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Most people don't realize what a miracle getting pregnant is until they begin trying. The stars have to align perfectly for the right egg to meet the right sperm in order to create viable life. The fragility of that life is never more apparent than when that pregnancy goes sideways in any way.

Jasmin Garcia, 31, and husband Zechariah Garcia, 34, know all too well how fast things can change.

"Our pregnancy before Leonardo’s diagnosis was incredibly exciting—it almost felt surreal, like 'wow, this is really happening!'" Jasmine tells Parade. "We had been trying for months after experiencing a miscarriage the previous year, so as we moved through this new pregnancy, we became more joyful and eager with each prenatal visit. Zechariah and I both come from big families, so becoming parents was always something we knew we wanted for ourselves."

Courtesy of Jasmine Garcia

But when the time came for their 19-20 week anatomy scan, excitement turned to fear; they found out that the little boy they were expecting had developed gastroschisis, which presents as evidence of free-floating bowel outside of the fetal abdomen.

"In this abnormality, there is a full-thickness abdominal wall defect next to the umbilical cord site, usually to the right, through which fetal bowel protrudes into the amniotic cavity," Dr. James Hole, Medical Director, Maternal Fetal Center, Valley Children’s Healthcare, tells Parade. "They can be classified as simple or complex, based on the presence or absence of other fetal intestinal abnormalities. Approximately 75% are simple, and 25% are complex."

Hole further explains that outcomes of gastroschisis are also influenced by factors like "maternal medical conditions, fetal growth abnormalities, gestational age at delivery, and status of the bowel at the time of delivery."

"The incidence is approximately 1 in 4,000 to 5,000 deliveries and is increasing," he adds. "It is more common in certain situations, such as maternal age less than 20, BMI less than 20, exposure to certain illicit drugs, alcohol, some medications, or environmental exposures."

It was, without a doubt, a terrifying development for the Garcias.

"The diagnosis was a hit to my heart," admits Jasmine. "Zechariah wasn’t familiar with the condition at the time and was trying to process everything as the provider explained it to us. But as a pediatric nurse, I was familiar—and it felt like my entire world stopped in that moment."

"The idea of a 'normal' pregnancy was suddenly gone, and all I could think was, 'Is our baby boy going to be okay?” she adds. "That question stayed with me at every appointment after that."

Luckily for their son, whom they would end up calling Leonardo, doctors had a plan to help him live the best life he could.

Related: Doctors Insisted Woman 'Just' Had Anxiety. Now She Lives With a Feeding Tube

Leonardo's Remarkable Surgery

Though the Garcias were officially in a high-risk pregnancy, Valley Children’s Healthcare guided them throughout the entire process, which Hole said basically entails a methodical approach to pregnancy. It requires:

• Multidisciplinary Consultations: Patients consult with an OB provider, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist, a pediatric surgeon, a neonatologist, and, often, a genetic counselor.
• Specialized Care Facility: Delivery must be planned at a center that provides all required medical specialties.
• Diagnostic Evaluations: Further testing includes a detailed fetal anatomy ultrasound and, often, a fetal echocardiogram.
• Ongoing Monitoring: Serial ultrasounds reassess fetal growth, amniotic fluid volume, and bowel appearance.
• Antenatal Assessment: Assessments of fetal well-being typically begin at 28–32 weeks.
• Delivery Timing: Recommended delivery is between 36–39 weeks, though approximately 50% deliver before 36 weeks.

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Hole reminds parents that the best thing they can do is be prepared to go with the flow.

"The treatment plan for Jasmine and Leonardo required alterations as the pregnancy progressed," explains Hole. "As occurs in more than 50% of cases, Leonardo developed significant fetal growth restriction (small for gestational age growth), and Jasmine developed cholestasis of pregnancy, both of which altered decision-making regarding pregnancy follow-up and delivery planning. Further changes in the care plan were then required when Jasmine had preterm premature rupture of membranes at 33-34 weeks."

"Leonardo had an uncomplicated vaginal delivery at 34 weeks and weighed 3 pounds 15 ounces," says Hole. "Neonatology was present for the delivery, and after stabilization in the delivery room, the infant was transferred to the neonatal intensive care unit for further treatment and surgical consultation."

Courtesy of Jasmine Garcia

"Leonardo’s early days were spent in the NICU, where he was fighting to recover and grow stronger after surgery," Jasmine says. "He was born prematurely at 34 weeks and underwent surgery just a couple of hours after birth. He also battled pneumonia, low blood pressure, and required intubation during his first few days of life. Seeing him like that, with all the tubes and IV lines, was hard, but I knew he was where he needed to be, and that gave me some peace of mind."

Related: 'My Memory Started to Fade As He Drove Me to the Hospital,' Says Woman Who Swore She ‘Just’ had COVID

How Leonardo Is Doing Today

Thankfully, his recovery went better than either his parents or the medical team had anticipated. Leonardo graduated from the NICU early and has progressed beautifully since.

Courtesy of Jasmine Garcia

He is now 18 months old and hitting all the milestones they had hoped for. Jasmine reports that his symptoms don't really impact his day-to-day life, and loves to climb and roughhouse just like any little boy his age.

While the Garcias will have to regularly follow up with specialists due to his condition, which can potentially force him to develop issues like constipation, blockages, and hernias as he grows, he hasn't faced any of those complications and has been growing beautifully.

Courtesy of Jasmine Garcia

What felt like one of the scariest moments for us turned into a journey that showed us how strong we all could be, how important having the right support is, and how resilient these tiny babies truly are," Jasmine adds. "Taking things one day at a time, and watching Leonardo grow stronger each day, made all the difference for us."

King Charles honored his "darling mama," the late Queen Elizabeth in a heartfelt speech, on what would have been her 100th birthday.

The monarch recorded his message from Balmoral Castle, the British royal family’s Scottish estate where Elizabeth II died at age 96 on September 8, 2022. The decision to film his remarks there underscored the location’s deep personal significance, adding a poignant layer to his tribute.

NBC News reported on Charles' statement. He said that the occasion was a chance to "reflect on the life and loss of a sovereign who meant so much to us all and to celebrate anew the many blessings of her memory."

He shared, "Millions will remember her for moments of national significance; many others for a fleeting personal encounter, a smile, a kind word that lifted spirits, or for that marvelous twinkle of the eye when sharing a marmalade sandwich with Paddington Bear in the final months of her life.”

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“Much about the times we now live in, I suspect, may have troubled her deeply, but I take heart from her belief that goodness will always prevail and that a brighter dawn is never far from the horizon. God bless you, darling mama. You remain forever in our hearts and prayers," the king concluded.

RELATED: Queen Elizabeth’s Death Marked ‘End of an Era’ for Royal Family, Expert Says

On April 20, PEOPLE Magazine reported that Charles and his wife, Camilla Parker Bowles, toured the exhibit Queen Elizabeth II: Her Life in Style. It features her wedding dress, coronation gown, tiaras, and other items royal watchers will remember as prominent thorughout Elizabeth's 70-plus year reign.

According to NBC News, other key royal events marking Elizabeth's April 21 birthday include a royal visit the British Museum. There, Charles and other royal family members will view designs for a national memorial to Elizabeth in London’s St James’s Park.

Tim Graham Photo Library via Getty Images

RELATED: King Charles Plans Emotional Tribute for Queen Elizabeth’s 100th Birthday

Additionally, Queen Elizabeth's only daughter, Princess Anne, will open a garden named for her late mother in London’s Regent’s Park. According to GB News, Anne will welcome others who are celebrating their 100th birthdays to the event. Later this evening, Charles will host a reception at Buckingham Palace.

Queen Elizabeth was born Princess Elizabeth Alexandra Mary on April 21, 1926, in London. Her father was King George VI and her mother, Elizabeth Bowes-Lyon. She had one sister, Princess Margaret.

MORE: Queen Elizabeth Urged Prince Harry to Wait on Meghan Markle Wedding, Royal Expert Claims

Denise Richards and Charlie Sheen’s daughter, Lola, is opening up about the emotional and devastating impact actor Patrick Muldoon’s sudden death has had on her and her family.

Muldoon died suddenly on April 19 at age 57 following a heart attack. The actor was known for his roles on Days of Our Lives, Melrose Place, and Starship Troopers, in which he starred opposite Richards. Richards and Muldoon had known each other since they were young adults. Muldoon also made several appearances on Richards’ reality series Denise Richards & Her Wild Things, where the pair affectionately revived their nickname—coined during Starship Troopers—“schweet babe.”

Lola’s Instagram tribute featured an image of her mother and Muldoon, whom she referred to as family. Richards, who has not yet spoken publicly about Muldoon’s death, responded with a broken-heart emoji and praying hands on the post.

View this post on Instagram

“I thought you were the one that was supposed be in our lives forever. When I think of my childhood, I think of you, Pat, and it’s gonna be so weird to go on without you in our lives. you were such a huge part of our family and life will never feel the same, but that’s just because of how much you impacted us,” Lola began her post, thanking Muldoon for teaching them what it means to be alive, and that he defined the meaning of fun.

Lola also recalled a trip she took with Richards and Muldoon, “and you wouldn’t stop singing that Lola song to me, and made me laugh so hard. And you know that song will always make me think of you.”

She added, “I will really miss hearing my mom laugh on the phone with you. Your voice always brightened my day and I’m gonna miss hearing it but I know my mom will more, but we will never stop talking about you. Thank you for being the best friend to her. Thank you for being the one to make her laugh and forget about all she’s going through. That was a gift you had.”

Lola recognized that Muldoon and her mother’s bond was “something so special, that no one can touch.” She continued, “when I think of my mom, I think of you. You guys came as a package, and I’m so thankful I got to know you and witness a friendship so pure and special in front of my eyes. I always begged my mom, I’m sure she told you that you guys would end up back together haha, but I guess staying best friends was better anyways. You really were a rockstar, Pat, and forever will be. Have fun up there, I know you will. love you.”

Teri Nunnproved she hasn’t lost her edge or vocal range at a recent performance at EPCOT, where the Berlin frontwoman delivered an awe-inspiring rendition of one of the band’s most beloved hits, "The Metro." Fans can’t stop talking about Nunn’s performance or her signature style.

Nunn took the stage at the EPCOT International Flower & Garden Festival on Saturday, instantly transporting the crowd back to the height of the ‘80s when new wave reigned supreme. As she effortlessly belted out the first notes of "The Metro," it was clear Teri Nunn’s performance would be more than just a nostalgic throwback. Nunn’s cool, controlled voice, still sharp and emotive, reminded fans why she's one of the rare ‘80s icons still performing as if no time had passed.

Teri Nunn’s "The Metro" Performance at EPCOT Has Fans Talking @tammyluvsthesun1

Berlin at Epcot #berlinband #livemusic

♬ original sound - TammyK

Known as much for her iconic style as her voice, the 64-year-old legend brought her signature look, down to the legendary platinum and black-dyed hair that still influences fashion trailblazers like Olympian Alysa Liu. Wearing black booties and an ‘80s-inspired white short set, Nunn brought an updated version of her edgy style to the performance while staying true to Berlin’s roots.

Dressed in a look that nodded to her signature style, Nunn brought the same cool intensity that made Berlin a defining act of its time. Fans gathered around the stage, many singing along word-for-word, proving just how deeply the track still resonates decades after its release.

The singer still looks stunning and fans were quick to echo this sentiment in the comment section on social media, with one writing, “She still looks and sounds great,” and another adding, “TERI LOOKS AND SOUNDS FABULOUS!!!!!!!!!!!” But Nunn’s voice still delivers the effortless cool that made Berlin one of the ‘80s’ top bands.

“She sounds FANTASTIC!!! One of my favorite songs of all time….” shared one fan, with another adding, “She sounds great.”

Related: '80s Vocal Powerhouse 'Sounds Amazing As Always' Singing Tammy Wynette: 'She Has The Pipes'

Teri Nunn Is Still Leaving Fans In Awe @disourdream

Berlin performing Take My Breath Away at Epcot - 4/17/2026 #berlin #epcot #disourdream

♬ original sound - Dis Our Dream

Originally released in 1982, "The Metro" is the song most associated with Berlin, alongside their No. 1 hit "Take My Breath Away." "The Metro" quickly reached hit status and remains synonymous with the era’s synth-heavy sound and emotionally charged lyrics. Hearing Nunn’s stunning vocals gave fans the chance to experience the classic song as it was meant to be heard.

Era-defining ‘80s bands like Duran Duran and Depeche Mode continue to tour regularly, with fans’ appetite for classic ‘80s music still very much alive. Nunn’s performance was a reminder that Berlin is still going strong.

For fans, the moment was more than just a walk down memory lane. Nunn’s performance was a shared experience rooted in a love of Berlin’s music and the new wave sound. For those discovering her for the first time, it was an indicator of why Teri Nunn remains one of the preeminent female voices of the ‘80s.

Related: '80s Hard Rock Frontman, 67, 'Looks And Sounds Great' At Recent Tour Stop 40 Years After Band's Debut

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When you’re working with less square footage, every piece in your space has to earn its keep. That might mean swapping in a lift-top ottoman instead of a standard coffee table, using a table as both a desk and dining spot, or choosing furniture that can double as decor and storage.  It’s less about having less and more about getting a little creative with what you do have.

That’s where smart, dual-purpose pieces really help. Instead of crowding your space with separate pieces for every need, one well-designed item can do the work of two (or more). The Best Choice Products Curved Convertible Futon at Target might be one of the easiest upgrades of them all. Now marked down 54% to $230 from its original $500, it works as a comfortable sofa by day and a ready-to-go guest bed at night — no air mattress needed.

Best Choice Products Curved Convertible Futon, $230 (was $500) at Target 

Courtesy of Target

Shop at Target

What makes this futon stand out is how easily it adapts to whatever you need in the moment. It transitions from a standard sofa to a fully flat bed in seconds with an adjustable backrest system and removable armrests that open up completely when you want to stretch out. The split-back design adds even more flexibility — you can recline one side while keeping the other upright, which works well if one person wants to lounge while another sits upright. It’s a small detail, but it makes the piece feel more functional day-to-day instead of all-or-nothing.

The frame supports up to 500 pounds and comfortably seats three people. At approximately 77.5 inches long, 33 inches deep, and just over 30 inches high, it offers enough surface area to sit, lounge, or sleep without taking over the entire room. Whether you’re using it for everyday seating or setting it up for overnight guests, it has the structure and size to handle both without compromise.

Related: Walmart’s 'Cute' $160 Convertible Corduroy Sofa Is the 'Perfect Hangout Spot’ for Small Spaces

On the design side, it leans modern but is still cozy and approachable. The futon, on sale in light grey, charcoal, mauve, and black, features softly curved corners and rounded armrests, which make it more comfortable to lean into. Tapered solid wood legs at the base add a designer touch that makes it look more expensive than it is. It’s upholstered in a textured boucle fabric that feels soft but is durable, paired with plush foam cushioning that holds its shape over time. The breathable material also helps keep it from feeling too heavy or dense, making it a more comfortable option for longer stretches of sitting or sleeping. 

Shoppers who live in small spaces praised this “easy-to-assemble” and “sturdy” option in the reviews section. One shopper wrote, “I love that it is firm, the back can recline into three different positions, and the arms can be removed if someone will be sleeping on it.”

Shop More Deals

• Best Choice Products Convertible Linen Tufted Futon Sofa, $210 (was $429) at Target
• Costway Futon Sofa Bed, $300 (was $790) at Target
• Costway Foldable Floor Sofa Bed, $133 (was $420) at Target

With a 54% discount that brings the price down to $230, the Best Choice Products Curved Convertible Futon delivers function and value in one piece. Add it to your Target cart while it’s still on sale and make your space work harder without sacrificing style!

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Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa at Walt Disney Worldis a bona fide mecca for the curious foodie. It’s home to the mouse’s most applauded restaurants, including waterfront Narcoossee’s and the Michelin-starred Victoria & Albert’s. And I speak from personal experience: I've been visiting Walt Disney World for decades with monthly visits and have dined at hundreds of its restaurants.

And I'm pleased to share, that finally, a fan-favorite offering is back after being absent for years. Tea aficiandos, rejoice! The Garden View Lounge—Tea Experience, a whimsical afternoon tea, is back with a fun twist—and I tried it.

Related: This Long-Running Disney Tradition Is Exclusive

View this post on Instagram What is the tea experience? The Garden View Lounge – Tea Experience at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa brings guests on a whimsical afternoon tea extravaganza. Featuring both sweet and savory bites along with a selection of teas, families and friends can enjoy each sip and bite at the beloved location, now with a whimsical touch.

The Walt Disney Company

The Garden View Lounge—Tea Experience is a cherished tradition that’s been reimagined with inspiration from the beloved Walt Disney Animation Studios’ Alice in Wonderland. Guests visiting pay one price to enjoy a set tasting experience that’s modeled after a traditional British afternoon tea. Of course, this is Disney so expect storytelling and lots of little details (Spoiler: look for hidden Mickeys). Guests should allot at least an hour to enjoy this.

The intimate space, located at the rear of the flagship resort’s iconic lobby, overlooks the garden just outside and has been given a major refresh, courtesy of Walt Disney Imagineering, pairing elegance with Disney’s signature whimsy. It's distinctly regal, yet relaxed. Inspired by Victorian Conservatories, it’s light and airy, with flowery patterns and warm tones. A notable addition are three new stained-glass windows that adorn the outside wall separating the restaurant from the rest of the lobby. These are stunning and depict birds that are native to Florida.

Related: The 10 Most Enchanting Hotel Tea Services for Your Ultimate Bridgerton Travel Era

What to eat and drink? The Garden View Lounge – Tea Experience at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa brings guests on a whimsical afternoon tea extravaganza. Featuring both sweet and savory bites along with a selection of teas, families and friends can enjoy each sip and bite at the beloved location, now with a whimsical touch.

The Walt Disney Companyt

Here, presentation is everything. And the star of the set menu is a gorgeous tower of both sweet and savory items, with each dish almost too cute to eat and inspired by moments and characters from Alice In Wonderland.

“I love the imagination they put into the menu,” Stephen Twining, 10th generation of the Twining family, shared on my visit of his partnership with The Walt Disney Company. "It's just incredible and the tiny details… we like tiny details. It’s all about the details and they do details like nobody else.” 

And little details were what I encountered again and again on my visit. 

Before the “tea tower of treats” was presented, the meal began with an orange-cranberry scone served alongside traditional butters and jam. This was an absolute highlight of the experience, a perfectly prepared scone that I could have easily devoured multiples of.  

Related:Disney World Just Revealed 2027 Tickets

Classic tea bites, like the finger sandwich, are given a delightfully Disney twist with the Tweedledee egg salad sandwich. And when it comes to sweets, there’s the matcha Mad Hatter, and the Painting the Rose, a teacake that’s “painted” by staff tableside. There’s also enhancements available to add, like Royal Osetra Caviar, and a seasonal cheese plate that was the talk of the dining room on my visit. Making this a true family affair, kids have their own set menu that adds approachability—and adorableness—with the Queen of Hearts Cheese Toastie and a noteworthy Cheshire Cat-themed raspberry macaron.

Of course, this is a tea experience, and that was just as much a reason to visit as the eats. Disney worked directly with Twinings and their master blenders to offer a diverse line-up of teas for both the novice and tea enthusiast, and prepare staff in serving it according to its rich tradition. 

“I remember my father talking about their passion for giving guests great experiences,” Twining continued. “They're always working towards the future and we’re always working towards the future. And it’s just been one of those natural partnerships. It’s just an awesome relationship.”

A must-order was the Orangery of Lady Grey, a Walt Disney World exclusive tea only available at the resort and bursting with flavors of citrus. Presentation was also a fun element as Cast Members guided our party in deciding what tea was best based on our flavor preferences (they even allowed each guest to smell different teas before deciding). Tea-based cocktails are also available, with the Mar-TEA-ni being a hit. This paired lemon and honey with Twinings Earl Grey Tea and Drumshanbo Gunpowder Irish Gin. It balanced that line of boozy while still refreshing.

Related: This Iconic Disneyland Resort Restaurant Just Received A Major Glow-Up

Who is this for?

This experience is suitable just as much for adults, like a girls-only vacation, as it is for families. And more so, there’s something thrilling about ditching the typical theme park attire of t-shirts and Mickey ears for a more polished look. The dress code encourages visitors to dress sophisticated (absolutely no swimwear is allowed) and guests are known to go all out with classic British afternoon attire and even fascinators. There’s quite a few notably excellent up-charge experiences at Walt Disney World, like the La Cava Experience at Epcot, and this holds its own with delicious foods, a unique setting that exuded Victorian charm and an engaging experience that satisfied all the senses.

How to book? Opening to guests of all ages and occasions on March 19, 2026, The Garden View Lounge – Tea Experience at Disney’s Grand Floridian Resort & Spa to bring guests on a whimsical afternoon tea extravaganza. This reimagined offering blends the elegance of the Victorian era with the playful charm of the Walt Disney Animation Studios film Alice in Wonderland, bringing the timeless story from the silver screen to the heart of the newly refurbished Grand Floridian, sure to leave guests feeling enchanted.

The Walt Disney Company

The Garden View Lounge—Tea Experience is priced at $79 for adults and $49 for children ages 3-9. Space is limited and reservations are known to book well in advance. There’s a 24-hour cancellation policy and allergy accommodations are available at time of booking.

Related: This Is Disney's Best Food Festival — And It's Not In A Theme Park

Related: Disney World Just Revealed 2027 Ticket Prices and One Park Is Hitting a New Peak

It's been exactly 36 years since Sinéad O'Connorbegan a historic run at the top of the music charts.

On April 21, 1990, O'Connor's "Nobody Compares 2 U" rose to the summit of the Billboard Hot 100, occupying the No. 1 spot for four consecutive weeks.

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The song was a massive global success, hitting No. 1 in 18 different countries and becoming a worldwide phenomenon. It was the No. 3 best-selling single of that year, and has since been ranked as one of the top songs of the entire decade, earning the No. 10 spot on VH1's 100 Greatest Songs of the '90s list.

https://www.instagram.com/tv/CzPqFaauYim/?utm_source=ig_web_copy_link&igsh=MzRlODBiNWFlZA==

It has also been included on a number of other best-of music lists, including Rolling Stone's ranking of the 500 Greatest Songs of All Time, (placed at No. 184) and the All-Time 100 Biggest Songs by Billboard (No. 87).

Though it was O'Connor's version of the song that brought it to the mainstream, the song was originally written and recorded by Prince in 1984. His version wasn't released until 1993 on his The Hits/The B-Sides album, while the original 1984 studio demo was released posthumously in 2018.

O'Connor's cover of the song was accompanied by a now-iconic music video directed by John Maybury, which famously features powerful close-up shots of her face and genuine tears running down her cheeks. It even won the Video of the Year award at the MTV Video Awards in 1990, making O'Connor the first female artist to ever win that award.

The beloved Irish songstress died unexpectedly in July 2023 at the age of 56. A cause of death wasn't initially reported at the time, but a coroner later confirmed in 2024 that O'Connor died of "natural causes."

Related: 1980 New Wave Rock Anthem Became a No. 1 Hit 46 Years Ago Today

Milan Design Week is often filled with items visitors can look at but not touch. Crowds stand a few feet away and look at chairs that cost more than a mid-sized sedan. But I spent my morning in a different world at the IKEA PS 2026 preview.

The Swedes aren't into somber product unveilings. They’re leaning into the modernity of a real, lived-in apartment. And it feels like home.

They call it playful functionality for this tenth PS collection. I spent the morning testing the three standout pieces. No ropes. No "Don't Touch" signs. Just steel and pine you can actually get your hands on.

Alexander "Lex" Pott’s $45 IKEA PS 2026 Lamp is the Steel Shape-Shifter Milan Needed

I went straight for the lamp by Alexander "Lex" Pott. From across the room, it looks like a clean, industrial cylinder. But the backstory is better. This lamp was born when Lex chopped up a broomstick in his studio. He refigured the scraps until he found the inspiration for these 45-degree angles.

I tried it myself. It really bends.

The joints move with a heavy, satisfying click. It feels expensive. You can twist it into a spotlight. Or a reading light. You can even flip it into an uplighter in about a second. And the price is the real headline. It’s 39 Euros (about $45).

Alexander "Lex" Pott’s IKEA PS 2026 Lamp (0:37)

In a city where a decent spritz and a snack will run you thirty, finding a piece of industrial design for under forty is a rarity. Pott was there, clearly energized. "It's a dream come true, and a real milestone," he said. "Plus, now my mother really understands what I'm doing because design can sometimes be a bit niche or exclusive, but IKEA is a household name."

The designer said he wants "joy in how you use the objects you surround yourself with in daily life."

The IKEA PS 2026 Rocking Bench: Why Marta Krupińska Put Oktoberfest in Your Living Room

Next to the lighting is a rocking bench by Marta Krupińska. It’s made of solid pine. Plus, the shape looks exactly like a giant wooden smile. It’s a cozy seat built for two people to just... sway.

An IKEA rep told the press the designer’s inspiration was the long tables at Oktoberfest. Because Krupińska wanted that feeling of people singing and clinking beer mugs. "I wanted it to be a bit like a party, like singing together," the designer said in a statement.

The engineering under the hood is intense. They had to split the wood beams and glue them back together with the grain reversed. That’s the only way to keep the rockers from flattening out when two adults sit on it. It feels sturdy.

Krupińska described the creative spark as something fleeting. “The most exciting part of designing is when you get the brief and go back to your desk and those ideas – I call them butterflies – come to you. You just want to catch them, but they are flying so fast and multiplying, so you have to make decisions,” she says.

Mikael Axelsson’s IKEA PS 2026 Air Chair

Finally, the air chair. Mikael Axelsson knows what you’re thinking. The 90s versions were a mess. They slid across the floor. They popped. They looked like pool toys.

But this 2026 version is a grown-up redemption arc.

It has a carbon steel frame to keep it from sliding across the floor like a loose balloon. It has a textile cover. No more sticking to the plastic when it’s hot. But the box is the real win. The whole thing comes in a slim, flat package. You could literally tuck it under your arm and take the subway home.

The new chair is designed to be easily moved. (Photo: Erica Gerald Mason)

Erica Gerald Mason

"My initial idea was to create a metal frame with a balloon trapped inside. It not only makes it firmer and sturdier, but also gives it a more playful expression, like a balloon bulging out," Axelsson says.

The collection doesn't drop until May. But if the buzz in Milan is any indication, these pieces will sell out fast. It’s furniture that is in on the fun. And after a week of looking at designs meant to be exclusive, a rocking pine smile is exactly the vibe shift we needed.

One of the "Big Three" of American television networks, ABC has been home to some of the medium's longest-running series, from General Hospital (with more than 15,600 episodes and counting) to Grey's Anatomy(at 464 episodes) to The Goldbergs (229 episodes).

However, the alphabet network has unfortunately also played host to many programs that were cancelled far too soon, shows that were full of promise and potential but never got the chance to really build an audience or wrap up their storylines. Some of these series — such as Twin Peaks and My So-Called Life — have still managed to cultivate classic-TV status over the years, despite their far-too-early exits.

Unlike series that overstay their welcome, we could have done with a way longer visit from these 10 great ABC shows that were cancelled too soon.

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10 ABC Shows that Were Cancelled Too Soon John Cho and Karen Gillan starred in the ABC comedy Selfie, which aired 13 episodes on the alphabet network.

ABC

Selfie

Having just one season to your name means that a show is only just getting its sea leg when the network docks it forever — such was the case with the 2014 ABC sitcomSelfie, about a wannabe social-media influencer (played by Karen Gillan) who wants to revamp her image after an embarrassing video goes viral.

The comedy, which also starred John Cho and Da'Vine Joy Randolph, was axed midseason after just six episodes, which was especially a shame given that the show's quality started cruising smoothly after that admittedly bumpy pilot episode. "Selfie remains the best turnaround of the decade, that we started to appreciate too late," Megan Vick wrote for TV Guide.

Fans tried to erect a #SaveSelfie campaign to keep the Emily Kapnek-created series alive but alas, it was for nought and Selfie remains a show that could have been great if it were only given the chance.

Related: 40 Brilliant One-Season TV Shows That Deserved Better

James Van Der Beek gave a hilarious turn as a fictionalized version of himself in ABC's Don't Trust the B in Apartment 23.

Getty

Don't Trust the B in Apartment 23

Krysten Ritter is Chloe, an irresponsible party girl and the titular "Bitch in Apartment 23," in this edgy 2010s sitcom from Nahnatchka Khan. Chloe usually scares off her revolving-door roommates with her wild behavior but manages to find one that sticks in June Colburn (Dreama Walker), with the odd-couple duo striking up an unlikely friendship.

Add in a standout supporting turn from the late James Van Der Beek, who played a hilarious fictionalized version of himself and a close friend of Chloe's, Don't Trust the B in Apartment 23 was well-liked for its snarky dialogue and strong acting. However, ABC opted not to renew the comedy for a third season, following a TV term messily marked by timeslot moves and even entire episodes aired out of order.

Fan-favorite sitcom Happy Endings ran on ABC for three seasons from 2011 to 2013.

ABC

Happy Endings

Compared to other short-lived sitcoms on this list, Happy Endings was lucky to get three seasons on ABC (from April 13, 2011, to May 3, 2013). But if you ask fans of the beloved ensemble comedy, 57 episodes wasn't nearly enough time to hang out with dysfunctional Chicago besties Brad (Damon Wayans, Jr.), Jane (Eliza Coupe), Alex (Elisha Cuthbert), Dave (Zachary Knighton), Max (Adam Pally) and Penny (Casey Wilson).

The David Caspe-created single-cam comedy was cancelled due to low ratings and an erratic broadcast schedule, despite widespread love from fans and critics alike. For Rolling Stone, Katy Kroll declared Happy Endings "the most underrated, under-watched series on TV, that may also be the funniest."

Related: This Cult-Favorite ABC Comedy Was So Mishandled That Two Episodes Never Even Aired

Joseph Fiennes and John Cho starred in the ABC sci-fi drama FlashForward for a single season back in 2009.

ABC

FlashForward

Adapted from the 1999 novel by Canadian writer Robert J. Sawyer, the 2009 sci-fi series FlashForward revolves around a mysterious event that caused nearly everyone on Planet Earth to simultaneously lose consciousness for 137 seconds; during that mental blackout, people experienced a global "flashforward," seeing what appears to be a vision of their own life approximately six months in the future.

It's certainly an interesting concept, especially coupled with an intriguing cast led byJoseph Fiennes, John Cho and Courtney B. Vance, but that high-stakes apocalyptic premise couldn't convince ABC to continue the series past a single 22-episode season. Even worse, things ended on a bit of a cliffhanger, as the season finale teased (spoiler alert!) yet another flashforward event happening more than 20 years in the future. 

The charming ABC comedy Pushing Daisies ran for two eventful seasons, during which it wrangled 17 Emmy nominations and seven wins. Pushing Daisies

The fan devotion aimed at Pushing Daisies hasn't ebbed in the nearly two decades since the "forensic fairytale" was cancelled after a two-season run on ABC back in 2009. Luckily for those dedicated viewers, a long-awaited third season of the cult-favorite dramedy is in development, according to series creator Bryan Fuller, with original cast members Lee Pace, Anna Friel, Chi McBride and Kristin Chenoweth all expected to return.

Starring Pace as Ned, a pie-maker with the ability to bring dead things back to life with his touch, the Emmy-winning show garnered wide critical acclaim during its swift tenure: On Rotten Tomatoes, where the series has an excellent 96% approval rating, the site's critical consensus praises Pushing Daisies' "oddball charms," which are "brought to life with warmth and whimsy in large part thanks to the chemistry of its charismatic leads."

Related: 12 Famous TV Reboots That Were Quietly Killed Before Hitting Screens

Cobie Smulders starred as a former Marine-turned-private investigator in the ABC crime drama Stumptown. Stumptown

Cobie Smulderscertainly knows about long-running TV shows, having starred as Robin Scherbatsky in the CBS sitcom How I Met Your Mother for nine seasons from 2005 to 2014. Sadly, the Canadian actress couldn't replicate that longevity with her various follow-up series, including Stumptown — the 2019 crime drama was initially picked up for a second season, a renewal that was sadly reversed due to COVID-related production delays.

Based on the graphic novel series of the same name, Stumptown sees Smulders play Dex Parios, a sharp-witted military veteran struggling with PTSD from her time in Afghanistan as well as heavy gambling debts and financial instability. To help offset those money issues, Dex becomes a private investigator to solve problems where the police aren't getting involved. 

A Golden Globe-winning Claire Danes led the young cast of My So-Called Life for a brief but impactful 19 episodes on ABC.

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My So-Called Life

The social and cultural impact of My So-Called Life has stretched way further than its mere 19-episode single season back in 1995 — heck, TIME magazine ranked the beloved high-school drama as one of the greatest TV shows of all time, citing its "sympathetic and appropriate" depiction of "a fully realized TV teen."

Speaking of, the Winnie Holzman-created teen drama centers on the adolescent trials and tribulations of 15-year-old Angela Chase (a star-marking, Golden Globe-winning turn by a young Claire Danes) and her fellow angsty schoolmates (played Wilson Cuz, Devon Gummersall, A.J. Langer and, of course, Jared Leto as Liberty High heartthrob Jordan Catalano.

My So-Called Life didn't last long on ABC, but it did inspire countless teen titles in the decades since its airing, with showrunners such as 13 Reasons Why's Brian Yorkey and Gossip Girl's Stephanie Savage citing its influence.

Related: 1999 Canceled Show Only Lasted One Season — Now Fans Call It ‘Near Perfect’

Starring Molly Ringwald and Lauren Graham, Townies only lasted 15 episodes on ABC.

ABC

Townies

Just look at that cast: Molly Ringwald, Lauren Graham, Ron Livingston, Bill Burrand Jenna Elfman all starred together in the short-lived 1996 ABC sitcom Townies, which was created by Matthew Carlson (Malcolm in the Middle, The Wonder Years) and followed a group of twentysomething friends living and working in the fishing town of Gloucester, Massachusetts — think Friends but a little more New England-y.

Despite being packed with now-household names and some genuinely funny moments, Townies only managed to air 10 episodes before ABC cut the comedy from its broadcast schedule due to low ratings.

Related: Travel Back in Time With Our List of the 57 Most Iconic ’90s TV Shows

The original cast of The Addams Family, which ran for just two seasons on ABC.

ABC

The Addams Family

It might seem surprising given its lasting cultural impact more than a half-century after the show's initial release, influencing everything from The Munsters to the Beetlejuice franchise, but the classic Gothic sitcom The Addams Family actually only aired for two seasons and 64 episodes on ABC, from September 1964 to April 1966.

Based on Charles Addams's New Yorkercartoons, the darkly funny comedy revolves around the odd but loving eponymous family — led by the wealthy Gomez Addams (John Astin) and his beloved bride Morticia (Carolyn Jones) who harbor macabre interests and supernatural abilities that put them delightfully at odds with the sunny suburbia in which they live.

We might not have gotten much time to spend with Uncle Fester (Jackie Coogan), little Wednesday (Lisa Loring), Lurch (Ted Cassidy) and the rest of the Addams crew, but it was a memorably morbid stay all the same.

David Lynch's beloved mystery series Twin Peaks originally aired for just two seasons on ABC, before getting a much-awaited revival 25 years later.

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Twin Peaks

Nowadays, it's considered the "most groundbreaking TV drama" of all time, but that lasting legacy couldn't save Twin Peaks (the surrealist 1990s small-town thriller co-created by David Lynch and Mark Frost) from cancellation after two seasons in 1991.

Despite garnering critical acclaim, the atmospheric mystery — which centers on Dale Cooper (Kyle MacLachlan), a cherry pie-loving FBI Special Agent tasked with tracking down the killer of teenaged homecoming queen Laura Palmer (Sheryl Lee) — had to navigate timeslot changes, creative differences between its creators and the problem of its central whodunnit wrapping up by the end of season two, all of which contributed to its cancellation.

Of course, the classic mystery would eventually be rebooted for a third season, Twin Peaks: The Return, on Showtime, albeit after a very long 25-year wait.

Next, Beloved TV Show Becomes ABC’s 3rd Longest-Running Drama With Renewal News

Livvy Dunne recently revealed what surprised her the most while filming on the set of the Baywatch reboot—as well as what it was like trying on her iconic red swimsuit for the first time.

During an April interview with Parade to promote her Miller Lite partnership, the former LSU gymnast, 23, opened up about her first major acting role.

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"The first time I put it on was at my fitting. I've flown from the East Coast to the West Coast. I don't even know how many times at this point, but this was one of the first times I flew out there," Dunne recalled.

The Sports Illustrated Swimsuit model continued, "It made it feel so real. And I was like at that moment, I was like, I can't believe, like, I'm an actress. Like, this is going to be so much fun. And it felt surreal, honestly."

@livvy

Officially on set & on duty🫡 🛟#tv #baywatch #niche

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In the upcoming Fox series, Dunne will play a junior lifeguard named Grace in a recurring role. "She is athletic, and she's sweet," she explained. "Honestly, I feel like she's not too far off from who I am, which is a nice role to have it be my first one ever. It's a lot of fun."

So, what surprised the influencer/girlfriend of Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes the most while filming Baywatch for her acting debut?

"I didn't realize how long it took to film one scene," she admitted. "How many camera angles there has to be. I mean, I guess it depends on what film it is or, you know, who the director is. But we're getting them angles!"

Livvy Dunne Reveals What Surprised Her the Most on 'Baywatch' Reboot set (Exclusive) (1:17)

Related: Jason Mraz Dishes on Unexpected Meanings Behind 2 of His Hit 2000s Songs (Exclusive)

While spilling the tea about the upcoming reboot series, Dunne also spoke about her Miller Lite partnership—as well as a limited-edition Miller Tea Time set. It includes four branded tea cups and saucers, and a tea kettle featuring a built-in beer-puncturing mechanism. The set is meant for the "ultimate debrief" after enjoying time out with friends.

"People that are my age nowadays, it's so easy to get consumed in social media. Which I mean, everybody does at some point. It's easy to get caught scrolling on your phone, and it's so important to have those real-life connections and make fun memories," Dunne shared.

She added, "And the campaign Legendary Moments with Livvy is all about detaching and going out and making those fun memories, saying yes, even though that's sometimes the hard thing to do. Sometimes it's easier to just say no and stay in. So saying yes and creating a legendary moment with your friends."

Currently, production for the Baywatch reboot is underway in Los Angeles. The cast, in addition to Dunne, includes Noah Beck, Shay Mitchell, Hassie Harrison, Thaddeus LaGrone, David Chokachi (reprising his role as Cody Madison), and Erika Eleniak (reprising her role as Shauni McClain).

Baywatch is set to premiere during the 2026–2027 TV season.

Next: Livvy Dunne Stuns in Tiny Crochet Bikini Ahead of Baywatch Reboot

If you're scrolling for a danceable tune that celebrates love, the Whitney Houston song “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” hits every mark. The chart-topping 1980s love song combines an uptempo beat, Houston's lively, soaring vocals, and an infectious, high-energy groove. This must be why “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” was recently deemed the most popular wedding song ever.

The song “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” recently got branded as the "most popular wedding song of all time" based on a study conducted by Breezit, an online marketplace and AI tool for finding wedding venues and event vendors. In its analysis of 2,000 wedding-related playlists, Houston's hit song “I Wanna Dance With Somebody” showed up on almost on quarter of them (24.2%).

In the same study of wedding playlists, the disco-pop ABBA song "Dancing Queen" came in second (on 19.7% of lists) and the R&B-crunk Usher hit "Yeah!" which features Lil Jon and Ludacris, came in third (at 19.5% of lists). The wedding-ready playlists have definitely spoken.

Related: 1983 Hit Ranked Among '40 Biggest Drinking Songs' Became a Classic Breakup Anthem

The song “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” was originally released on May 2, 1987, as the lead single from Houston's second album, Whitney. The beloved song became a global hit, topping the charts in 17 countries, including the United States. On May 16, 1987, the song debuted on the U.S. Billboard Hot 100, and it then hit No. 1 on June 27, 1987. The dance-pop anthem stayed at the top for two weeks.

Today, the track continues proving its staying power as an upbeat, wedding-worthy love song. It's got that spirited romantic vibe tapped.

Watch the official “I Wanna Dance With Somebody (Who Loves Me)” music video from Whitney Houston:

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Alan Osmond, leader of the Osmond Brothers singing group, has died at age 76.

In a statement issued to ABC4 Utah, it was confirmed that the entertainer died at 8:30 p.m. on April 20. He and his wife of 51 years, Suzanne Pinegar Osmond, had eight children Michael, Nathan, Douglas, David, Scott, Jonathon,Alexander, and Tyler.

KUTV reported that Osmond retired from performing 40 years prior to his death after being diagnosed with multiple sclerosis. However, did perform alongside his brothers in 2019 to honor his sisterMarie Osmond's 60th birthday during an episode of the daytime television series The Talk.

The Osmond Brothers were music superstars throughout the 1970s, but their career had humble beginnings. Alan and his brothers Merrill, Wayne, and Jay originally banded together as a singing group in 1958 to raise money for older brothers Virl and Tom's hearing aides.

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Their father, George Osmond, sought an audition for his talented sons with Lawrence Welk, but the opportunity materialized. Hoping to lift their spirits, he took them to Disneyland, where the boys caught attention after spontaneously singing alongside the park’s barbershop quartet, The Dapper Dans.

According to the Saturday Evening Post, Jay Emerson Williams, father of entertainer Andy Williams, was so impressed by the Osmond's appearance on a Disneyland After Dark episode of The Wonderful World of Disney in 1962 that he recommended they perform on Andy's TV variety series. The elder Williams is credited for giving the family band a platform of performances on his son's variety series, where they performed through 1967, introducing Donny, Marie, and Jimmy Osmond to audiences as well.

Thereafter, the group quickly became music superstars, selling 77 million albums worldwide. The Osmund's hit No. 1 in February 1971 with "One Bad Apple," No. 3 later that same year with "Yo-Yo," No. 4 in April 1972 with "Down By the Lazy River" and No. 10 in October 1974 with "Love Me For a Reason," per Billboard.

Their success continued as the group evolved, with Donny and Marie forming a duo, Jimmy pursuing a solo career, and the original group shifting toward a more country-influenced sound in the 1980s.

Merrill Osmond honored his brother's legacy via Facebook. He recalled the last moments he spent with Alan, and discussed his deep faith.

RELATED: ’70s Superstar Donny Osmond Shares Nostalgic Look at His Teen Idol Past

He wrote, "Two days before my brother, Alan, passed, I was blessed to sit quietly with him. We talked as brothers do, heart to heart. He was struggling, but when I shared a joke or two, he found the strength to chuckle… and then he smiled."

Merrill added, "So please, don’t let your hearts be heavy. Don’t weep for him. Rejoice, knowing that your brother, your friend, your hero is no longer in pain. He is free. He is whole. He is home."

Alan Osmond was predeceased by his younger brother, Wayne Osmond, who died on January 1, 2025, at age 73 and his parents George and Olive Osmond.

MORE: The 1971 Teen Heartbreak Single That Made Girls Swoon Hit No. 1 Twice

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Keeping your home organized can feel like a never-ending task, but the right storage solutions make all the difference. A great example is Walmart’s Best Choice Products 5-Pack of Multipurpose Collapsible Hyacinth Baskets, which offer both style and functionality.

Right now, the highly rated set is on sale for just $60, down from $120. With hundreds of glowing reviews and a clever collapsible design, these baskets are a practical investment for anyone looking to declutter with ease. It’s a no-brainer purchase at 50%. 

Best Choice Products Collapsible Hyacinth Baskets 5-Pack, From $60 (was $120) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Each set comes with five matching baskets, handwoven from 100% natural hyacinth, giving them a rustic, textured look that blends seamlessly with a range of interior styles. Whether your home leans modern, farmhouse, or bohemian, these baskets add a warm, organic touch to any space. The gray colorway is especially popular, but other shades like black, brown, chestnut, natural, and white are also available, allowing you to coordinate with your existing décor.

At 12 inches square and 12 inches deep, each basket offers ample storage room — perfect for holding toys, books, laundry, beauty products, cleaning supplies, or even extra throw blankets. With a weight capacity of 22 pounds per basket, you can use them for everything from daily catch-alls in the entryway to organizing shelves in the closet or laundry room. The sturdy, handwoven design ensures they hold up to regular use, while the lightweight construction makes it easy to move them from room to room. 

Related: Walmart Has a New ‘Devil Wears Prada’ Fashion Line Miranda Priestly Would Love, and It’s Selling Fast

Their collapsible structure is a real benefit. When not in use, the baskets fold flat for easy storage, freeing up valuable space in your home. Cut-out handles on each side add to their portability, making it simple to carry a full basket of laundry or supplies without fumbling.

Assembly is virtually nonexistent. Just pop them open, and they’re ready to use. The set includes inserts to help the baskets maintain their shape and add extra durability. 

Another plus is the sustainable material. Hyacinth is a renewable resource, so these baskets are a more eco-friendly choice compared to plastic or synthetic storage bins. Plus, the woven texture brings a cozy, natural vibe to any room.

Best Choice Products Collapsible Hyacinth Baskets 5-Pack, From $60 (was $120) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

Shop at Walmart

Reviewers raved about the set’s practicality and visual appeal. "Organizing at its best," one shopper wrote. "These really organized and cleaned up the look. Now everything looks neat and easy to get at. They are durable for heavier items. The size was perfect for my shelves."

"Earthy and attractive," another shopper wrote. "These are really the best bins I've had…nice and sturdy."

The ability to customize how you arrange them (stacked, side-by-side, or tucked into cubbies) means you can easily adapt the setup as your needs change. The baskets are also great for renters or anyone who likes to switch up their space frequently.

Shop More Deals

• BeautyPeak 30-Inch Wavy Round Bathroom Mirror, $57 (was $106) at Walmart
• Hometravel Vintage Mermaid Wall Sconce Lamp, $17 (was $21) at Walmart
• Costway 3-Piece Acacia Wood Patio Dining Set, $335 (was $589) at Walmart

This set is a customer favorite for good reason. At just $60 for five, Walmart’s multipurpose collapsible baskets offer an affordable, stylish, and sustainable way to tackle clutter in any room. If you’re ready to bring order to your home without sacrificing charm, these baskets are an easy win.

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Have you ever been to a party or even a smaller hangout where the vibes were off, only for the energy to completely shift when one person walked into the room? If you have, then you've seen up close what it means to light up a room, but that doesn't necessarily mean you understand how they do it.

People who light up a room seem to have an unknowable quality—that certain je ne sais quoi that draws people in without making others feel excluded. To get some answers about what this mystery talent is, Parade reached out to Dr. Kathryn Smerling, a family psychologist, who describes someone who lights up a room as a person who has a lot of energy and charisma and “wants to give it to you.”

“You exude a warm, friendly, open, curious attitude,” she says of people with this talent.

But is this quality innate or can it be taught? It turns out, with a little guidance, a little effort and lots of practice, it can definitely be a learned skill. And Dr. Smerling is here to help, with seven phrases that people who light up a room regularly say—and you can too. If you're on a journey to go from wallflower to the life of the party, so to speak, this is where you start.

Related: 13 Surprising Habits That Make You 'Instantly Likable,' Psychologists Say

What Kind of People ‘Light up Every Room' They Walk Into?

Flashpop/Getty Images

People who light up every room they walk into aren't just eye-catching or magnetic; they make others feel important. “They aren't just a shiny star,” says Dr. Smerling, “But they are reaching out to you to engage.”

To really light up a room, you have to engage with others in a genuine way to make them feel seen and heard.

“When you engage other people, you're saying, ‘You matter. I want to hear what you have to say. It's not just about me,’” she explains.

This kind of attentiveness is infectious, which can shift the energy in the room, thus creating the "light up the room" effect. “It wakes everyone else up because it's reciprocal,” she adds.

Related: 7 Habits of Highly Empathetic People Who Easily Get Drained in Crowds

7 Things People Who Light up Every Room They Walk Into Often Say, According to a Psychologist1. “Hello, how are you?”

If you want to light up a room, Dr. Smerling says a good place to start is to “focus on one person at a time.” Not only does starting off with a “Hello, how are you?” convey genuine interest and concern, but it also makes it clear you're talking to the person, not the room.

2. “What brings you here?”

People who light up a room are curious about others, but that doesn't necessarily mean that you should be asking strangers for their life stories. Dr. Smerling suggests asking, “What brings you here?” as a low-stakes opener. It's not a deep enough question to feel intrusive, and yet it communicates interest and “gives an opening for a conversation.” It also shows that you're more interested in them than talking about yourself.

Related: 11 Surprising Phrases That Make You 'Instantly Likable,' Psychologists Say

3. [Insert name here]

Not only will repeating a person's name after you meet them help you remember it in the long run, but it also helps you engage.

“It makes someone feel as though you're listening to them,” Dr. Smerling explains. (And in my personal experience, this will also make you stand out in a sea of people who forget names at the drop of a hat.)

4. “I love your [insert clothing item, descriptor, etc. here].”

This can be tricky because there is a fine line between making someone feel seen and coming off as disingenuous, but the right compliment can be a great way to bond with someone. A genuine compliment based on observation, Dr. Smerling says, “will always make someone feel connected.”

Related: 11 Common Behaviors of Authentic People—and One Thing They *Never* Do, According to Therapists

5. “It was lovely speaking to you.”

People who light up a room often interact with most people at an event, which can make it tough to really ensure that everyone feels seen and heard. An important part of doing that effectively is making sure you leave a conversation on a positive note.

6. “I'd love to continue our conversation about [insert topic here].”

In addition to saying, “It was lovely speaking to you,” Dr. Smerling suggests pointing out a specific thing they said that interests you that you'd want to learn more about. This “shows that you're not just passively listening, you're actively listening.”

7. Smile and make eye contact

Before you even open your mouth to speak, you can light up a room by doing one simple thing: flashing a genuine smile. Smiling and making eye contact can immediately have an effect on those around you, says Dr. Smerling.

“If you look at someone in the eye and you give a warm smile, it makes someone feel important," she adds. “It makes people feel fully engaged and heard and listened to.”

How To Cultivate This Ability

In addition to working on adding these phrases into your lexicon, if you're interested in cultivating the ability to light up a room, Dr. Smerling suggests working on your body language and nonverbal habits.

Body language

People who light up a room don't just say the right things; they communicate without speaking.

“It's [not just] what you say, it's also your body language,” Dr. Smerling states. “Your body language is open. You aren't crossing your hands in front of you and blocking yourself out.”

Next time you're in a social situation, try to remember not to cross your arms or make yourself smaller.

You'll also want to practice looking people directly in the eye when speaking with them. If that makes you uncomfortable, you can always try the trick of looking at someone's forehead, but the main point is that you're not looking around the room as if hoping to spot someone better.

Related: 11 Phrases That Make You ‘Instantly Unlikable’ in Group Settings, According to an Etiquette Expert

Put away your phone

Nothing kills a vibe quicker than a doomscroll mid-social interaction. Putting away your phone signals to others that you want to be present with them. Maybe try leaving your phone in your purse and walking away for a bit. You never know what might happen.

Up Next:

Related: 9 Common Phrases That Could Be Secretly Harming Your Friendships, Etiquette Experts Warn

Sources:

• Dr. Kathryn Smerling is a psychologist and licensed clinical social worker who specializes in individual and family therapy. She is also the author of Learning to Play Again: Rediscovering Our Early Selves to Become Better Adults.

In 1970, the Ides of March released what would become their biggest hit, “Vehicle.” The song, from the funk rock band’s debut album of the same name, peaked at No. 2 on the Billboard Hot 100 on May 23, 1970, and became the band’s career-defining anthem. "Vehicle" also became the fastest-selling single in Warner Bros. history at the time, selling over one million copies, according to Nostalgia Central.

Known for its distinctive horn riff, the song was written by frontman Jim Peterik about a girl who used him for his car.

“One day in a fit of frustration, I heard myself blurt out to her, 'You know, all I am to you is your vehicle,'" he told Songfacts in an interview. “Just then, the light bulb popped up on top of my head, and I thought about all the guys like me who don't mind being taken for a ride by a beautiful girl. I said, 'See you later,' and started writing the song."

A key section of ‘Vehicle’ was lost during recording

Peterik told Songfacts that Warner Bros. executives felt that “Vehicle” had the potential to be a smash hit. But during the recording session, a chunk of the master was accidentally erased.

“We were doing background vocals and suddenly 14 seconds were gone from the master,” Peterik told the Wall Street Journal in an interview. “No way to retrieve it. The second engineer had hit the wrong button. We spent two hours thinking our career is over, because at this time we knew we had something.”

The singer-songwriter explained that sound engineers inserted 14 seconds from the first take, and he redid the vocals.

“And now I hear it every time,” Peterik admitted. “From the second ‘Great God in heaven’ all the way up to the guitar solo—when you hear how abrupt that first note of the solo sounds, that's an edit.”

RELATED: 1976 One-Hit Wonder Took Months to Get Airplay

Peterik elaborated in an interview with Medium, clarifying that it was actually 13 seconds of tape that had been erased. “We thought we had the magical take, and we were kind of celebrating,” he recalled of the "Vehicle" recording session. “And suddenly the engineer came into the room, and he was white with panic. He said, ’I pressed the wrong button and erased 13 seconds of your song.’”

After it was discovered that a section of the previously discarded first take could be spliced into the multitrack of take two, the band members were pleased with the edit.

“So history was restored,” Peterik shared. “All I had to do was sing over that 13 seconds. It went all the way to the downbeat of the solo, and then the better version took over. I’m so glad that the lead solo was intact because I could never have done that lead part again that way, instinctually. …It’s one of those things where some higher power took over.”

“You know, we are so fortunate: history would have been forever changed!” he added of the "Vehicle" recording session.

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When it comes to cruising, Disney Cruise Line is a family favorite. On each of the line’s eight ships (with five more to come), you can do everything from meeting Disney characters and dining in beautifully themed restaurants (sometimes with a dinner show) to watching Broadway-caliber entertainment, and even enjoying fireworks at sea. But before all of the fun onboard your Disney cruise vacation comes the actual planning part of the trip, which can be overwhelming, even for the most seasoned cruiser.

While there are plenty of tips swirling around the internet, I reached out to a seasoned Disney travel advisor with Castle Bound Travel, Heather Peggs-Igoe, who specializes in booking Disney Cruise Line vacations for families. She’s sharing her tips for maximizing your next Disney Cruise. Even if you’re a Pearl Castaway Club member, which is the highest status in Disney Cruise Line’s loyalty program, you’ll want to read these eight things to make the most of your next Disney Cruise. 

Related: All That’s New and Noteworthy on Disney’s Newest Cruise Ship, Disney Destiny

Get to Your Vacation Faster by Booking Disney Cruise Line Transportation A view of Disney's Grand Floridian Resort main entrance, at Walt Disney World in Lake Buena Vista, Fla., Monday, June 22, 2020. (Joe Burbank/Orlando Sentinel/TNS)

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Let’s say your next Disney Cruise is sailing from Port Canaveral, Florida, but you arrive a few days early to enjoy some time at the Walt Disney World theme parks. The best way to get from the parks to Port Canaveral is using a Disney Cruise Line transfer, which will pick you up from your on-site Disney World hotel and whisk you away to your cruise ship. Because you’re using a Disney transfer, you can sometimes get to the cruise terminal faster and thus board your ship earlier. “It’s basically the lightning lane for embarkation,” says Peggs-Igoe.

Don’t Miss Out on Adult Dining Enchante is an adult-only restaurant on Disney Cruise Line.

Disney Cruise Line

One of the best places to eat on a Disney cruise is the adult-exclusive restaurants. These include Palo on the Disney Magic, Disney Wonder, Disney Dream, and Disney Fantasy, Remy on the Disney Dream and Disney Fantasy, and Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté on the Disney Wish, Disney Treasure, and Disney Destiny.

The reservations are highly sought after and can be hard to get before you get on the ship, but Peggs-Igoe says, “If you miss out on adult dining reservations like Palo, join the waitlist as soon as you board. Ask Guest Services where dining requests are being handled and head there right away.” This is also where you can request a different dining time (if available) and a different dining rotation. Just know that each request is handled on a first-come, first-served basis, and requests are not guaranteed to be fulfilled. 

Related: This Iconic Disneyland Resort Restaurant Just Got a Massive Glow-Up—And Reservations Are Vanishing

Full Doesn’t Always Mean Full for Excursions Majestic mountain range in Glacier Bay National Park, Alaska.

“If an excursion you wanted is sold out, visit the onboard Port Adventures (what Disney calls shore excursions) team and add your name to the waitlist. They often have limited additional inventory on board,” says Peggs-Igoe. People change plans all the time, even while they are on the ship, and this is a great way to try to get on popular tours in Alaska and the Mediterranean. Just know that once you get off the waitlist, you’re likely locked into the tour with limited ways to cancel and get a full refund. Always ask the Port Adventures team about cancellation policies and any other questions you may have about the tour before signing up completely.

Work With a Travel Advisor The Disney Dream is one of Disney's four classic cruise ships.

Disney Cruise Line

No one wants to get stuck planning every part of a vacation when someone with more experience can do it for you. “To make Disney Cruise Line planning easier, work with a travel advisor who can guide you through the process before sailing,” says Peggs-Igoe. “It takes the guesswork out, and services are usually complimentary.”

Even better, some travel advisors offer free onboard credit just for booking your cruise with them. In the past, I’ve gotten $250 in onboard credit just for booking with a free travel advisor. Just be sure your travel advisor has the Authorized Disney Vacation Planner and “EarMarked by Disney” logos on their agency website. These are basically the seal of trust that the agency is accredited by Disney. These logos are typically prominently placed on a travel agency’s website. Castle Bound Travel is EarMarked Gold Level, which means the agency has met high standards for training, sales, and expertise.

Save on Your Next Disney Cruise While on Your Current Disney Cruise Disney Cruise Line is known for its fireworks at sea.

Disney Fantasy Cruise

One of the easiest ways to save on your next Disney Cruise is to book a placeholder. “Buy a placeholder reservation for 10% off your next cruise (sometimes 20 percent off select sailings) in the Disney Cruise Line app before you leave the ship. If you don’t use it, you can usually cancel for a refund,” explains Peggs-Igoe. Even better, the placeholder is valid for a cruise anytime over the next two years. So you’ve got plenty of time to think about what sailing is right for your family. 

Related: Disney Reveals Next New Cruise Ship Disney Believe Arriving 2027

Tour This Spot on Embarkation Day

While you might be thinking about getting to the buffet or unpacking your room, Peggs-Igoe says the spa is actually the place to be. “Tour the spa on embarkation day. You may get discounts on treatments, and they often hold raffles during the open house,” she says. 

During my most recent Disney Cruise on the Disney Fantasy, I went to the spa raffle, and they gave away everything from free facials and massages to a day pass to the iconic Rainforest relaxation area. About 10 people won prizes, and if you were in the room, you got a discount on a massage if you booked that day.

Know What Sailing to Start With The Disney Wish sails on three- and four-night itineraries.

Disney

“If it’s your first cruise, start with a three- or four-night sailing and work your way up,” says Peggs-Igoe. I wholeheartedly agree, especially if it’s your first ever cruise and not just your first Disney Cruise. Cruising is a fun vacation, but some people don’t realize they don’t like it until they are on the open ocean. Booking a shorter cruise will give you a taste of the cruise life without committing to a whole week (or longer).

Related: Disney Cruise Line Shares ‘Believe’ Trailer That Has Us Sobbing

Book an Adult-Focused Experience Both the Disney Magic and the Disney Wonder will embark on seven-night voyages from Vancouver, Canada, in summer 2026.

Disney Cruise Line sails all around the world, from the Caribbean and Mediterranean to Singapore and Mexico. But one trip that really shines is Alaska. “If you want a more adult-focused experience, try a seven-night Alaska cruise,” says Peggs-Igoe. The trip itself is great for multi-generational travel, and offers a more relaxed onboard experience than Caribbean sailings. Which perfect for parents and grandparents. “Plus, you’ll meet the Fab 5 in their Alaska outfits,” added Peggs-Igoe. 

Related: Disney Reveals Next New Cruise Ship Disney Believe Arriving 2027

Source:

• Disney travel advisor with Castle Bound Travel, Heather Peggs-Igoe

On April 21, 1989, something unsettling crept into theaters, and it didn’t leave quietly.

In fact, it skyrocketed to number 1 at the U.S. box office, where it stayed at the top for two weeks.

Pet Sematary, the chilling adaptation of Stephen King’s bestselling 1983 novel of the same name, premiered on this day 37 years ago and immediately left its mark, making it a date horror fans will always remember.

By the time spring officially rolled in, the supernatural horror became a surprise hit, per KQED, going on to be one of the season’s biggest hits and grossing $57.5 million at the box office against a budget of $11.5 million.

The film, directed by Mary Lambert, centered on the Creed family, who moved from Chicago to a rural town in Maine, where patriarch Louis accepted a job as a local physician. 

Shortly after their arrival, Louis befriended a neighbor named Jud Crandall, who showed him a mysterious burial ground hidden deep in the woods behind their new home, mispelled “Sematary,” in the same way as the film’s title.

Louis later receieved a warning from a jogger killed by a truck, who tells him in a dream never to cross a barrier in the cemetary, but when his family cat, Church, is hit by a truck, Jud helps Louis bury him by an ancient burial ground, which brings the cat back to life and spares the kids from the pain of losing their pet, though Church behaves different, with his personality changed for the worst.

When Louis’ son Gage is killed shortly after, he ignores all the warnings, crossing the line and burying him in the same ground, proving that some things are never meant to return, no matter the amount of grief and loss. Sometimes, dead is better.

At the time, horror films with darker, more emotional themes weren't expected to dominate the box office against mainstream releases, and even though King's name guaranteed interest, it wasn't always a mass market success.

However, the late '80s classic carved out a lasting legacy in pop culture for pushing horror into emotional territory, influencing many other horror films that leaned into psychological aspects.

Despite already adapting many of his novels to film, including Carrie, The Shining and Stand By Me, Pet Sematary also strengthened King’s reputation in Hollywood, proving that horror doesn’t have to always rely on constant action and can instead build unease over time with a quiet, dread-filled approach.

The film spawned a sequel, Pet Sematary Two, released in 1992, and eventually, a second film adaptation in 2019, which grossed 113.1 million globally.

The 1989 film starred Dale Midkiff, Fred Gwynne, Miko Hughes, Brad Greenquist and Denise Crosby.

On April 21, 1986—40 years ago today—Randy Travis got a rare second shot at country music success, and this time, it changed everything.

After an initial lukewarm response, his debut single "On the Other Hand" was re-released. The country ballad quickly climbed to the top of the country charts, becoming the first No. 1 hit for Travis, 66.

Originally issued in July 1985, the track written by Paul Overstreet and Don Schmitz had only been a minor success. But something about the song lingered. Its traditional country sound and heartfelt storytelling stood out at a time when the genre was shifting, prompting a re-release that would give it a second life.

The Song That Helped Spark a Country Revival

With its tale of temptation, guilt, and moral conflict, "On the Other Hand" showcased Travis’ rich baritone and commitment to a more classic country style. When it hit No. 1 on the Billboard Hot Country Songs chart, it didn’t just mark a personal milestone; it signaled a broader return to traditional roots within the genre.

The success of the song helped launch Travis into stardom and paved the way for a wave of artists who embraced a similar back-to-basics sound.

For Travis, April 21, 1986, stands as a turning point. What began as a modest debut ultimately became a career-defining hit, proving that sometimes the right song just needs the right moment.

Decades later, 'On the Other Hand" remains one of the country singer's signature tracks and a reminder that persistence, paired with authenticity, can pay off in a big way.

RELATED: A Terrifying Close Call for a Beloved Music Star Happened 37 Years Ago Today

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There’s just something so charming about gnomes. They have a magical storybook feel and radiate quirky cottagecore energy. Combined with a solar light, it's a great spring decor piece that can instantly perk up your outdoor space. Whether you’re a gnome collector or looking to liven up your backyard, this Twinbling Solar Light Gnome Statue at Amazon is definitely worth checking out. The best part? It’s currently on sale for less than $25! 

You can choose from two designs, including a gnome with floral lights on its hat and a gnome with a lantern dangling from the tip of its hat. Normally retailing for $30, they’re on sale for $20 and $21, respectively. It’s also available in another design, with three gnomes stacked on top of each other, which you can get at full price for $30. This design also comes in a larger size, which normally retails for $70, but is now marked down to $55. 

Twinbling Solar Light Gnome Statue, From $20 (was $30) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

Every element of this solar light lends itself to the cottagecore aesthetic. Full of whimsy and charm, this gnome statue features a classic tall hat with a curly tip. The hat sits low on the gnome's head, covering its eyes and exposing its bushy beard. It boasts a vibrant, bright yellow hue that’ll add a pop of color to your outside space and bring it to life. 

Playful and quirky, the statue with integrated lights showcases a gnome with one leg inside a honey pot and the other dangling outside of it. The honey pot is adorned with cheerful bees, and the gnome’s hat is plastered with dainty, colorful flowers in pink, purple, blue, and yellow hues. Similarly, the gnome statue with the lantern also features a honey pot. However, it’s holding a small pot in its hand, and its hat is adorned with a vine and yellow sunflowers. 

The size of the statues varies slightly depending on style. For reference, the statue of the gnome inside the honey pot measures 5.5 inches wide, 5.1 inches deep, and 13.3 inches tall. It’s large and eye-catching enough to stand out wherever you place it, yet it won’t take up too much space. You can set it up anywhere from your garden to your porch to perk up your outdoor space with some storybook charm. 

Twinbling Solar Light Gnome Statue, From $20 (was $30) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

While this gnome statue acts as an eccentric decor piece during the day, it doubles as a functional light at night. Sustainable and environmentally-friendly, it relies on solar energy for power. It’s equipped with a solar panel that requires six to eight hours of sunlight to fully charge. Once it gets dark out, the lights will automatically turn on and can illuminate your outdoor space for up to 10 hours. Shoppers noted that the solar panel charges well even on cloudy days and said that the light is really bright. 

This gnome statue is made of resin, and shoppers noted that it’s sturdy, durable, and high-quality. Designed to withstand all weather conditions, it’s waterproof and fade-resistant, so it’ll hold up against rain and intense sunlight. 

Customers adored this gnome solar light's design, describing it as "whimsical," “absolutely adorable,” and “darling.” One shopper said that it’s a “great little addition to add to a garden and give it some life.” 

Related: Amazon’s $13 Solar Light Animal Statue Is a ‘Beautiful’ Spring Upgrade That 'Looks Expensive'

As a bonus, many reviewers noted that this gnome solar light makes for a great gift that’s usually well-received by the recipient. With spring in full swing and Mother’s Day less than a month away, you may want to consider snagging this as a present for your mom or any other special someone in your life! 

Shop More Deals

• Sowsun Dinosaur and Gnomes Garden Statue, $30 (was $50) at Amazon
• Ziowio Welcome Solar Light Gnome Statue, From $13 (was $26) at Amazon
• Qunclay Interchangeable Gnome Sign, From $15 (was $23) at Amazon

If your outdoor space could use some ambient lighting or you just love everything gnome-related, don’t hesitate to pick up the Twinbling Solar Light Gnome Statue at Amazon while it’s on sale for as low as $20! 

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If you’ve been tracking the countdown to the literal next biggest thing in cruising, take a deep breath: Royal Caribbean’s Legend of the Seas has officially touched the open ocean. This week, the massive Icon-class ship began its sea trials—a high-stakes, 10-day gauntlet where 2,000 engineers and specialists put the vessel through 2,400 nautical miles of technical tests.

Think of it as the ultimate "test drive" before the ship welcomes thousands of families for its July 2026 debut. From testing propulsion and navigation to ensuring every safety system is "Icon-level" ready, this milestone means the ship is moving out of the shipyard and closer to reality.

So, what makes this ship the one everyone is chasing? When it arrives in Rome this summer, it’s bringing some serious heavy-hitters to the Mediterranean, including the Royal Railway—Legend Station and the Hollywoodland Supper Club. It’s designed to be a "legendary" mix of high-speed thrills and gourmet dining that Royal Caribbean fans have come to expect from the Icon class.

Related: Royal Caribbean Just Revealed its Most Ambitious Entertainment Roster to Date for the New Legend of the Seas

After its inaugural season sailing 7-night adventures from Rome and Barcelona, the ship will make its grand Caribbean debut in November 2026, sailing out of Fort Lauderdale, Florida. And yes, every Caribbean itinerary includes a stop at the top-rated Perfect Day at CocoCay.

Whether you’re a cruiser who lives for the newest tech or a parent just looking for a vacation that actually keeps everyone happy, the Legend is officially one step closer to home.

Related: See the First Real-Life Photos of Royal Caribbean’s Newest Megaship, Legend of the Seas