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If you're already starting to daydream about your 2027 Disney vacation, you can breathe a sigh of relief. While many things at the parks are constantly changing, two of the most valuable "secret weapons" for beating the crowds are officially here to stay.

According to a report from WDWMAGIC, Walt Disney World has confirmed that Early Theme Park Entry and Extended Evening Hours will continue through 2027. These perks, which originally launched in 2021 as part of the 50th-anniversary celebration, have become the gold standard for guests looking to maximize their time in the "bubble."

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

The 30-Minute Head Start

The Early Theme Park Entry benefit remains a massive win for anyone staying at a Disney Resort hotel (and several partner hotels like the Waldorf Astoria Orlando and the Four Seasons). It grants you 30 minutes of early access to any of the four theme parks, every single day of your stay.

In a park like Hollywood Studios, those 30 minutes can be the difference between a walk-on at Slinky Dog Dash or a 90-minute wait later in the afternoon. Plus, for those visiting in 2027, the lineup of open attractions is expected to include the newly reimagined Rock 'n' Roller Coaster Starring The Muppets (opening summer 2026) and the high-tech Zootopia: Better Zoogether! at Animal Kingdom.

Related: Disney World Fans Are Calling This New Summer 2026 Deal ‘Life Changing’

The Deluxe Advantage

For those staying at Disney Deluxe Resorts or Deluxe Villa Resorts, the perks get even better. Extended Evening Hours will also continue through 2027, offering a few extra hours of park time on select nights after the general public has headed for the exits.

While the schedule usually focuses on Magic Kingdom and EPCOT, Disney has been known to shuffle things around—meaning you might get lucky with a late-night stroll through a quiet Galaxy’s Edge or a moonlight ride on Expedition Everest.

Whether you’re a "rope dropper" who wants that early morning quiet or a "night owl" who lives for the shorter lines after dark, knowing these perks are locked in for the next two years makes the 2027 planning process a whole lot easier.

Related: Disney World Just Paused Boat Service at These Two Popular Magic Kingdom Resorts

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• WDW Magic

Chad Michael Murray is a dreamboat to many, but husband to just one: his wife, Sarah Roemer. "She's my person," Murray told Parade in 2023. "We function on the same wavelength."

In addition to appearing in 2025's Freakier Friday and Bad Men Must Bleed, the bona fide 2000s TV heartthrob is also enjoying his role as a main character on the CW show Sullivan’s Crossing, a romantic drama that follows neurosurgeon Maggie (Morgan Kohan) back to the small town of Sullivan’s Crossing, where she meets the mysterious Cal (Murray). The series has been renewed for a fourth season, which will drop in 2026.

Murray, who’s played his fair share of romantic leads but started his career on the CW's One Tree Hill, says coming back to the network feels like "home" and he can appreciate it more now that he has a family of his own. “I'm a family man. I've got my amazing wife and three beautiful babies and that's my pack,” he said.

Here’s a deeper look at Murray’s personal life, including his marriage, children and past high-profile relationship.

Related: Chad Michael Murray's Kids Make First-Ever Red Carpet Appearance at 'Freakier Friday' Premiere

Is Chad Michael Murray married? View this post on Instagram

Chad Michael Murray, 44, is married to Sarah Roemer, 41. The two share a star sign (Virgo), a love for the Buffalo Bills (Murray is from Buffalo) and many travels together, often documented on Instagram.

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Who is Chad Michael Murray's wife, Sarah Roemer?

Sarah Roemer is an actress. Born in San Diego, she moved to Los Angeles after high school to start her modeling career and appeared in publications like GQ, Maxim, Cosmopolitan and Esquire.

Roemer’s breakout role came with the 2010 show The Event, where she starred opposite Jason Ritter. She played another lead role in the show Chosen (2013-14) and had guest roles on Hawaii Five-O and Daybreak.

How did Chad Michael Murray and his wife, Sarah Roemer, meet?

Like many actors dating other actors, Murray and Roemer met on set. They both starred in the 2013 TV show Chosen.

What is Sarah Roemer in?

Sarah Roemer played leading roles in the 2010s TV shows The Event and Chosen, but she’s also a film actor. Her filmography includes Wristcutters: A Love Story (2006), Disturbia (2007), Fired Up! (2009), Hachi: A Dog’s Tale (2009) and more.

Most recently, she appeared in 2021’s Survive the Game, which starred her husband, Chad Michael Murray, along with acting legend Bruce Willis.

Related: Aubrey Plaza’s Romance With Christopher Abbott: When Their Relationship Began and What We Know

When did Chad Michael Murray and Sarah Roemer get married? View this post on Instagram

Chad Michael Murray and Sarah Roemer have been notoriously private about their relationship, so it's unclear exactly when they tied the knot. But they've been married since at least January 2015, which is when they announced that they were husband and wife and that they were expecting their first child together.

Murray and Roemer do occasionally share tidbits of their lives and marriage on social media. In 2020, Murray wrote on Instagram: “Since the day we decided down our journey together, my life has been richer, sweeter and better in every way because of you.”

Does Chad Michael Murray have kids with Sarah Roemer?

Murray and Roemer have three kids together, two daughters and one son.

Who are Chad Michael Murray's kids?

A fairly private couple, Chad Michael Murray and his wife, Sarah Roemer, have shielded their children from the limelight. This includes not sharing their faces or names publicly, so we’ll simply refer to them as Babies No. 1, 2 and 3.

Baby No. 1

Murray and Roemer’s first child, a boy, was born in May 2015, just six months after his parents announced their marriage. He appears to have sandy hair like his dad and a penchant for football.

In a 2023 video on Instagram, Murray’s son can be seen launching footballs into a net. “Watching the leaps a kid can make every year is utterly fascinating,” Murray wrote in the caption. “We made him take 3 months off & now our boy is starting to dial in for the upcoming season.”

Baby No. 2

In March 2017, Murray and Roemer welcomed their second child, a girl. From Roemer’s Instagram, it’s clear she’s no exception to the family tradition of blonde hair.

Roemer once uploaded a picture of Murray and their daughter walking hand-in-hand in Thailand. The family travels together often, for vacation and filming, and has made temporary moves to Puerto Rico and three different cities in Canada.

Baby No. 3 View this post on Instagram

Murray and Roemer announced the birth of their third child, another girl, in August 2023. Roemer shared a picture of the baby’s heart-shaped birthmark on Instagram. “Our baby girl arrived last week with a heart on her ankle,” she wrote. “We are so in love!”

Related: Inside Katie Holmes’ Ultra-Private Dating Life, From Chris Klein to Jamie Foxx—and Joshua Jackson?

Who was Chad Michael Murray's first wife?

Photo by Stephen Shugerman/Getty Images

Chad Michael Murray’s first wife was his One Tree Hill co-star Sophia Bush. Murray, who played Lucas Scott in the iconic 2000s teen drama, had a brief, messy romance with Bush’s character on screen—"brief" and "messy" being key terms in their off-screen relationship, too.

Related: Where Is the 'One Tree Hill' Cast Now?

How long were Chad Michael Murray and Sophia Bush married?

Murray and Bush met on set in 2003 and quickly began a relationship. The pair became engaged in May 2004 and married in April 2005. However, the union didn’t last long. They separated in September 2005, after just five months of marriage, and Bush filed for annulment the following February. By December 2006—one year and eight months after the wedding—their marriage was officially over.

Why did Chad Michael Murray and Sophia Bush get divorced?

In the very complicated world of young celebrity relationships, it’s hard to tell exactly where it went wrong with Chad Michel Murray and Sophia Bush. In Bush’s most recent interview on the topic, she’s made it clear she won’t elaborate on it. “I was a very naive 21-year-old kid, and that's all there is to it,” she told People in 2021.

At the time of the divorce, the rumor was that Murray had cheated on Bush. “Sophia went into the marriage believing in the sanctity of marriage, and Chad simply did not share that vision,” said a friend of Bush’s, as reported by People. Paris Hilton’s ex-boyfriend Nick Carter fed this rumor when he claimed in 2006 that Murray had cheated with Hilton, who he’d acted with in House of Wax (this has never been confirmed).

It seems, from Bush’s perspective, that she never wanted to marry Murray in the first place. In a 2017 Cosmopolitan article, she wrote: “In my 20s, when I was starting out my career as an actor, I wasn’t looking for a relationship, but one found me and became serious, even though I hadn’t planned to settle down until my 30s. But when the person you’re with asks you to marry him, you think: This must be happening because it’s supposed to.”

A year later, she admitted on Radio Andy With Andy Cohen that she had felt pressured to marry Murray. “Because how do you let everybody down ...? And when you have bosses telling you that you’re the only person who gets a person to work on time, and 200 people either get to see their kids at night or they don’t because our days start on time?”

Bush’s words were met with a firestorm of controversy and a response from Murray’s representative, who called the story “ludicrous” and said “[Chad] has completely moved on and doesn’t feel the need to engage in this type of behavior.”

Related: 60 Famous Celebrity Couples Who Will Help You Feel the Love

Even if you don't run marathons, you probably know that there is a Boston Marathon. It's the world's oldest marathon (there's plenty of Boston Marathon history to share!) and one of the most famous in the United States.

Runners from all over the world compete in this race, and viewers from all over enjoy watching the competition. It's inspiring to watch athletes perform, and it might even motivate some to go out and grab their own running shoes (even if they don't want to do a total of 26.2 miles).

One reason that the Boston Marathon is so prestigious is that participants must qualify to run. This means that you must have already run a marathon at a certain pace. Because of that, impressive runners from all over consider it a worthy race. It also means viewers get to watch some pretty serious athletes. 

The marathon's route goes through eight cities, including Boston, which makes watching the progression more interesting. And even if you've never watched a marathon, you likely remember the tragic bombing that happened in 2013 at the Boston Marathon. It was devastating, and this year will mark 13 years since that terrible event.

If you're interested in knowing more about the history of the Boston Marathon and more details about the race, read on for all of the facts.

Related: Let's Get Physical! 10 Free Running Apps for Beginners, Pros and Every Runner in Between

When Is the Boston Marathon 2026?

The 130th Boston Marathon will be held on Monday, April 20, 2026. The marathon is always held on the third Monday of April.

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At What Time Does the Boston Marathon Start in 2026?

According to the Boston Athletic Association, the first wave of runners will begin at 10 a.m., with the next waves beginning at 10:15 a.m., 10:28 a.m. and 10:41 a.m. (EST).

How Far Is the Boston Marathon?

The Boston Marathon is a full marathon—which means it is 26.2 miles long.

How Long Does the Boston Marathon Last?

After the marathon commences at 10:00 a.m., the event usually continues until 5:30 p.m. (so that roads can be reopened).

How Many People Run in the Boston Marathon Each Year?

In 2026, there will be over 24,000 athletes participating in the Boston Marathon. Even though you have to qualify for the race, thousands of runners easily qualify—and not all qualified runners are guaranteed entry into the race due to field size limitations. 

The only other way that you can run in the Boston Marathon is if you are running for a charity. B.A.A. invites select non-profit organizations to take part in the Marathon. Each of these organizations then recruits volunteers to run for charity.

History and Origins of the Boston Marathon

Photo by YanLev from Getty Images/Canva

The first Boston Marathon was in 1897—originally called the "American Marathon." At that time, the distance of the race was 24.5 miles from Metcalf’s Mill in Ashland to the Irvington Oval in Boston.

In 1924, the course was lengthened to 26 miles, which went along with the official Olympic standard.

1966 marked the first year that a woman ran in the Marathon. Roberta Gibb was the first female finisher. However, she did not run an official race, and she hid in the bushes near the start until the race began. One year later, in 1967, Kathrine Switzer was the first woman to run the Boston Marathon as a numbered entrant (although she had not clearly identified her gender on the race application). In the fall of 1971, women were formally accepted to participate in the race.

From the first marathon all the way up to 1968, the race was run on Patriots' Day, which was always held on April 19. However, if the 19th fell on a Sunday, then the race would be on Monday, or the 20th, instead. The race day and Patriots' Day were changed in 1969 to be the third Monday of April.

Qualifying standards were introduced for the Boston Marathon in 1970, requiring certification to prove that each runner would be able to finish the race in under four hours. Today, qualifying standards range from three hours (for men ages 18-34) to five hours and 20 minutes (for women and non-binary individuals ages 80+)

The Boston Marathon became the first major marathon to include a wheelchair division in 1975.

Because of COVID, the 2021 race was the first in-person Boston Marathon not held in April. Instead, it was run on Monday, October 11, 2021.

Related: These Simple, Equipment-Free Exercises Will Give You the Same Fitness Benefits as Running

A Remembrance Event

In 2013, an unforgettable tragedy happened at the marathon. Two domestic terrorists planted bombs near the finish line of the race. They set them to go off at the busiest time when many people were gathered around and already celebrating those who had finished. Three people lost their lives, and hundreds of others were wounded. 

What Other Cities Are Included in the Course of the Boston Marathon?

Photo by Sean Pavone from Getty Images Pro/Canva

There are a total of eight Massachusetts cities that runners will run through that are around or in Boston. These cities include Hopkinton, Ashland, Framingham, Natick, Wellesley, Newton, Brookline and Boston. According to the B.A.A., the race starts in Hopkinton and ends on Boylston Street in Boston.

How to Watch the Boston Marathon

Besides viewing in person from one of the race cities, there are other ways to watch the Marathon as well.

1. ESPN will cover the marathon nationally, and WCVB or Channel 5 will cover it locally.
2. WMUR (New Hampshire) will cover the marathon on its website and app and locally on its broadcast.
3. Follow B.A.A. on social media. They will post great stories and up-to-the-minute information along with photos and videos.
4. If you are viewing in person, make sure to go early, as hundreds of thousands of spectators are expected.

Is there a Prize for Winning the Boston Marathon?

Yes, there is prize money. The highest reward, for first-place winners in each division, is $150,000 for the open division, $50,000 for the wheelchair division, $5,000 for masters and $3,000 for para divisions.

There are a total of 10 place winners in both the open division and the wheelchair division with the dollar amount getting smaller with each place. For the open division, second place is rewarded $75,000 and goes down to tenth place at $5,500. There is also a $50,000 bonus for setting a record.

How to Register for the Next Boston Marathon

For the 130th Boston Marathon, registration opened on September 8, 2025, but has already closed. The event is scheduled for April 20, 2026.

Why Is the Boston Marathon So Hard to Get Into?

As one of the world's most popular running events, the Boston Marathon is notoriously difficult to get into. There is a lot of competition for a limited number of spots. Plus, qualifying for the event is extremely difficult, as only the best runners are accepted.

Related: Make a Run for It! Here Are 100 Running Quotes To Keep You Active and Motivated All Year

Patrick Muldoon, known for his roles in Melrose Place and Days of Our Lives has died. According to TMZ, Muldoon had a heart attack on Sunday, April 19, and died at his home in Beverly Hills. He was just 57-years-old.

Just two days before his sudden death, Muldoon took to Instagram to share some news about the upcoming film Kockroach, co-starring Chris Hemsworth, Taron Egerton, and Zazie Beetz. Per his upload, Muldoon was listed as an executive producer for the film.

"So excited to be a part of this amazing project KOCKROACH directed by Matt Ross starring Chris Hemsworth, Taron Edgerton, Zazzie Beetz And Alec Baldwin. Filming now in Australia," Muldoon wrote.

View this post on Instagram

The post has now turned into heartbreak as fans take to the comments section to leave their condolences.

"Grew up watching you in starship troopers . R.I.P legend," one person wrote.

"RIP Patrick, breaks my heart to see the news. The world has lost a remarkable man," someone else said.

"RIP Patrick!! You will be missed," a third comment read.

"You will be missed! Wishing all of Patrick's friends, family and devoted fans love, comfort and intentions of peace and ease," a fourth fan added.

Muldoon had several other projects in the works at the time of his death, according to his IMDb page. One of his final projects, a film called Dirty Hands, will hit digital platforms on April 24. The trailer for Dirty Hands, which also stars Denise Richards, Kevin Interdonato, Guy Nurdulli, and Michael Beach, was released two weeks ago.

Elin Hilderbrand may be known as the “queen of beach reads,” but the New York Times bestselling author is also an avid reader, using her platform to spotlight other writers’ work. Hilderbrand, author of The Hotel Nantucket, Summer of ’69, and Golden Girl, shared her latest book pick on Instagram—a surprise literary choice from an author known for acclaimed fiction. An endorsement from Hilderbrand, a respected and highly successful author, is one of the ultimate stamps of approval, adding even more praise to a book The New York Times Book Review calls “meticulously” crafted.

Elin Hilderbrand Recommends Clutch View this post on Instagram

In a social media post shared in April 2026, Hilderbrand recommended Clutch by Emily Nemens, a selection that expands beyond her signature beach reads. Hilderbrand writes, “What a ride! Five best friends from college meet up in Palm Springs and from there we dive right into their lives and backstories, all of which are compelling. @emilynemens writing is nothing short of brilliant. This book is smart, funny and filled with deep true emotion, she loves her characters and by the end, we do too. Highly recommend!”

Related: Oprah Winfrey Names This Page-Turner Her April Book Club Pick: 'You Won't Want To Put It Down'

Why Clutch Stands Out to Readers

Hilderbrand often crafts stories told from multiple points of view, with character-driven storytelling at the heart of her work. Clutch tells the story of five women, friends for twenty years, as they navigate major life challenges and transitions. Both writers focus on relationships, personal growth, and layered characters. Chances are, if you enjoy an Elin Hilderbrand novel, you’ll enjoy Clutch. Hilderbrand did.

Critical Praise and Growing Buzz

Clutch, published February 3, 2026, is no stranger to high praise. In addition to Hilderbrand’s endorsement, the novel has been named a Best Book by The New York Times Book Review, People, Los Angeles Times, Alta Journal, Bustle, and more. An endorsement from one of the publishing world’s most popular authors like Elin Hilderbrand may carry as much influence as top literary critics.

The Power of Author and Reader Recommendations View this post on Instagram

Thanks in part to social media and the popularity of platforms like Goodreads and BookTok, readers have become some of the most influential voices in publishing. Romantasy favorites like Rebecca Yarros have seen major success fueled by reader enthusiasm online. By endorsing Clutch, Elin Hilderbrand reinforces her role as both a celebrated author and a trusted reader, and her “highly recommend” carries significant weight.

Related: 'The Vacationers' Author Emma Straub Names The 'Standout' Book of 2026: 'This Is A Great One'

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When you hear the word "lesbian," the most obvious thing you might think about is famous lesbians. "Celesbians" if you will. For example, there's Ellen DeGeneres, Rosie O'Donnell, Hayley Kiyoko, Megan Rapinoe and Reneé Rapp. And outside of just modern lesbians, there's also Black poet Audre Lorde, English writer Virginia Woolf and (possibly even) poet Emily Dickinson. You might even think of fictional lesbians, like Scooby-Doo's Velma or Willow and Tara from Buffy the Vampire Slayer.

But some thoughts might not be so positive since there are also harmful stereotypes and a lot of oppression that lesbians face. There is still a stigma for some around the word "lesbian" and young adults who identify as lesbian were "the most likely of all LGBTQ+ identities to say they were ashamed of being part of the community." PinkNews reported that a study by Just Like Us, a UK-based LGBTQ+ charity, found 79 percent of the lesbians surveyed felt this way, with 78 percent of trans youth and 76 percent of non-binary youth behind them. 

Even though lesbian representation on TV is on the rise—2022 was the first time that lesbians made up the majority of queer characters on cable television in more than 15 years—lesbians can still feel hidden and unappreciated. While Pride Month is a great time to celebrate and uplift the queer people in our lives, Lesbian Visibility Week is specifically for lesbians. Here's what that week celebrates and how you can honor those special sapphics in your life. 

Related: 50 LGBTQ Trivia Questions and Answers to Honor LGBTQIA+ Communities During National Coming Out Day and Beyond

What Is Lesbian Visibility Week?

Lesbian Visibility Week is a week at the end of April that is meant as a time for lesbians to be seen, heard and celebrated. Just like any other week to commemorate different groups in the LGBTQ+ community, Lesbian Visibility Week is a great time to reflect on how lesbians are treated within the LGBTQ+ community and in everyday life.

Lesbians exist in a somewhat unique intersection of misogyny and homophobia because their lives and relationships don’t revolve around men (outside of living in a patriarchal society, of course). This can make their relationships seem less viable or worthy of respect to others. This is perfectly displayed when someone says a variation of, “Well, maybe you just haven’t met the right guy yet” (or something more vulgar), which every lesbian or sapphic person has heard at least once in their lives.

As the official Lesbian Visibility Week site states, the point of this week is to uplift lesbians and “show solidarity with all LGBTQI women and non-binary people in our community.” 

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What Is the History and Origins of Lesbian Visibility Week?

While it’s widely recognized today, Lesbian Visibility Week disappeared for a bit and didn’t make a mainstream comeback until 2020. Lesbian Visibility Week originally began in Los Angeles in 1990 and was celebrated until 1992. The reasons were still the same; lesbians were tired of being “invisible to straight America” and were annoyed at the attention afforded to gay men and not as much to lesbians.

However, after 1992, the week fell off until International Lesbian Visibility Day came to be in 2008. A whole week still didn’t exist again until 2020. That’s when Linda Riley, the publisher of DIVA Magazine—a major LGBTQ media brand in Europe and the UK—believed that only 24 hours of celebration of lesbians was “simply insufficient” and she needed to change that. This led her to found Lesbian Visibility Week, with the support of several UK and international organizations such as GLAAD, Stonewall, Kaleidoscope Trust, UK Black Pride, Albert Kennedy Trust, LGBT Foundation, Mermaids, the Peter Tatchell Foundation and more.

Riley wrote in a Stonewall blog, “Lesbians need to be given space to be visible and shown to the world on our own terms.” While it’s meant to celebrate lesbians of all kinds, it’s also a time to take a hard look at the struggles people in the community face and highlight ways to fix them. 

Related: The 21 LGBTQIA+ Flags (and Their Meanings)

When Is Lesbian Visibility Day 2026?

This year, Lesbian Visibility Day is celebrated on April 26, 2026, which is the same date every year. 

When Is Lesbian Visibility Week 2026?

Correlating to Lesbian Day of Visibility, which (again) falls on April 26th yearly, Lesbian Visibility Week is typically the week around this date. This year, the special week is from April 20 to April 26, 2026.

What Is the Theme of Lesbian Visibility Week 2026?

This year, the theme for Lesbian Visibility Week is "health and wellbeing." It's designed to highlight LGBTQ+ women and non-binary people's families, giving them the attention and appreciation they deserve.

How Do You Celebrate Lesbian Visibility? 

If you’re in the UK, there are several in-person events and ways to honor lesbians (since its main site is run by a UK-based media group). And if you are lucky enough to live near one of the last lesbian bars in America, they should have some great events or promos going on as well. Looking for sapphic-owned or lesbian-owned businesses or Facebook/community groups is also a great way to see if your community has any in-person events. And many LGBTQ+ accounts or brands might host online events or seminars as well, so just stay tuned to social media.

But the main point of Lesbian Visibility Week is to celebrate and support lesbians in your own lives and communities. This can be by telling them you care, aiding them in some way, and educating yourself on the stigma they might face. There are organizations you can donate to as well, such as PFLAG, The Trevor Project, the ACLU and so much more. Diva Magazine is also making a big push for equality in IVF access for lesbian couples.

Pride Month is right around the corner and is such a fun time for queer people and allies to come together to celebrate the LGBTQ+ community. But during Lesbian Visibility Week, make sure to show a little bit of extra appreciation to your favorite lesbians. 

Related: 25 Best Gay and LGBTQ+ Romance Movies of All Time, Ranked

In 1981, Rush released what would become one of their signature songs with “Tom Sawyer.” The Canadian rockers released the song as the opening track on their album Moving Pictures.

Written by Geddy Lee, Neil Peart, Alex Lifeson, and Pye Dubois, “Tom Sawyer” became a rock radio staple, peaking at No. 44 on the Billboard Hot 100 on Aug. 1, 1981. Lee once said during a press conference that “Tom Sawyer" was the band's “defining piece of music… from the early 80s.”

But the song almost didn’t make the cut because it was so difficult to record.

“I mean, when we were working on 'Tom Sawyer,' actually for the longest time, it was the worst song on the record,” Lee told Prog magazine's Philip Wilding in an interview. “We had more trouble with that song than almost any other song. I had real doubt about whether the song was working at all.“

Geddy Lee wanted to scrap the song

“Tom Sawyer” featured a pulsing synthesizer hook and lyrics about a modern-day warrior’s “mean, mean stride.”  The lush, sprawling song, inspired by Mark Twain’s The Adventures of Tom Sawyer, evolved in the studio but was nearly scrapped because the session was so time-consuming.

In a 2004 interview with Classic Rock, Lee explained, “There are usually one or two songs that you're struggling with tooth and nail. 'Tom Sawyer' was one of those songs, and right up until the end, it was a struggle. Everything we did on that song was just like pulling teeth. Alex went through a hundred different sounds for the guitar solo. There's always one song that haunts you and drives you crazy.”

“It was a very difficult song to record,” he shared in an interview with NPR’s World Cafe. “Every turn, something was going wrong.”

That included computer problems while mixing the song.

“When we came to mix it, there were all these technical problems, because we were using one of the first computerized mixing consoles in North America at the time," Lee said. "That was in 1980... '79, '80. And there was this grounding problem, and the song kept mixing itself, it kept remixing itself. So it was just... nothing was working. And, at one point, I thought, 'Maybe we just forget this song and move on.'”

RELATED: The One Rock Star Moment You May Have Missed on ‘Gilmore Girls’

'Tom Sawyer' became an anthem for Rush

With its tubular sound, “Tom Sawyer” set itself apart from past Rush songs such as “Working Man” and “Spirit of Radio.”

“Structurally, the way the song develops is very interesting, going from that first verse into a bridge into a chorus and into the solo and then repeating,” Lifeson once said, per Classic Rock. “It wasn’t a typical kind of structure for us at the time. … The synthesizer is such a key part of that song. …There’s a freshness about that sound that still stands out. And there’s something in the lyric that people have always related to very strongly – the spirit of independence and adventure.”

“’Tom Sawyer’ is a real trademark song for us,” he added. “Musically, it’s very powerful, and lyrically, it has a spirit that resonates with a lot of people. It’s kind of an anthem. … It’s just one of those special songs.”

Of his initial frustrations with “Tom Sawyer,” Lee told World Café, “It just goes to show you, I wouldn't know a hit single if I tripped over it.”

“There I was, on the verge and even accepting the idea that maybe our most popular song ever would end up in the trash can,” the Rush legend admitted.

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Is your backyard feeling cluttered? Do you have tons of summer items and patio furniture that you'd like to swap into rotation, but you're out of storage? The Asofer Galvanized Metal Outdoor Storage Shed, now on sale at Walmart for as low as $104, is the perfect answer to revamping your outdoor space!

With its elegant muted colors and sturdy protective roof, this shed seamlessly combines practicality with style. It has received significant praise from shoppers who've deemed it both attractive and functional.

Asofer Galvanized Metal Outdoor Storage Shed, From $104 (was $400) at Walmart Shop at Walmart

This steel shed is highly regarded, earning a fantastic 5-star rating from over 550 reviewers. "Absolutely love this shed," said one shopper. “The instructions were easy to follow and all the screws were complete. Looks great, and everything inside stays dry and easy to access."

The "sturdy and durable" shed is crafted from galvanized metal to resist rust, rain, and UV rays. It measures 5 feet tall, 5 feet wide, and 3 feet deep, so there's ample room to store gardening tools, folding chairs, and other supplies.

Related: Walmart's $63 Freestanding Cabinet Is a 'Perfect Space Saver' With 'Tons of Storage'

One of the best features is the elevated ceiling, so you won't have to crouch down too much when reaching for your belongings. Two vents for air circulation reduce mold and mildew, and a slanted design prevents water from pooling on the top. There's even an anti-theft lock to keep your supplies extra safe.

Shoppers said they love this shed's simple assembly, attractive look, and roomy interior. It measures 5 feet by 3 feet, but comes in seven additional color and size combinations — most of which are currently discounted at Walmart.

Grab this useful shed at Walmart for as low as $104, and keep your garden looking clean and organized! With the current discount, you might even be tempted to stock up on several of these outdoor storage structures before they go back to their original price.

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I spend close to 100 days a year on the road, so what goes into my carry-on and weekender isn’t about convenience, it’s about consistency. I bring the same products I rely on at home, just in smarter, travel-ready forms. Over time, I’ve narrowed it down to what actually makes a difference, from maintaining my beauty routine to getting better rest and staying organized without overpacking. These are the eight essentials I pack every single trip because they make travel feel easier, more comfortable and far more put together.

As someone who covers shopping and travel for outlets like Coveteur, Martha Stewart Weddings and Harper’s Bazaar, I’ve tested more minis and travel-friendly products and essentials than I can count, and these are the few that have earned a permanent spot in my bag no matter where I’m headed.

Related: 8 Things I Never Pack in a Carry-On as a Travel Writer of 15 Years 

FLAUS Electric Flosser

Amazon.com

I take oral hygiene very seriously and just because I’m traveling doesn’t mean I skip my routine. I was introduced to this recently and now it comes with me everywhere, it’s quick, effective and keeps everything consistent no matter where I am. It always has a spot in my bag.

Get it on Amazon.comIGK Mini Good Behavior Anti-Frizz Spray

Haircare styling products are an essential and I always bring my own when I travel. This travel-sized smoothing spray has a permanent spot in my bag because it’s the quickest way to humidity-proof my hair and keep everything smooth, frizz-free and manageable, no matter the climate.

Get it on Sephora.comPast Midnight Aviators

pastmidnight.com

I always travel with at least one or two pairs of sunglasses and these oversized aviators are a favorite. They make any outfit feel more put together while also being practical, especially on long travel days when you want coverage and a little bit of polish.

Get it on PastMidnightLabel.com

Related: 10 Carry-On Essentials I Trust for Every Trip and Here’s Why 

Lemme Sleep Gummies

Amazon.com

These are some of the best melatonin gummies I’ve tried. They help me fall asleep quickly but don’t leave me feeling groggy, and I especially rely on them when I’m dealing with jet lag or adjusting to a new time zone.

Get it on Amazon.comViolette FR PLUME Lip Whip

Sephora.com

This is one of my newer favorite lip products. It gives that soft matte look but still feels hydrating, so it doesn’t dry out my lips and eliminates the need to pack multiple lip products to get the same effect.

Get it on Sephora.comCharmast Portable Charger

Amazon.com

A true carry-on essential. It’s compact, has built-in cables and makes it easy to keep everything charged without dealing with extra cords, which makes a big difference when you’re moving through airports or on long travel days.

Get it on Amazon.com

Related: I live Bicoastally—Here’s My No-Fail Airport Outfit as a Woman in My 30s

ORA Method LED Gua Sha

oramethod.com

I always pack at least one skincare tool when I travel and this has been my new go-to. It’s so easy to use, feels effective right away and really does everything, from depuffing to sculpting to giving your skin that immediate glow after a long flight.

Get it on OraMethod.comClementine Silver Ion Cap

SleepwithClementine.com

This is one of the most genius travel accessories I have ever owned. It helps protect your hair, supports scalp health and works with many travel looks. I’ve never owned a baseball-style hat that actually feels elevated, but now it’s something I always bring.

Get it on SleepWithClementine.com

Related:  I Test Travel Gear for a Living—Here’s The Carry-On Checklist I Use Before Every Trip

In 1974, music fans were swept away by images of desert romance and moonlit escape, as a smooth, softly seductive melody created an atmosphere that felt both intimate and timeless.

Maria Muldaur’s “Midnight at the Oasis” pairs playful storytelling with a distinctly sultry, easygoing feel. The track quickly became her signature moment, earning widespread attention and becoming a top 10 hit.

The song tells the story of a flirtatious desert rendezvous, where romance unfolds under the cover of night. Its suggestive yet lighthearted tone is carried by Muldaur’s breezy delivery, setting a sultry mood without ever spelling everything out.

Muldaur doesn't shy away from the song's sensual innuendoes. She said in a 2007 interview for Living Legends Music that she was regularly approached by listeners, who shared their personal stories about how their lives were changed by "Midnight at the Oasis."

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The performer explained, "Everybody found it just an irresistible song, go figure. People are still talking about it today."

She continued, "People come up to me every night after a performance when I'm signing autographs. I hear so many stories about that song."

RELATED: 1979 Yacht Rock Gem Just Named One of the Decade’s Best Songs

She claimed people were intimate to that song. "I have pictures of babies that were conceived to it, people got married to it and had their first romance," Muldaur added. "It was just a song that captured everybody's attention and imagination."

"Midnight at the Oasis" hit No. 8 on Billboard's Top 100 chart in September 1974. The song would be nominated for two Grammy Awards in 1975 including Record of the Year during the 17th annual ceremony.

RELATED: 1978 Timeless Yacht Rock Gem Ranks Among the Decade’s Greatest Hits

Muldaur's song was nominated alongside Olivia Newton-John's "I Honestly Love You," which was the evening's big winner. Other contenders for the same category included classics such as Joni Mitchell's "Help Me," Roberta Flack's "Feel Like Making Love," and Elton John's "Don't Let the Sun Go Down on Me."

Film fans remember the song used was in a hilarious audition scene between late comedy superstars Catherine O'Hara and Fred Willard in the 1996 Christopher Guest, Eugene Levy-written film comedy Waiting For Guffman.

Maria Muldaur continues to perform. Her official website lists live dates from May through July, 2026.

MORE: 1966 Brian Wilson Masterpiece Named One of the Best Songs of All Time

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As a travel writer, proud Disney Adult and someone who visits Disney World almost once a month for fun with my nieces and nephews—yes, I'm that auntie—I've learned a thing or two about packing for long, hot park days. Of course, you’ll want to bring the basics: comfortable shoes (break them in beforehand and prioritize pairs that not only endure high mileage but are also quick-drying for those Florida afternoon showers), portable chargers, sunscreen, and reusable water bottles. These essentials are the foundation for staying comfortable and confident from rope drop to fireworks.

While you might think about packing bug spray or a bulky first-aid kit, those are generally unnecessary because Disney has an incredible, world-class mosquito-prevention program (I’ve never been bitten in the parks!). If you do find yourself needing a quick spritz, complimentary insect repellent is usually available near the park entrances. You can also skip the heavy medical supplies, as Disney’s First-Aid centers are fully equipped with free over-the-counter medications, bandages, and expert care for minor injuries.

But, beyond the standard checklist, there are some under-the-radar finds I've discovered to be helpful for beating the heat, keeping kids entertained in long lines and keeping your gear dry on water rides. Here are eight things you might not have thought to pack for a day in the parks:

Related: How I Pack For a 7-Day Disney World Trip With A Single Carry-On

FattyPack

Amazon

Fatty Packs are compact storage pockets that attach easily to items like hats, belt loops or bra straps. They fit snugly and are waterproof, so they're a good option to have on hand when in the parks with teens or when someone needs to break away from the group without taking a larger bag. They’re able to store cash and other small essentials like a key, chapstick or medicine without worries of it getting lost or getting wet on rides. 

Shop it on Amazon!Peak Design Packable Tote

Amazon

Even if you’re not planning on it, sometimes souvenir shopping gets the best of us, and before you know it, there’s nowhere to store gadgets, wands or popcorn buckets. I like to keep a packable tote on hand, and I found this one by Peak Design to be the best one so far. Unlike other totes, it has a zipper closure, it’s tear-proof and weather-resistant. And, even though it holds a lot, it's fairly lightweight. The thicker strap keeps it from being uncomfortable, which is also a huge plus. 

Shop it on Amazon!

Related: The ‘Transit Trouser’ Controversy That’s Dividing Travel Influencers Across the Internet 

Mission Cooling Towel

Amazon

If you're visiting the parks in the summer, you can expect a fair amount of heat. And, if you’re not prepared, it can make a fun day fairly miserable. Cooling towels are an absolute must. What I like about these towels is that they’re compact, they cool you down by 30 degrees in under a minute, and they have sun protection! Plus, they dry quickly and are machine washable for continued use. 

Shop it on Amazon!Coofandy Rain Poncho

Amazon

One of the biggest mistakes I see from park goers is not preparing for rain. While the downpours can be random and usually don’t last long enough to leave the park, no one wants to walk around in wet or soggy clothing. Do yourself a favor and pack a poncho. You’ll also want one for water rides like Tiana’s Bayou. There are plastic ones that you can get from anywhere, but if you plan to visit the parks often, invest in a really good one. This one features a snap-and-zipper closure. I also like that the hood is adjustable, so you don't have to worry about oversized hoods obstructing your views of the castle and fellow park guests. And, when the rain stops, toss it back into the carrying pouch! 

Shop it on Amazon!

Bonus pro-tip: Whether from rain showers, splash rides, accidental spills, or sweating, you may also want to consider packing a change of clothes. We use wet bags to keep our wet and soiled clothes contained until we get back to our hotel to do laundry. 

Related: How to Properly Pack a Carry-On, According to a Flight Attendant

SaltStick Electrolyte FastChews

Amazon

Staying hydrated—particularly in the summer or in high-energy places like theme parks—is crucial for preventing exhaustion, heatstroke or headaches. Of course, you'll find plenty of places to refill your water bottles, but excessive liquid intake can lead to more bathroom breaks. One way you can feel hydrated longer is by using electrolytes, like Salt Stick. They help replenish nutrients lost through high heat and sweating (two things you’ll definitely experience in a theme park)! I like that these are chewable, so you don’t have to worry about chugging a big bottle of water or dealing with any pesky powders. 

Shop it on Amazon!MOFT Phone Tripod Stand

Amazon

Selfie sticks and full-sized tripods can feel a bit unnecessary or even intimidating for the average park goer. But they still want a way to snap photos and videos without asking strangers or leaving someone out of the group. MOFT phone tripod stands are about the size of a credit card and snap to the back of the phone, allowing quick access and multiple angles that take up virtually no space. 

Shop it on Amazon!Carpe 

Amazon

You may have seen these Carpe products advertised for their triple sweat protection. The groin powders and deodorants are really good at keeping sweat and body odor at bay. Trust me, you’ll want that for a long day in the park. But this one is for the park goers who like a little glam for their park day photos and videos. The sweat-absorbing primer not only keeps you from sweating, but it also has sun protection and locks in your makeup look for the entire day. 

Shop it on Amazon!Dr. Scholl's Moleskin Padding Roll

Amazo

Even if you’re a person who works out each day or is fairly active, theme parks are different. In fact, the average person walks 15-25,000 steps in a single park visit. That’s about 7-13 miles, and it can increase if you’re visiting multiple parks in a day, plus walking around the resort. You’ll want to pack some medicine for sure to help alleviate any aches and pains. Or wear compression socks while you’re park-hopping. Moleskin padding is great to have on hand because it helps reduce friction and pressure on your feet. The roll lets you cut the tape to whatever size you need. 

Shop it on Amazon!

Related: This Is Hands-Down the Best Girls’ Trip Destination Right Now—And It Isn’t Vegas

Donuts are an endlessly lovable dessert—probably because you can eat them for breakfast and also because there are so many options for every taste preference. Maybe you like old-fashioned cake donuts, plain glazed, ones loaded with sprinkles or even mini donut holes. (I'm a big maple bar lover, myself.) Basically, if you're a fan of at yeast one type of donut, you're sure to eat up these donut puns and one-liners.

Thanks to the un-dough-lieveable wordplay found below, you can now express your fondness for the food itself (or for your romantic partner) with some donut love puns. Or maybe you're just hard at work for the dough and want to read some job-related donut quips. Perhaps you're a teacher with a classroom of students whom you donut know what you'd do without. And maybe you'd like to see popular song lyrics or titles reimagined in a hole new way.

For as many types of donut, fritter and cruller flavors existing in the world, there are just as many funny donut jokes and puns to explore as well—and then some. Keep reading to dough-light in the 105 donut puns that Parade has baked up for you.

Related: Avo Good Day! Here Are 150 Funny Food Puns To Make You Laugh

Canva/Parade

105 Best Donut Puns

1. Donut you wish you were here?
2. Donut let me down.
3. I'd dough anything for you.
4. I donut know what I'd do without you.
5. You're a-dough-able!
6. I love you dough much!
7. Don't count how many donuts you ate today; it dozen matter.
8. I like you a hole lot.
9. Donut worry, be happy.
10. Donut kill my vibe!
11. Where have you beignet all my life?
12. Donut cry over spilled milk.
13. I donut care about that.
14. Life is a hole lot more fun with you in it.
15. I'm donuts about you.
16. Who doesn't love a glazy Sundayafternoon?
17. Donut worry, darling.
18. I a-dough you.
19. You're a-glaze-ing!
20. Donut give up!
21. Donuts make me feel a hole lot better.
22. Not to glaze you too much, but you're dough-mazing.
23. What are you dough-ing here?
24. Donut bite off more than you can chew.
25. Glazy donuts are always fritter-ing away their day.
26. You're driving me glazy!
27. Donut sweat the small stuff.

Related: LOL! 260 Funny (And Clean) Jokes Guaranteed To Make Kids Laugh

Canva/Parade

Donut Puns for Work

1. I donut want to go to that meeting.
2. I donut like Mondays.
3. I'm just here for the dough.
4. Donuts in the break room? Donut mind if I do...
5. Donut bother me on my lunch break.
6. Why did everyone love working with the donut?
   Answer: He's a jelly good fellow.
7. Donut let work stress you out.
8. The best ideas aren't half-baked.
9. Donut talk to me before I've had my coffee.
10. Why did the yeast donut ask to get promoted?
    Answer: It wanted a raise.
11. Donut underestimate my skills.
12. I'm just dough-ing it for the paycheck.
13. Why did the donut get the job?
    Answer: Because it was the hole package.

Related: 80 Delicious Food Quotes to Sink Your Teeth Into

Canva/Parade

Donut Puns for Teachers

1. Donut judge a textbook by its cover.
2. I donut what I'd do without students like you.
3. Students think doing homework is cruller and unusual punishment.
4. The best teachers don't glaze over anything in their lessons.
5. Why are donuts good teachers?
   Answer: They make learning a treat.
6. Donut give up on your dreams.
7. Why didn't the donuts turn in their homework?
   Answer: They were being glaze-y.
8. What did the teacher say to the unruly donut?
   Answer: "You knead to calm down."
9. Donut forget to do your homework. 
10. What do you call a donut who's in a lot of clubs?
    Answer: Well-rounded.
11. Why do donuts love field trips?
    Answer: They're a hole lot of fun.
12. How do you teach donuts about fire safety?
    Answer: Tell them to stop, drop and roll.
13. Why did the donut go to school?
    Answer: To get a batter education.

Related: Ha Ha Ha—200 Corny Jokes That Are So Bad They're Actually Funny Good

Canva/Parade

Musical Donut Puns

1. Donut stop believing! Hold onto that feeling....
2. Donut go breaking my heart! I couldn't if I fried!
3. Please donut stop the music!
4. Sweet dreams are made of yeast.
5. Donut rain on my parade!
6. Hey now, hey now, donut dream it's over.
7. I donut about you, but I'm feeling 22!
8. Donut stop me now! 
9. Dough-lene, Dough-lene, Dough-lene, Dough-lene! I'm begging of you please don't take my man.
10. A-glazing grace, how sweet the sound.
11. Donut cry for me, Argentina.
12. All you knead is love.
13. Dough you want to know a secret?
14. Love, love me dough.
15. Dough you really want to hurt me? Dough you really want to make me cry? 
16. Donut you forget about me!
17. Glazy in Love.
18. Hole me closer tiny donut. 
19. What's Dua Lipa's donut alter-ego?
    Answer: Dough-a Lipa.
20. What's a donut's favorite band?
    Answer: The Yeastie Boys.

Canva/Parade

Donut Jokes

1. The doctor told me to start eating more whole foods, so it's a good thing donuts have holes in them.
2. Which donuts make good pilots?
   Answer: Plain ones.
3. What did the donut mom name her baby?
   Answer: Theo-dough.
4. Why did the nepo donut get the job?
   Answer: It had an en-dough-rsement.
5. In a world of plain bagels, be a sprinkle donut.
6. How do donuts make sure they smell good?
   Answer: They use deo-dough-rant.
7. How do donuts water the lawn?
   Answer: With a sprinkle-r.
8. What do you call baby donuts?
   Answer: A-dough-rable.
9. Why couldn't the donut see well?
   Answer: It had a glazy eye.
10. What do donuts think is the opposite of west?
    Answer: Yeast.
11. Why did the donut visit the dentist?
    Answer: To get a filling!
12. What's a donut's favorite mode of transportation?
    Answer: A helicop-dough.
13. Why are donuts the best at making plans?
    Answer: They're always in the loop!
14. What do donuts call a small rainstorm?
    Answer: A sprinkle!
15. What did the donut tell its sick friend?
    Answer: "Feel batter soon!"
16. Who's the most famous donut YouTuber?
    Answer: Mr. Yeast.
17. What's a donut's favorite book?
    Answer: A Sprinkle in Time.
18. What did the bully call the donut?
    Answer: A weirdough.
19. Why are jelly donuts so busy?
    Answer: Their days are jam-packed.
20. Which Disney movie do donuts love?
    Answer: Beauty and the Yeast.
21. What fall activity do donuts love?
    Answer: The corn glaze.
22. Why was the donut bad at lying?
    Answer: Everyone could see right through it.
23. Why do donuts have a hard time in relationships?
    Answer: They can get a little jelly.
24. Why was the donut's golf score so good?
    Answer: Because of the hole in one.
25. Why didn't housekeeping go into the hotel room?
    Answer: The donut disturb sign was on the door.
26. What's a donut's favorite movie?
    Answer: Glazed and Confused.
27. What did the baseball fans say to the donut?
    Answer: "Hey batter, batter!"
28. Why did the donut feel down?
    Answer: It was empty inside.
29. What holiday to donuts celebrate in the spring?
    Answer: Yeaster.
30. What's a donut's favorite type of jacket?
    Answer: A sugarcoat.
31. What did the donut bride say during her wedding vows?
    Answer: "I dough."
32. Why does the donut always bring an umbrella?
    Answer: In case it sprinkles!

Up Next:

Related: 75 Pickle Puns That Prove These Jokes Are Kind of a Big Dill

Things are about to get very dangerous in Fairmont Crest. Beyond the Gates star Cecelia Specht is opening up about a grueling 18-hour shoot that left her ‘thrilled’, but may leave fans deeply concerned for their favorite characters.

Specht, who portrays Dr. Lia Whitmore, Chief of Staff at Garland Memorial Hospital, recently spoke with WJTV 12 News reporter Kayla Thompson about her experience on the soap and what’s ahead for viewers.

When asked what she’s most excited for Fans to see, Specht hinted at a big moment coming soon. “I'm most excited for something really thrilling that's going to happen in May,” she said.

The actress also suggested the storyline will be unexpected, and meaningful on a personal level. “It's something as a woman I was like, ‘I get to be a part of that?’” she shared.

Specht went on to explain that the arc centers on material that mature women don’t traditionally get to explore on screen, adding that it will feature “a lot of action and a lot of drama.”

She also teased that viewers may want to be concerned for some of their favorite characters.

Behind the scenes, the storyline appears to be just as demanding. Specht revealed that filming included extremely long days, with one shoot lasting more than 18 hours.

 “I can't wait to see it myself and to see the response from the fans.” She added, “I think they're going to be really, really pleased.”

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In recent weeks, the series has begun to hint at Lia’s involvement in the larger “Impaler” storyline. While her exact role remains unclear, viewers have seen her positioned above lab tech Grayson Perez (Jordie Vilasuso), suggesting she may play a significant role in the organization.

Viewers can watch the series from the beginning on Paramount Plus or on Pluto TV’s dedicated 24/7 Beyond the Gates FAST channel. The series is also replaying from the beginning every Thursday on BET's 'T.G.I.G. (Thank Goodness It's Gates)' block.

New episodes of Beyond the Gates air weekdays on CBS with episodes streaming weeknights on Paramount Plus.

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

It's finally time to break out your spring and summer sandals. If you've been waiting all year to curate your warm weather footwear collection, then you're not alone, especially since Nordstrom Rack is already ahead of the curb with unbeatable shoe deals. Some of our favorites stem from Sorel, a footwear brand that's known for its blend of comfortability and style. 

Therefore, we're adding the Sorel Dayspring Crisscross Sandals to our online carts, while they're 50% off. The shoes were originally priced at $140, but have been reduced to $70. You can shop for them in three classic colors: black, beige, and tan. Sizes range from 5 to 12 in a medium width, including half sizes, with the product description citing them as being true to size. Just note that some color and size combinations are already out of stock, and this style is a new arrival, so you'll want to act fast in order to add them to your closet. 

Sorel Dayspring Crisscross Sandal, $70 (was $140) at Nordstrom Rack

Courtesy of Nordstrom Rack

Shop at Nordstrom Rack

The sandals are made of a leather upper, synthetic lining, and rubber sole. There's a cushioned footbed that's ideal for all day comfort, with a 2-inch platform heel and additional 0.25-inch heel slope that gives you a height boost. There are two thick straps that land across the top of the foot, with an adjustable buckle heel strap that wraps around the ankle. This provides stability while walking, so you don't have to keep adjusting it with movement. 

Sorel Dayspring Crisscross Sandal, $70 (was $140) at Nordstrom Rack

Courtesy of Nordstrom Rack

Shop at Nordstrom Rack

Platform heels are really trendy right now, so these sandals will fit right in with current styles. You can sport them with skirts, jeans, dresses, and nearly any pants that you like wearing. Due to the fact that they're both "comfy" and functional, they may also be the perfect addition to your upcoming travels, if you plan on wearing them daily like reviewers said they did. Other shoppers described the sandals as "very cute," "stylish," and of "great quality."

Related: Clarks' Strappy $60 Slip-On Sandals Are 'Comfortable,' 'Stylish,' and 'Great to Walk In'

Considering dozens of shoppers are already viewing the deal, you'll want to add these gorgeous sandals to your Nordstrom Rack cart sooner than later. This 50% off sale is a complete steal and won't be around for much longer, so take advantage of it while you're able! 

Don’t miss future deals! Sign up for Parade Picks to receive our commerce team’s curated selection of discounts and sales, twice a week.

In a major win for travelers and maritime logistics, the MSC Euribia has officially cleared the Arabian Gulf. After being effectively sidelined in Dubai for 47 days due to the closure of the Strait of Hormuz, the ship successfully transited the critical waterway on April 18, and is now full-speed ahead for Northern Europe.

The breakthrough comes as a surprise relief for thousands of passengers. Just days ago, MSC Cruises had officially cancelled the ship’s first two season-opening departures (May 16 from Kiel and May 17 from Copenhagen) because there was no clear window for the ship to leave Dubai.

However, in a rare "reverse-course" move, the cruise line has now reinstated those sailings. Because the ship cleared the strait sooner than anticipated, it is expected to complete its roughly 8,300-mile journey to Germany in time to resume its original schedule.

Related: Fan-Favorite Cruise Line Cancels Dozens of Sailings For 2026 and 2027

MSC Euribia, Infinity Atrium

"MSC Euribia has departed Dubai, has safely transited the Strait of Hormuz, and is now en route to Northern Europe," the cruise line confirmed in a statement. "The passage was completed in close coordination with the relevant authorities."

For those whose vacations were recently tossed into limbo, the news is a welcome turnaround. MSC has confirmed that guests who previously received cancellation notices will have the option to transfer their bookings back to these original sailings. The line will be contacting affected travelers directly starting tomorrow to sort out the logistics of reinstating their plans.

Related: Royal Caribbean Cancels Over 20 Cruises Scheduled For 2027

"MSC Euribia is on course to resume her Northern Europe season, and as the ship will now be able to return sooner than previously anticipated, MSC Cruises confirms that the cruise departing on May 16 from Kiel (and May 17 from Copenhagen) will now operate as originally scheduled, with all subsequent sailings operating as planned."

The MSC Euribia is one of the fleet's most technologically advanced vessels, featuring a striking hull designed by artist Alex Flämig that symbolizes the line’s commitment to marine conservation. Once it arrives in Kiel, the ship will begin its highly anticipated summer season, cruising through the iconic fjords of Norway—including stops in Hellesylt, Alesund, and Flam—before transitioning to the Mediterranean this winter.

Related: MSC Cruises Is Coming to Alaska With Better Rates for Your Bucket List

When it comes to our living legends, few would rate higher in the world of country music than our beloved Dolly Parton. But years before she received her first Grammy nomination for "Just Someone I Used to Know," her duet with Porter Wagoner, she was just another teenager who loved music. Unlike other teenagers her age, she was determined to make a name for herself and had already released the first of many singles at 13: "Puppy Love."

The Rise of Dolly Parton: Mandolins, Guitars, and Her First Record

Dolly Rebecca Parton first began performing in front of her church at age six, and by seven, she "made" her first guitar by adding bass guitar strings to a mandolin. After her uncle gave her a real guitar at age 8, there was no stopping her.

By ten years old, she was performing anywhere she could, including radio stations and a local TV show, The Cas Walker Show. Just a few years later, she released her first record, which featured a song she wrote at 11 with her uncle, Bill Owens.

"Gold Band was a small label in Lake Charles, Louisiana, and the song I recorded was called 'Puppy Love,'" she told the Songwriters' Hall of Fame in 2001. "That record didn't do anything, because it wasn't good at all! But it was a start, and I had big dreams."

The album cover features an adorable, dimpled Parton wearing a modest button-up shirt and no makeup. Definitely not the bouffant-haired, bedazzled look we've come to know.

'Puppy Love' Led to the Grand Ole Opry

Later that same year, Parton appeared at the Grand Ole Opry for the first of many times. However, she didn't have the discography she has now, so she sang 'Puppy Love.' When she received three encores, she just "sang it again."

"When I heard ‘Puppy Love’ on the radio for the first time, I about killed myself," she admitted to W Magazine in 2021. "I was sitting on the counter at my aunt’s house, and suddenly I heard my voice. I slid on the floor, ’cause she was mopping. I was trying to get to the radio. Even to this day, I’ve never had anything that was more exciting than the first time I heard myself on the radio."

In 1975, Woody Allen released a film that would go on to become one of the most acclaimed comedies of its era.

His movie Love and Death has now been ranked among the "300 Best Movies of All Time" on Rotten Tomatoes. The film appears on the list with a 100% Tomatometer, placing it among the most celebrated titles ever included in the ranking.

Written and directed by Allen, Love and Death starred Allen alongside Diane Keaton in a satirical story set during the Napoleonic era. The film followed Boris Grushenko, a fearful scholar forced into the Russian army, as his life spiraled through war, romance and philosophical chaos.

What helps the movie stand out is its mix of literary parody, playful visual humor and quick, clever dialogue. It also manages to confidently lean into philosophical themes without losing its comedic edge. By weaving in references to classic literature and existential ideas, the story develops a more layered, sophisticated feel than a typical comedy.

That careful balance helped it appeal to casual audiences and critics alike. Its layered quality allows it to remain entertaining beyond the first viewing, still offering something new each time.

As a film that earned a reputation for being bold and non-formulaic, it has earned strong critical acclaim. Critic Roger Ebert praised it as Allen's "most ambitious experiment with the comic possibilities of film."

The movie has maintained such strong success since its original release. It was released domestically on June 10, 1975, and earned more than $20.1 million against a $3 million budget.

Decades later, its latest Rotten Tomatoes ranking highlights how well the film has endured. Even among hundreds of widely praised classics, Love and Death continues to hold a place as one of the most respected comedy films ever released.

Related: 1977 Hit Film Ranked Among ‘Best Movies of All Time’

While he might not be a household name for most people, B.F. Skinner is one of the most important psychologists in history due to his work and theories around behaviorism. As VeryWellMind reported, Skinner was called the “most influential psychologist of the 20th century” in a 2002 survey of psychologists.

Born on March 20, 1904, Skinner became a leading psychologist, behaviorist, inventor and social philosopher who received his PhD in psychology from Harvard University in 1931. He then became a professor of psychology there in 1948, serving as the Edgar Pierce Professor of Psychology at Harvard from 1958 until his retirement in 1974. But despite his work in psychology and similar fields, he originally wanted to be a writer. So he’s a good choice for our quote of the day, which focuses on not letting failure stop you from trying again. 

Per Harvard, Skinner was influenced by a specific philosophy of psychology called behaviorism. Whereas Freud and Jung’s psychoanalytical theories look at the way people’s inner unconscious or hidden desires and memories can impact their actions, behaviorism rejects all of that. It doesn’t even accept the concept of “mind” in impacting psychological explanations, either. Skinner believed that the “goal of a science of psychology was to predict and control an organism’s behavior from its current stimulus situation and its history of reinforcement.” Essentially, as VeryWellMind put it, he believed that “all human action was the direct result of conditioning” and free will is an illusion.

Most notably, Skinner came up with the concept of operant conditioning. This is a “type of learning in which behavior changes based on its consequences,” per VeryWellMind. You reinforce a behavior that you want to strengthen, and you punish a behavior that you don’t want someone to do again. He also invented gadgets such as the Skinner box and the cumulative recorder.

With all of his theories, inventions and books he wrote (more than 20, plus he did write 180 articles, per the B.F. Skinner Foundation), it’s easy to see why he was so influential in his field and beyond. And today’s quote carries a lot of wisdom regarding perseverance and not giving up.

Related: Quote of the Day: Poet Tagore on Determination and Pulling Through

Quote of the Day by B.F. Skinner

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“A failure is not always a mistake; it may simply be the best one can do under the circumstances. The real mistake is to stop trying.”

This quote comes from Skinner’s 1971 book, Beyond Freedom and Dignity, in a chapter titled “The Design of a Culture.” The book description calls this work “profound and profoundly controversial,” and in it he “makes his definitive statement about humankind and society.” 

Ultimately, this book “urges us to reexamine the ideals we have taken for granted and to consider the possibility of a radically behaviorist approach to human problems,” even if that seems incompatible with human nature or current systems. And in doing so, Skinner imagines a world we can build where “humankind can attain its greatest possible achievements.”

Related: Quote of the Day: Conservationist Jane Goodall on Advocacy and Doing Your Part

Deeper Meaning of B.F. Skinner’s Quote—Perseverance and Reframing

The chapter this quote appears in is all about the intricacies of designing a society, as the title suggests. He talks about the psychological implications of forced conditions on people and of having people work to survive. He also writes that a lot of cultural design and discussions of modern issues revolve around metaphors and people’s feelings, which, to him, don’t lead to solutions. 

He then writes about utopian literature and how someone could design a utopian society and find solutions to do so through a sort of cultural engineering. This is all, of course, a thought experiment, with Skinner shooting off ideas about why, theoretically, one could eventually exist.

In the paragraph that he writes the above quote, he states that, given the history of people trying to set up utopian societies, it makes sense that many people think of “utopian” to mean “unworkable.” However, he posits that if certain attempts for a utopia have failed, that means there are also failures of current structures that have failed as well. Then he says the quote above: “A failure is not always a mistake; it may simply be the best one can do under the circumstances. The real mistake is to stop trying.” 

Even though those cultures or societies have failed in the past, and might not be possible right now, better designs await. Sure, there are a lot of great arguments as to why a utopia could never exist with humans as they are. But if you just stop looking for answers on how to get there altogether, we definitely won’t ever experience one.

If you don’t subscribe to Skinner’s theories, you might have a hard time agreeing with his ideas about a utopian society and how to create one (or if one could even exist). But the ultimate point of his quote stands. 

Outside of the context of his book and this chapter, the quote can absolutely inspire people to persevere. Even though it can be easy to see a failure or misstep as a mistake and you might want to just quit, it’s important to remember that it’s not an indictment of who you are or what you’re capable of. And if you stop altogether, you really will fail because it'll be like you didn't even try in the first place: nothing will come out of quitting.

Related: Quote of the Day: Paul Newman Says Anything Is Possible

More Quotes from B.F. Skinner

• “A person who has been punished is not thereby simply less inclined to behave in a given way; at best, he learns how to avoid punishment.”
• “Behavior is determined by its consequences.”
• “The major difference between rats and people is that rats learn from experience.”
• “Education is what survives when what has been learned has been forgotten.”
• “We are only just beginning to understand the power of love because we are just beginning to understand the weakness of force and aggression.”
• “It is not a question of starting. The start has been made. It's a question of what's to be done from now on.”

Up Next:

Related: Quote of the Day: Psychologist Erich Fromm on Lasting Love, Loyalty and Commitment

Whether you partake in "420" or you just happen to be a fan of the many hilarious 420 memes that spread on that day, it's hard to ignore its cultural influence. While it seems like a term that would've been coined by hippies in the 1960s, it was actually five San Rafael High School students who unwittingly began the number's weed association in 1971.

Nicknamed "The Waldos" because they always hung out at a school wall, the group consisted of Steve Capper, Dave Reddix, Jeffrey Noel, Larry Schwartz, and Mark Gravich. One day at the wall, a friend came up and told them about a secret marijuana field he'd heard about from his brother-in-law, which piqued the blunt-lovers' interest.

It Started With a Quest

The Waldos received a map with directions to find the hidden Point Reyes garden. Because they all had different after-school activities, they had to figure out a time and place to meet so they could go search for it. Football or study hall lasted about an hour, so they decided to meet at the Louis Pasteur statue on campus at 4:20 PM.

"We would say '4:20 Louis,' that was the original phrase," They said during an appearance on the Brew Ha Ha podcast. They'd take Capper's Chevy Impala and follow the map out to Point Reyes to look for the marijuana field. Eventually, they stopped bothering with the 'Louis' part.

"We kept looking week after week, and after a couple of weeks, we'd shorten it," they added. "We'd just smile at each other and go, '420.' And we knew, okay, we were meeting at Louis at 4:20. Then, we started using 420 to talk about anything related to getting high."

The Waldo's Link to the Grateful Dead

In 1991, a High Times Magazine writer found a flier at a Dead show that claimed the phrase was "a police code for marijuana smoking in progress." They shared the info in a story, and soon 420 became associated not only with weed but also with the Grateful Dead. The Waldos eventually contacted the magazine's editor to set the record straight about their connection to the band.

According to Reddix, his older brother, Pat, was a good friend of Phil Lesh, who became the Grateful Dead's bass player. Pat even managed some of Lesh's other bands, like Seastones and Touloos Ta Truck.

"He hired me to be a roadie and we were smoking weed backstage with Phil Lesh, David Crosby, Terry Haggerty, and I was using 420," Reddix told the Los Angeles Times. "It filtered through the backstage people and then that filtered into the Grateful Dead community. And that's how it started climbing into the lexicon of the Dead community."

He wasn't the only Waldo with a connection to the legendary band, though. Gravich's father also helped with their "real estate needs."

"They needed places to rehearse, places to store their equipment," Reddix said. "They had a whole organization to support, and they needed office space. They would buy homes in the Marin County hills."

Thanks to Gravich's dad, the Waldos were often added to the guest list for the Grateful Dead's shows. "We'd be backstage with them, and we'd be using the term," Reddix added. "We’d pass them a joint and use the term '420.'"

Competing 420 Rumors Still Exist

Despite the Waldos repeatedly sharing their story, other origin stories have persisted. One claims that the Grateful Dead singerJerry Garcia died at 4:20 -- he died around 4:23 AM. Another stated that it came from the fact that there are 420 active chemical compounds in cannabis. This was debunked; it actually has at least 500 compounds.

There's even a myth that points to Bob Dylan's "Rainy Day Women #12 and #35," because 12 multiplied by 35 equals 420. The Waldos aren't bothered, as their website includes documents as proof of their claims. Now in their late 60s, the term still stands for 420 to the five friends, but it's expanded over the years.

“But 420 is mostly about friendship, family, solidarity and love,” agree Capper and Reddix.