list included Beyoncé, DJ Khaled, Meek Mill, Robert Kraft and Roger Goodell, the outlet reported. Actor Regina Hall hosted, and Babyface performed, according to Bossip.
Jay-Z and his mother, Dr. Gloria Carter, founded the foundation in 2003, per Complex. It helps people facing economic hardship pursue education beyond high school.
The foundation’s scholarship fund gives awards of up to $7,500 per student, and it has supported more than 200 students each year for two decades, according to Black Enterprise. Payments go directly to schools to cover tuition and related costs, such as books, lab fees and travel.
Beyond scholarships, the foundation has run tours of historically Black colleges and universities, study abroad opportunities and wealth-building programs for young people and families, Complex said. “We believe that education is the key to unlocking opportunity,” Carter said, according to Rock the Bells.
Money raised at the gala will fund scholarships, an international exchange program, and community goodwill and emergency assistance programs, Complex reported.
Large gifts for education are not new. Stephen Girard died in 1831 with a $7.5 million fortune, and he gave $6 million of it to found a school for orphans that opened 17 years later.
In 1944, Curtis Springer claimed 12,800 acres of Mojave land and built Zzyzx; the government evicted him in 1974
Curtis Howe Springer picked the name Zzyzx for his Mojave Desert health spa as a gimmick to make it “the last word” in health, according to San Bernardino County. The name rhymes with “Why-sik.” The hot spring was an imitation, too: Springer used boilers to heat several pools, the county said.
Springer called himself “the last of the old-time medicine men,” per PBS SoCal. He used titles such as “Reverend, M.D.” and Dean of Greer College, but he never attended a university or medical school, the outlet said. In 1969, the American Medical Association gave him the title “King of Quacks.”
In 1944, Springer filed mining claims on 12,800 acres of federal land, according to California State University, Fullerton. He had no plans to mine gold, PBS SoCal said. San Bernardino County lists the claim as 12,000 acres.
On the claim, Springer built a mineral-springs resort with a two-story castle for paying guests, concrete cottages, a pool, a chapel, and a man-made lake called Tuendae, PBS SoCal reported. A free shuttle carried guests from Los Angeles. He also promoted the spa on a syndicated radio program that was carried at one point by 221 stations in the U.S. and 102 more abroad, the SBC Sentinel reported.
The resort drew health-conscious Christians for nearly three decades. Stays were free, though guests were urged to donate, per Digital Desert.
The Bureau of Land Management began legal proceedings in the 1960s to close the resort and evict Springer for violating mining laws, according to Cal State Fullerton. The facility closed in 1974. All That’s Interesting reported that Springer was forcibly removed on April 11, 1974, and had 36 hours to leave.
Springer later retired to Las Vegas, per the National Park Service. California State University took over the site in 1976 and now runs a Desert Studies Center there. The county said the man-made pond that Springer once stocked still holds a protected habitat for the Mohave tui chub and desert pupfish.
Springer was not the only person to draw crowds with something that was not what it seemed. In 1869, George Hull sold most of the Cardiff Giant for $23,000, and many visitors paid 25 cents to see the statue and accepted is as a petrified human being, Archaeology reported.
Bravo's Sneak Peek at New Texas-Set Reality Show Has Fans Saying the Same Thing
Home to all your favorite reality shows, Bravo is now heading down south for its next small-screen project.
On Thursday, October 22, the TV network dropped a first look at Small Town Trouble: Texas, premiering November 18 and streaming the next day on Peacock.
Here’s the show’s synopsis in part, per Bravo’s sneak-peek reveal: “Set in Boerne (that’s Bur-nee to the uninitiated), Texas, the series follows a charming yet unconventional group of wives, mothers and social insiders – Aaryn Williams, Annari Uys, Gabby Hernandez Huffman, Alli McAnelly and Hailey Head, alongside their respective husbands Nick Williams, Duan Uys, Jordan Huffman, Blake McAnelly and Josh Marsalis – as conservative values of small-town life collide with forbidden attraction, messy friendships, and shocking secrets.”
Check out the first-look footage below.
Fans have since commented on the YouTube upload to share their initial thoughts on Small Town Trouble: Texas, a show title that might remind fans of the song of the summer (“Choosin’ Texas” by Ella Langley). Many of the viewers’ reactions center on a certain Big Brother alum.
“Because of Aaryn, CBS now has a disclaimer for Big Brother live feeds because of her blatant racism,” one YouTube user commented. “There’s footage everywhere of her explicitly racist actions and remarks. Kinda crazy they decided to cast her on a show like this…”
Another person commented, “Bravo’s really out here trying to uncancel Aaryn from television. Thumbs down!”
Here’s a more detailed breakdown of the show’s other stars, per Bravo:
- Wealthy, glamorous and full of personality, Hailey is just beginning to explore life outside the home she shares with her longtime partner, Josh, and their two kids…
- A third-generation local with rodeo grit, platinum small-town status and firmly traditional views in her own marriage with Blake, Alli is in a state of self-discovery…
- San Antonio-born and raised as a preacher’s daughter, Gabby is unpacking a repressed evangelical past while boldly exploring who and what she wants…
What to Watch on Prime Video This Weekend: Chris Pratt Returns in 'The Terminal List' Season 2
Looking to update your streaming queue this weekend? Prime Video has introduced several major series drops across the platform this week, spanning military thrillers, animated comedies, and sports biographical profiles. Whether you are looking for an eight-episode binge with Chris Pratt, a fresh season of underworld animation, or an inside look at minor league hockey with Michael Bublé, there is plenty of fresh content hitting the service this weekend.
Here are the top three TV shows available on Prime Video this weekend (Oct. 23-25).
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New on Prime Video This Weekend (Oct. 23–25, 2026) The Terminal List Season 2 Chris Pratt as James Reece in ‘The Terminal List’Marni Grossman/Prime
The Terminal List returns for its anticipated second season with all 8 episodes dropping at once. Chris Pratt reprises his role as Navy SEAL Commander James Reece in this military thriller series based on Jack Carr’s bestselling novel True Believer. Following the violent events of the first season, Reece finds himself drawn into an international espionage conspiracy while attempting to navigate a path toward redemption. The new season expands the scope beyond domestic revenge into global counter-terrorism efforts across Europe and Africa. The ensemble cast includes Taylor Kitsch, Constance Wu and Jai Courtney.
Related: Will There Be a Season 3 of ‘The Terminal List’? Here’s What We Know
Courtesy of Amazon
The hit indie animated series Helluva Boss has returned to Prime Video for its third season. Created by Vivienne Medrano, the musical workplace comedy takes place in Hell, following the chaotic operations of Immediate Murder Professionals (I.M.P.), an assassination agency catering to demonic clients. Season 3 continues the misadventures of company founder Blitzo (Brandon Rogers), weapons expert Moxxie (Richard Steven Horvitz), powerhouse Millie (Vivian Nixon), and receptionist Loona (Erica Lindbeck) as they handle assassin contracts on Earth while managing personal relationships in the underworld. The new season delivers the signature balance of dark humor, fast-paced action, and musical numbers that fans have come to expect. Be sure to binge before the Part 1 finale airs on Oct. 28!
Related: ‘Mrs. Doubtfire’ Star Mara Wilson Is on a ‘Magical’ Journey — and You Won’t Believe What She Looks Like Now
Courtesy of Amazon
Hometown Giants is a brand-new original docuseries chronicling the 2025–26 season of the Western Hockey League’s Vancouver Giants. The unscripted series provides an inside look at the minor league hockey franchise under the ownership group co-led by Grammy-winning singer Michael Bublé and HGTV star Drew Scott. Across six episodes, the camera crew captures the physical demands, roster turnover, and front-office pressure of junior hockey, highlighting young prospects dreaming of the NHL draft alongside local community traditions in British Columbia. It’s the perfect show for hockey fans looking for something to binge between bouts on the ice.
Related: Michael Bublé Reveals How Michael J. Fox Changed His Life After Major Honor
Billy Joel Praised His 9-Year-Old Daughter’s Musical Creativity as He Celebrated Her 9th Birthday
Billy Joel is celebrating the birthday of his youngest daughter while praising her musical skills.
Remy Anne Joel turned 9-years-old on Thursday, October 22, and the ‘Piano Man” posted a loving tribute on Instagram.
“Dear Remy: I love the songs you’re writing, and I love your guitar playing; I’m very proud of you,” he captioned a photo of her posing in a denim outfit on top of a rock near the water. “Happy Birthday. Love, Dad.”
Joel has three children. In 1985, he welcomed his first child, Alexa, 40, with his then-wife, model Christie Brinkley. 30 years later, in 2015, he became a father for the second time with the birth of daughter Della, 11, whom he shares with his fourth and current wife, Alexis Roderick.
In his 2025 HBO documentary Billy Joel: And So It Goes, the five-time Grammy winner, 77, revealed that initially he thought he was too old to have children again when Della and Remy were born.
“Having these little kids at this time in my life is such a joy,” he said. I wanted to make sure that they got everything they needed from me, so I kind of knuckled down and took fatherhood very, very seriously.”
Now Joel is focusing on his health. In September, he disclosed he underwent brian surgery after being diagnosed with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH)—a condition involving a buildup of cerebrospinal fluid in the brain.
He opened up about his recovery in a recent interview with The Hollywood Reporter.
“My health is good. I have this thing called hydrocephalus. It used to be called water on the brain, so it affects your balance, it affects your memory, it affects your vision, your hearing,” he said. “But I’m OK. They call it a brain disorder, but it’s not that serious. It’s just something that affects your balance mostly.”
However, he does not know if he will ever be able to perform again.
“I have to take a series of tests before I know, but I can’t drive right now,” he said. “I’m not allowed to drive. And I can’t do performances because what the neurologist told me, every time you do a show, it’s like you’re getting a concussion.”
'M*A*S*H' Star Gary Burghoff Explained the ‘Disturbing’ Side of Playing Radar
Actor Gary Burghoff famously played the lovable and seemingly psychic Corporal Walter Eugene “Radar” O’Reilly on the beloved CBS sitcom, M*A*S*H, which had an 11-season run until 1983. However, Burghoff, now 83, once shared that he found being tied to Radar upsetting.
MeTV.com reported that Burghoff discussed his exit from the series in its eighth season, while speaking to The Desert Sun. He suggested that he wanted to differentiate himself from his iconic M*A*S*H character.
“It had nothing to do with M*A*S*H. It had to do with what Gary wanted to do for himself and his family,” said Burghoff, who also played Radar in the 1970 M*A*S*H film. “When the whole world begins to refer to you as Radar, you begin to wonder if Gary exists. That was disturbing… All of a sudden, if Gary Burghoff wasn’t a household name, Radar was.”
According to MeTV.com, Burghoff also told The Desert Sun that he wasn’t interested in “being a celebrity.”
“I find being a person is more important than being a celebrity. A celebrity, in my mind, is a person who wears $300 jackets, drives Rolls-Royces and lives a certain lifestyle. He never thinks about his family and that lifestyle,” said Burghoff. “What I tend to be shy of is too many bright lights and too many parties. It’s just not part of my personality. It takes a certain type of person to be a celebrity, and I’m just not that type. If being a celebrity interferes with that closeness and warmth, then I don’t want to be a celebrity. I just want to be Gary.”
Gary Burghoff Shared an Interaction He Had With a Korean War VeteranIn a 2016 interview with MeTV, Burghoff shared he received “the greatest compliment” about M*A*S*H from a veteran who served in the Korean War. He said he was approached by the veteran in a parking lot. According to Burghoff, he was told that happenings of the 4077th MASH unit in the show were accurate to what occurred.
“He said, ‘I was in the trenches in Korea.’ And I knew enough about the trenches in Korea, to know immediately that this was a man who had been through serious trauma, because that was a living hell. And he said, ‘When I came back home in 1952, I was changed, and my wife knew that I needed to talk about it. And I couldn’t bring myself to talk about it,'” recalled the actor. “And he said, ‘When your show came on the air, many years later, it was the first time that I could reach over and touch her on the arm and say, ‘See, honey, that’s the way it was.’ That was the greatest compliment that we could ever have because we always tried to tie the entertainment value into the reality, as much as we possibly could in our small way.”
Why Does Your Dog Eat Treats on the Carpet?
Ever notice your dog carrying a treat into another room before taking a bite? Or maybe a piece of chicken falls onto the kitchen floor, and your pup immediately heads for the living room rug.
While some dogs happily enjoy their snacks wherever they’re given, others seem determined to find the perfect spot first.
But why the carpet?
Experts suggest this quirky habit could have several explanations, ranging from natural instincts to simple comfort.
What Does It Mean When Your Dog Takes Food to the Carpet?Your dog’s unusual dining preference may have more to do with comfort or instinct than the food itself.
According to the American Kennel Club (AKC), moving food to another location can be an instinctive behavior or a learned habit.
The reason may depend on your dog’s individual preferences and surroundings.
Why Do Dogs Carry Food Away Before Eating It?One possible explanation dates back to dogs’ wild ancestors.
Veterinarian Dr. Tory Waxman told Reader’s Digest that dogs may have inherited this behavior from wolves.
In the wild, wolves sometimes carry pieces of their prey away from the group to avoid competition or having their food stolen. They may also move food to save it for later.
For dogs sharing a home with other pets, carrying food somewhere else may similarly provide a sense of security, according to Wag!.
Even dogs without other animals in the home may display this instinctive behavior.
And plenty of dog owners have noticed the same habit. In a Reddit discussion, several people shared experiences of their dogs carrying food to another room or nearby rug before eating.
Why Do Some Dogs Prefer Carpet Over Hard Floors?Beyond instinct, the carpet itself may be part of the appeal.
According to Houndsy, carpeting provides more traction than slippery hardwood or tile floors, offering dogs a more stable surface while they eat.
That extra grip may be especially helpful when chewing treats that need to be held in place.
Should You Stop Your Dog From Eating on the Carpet?Not necessarily.
According to Wag!, the habit generally doesn’t need to be discouraged unless it’s causing a problem.
If you’d rather keep food off your rug, the AKC recommends trying different food bowls or placing a small carpet square or towel near your dog’s feeding area.
A quieter feeding location may also help, particularly if other pets or household activity seem to be distracting your pup, according to Wag!.
If the behavior develops suddenly alongside appetite changes or signs of discomfort, consult your veterinarian.
Otherwise, whether it’s instinct or simply a preference for softer surfaces, your dog’s favorite dining spot is usually nothing to worry about.
Tommy Hilfiger's 'Classy' Puffer Coat Looks 'Expensive,' But It's Under $100 Right Now at Macy's
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The first reason you won’t see a thick coat in my closet is that I live in a warm climate. The second is that I refuse to pay for dry cleaning. My penny-pinching nature means I only buy clothing I can throw in the washing machine. But with plans to visit a snowy destination on my radar later this winter, this Texas gal needs an actual coat — and one that’s as easy to care for as it is to pack. Enter: Tommy Hilfiger’s Puffer Packable Hooded Coat.
Another thing I’m not doing is overpaying for something I’ll rarely wear, which is why I was especially excited to see this puffer coat on sale for half off at Macy’s. Normally $180, it’s now $90. Finding such a functional coat for under $100 is exactly the type of deal I needed ahead of winter, and knowing it’s a rare find makes it even sweeter. Plus, it comes in four colors, including a neutral black, sleek navy, white sand, and crimson red, so there’s a style available to suit every taste.
Tommy Hilfiger Puffer Packable Hooded Coat, $90 (was $180) at Macy’s Shop at Macy'sDesigned for lightweight warmth, this fully lined, mid-length coat is made from water-repellent polyester and nylon. It features a drawstring hood, a two-way front closure zipper, and side zip pockets. Easy to care for, whenever this coat gets dirty it can be machine washed and hung up to dry.
Available in women’s sizes XXS through XXL, shoppers noted that this coat fits true-to-size. It’s approximately 36 inches in length from collar to hem, offering plenty of coverage to protect the lower half of your body from cold benches, bus seats, and windy weather. Despite the extra length, it’s easy to compress down and pack in a suitcase when traveling.
Tommy Hilfiger Puffer Packable Hooded Coat, $90 (was $180) at Macy’s Shop at Macy'sMacy’s customers loved this coat’s “classy” style, and said it looked more “expensive” than it costs, even at full price. The “fluffy” coat kept reviewers plenty “warm” on cold days, which one person said made it the perfect “very light snow jacket.” One shopper described the style as “somehow puffy but sleek.”
It’s also “very easy to zip up” and “the pockets are deep,” according to shoppers, so you should have plenty of room to keep your hands toasty or stash your phone and keys.
Shop More Puffer Coat Deals- DKNY Walker Length Puffer, $114 (was $285) at Macy’s
- Nautica Faux Fur Trim Hooded Puffer Coat, $114 (was $285) at Macy’s
- Karl Lagerfeld Paris Short Hooded Faux Fur Collar Puffer Jacket, $106 (was $265) at Macy’s
You won’t want to miss the chance to snag the Tommy Hilfiger Puffer Packable Hooded Coat while it’s 50% off at Macy’s ahead of cold weather. Add it in your preferred color and size now before this deal is gone!
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'The Amazing Race 39's Dafina and Saran Dunmore Reveal Their Actual Closest Allies — And They Weren't the 'Boss Ladies' (Exclusive)
Pack your bags, because The Amazing Race is back! Every week, Parade’s Mike Bloom will bring you interviews with the team most recently eliminated from the race.
The Amazing Race 39 editors were certainly investors in the “bestors” of Dafina and Saran Dunmore. The sisters had a knack for being able to get into danger, yet pulling themselves out of it just in the nick of time. We got our first taste of this on the opening leg, when the two agreed to work with Daisha Wilks and Dalton Hamby, only to soon after pull out their Express Pass on the final task to guarantee their safety. Their struggles continued in Spain, as they fell into the back of the pack while failing to identify local icons. But their frustrations extended beyond themselves, as they were feeling a certain way towards the other members of an all-women’s alliance that had formed hours earlier, especially when they didn’t receive the help they expected.
As much as Dafina and Saran hadn’t found themselves in the front much, their race got quite literally hamstrung when Dafina got injured in Morocco. Luck was on the sisters’ side, however, as they then immediately received the “Roadside Assistance,” a power that let both team members complete the Roadblock. And they put it to great effect the very next leg, helping during a critical shoe search to survive the Scramble. As the race headed to Albania, Dafina and Saran began to slide down in the rankings like slick vineyard mud. But, thanks to Saran’s baking skills, the two were able to bounce back, being comfortably in the middle of the pack heading to the Pit Stop. All of the teams, however, had been struggling with the first self-driving leg of the race, especially navigation. And for Dafina and Saran, it proved fatal. The two got so lost that they once again fell into last place, saying “GG” to the self-proclaimed “G.”
Now, out of the race, Dafina and Saran explain their race-ending navigational troubles, the extent of Dafina’s injury, and their thoughts on the “boss ladies” alliance (and who their closest allies actually were).
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What’s your personal history with The Amazing Race, and what made you make the jump from fans to racers?
Dafina Dunmore: If we were going to do it, we were 100% always going to do it together. But Saran led the process. She called me and said, “Ge, let’s apply for The Amazing Race!” I’m like, “Okay, another one of her ideas. Let’s do it!”
Saran Dunmore: And when we got the phone call, we were so beyond ourselves with exhiliration. Because we were not together, surprisingly. And then we got the call, and I said, “Can I call my sister?” She said, “Of course.” And so then we were on three-way, and we were just beside ourselves. It was exciting.
How long had you been watching the show before you decided to apply?
Dafina: We wouldn’t characterize ourselves as superfans.
Saran: We love y’all, though! [Laughs.]
Dafina: I wouldn’t characterize us as watching season after season. But we certainly started watching a lot of seasons. We were binging, and now of course we’re superfans. But we didn’t grow up watching the show. We had some friends recommend that we apply for it, because they thought, based on what they had seen, that we’d be good for it. And so we applied!
So let’s go from the beginning of the race to where it ended. You left the final task comfortably in the middle of the pack. So how did you get so lost that it sent you all the way to last place?
Saran: Mike, it’s easy. I didn’t listen to my sister. She was the navigator. I was the driver. I had a difference of opinion of where we should go. And she just thought, w”Wll, I’m navigating, and I think we should go this way.” And I thought differently. And so I said, “No, I think we should turn around and go back to where we started.”
Wait, you mean you went all the way back to the bunker?
Saran: Don’t worry about it, Mike. It’s fine!
Dafina: Clearly, it’s not fine! But that was the decision just to orient ourselves again. I don’t know. And it was traffic. There were roundabouts. We couldn’t get off. At some points, we couldn’t get back on where we thought we could. So it became this whole mess. And then once we’re lost, we’re lost.
Saran, you speak about how fried your brain is. Was that from the day, the navigation, or just the race up to that point?
Saran: It was from that traffic. I mean, the ride from the bunker, for me, it was overwhelming.
Dafina: It was so funny hearing that because I forgot you said that. At that moment, I was still like, “Okay, this is where we need to go.” But yeah, that was crazy.
Well, let’s go from mental agony to physical agony. Dafina, talk to me about how exactly you got that hamstring injury. And how much did it affect your race moving forward?
Dafina: Well, Mike, nothing is as simple as anything when you’re over 50! [Laughs.] But just imagine being like stationary flights for long periods of time, and then you’re in an all-out sprint. That is not good for the body at any age, let alone over 50. So I always knew that it was going to be important to keep my body healthy. But in the throes of the competition, I never want to let this one down. [Points to Saran.] We had in our minds, “Let’s get the first taxi.” So we ran out, and I was near the front. And I was the first one of the first to get to a taxi, but the taxi that was in the back of the line. So then we proceeded to sprint to the front of the line.
Saran: Why didn’t we get int the taxi? We would have all been fine!
Dafina: But the sprint to the front of the line is what did it. It was a mild strain, though. So I was still able to run slowly. I really don’t think that it played into us being eliminated for sure
Saran: Because she was still a boss!
Dafina: Certainly, we weren’t able to run as fast, but we were still moving and, like, finishing in the middle of the pack even after the injury.
Did the injury factor at all into your choice to play the Roadside Assistance during the Scramble?
Saran: We were so happy to have that because of the injury. But it didn’t play into when we played it.
Dafina: I think we used. Because we had, like, been in that market long enough to know that there were a billion shoes. And so why waste time going off looking for one shoe when we could double up and have two shoes? So we thought that was a strategic way to use it because we could double our chances. And we got it really fast! There was no editing in how quickly we got it. That was all accurate. We got it really fast.
Let’s talk about another power that came into play this week. We got to see not one, but two Driver’s Seats courtesy of Michelle and Matt. Did you have any sort of reaction to the choices they made?
Saran: No! In fact, we were delighted that they thought we were strong and capable to lift 75 pounds. So we felt like, “Yeah, they think we’re strong!”
Dafina: And they didn’t give us 100. So we were thrilled with that.
Saran: So we were pretty thankful with how they used it. We knew they had to give someone the most and someone the least. So to be in the middle of the pack, we thought that was pretty good. And even with the second Driver’s Seat, the pastries, it was my challenge to do, and I didn’t know anything about pastries. I didn’t know how hard, how easy it would be. So to have an idea of, “Oh, I have this number,” I just wasn’t even thinking. I just saw the number and said, “Oh, I have 12 pastries to make.” That was it.
Speaking of other teams, I’d be remiss not to bring up the “Boss Ladies” alliance with Ali/Joanna and Ann-Marie/Riley. We see you talk a couple of times about feeling slighted that they didn’t help you in Spain and Morocco. Talk to me more about that.
Saran: With Morocco, let’s clear that up.
Dafina: Good point! So in Morocco, we said, “Oh, they went in their own direction,” and there was a fracture in the alliance. But it was really that we both had different instructions. We already had, like, someone’s cell phone, and where they were going was in the opposite direction from where we thought we were supposed to go. So we elected to branch off. So that was really not a fracture of the alliance per se.
We had all gotten to that point of the race at the same time, and we did say, “let’s stick together. Let’s get directions and let’s run together.” But Saran and I had gotten there first before they got there. So we had already started getting directions when they got there, and they said, “Oh yeah, let’s run together.” We were like, “Yeah, let’s do that.” But then once they started running off or they got their directions, we realized it was different directions that we got. So we trusted to go our own way and not to follow them.
In general, did you find yourself working with the “Boss Ladies”? We didn’t necessarily see moments of that on the show.
Saran: It kind of felt like we were just doing our own thing.
Dafina: I think we worked probably more closely with Conner and Garrett. We were running in the market with them a few times. And they did the sweetest thing when I injured my hamstring; they offered to carry my backpack. That is amazing! But I was like, “Okay, I cannot allow these gentlemen to in any way impact their race for being such gentlemen.” So I was like, “No, but thank you.” So we worked with them, and they had run past where you got to the mat to see Phil. They were already gone, and we went back to get them and said, “No, guys, it’s this way.” So we all went to the mat together.
I want to get into one moment where you certain ran your own race, back in the premiere. You and Daisha and Dalton agreed to do the Detour together in Vancouver, and you proceeded to then play your Express Pass without telling them. Talk to me about what went into that decision. And how did Daisha and Dalton react?
Saran: So let me say this. When we decided to do that, first of all, we felt horrible to do that to them because we did say we would work together, and we are women of our word. But we just knew that it was a matter of us leaving the race or staying in the race. And we wanted to stay in the race because if we didn’t use it, either Zach and Nate could use it or Daisha and Dalton. And we just wanted to be in control of our own destiny, so we decided to use it. And thankfully, they were not upset. They’re so sweet. And we’re still friends today.
Dafina: We did see the claws come out, though! And the thing about. Is that they’re so reasonable. They know it’s a race, right? And so they were just like, “You guys did what you had to do. We do not have hard feelings.” Which is amazing. When you’re at the bottom of the pack and you’re fighting for your life, you know at that point it’s like every person for themselves. So they’re reasonable.
Saran: And we didn’t want to be the first team to go home under any circumstances.
Dafina: With our Express Pass in our pocket!
Saran: Oh my goodness, no way.
Let’s turn the focus from the other teams back to yourselves. What’s the biggest thing you learned about your “bester” racing around the world together?
Dafina: I am so proud of Saran and her ability to think outside the box. I’ve been in corporate America my entire career. I am very much an “in-the-box,” [by-the-book] person. And Saran has always had this other way of approaching things. And so her ability to do that in so many of those challenges. Like the way she remembered the teas in Morocco, I was of no use. I’m driving the buggy! And so just her ability to think outside the box. She’s so clever, and I knew that. But it just came to the forefront, and that was like so amazing to me. Saran: I was always so impressed with her resilience. I mean, when she injured her hamstring, I just knew that that was going to give me a little bit of reprieve, a little break to catch my breath here and there. It didn’t happen. She kept going. I was thinking, “Slow down!” But this one is so tough. When I tell you, under pressure, she was reading the maps, getting instructions, doing all the things, understanding things. When I couldn’t, I would look to her and say, “What do we have to do? What did they say? Where do we go?” Her resilience, she’s so tough and just so amazing. The absolute best.
Fox News Host Guy Benson Opens Up About Alzheimer’s Devastating His Family
Fox News host Guy Benson is opening up about the devastating impact Alzheimer’s disease has had on his family and the fear that one day he could face the same diagnosis.
Benson, host of The Guy Benson Show on Fox News Radio, revealed on the Ahead of Alzheimer’s podcast that his mother is currently living with the disease. Both of her parents also had Alzheimer’s, meaning Benson has been aware of the disease and its potential implications for his own future since he was a child.
“I’m also aware that given the family history, there’s at least a decent chance that one day this will be coming my direction as well,” Benson told host Emily Kaplan.
Benson said his mother was diagnosed in her mid-60s and is now in her early 70s. She is currently in what he understands to be the middle stage of the disease.
For years, Benson deliberately avoided discussing his mother’s diagnosis publicly despite having a national platform.
He worried that speaking about something so personal could make his mother uncomfortable or appear as though he was exploiting her illness. But Benson eventually learned that his mother didn’t merely approve of him discussing her experience publicly. She wanted him to do it.
Benson said his mother recognized that her son “literally” had a microphone and an audience and thought sharing her story could potentially help other families.
“The bravery is hers,” Benson said. “It’s her life, it’s her affliction.”
Benson also described some of the early warning signs his family noticed before his mother’s diagnosis. She began forgetting words and where certain things were, while tasks she had easily performed throughout her life suddenly became difficult.
He believes his mother was initially able to conceal some of those changes because she was aware they were happening.
The progression hasn’t always been predictable, however. Benson recalled attending the wedding of a close family friend and watching his mother seemingly return to her old self for an evening.
“It seemed like for a night it was gone,” he said.
Benson said his mother can sometimes rise to the occasion when she’s surrounded by people she loves and engaged in social activities. Those moments can make the reality of the disease harder for family members who don’t see her every day to recognize, but they’ve also provided some cherished experiences.
Benson has two young children, and he said they continue to bring his mother enormous joy. His son wants to FaceTime his grandparents every day, and Benson said his family has been able to find laughter alongside the difficult moments.
“We’re muddling through in a way that has been tough, but beautiful,” he said.
After Benson finally began speaking publicly about his mother’s Alzheimer’s diagnosis, he was stunned by the reaction.
Yesterday — for the first time, and after important conversations with my parents — I decided to publicly reveal that my beautiful, wonderful, sweet, caring mother has been battling Alzheimer’s for a number of years. It’s a cruel disease, but she is a faithful woman who is the… pic.twitter.com/DIvhpEShEw
— Guy Benson (@guypbenson) July 15, 2026A social media post featuring a selfie of Benson and his mother received literally thousands of replies. He heard from childhood friends, strangers sharing their own families’ experiences and even U.S. senators. Benson said the response appeared to give his mother something important as well: a feeling that she was reclaiming some control over what was happening to her.
“It was like that first sense of taking some of the power maybe back,” he said.
The experience also showed Benson how many families are dealing with Alzheimer’s without discussing it publicly.
His father serves as his mother’s primary caregiver, while Benson and his two siblings remain involved despite living at different distances from their parents. The family has also continued traveling together and focusing on experiences they can still share. For Benson, one of the most frightening aspects of Alzheimer’s is the way it can gradually affect the things that make someone who they are.
“Your body failing you is one thing,” he said. “Your mind failing you is kind of you, the essence of you.”
Despite that fear and his own family history, Benson said he’s hopeful that advances in Alzheimer’s research will mean his future could look very different from his mother’s.
“God willing, decades from now, things are looking different,” he said.
For now, however, Benson’s focus remains on his mother and on using his platform to make other families living with Alzheimer’s feel less alone.
“This affects and touches so many families,” Benson said. “I just think we all need to link arms and work together so that in the future, we can look back and say, ‘Look at this thing we’ve eradicated.’”
Hobby Lobby's $17 Four-Tiered Farmhouse Shelf Is So 'Perfect and Versatile,' One Shopper Bought 3
This time of year, it’s only normal to feel like you’re constantly acquiring new things. Between adding new pieces to your wardrobe, redecorating for the holidays and receiving Christmas gifts at the end of it all, it doesn’t take long before your home starts to feel a bit overcrowded.
Fortunately, Hobby Lobby has the perfect thing to bring a little order to your space while making room to better showcase the things you love: the Four-Tiered Metal Wall Shelf. Available for just $16.99, this rustic shelving unit adds a splash of modern farmhouse charm to any room while taking advantage of vertical space. Designed to mount right to your wall, it creates an eye-catching display without sacrificing valuable floor space.
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Four-Tiered Metal Wall Shelf, $16.99 at Hobby LobbyEasy to find both in-store and online, Hobby Lobby’s Four-Tiered Metal Wall Shelf is a new arrival to the retailer’s ever-changing collection of furniture finds, and its $17 price tag is already a big hit with fans. Featuring four natural wood shelves framed by rounded black metal sides and a flat top and bottom, it offers a distinctive silhouette with plenty of space for displaying a variety of items.
Measuring 23.75 inches tall, 15.75 inches wide and 4 inches deep, this piece is small but mighty, with 5.38 inches of available space between each shelf and two keyhole mounts to secure it safely to your wall. Whether you’re decorating it with candles, small framed photos and tiny potted plants in your room or using it to create more storage space in the kitchen, its versatile design lets you find a world of ways to put it to use.
So Versatile, Shoppers Are Buying More Than OneBacked by rave reviews from fans who praise the shelf’s versatility, you’d be hard-pressed not to find a use for one (or two) in your home.
One shopper called it “perfect and versatile for whatever you need,” naming its $17 price tag as “the best part” about it.
“I purchased 3 of these and they were perfect for my miniature collection,” another shopper raved, assuring others they “won’t be disappointed” and admitting they’re ready to “purchase another two.”
Others echoed the sentiment, with one fan noting that while the shelf is “not fancy,” it’s perfect for what they need it for. They added that it would be just as easy to “dress it up” with a fresh coat of paint, vines and more.
Here for now and not around for long, this affordable home upgrade is worth snatching up while you still have the chance. Use it in any space in need of a little creative display and watch as it clears up the room around it with a little farmhouse flair.
While you’re at it, keep an eye out for Hobby Lobby’s Kermit Floral Trellis Runner Rug and Pumpkin Wood Serving Board for even more affordable ways to upgrade your home.
Allergies Worse When You Wake Up? Allergists Say This Common Bedroom Habit Could Be Why
Fall is Americans’ favorite season, even more popular than summer with its warm weather and abundance of vacation days.
It’s easy to understand why. In many parts of the country, the trees are a beautiful array of red, orange and yellow. The temperature is warm enough to enjoy being outside without sweating. And the farmers’ market has an abundance of delicious produce, like pumpkins, apples and sweet potatoes.
But if you suffer from fall allergies, battling the elements can really put a damper on all the fun fall festivities. “Certain people are definitely more prone to symptoms in the fall,” says Dr. Meagan Shepherd, MD, an allergist and immunologist. Dr. Shepherd says that weed pollen, including ragweed and mold spore levels, all increase in the fall. “People who are sensitized to weeds or mold can definitely see an uptick in their allergy and asthma symptoms starting around mid-August,” she says.
It can be especially frustrating to wake up with allergy symptoms. After all, you haven’t even gone outside yet! According to allergists, there are reasons why allergies can be worse in the morning, and a common bedroom habit can make it even more likely to wake up with allergy symptoms.
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Why Allergies Can Be Worse in the MorningAllergies can cause all sorts of annoying symptoms, including sneezing, a runny nose, an itchy throat and red, watery eyes. Dr. Stephanie Kayode, MBChB, BSc, an allergist based in London, points out that this can make it pretty hard to fall asleep.
“The two symptoms that most affect sleep are a blocked nose and a runny nose. They happen because dust and pollen allergens trigger inflammation and swelling inside the nose,” Dr. Kayode says. She explains that when the nasal lining is congested, it becomes harder for the air we breathe in through the nose to pass through.
For many people, allergy symptoms are even worse in the morning. Dr. Shepherd says this typically happens to people who are allergic to dust mites, which live in soft surfaces like mattresses, pillows and bedding. If you sleep with your pet, she says this can also lead to some pretty bad allergy symptoms in the morning.
Related: The #1 Unexpected Sign of Seasonal Allergies Most People Miss, According to Allergists
The Common Bedroom Habit That Makes Allergy Symptoms Worse In the MorningThere’s one habit in particular that all three allergists we talked to say can make symptoms worse in the morning: not washing your bedding regularly. Dr. Kayode explains that bedding accumulates dust. That means that when you’re in bed, you’re in close contact with dust and dust mites for six to nine hours. “The prolonged exposure to dust mite allergen can disturb sleep and lead to symptoms that are worse by morning,” she says.
Dr. Rita Kachru, MD, an allergy and immunology doctor with UCLA Health, says that sleeping with the window open can also lead to experiencing worse allergy symptoms in the morning. She says that nighttime is when allergens tend to pollinate, and if your window is open, you’re breathing them right in.
Waking up with allergy symptoms has a real impact not only physically, but mentally. One study published in the Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology found that experiencing morning allergy symptoms substantially impacted participants’ mood for the day and negatively impacted their relationships. This is why it’s so important to find a way to treat your allergy symptoms and not just suffer through them.
Related: Allergies Might Be to Blame for Your Upset Stomach—Here’s How to Know, and What to Do About It’
How to Wake Up RefreshedFortunately, there is a lot you can do to minimize allergy symptoms during the fall and wake up refreshed. As Dr. Kayode explained, dust can accumulate on bedding. This means that washing your bedding more often is key to reducing symptoms. Aim to wash your bedding once a week to minimize dust and dust mites.
“For dust-mite allergic patients, using a dust-mite proof mattress and pillow encasements can help reduce the dust mite exposure at night. Washing bedding in the hottest wash and dry cycle once weekly, with a goal of reaching at least 130°F for 15 minutes, can help reduce dust mite load,” says Dr. Shepherd.
Dr. Kayode says that using a dehumidifier in the bedroom can help reduce symptoms because dust mites thrive in damp conditions. She adds that using an air purifier can also help. “Air purifiers, especially those equipped with high-efficiency particulate air filters, are effective at removing dust mite particles and other airborne allergens such as pollen and animal dander from our home. As air purifiers filter the air that passes through them, models with higher airflow rates tend to be more effective at reducing levels of dust,” she says, adding that it’s also important to change your air filters regularly.
Since dust can also accumulate in carpets and room corners, Dr. Kayode says it’s also important to vacuum regularly. Remember, open windows can make symptoms worse in the morning, so Dr. Kachru recommends sleeping with the windows closed if you suffer from allergies. If you have a pet, she recommends having your pet sleep outside your bedroom to minimize breathing in pet dander.
If you wake up in the morning with symptoms, Dr. Kayode recommends doing a nasal rinse to decrease any allergens from your nasal passage that you may have come into contact with overnight. Dr. Kayode adds that over-the-counter anti-allergy medications such as antihistamine tablets and steroid nasal sprays can be helpful too.
If over-the-counter medications are not reducing your symptoms or allergies are impacting your daily life by preventing you from getting enough sleep or negatively impacting your mood, all three allergists say to see a doctor.
“Doctors can prescribe higher doses of antihistamine tablet medications and stronger steroid nasal sprays. There are some categories of allergy medications that are only available by prescription. These include combination nasal sprays that contain both steroids and antihistamines, certain antihistamine eye drops and immunotherapy,” Dr. Kayode says.
What’s most important is that suffering from allergy symptoms doesn’t become your new normal. With some simple housekeeping and help from a doctor, if needed, you can enjoy everything fall has to offer symptom-free.
Up Next:
Related: Doctors Are Begging People To Stop Taking Allergy Medicine This Way
Sources- Our Nation’s Favorite Season, According To Farmers’ Almanac Readers. Farmers’ Almanac.
- Dr. Meagan Shepherd, MD, allergist and immunologist.
- Dr. Stephanie Kayode, MBChB, BSc, allergist at Allergy Care London.
- Dr. Rita Kachru, MD, allergy and immunology doctor with UCLA Health.
- Sharp, T. J. and Seeto, C. (2010). The Psychosocial Impact of Self-Reported Morning Allergy Symptoms: Findings from an Australian Internet-Based Survey. Journal of Allergy and Clinical Immunology. doi: 10.1155/2010/710926.
- How Often You Should Wash Your Sheets. Cleveland Clinic.
Monica Lewinsky Turns Heads on the Red Carpet as Tell-All Book Rumors Swirl
Monica Lewinsky, 53, is glowing on the red carpet in a recent appearance.
While Lewinsky rose to stardom as a former White House intern who was involved with President Bill Clinton, the star’s credentials go far beyond her rise in the ’90s. Now a successful podcaster, Lewinsky is a frequent face in the media. (She even just scored a Signal Award for Best Host for her hit podcast, Reclaiming with Monica Lewinsky.) She just landed on the red carpet at the Make Equality Reality Gala 2026 at Cipriani 25 Broadway in New York City, and made it clear that she’s only getting more stunning as the years go by.
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Is Monica Lewinsky Writing a Tell-All?Axelle/Bauer-Griffin / Getty Images
Word on the web is that Lewinsky is shopping a tell-all book around, Page Six Hollywood reported earlier this week. The piece shared that the publishing industry is abuzz with rumors of the project, which is reportedly being sold via WME. However, they refused to give further details on the tome. Lewinsky will certainly have a few things to write about in the upcoming memoir!
Lewinsky Reflected on her Troubled PastThis past summer, Lewinsky sat down with The Sopranos star Jamie-Lynn Sigler for an episode of her podcast. Lewinsky spoke candidly about how she wasn’t able to move on from her past as a White House intern until she finally accepted what had happened during those dramatic days.
“It’s such a big part of reclaiming, actually. You really can’t move through all the steps until you’ve had acceptance,” she said. “A lot of my progress during my dark decade really came about from integration and being able to integrate like, ‘OK, I couldn’t leave Monica Lewinsky the White House intern in the past,’ like I had to find a way to not be ashamed and bring her with me, all the things. And so you can’t integrate until you’ve accepted.”
Check out Lewinsky’s podcast, Reclaiming with Monica Lewinsky, below:
Related: Monica Lewinsky Explains Why She Couldn’t Leave Her White House Past Behind
Amazon Picks Up ‘Butcher & Blackbird’ Movie Adaptation and Finds Its Leads
The book adaptation process is long and hard. Butcher & Blackbird by Brynne Weaver was initially picked up as a movie in June 2024, and while there have been a few teases along the way, it’s only in October 2026 that we get some exciting news.
Amazon MGM Studios has picked up the dark romance novel. Lyrical Media and Embrace sold Butcher & Blackbird so that it could be released worldwide on Prime Video, and it makes sense since Chris McKay is the director behind the adaptation. McKay already has a working relationship with The Tomorrow War.
McKay was already on board to direct the movie. That can always change, but he’s sticking around, with Laura Kosann developing the initial script, with revisions by Ari Berkowitz and Ava Tramer. Weaver will executive produce.
Dark romance fans have been waiting for updates on this movie for some time, and it’s not just the home that Deadline has revealed. The two leads have also been found, with Emma Laird taking on the role of Sloan “Blackbird”/’The Orb Weaver” Sutherland and Thomas Doherty playing Rowan “The Boston Butcher” Kane.
Amazon
You’ll recognize Laird from 28 Years Later: The Bone Temple and the BBC series Mint. She will also be in Elden Ring, The Housekeeper, and the second season of HBO’s War. Doherty is best known for his roles in Hulu’s Paradise and the reboot of Gossip Girl. He was also in Tell Me Lies and Catherine the Great.
Butcher & Blackbird became a BookTok sensation after it was published in October 2023. It immediately soared to the top of the New York Times bestseller list and currently has more than five million copies sold. It is just the start of a standalone trilogy series, following the Kane brothers and the women in their lives. Yes, this is the book series that started the trope of destroying some sort of food for everyone reading!
The first dark romance follows Sloan and Rowan, who are two serial killers competing against each other. They only go after other serial killers, though, and each year, they go after the same person to see who can come out on top. Along the way, their bond starts to grow, and they have to address whether there’s a chance for love in this dark and twisted world.
Only the first of the trilogy has been confirmed so far, but as long as it becomes a success, the novels Leather & Lark and Scythe and Sparrow are sure to end up being adapted. Then everyone may want to look ahead to the Seasons of Carnage series, which has one more book in the trilogy, Hunting Season, set to be released in April 2027.