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Long-haul flights in economy class could be a nightmare for a lot of reasons, but not getting comfortable sleep is one that resonates with almost every single traveler. Sleeping upright in economy class has always been a losing battle, but Emirates thinks it finally has the answer.

On July 20, the Dubai-based airline introduced its new U-Dream Headrest, calling it a "game-changing new seat addition" designed to give economy travelers "a whole new level of support and comfort inflight," according to a press release.

The leather, U-shaped headrest is padded for full neck and head support, with flexible side wings that fold inward to cradle the head and keep it from slumping forward or to the side during sleep.

How the Design Adapts to Every Passenger Emirates/Press

Emirates/Press

The headrest moves vertically and tilts to fit passengers of different heights and body types, aiming to deliver a more personalized level of comfort than a standard seatback. Emirates says the design has been independently tested and verified to meet the European Union Aviation Safety Agency's regulatory standards.

Where and When You'll Find It Emirates' New U-Dream Headrest

Emirates/Press

The U-Dream Headrest is already flying on three of Emirates' Airbus A350 aircraft, with the airline working to expand installation "as quickly as possible."

The full A350 fleet is expected to have the feature by the end of the year, and it will come standard on all 270 Boeing 777X aircraft Emirates has on order. Starting in 2027, the airline plans to retrofit most of its Airbus A380S and Boeing 777s as well.

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Emirates president Sir Tim Clark said the headrest "significantly improves" comfort for economy passengers, particularly on long-haul routes. "No more neck pillows needed," he said in the release.

"It's another innovation that shows our commitment to customers and cements our economy class as the best."

The Bigger Race for Economy Class Comfort

Emirates isn't alone in rethinking coach class. As per AFAR, United Airlines recently unveiled a new Economy Plus row on its Airbus A321XLR planes that turns the middle seat into a shared table with built-in cup holders, months after debuting its Relax Row, a set of economy seats that convert into a couch. 

Air New Zealand, meanwhile, launched Economy Skynest pods in April, giving long-haul passengers the option to book time in one of six private, bunk bed-style sleeping alcoves, complete with a mattress, sheets, blanket and pillow.

And with these new upgrades, it looks like the days of dreading long-haul economy flights may finally be coming to an end.

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Drew Barrymore has long been a style icon known for her relaxed, bohemian-inspired fashion, and this summer she's embracing a trend that's taking over breezy wardrobes everywhere: striped flowy pants. In a recent Instagram post, Barrymore radiated coastal-chic vibes with her wide-leg, striped pants that combine effortless comfort with polished style. They’re perfect for everything from a beachside lunch to a casual stroll on a sunny afternoon.

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This look is easy to recreate, making it a truly versatile staple for the season. Her striped, flowy pants embody the relaxed, coastal-chic vibe so many of us crave when the temperatures climb. Plus, the breezy denim button-down she paired them with is a versatile shirt you can wear again and again. If you're looking to refresh your summer wardrobe with something that feels both effortless and stylish, let Drew's latest Instagram post be your inspiration.

PrettyGarden Wide-Leg Striped Palazzo Pants, From $28 (was $35) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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Striped wide-leg pants like Drew’s have quickly become a favorite this summer. The PrettyGarden Wide-Leg Palazzo Pants available on Amazon are a standout option, praised for their soft, lightweight fabric and flattering silhouette. 

Details like an elastic waistband and roomy pockets make these pants as comfortable as your favorite lounge pants, and their relaxed fit suits a variety of bodies. Shoppers called the pants "so light, soft, and perfect for hot summer days" and appreciated that they're "double layered and not see-through at all," making sizing and fit less stressful. 

"They're nice and stretchy with a really thick band at the waist to hold [you] in, or hold a shirt tucked in super well."

Eytino Drawstring Front Striped Wide-Leg Trousers, From $22 (was $36) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Walmart's Eytino Drawstring Front Striped Wide Leg Trousers offer a similar look at a budget-friendly price, with a relaxed fit and adjustable drawstring waist that make them practical for everyday wear. Shoppers said they "love these striped pants," calling them "super cute, comfy, and stylish." "I wear these instead of sweatpants, and it looks very put together," one shopper noted. 

These striped wide-leg pants offer lightweight comfort and a high-waisted, flattering fit. With a practical drawstring, handy pockets, and a versatile style, these versatile summer pants easily transition from work to weekend, making them a chic choice for every season and occasion.

What makes this style such a superstar is how wearable and forgiving it is. The wide-leg cut ensures plenty of comfort on hot days, and the stripes elongate the legs while adding a touch of playfulness. Shoppers loved how these pants transition seamlessly from a day at the beach to a casual dinner, and the easy-care fabrics mean you won't have to worry about fussing over maintenance.

Astylish 100% Cotton Denim Button-Down Shirt, From $31 (was $39) at Amazon

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Pairing these pants is a breeze. They go great with sandals, slides, or sneakers, while a simple white tank or tee will keep your outfit feeling fresh. If you want to fully recreate Drew's look, a lightweight chambray top like the Astylish 100% Cotton Denim Button-Down Shirt at Amazon adds a bit of structure without sacrificing comfort. It's made from 100% cotton, featuring a relaxed boyfriend fit and button-front design. It's easy to dress up or down, pairing wonderfully with jeans or skirts.

Shoppers said this "perfect oversized denim shirt for layering" is "super comfortable" and works well "over tanks, bodysuits, or even lightweight sweaters." You can size down for a more fitted look, or buy it in any of the other 11 colors as a swimsuit coverup at the pool. 

Related: Jennifer Lopez’s Capri Leggings Are the Definition of Effortless Summer Style — We Found a Pair Starting at $6

Striped flowy pants are about more than just following a trend. They're a real solution for those days when you want to feel cool, look stylish, and not fuss over your clothes. So, take a cue from Drew Barrymore and give this breezy staple a try. With so many accessible options, you might just find yourself reaching for them every chance you get this summer!

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If you're anything like me, your kitchen isn't just where you cook. It's where life actually happens. It's the morning coffee station, the late-night snack stop, the place you wander into when you need to think, reset, or celebrate the tiniest wins. I'm a firm believer that when your space feels good, you're more likely to slow down, savor your food, and enjoy the people sitting across from you.

Over the years, I've learned that you don't need a magazine-perfect kitchen to create that cozy, elevated vibe. What you really need are intentional choices, warm lighting instead of harsh overheads, textures that feel good to the touch, and pieces that effortlessly move from casual weeknight pasta to I actually planned this dinner with friends. Little details do the heavy lifting: your table, your serveware, even the way you stack things on open shelves.

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Laura Ashley 4-Pack Porcelain Bowls, $14.99 at T.J. Maxx

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For me, it starts with versatile tableware that looks curated but never fussy. Neutral tones, clean lines, and pieces that play nicely with whatever you're cooking are key. I gravitate toward items that can handle cozy soups in the winter, fresh salads in the summer, and everything in between, without clashing with the rest of my decor. Think timeless, not trendy, and you'll avoid that this felt cute for five minutes regret.

Related: Marshalls Is Selling an Iconic Vintage-Style Kitchen Appliance for a Wildly Low Price — but You'll Want to Grab It Before It's Gone

I also love pieces that work hard behind the scenes, similar to these Laura Ashley 4-Pack Porcelain Bowls. A stackable design that saves cabinet space, durable finishes that survive everyday use, and looks that feel elevated enough for guests but relaxed enough for solo leftovers on a Tuesday night. When you can pull something out of the cabinet and know it will instantly make the table feel more pulled together, that's a win in my book.

If you're ready to level up your kitchen without doing a full remodel, start with what hits the table first. Choose functional, porcelain pieces in soft, neutral palettes that mix with what you already own, photograph beautifully, and quietly raise the bar on your everyday routine. The goal is simple: create a kitchen that feels like you, supports the way you actually live, and makes even the most ordinary meal feel just a little more special.

Related: Target's Boho-Chic Kitchen Upgrade Will Add Sophistication to Your Table Organization

When ice dancing sensations Lyudmila Pakhomova and Aleksandr Gorshkov stepped onto the ice at the 1976 Winter Olympics in Innsbruck, Austria, more than a gold medal was at stake. Winning gold at the first-ever Olympic ice dancing competition would cement the winner’s legacy and establish the defining Olympic ice dancing performance from which all others would be measured. One of the dominant forces in competitive ice dancing, Pakhomova and Gorshkov delivered one of the definitive ice dancing performances of all time and introduced the Russian Tango to an entire generation of fans.

The First Olympic Ice Dancing Champions Made History

By the time ice dancing debuted as an official Olympic sport at the 1976 Winter Games, Pakhomova and Gorshkov had won multiple World Championships and had helped transform ice dancing from a ballroom-inspired discipline into the more expressive and theatrical form of figure skating that still defines the sport today.

The Russian pair entered the Olympics as favorites, bringing with them an enormous amount of pressure. Not only were they the reigning world champions, but they also carried the weight of the Russian skating program that had become a worldwide symbol of excellence on the ice. This wasn’t just an Olympic event; it was also a showcase for the sport during its Olympic debut.

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

How Pakhomova and Gorshkov Changed Ice Dancing Forever

Pakhomova and Gorshkov embodied technical precision, emotion, storytelling, and drama on the ice, transforming ice dancing into the visual storytelling style that came to define the sport. The pair brought elements of ballet, theatricality, and athleticism into their routines, creating performances that felt more like complete artistic expressions than a series of required movements set to music.

But fans were also mesmerized by the pair’s connection on the ice. Their chemistry was rooted in their real-life relationship off the ice. Married in 1970, three years after they began skating together, fans felt like they were watching a real romance unfold. Their undeniable connection became one of the hallmarks of their performances, including at the 1976 Winter Games.

The Russian Tango Helped Define Their Legacy

The pair went on to win gold at the Winter Games in Austria, skating to a medley that included a Russian Tango, a signature element of their programs. Their 1976 Olympic performance earned them the sport’s first-ever Olympic gold medal and became the gold standard from which future ice dancers would be measured.

Olympic ice dancing had arrived on the global stage, and Pakhomova and Gorshkov became the faces of competitive ice dancing. Their combination of artistry, athleticism, and emotional connection helped establish the foundation for future generations of Olympic champions.

Nearly 50 years later, their 1976 Olympic performance remains one of the most important moments in figure skating history. As the first athletes to win an Olympic gold medal in ice dancing, Pakhomova and Gorshkov elevated the sport through their artistry, athleticism, and emotional connection rooted in a real-life romance that endured until Pakhomova died of leukemia in 1986 at only 39 years old.

Related: Olympic Skating Legends, Who Captivated the World With 'Boléro' at the 1984 Winter Olympics, Honored by King Charles

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Fifty years ago today, beloved rock group Starland Vocal Band was topping the Billboard Hot 100 chart with their hit song "Afternoon Delight."

Released in April 1976 as the lead single from their debut self-titled album, "Afternoon Delight" became a major mainstream hit. Upon its arrival, the song climbed the Hot 100, peaking at No. 1 on July 10 where it remained for two consecutive weeks. In total, the track spent 20 weeks on the chart—marking a massive breakthrough moment in their early career.

Aside from its chart success, the track also experienced significant commercial triumph and industry recognition. Since its release, "Afternoon Delight" has been certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for selling over 500,000 copies in the U.S. alone. In 1977, it was recognized at the 19th Grammy Awards ceremony where it won Best Arrangement for Voices from three nominations.

Bill Danoff, Taffy Nivert Danoff, Margot Chapman, and Jon Carroll of the American rock group the Starland Vocal Band pose with their Grammy awards next to Brian Wilson of the American pop group the Beach Boys at the 19th Annual Grammy Awards in Los Angeles, California, on February 19, 1977.

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Produced by renowned music producer Milt Okun through Windsong Records, "Afternoon Delight" is the quintessential mid-'70s soft-rock song. The track features bright, layered vocal harmonies and breezy acoustic melodies that perfectly capture the sun-drenched summer atmosphere. Paired with its cheeky, innuendo-filled lyrics, the track became an inevitable hit.

Written by founding member Bill Danoff, "Afternoon Delight" is essentially about enjoying a casual daytime rendezvous with a partner. The lyrics utilize playful euphemisms for intimate moments, adding irresistible charm to the feel-good single.

"Afternoon Delight" was penned and produced when members of the band were exceptionally young, with vocalists Jon Carroll and Margot Chapman being only 18 years old. The youthful touches are what ultimately made the song so popular, allowing the spontaneous energy of adolescence to shine through flawlessly.

Five decades after its initial release, "Afternoon Delight" remains a staple of '70s soft rock. The track has persevered among new audiences in the digital era through streaming platforms. On Spotify alone, it has garnered over 95 million streams, proving its enduring place in pop culture history.

Related: 1976 Hit, Written as a Jukebox Classic, Became a Breakup Anthem

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If you're in need of some lighter, breezier bedding to navigate the dog days of summer, Macy's has a new limited-time deal that you won't want to miss out on. The top-rated Madison Park Tuscany Scalloped 3-Piece Quilt Set has a pretty, airy design that's perfect for warm-weather use, and it's on sale for over 70% off for a limited time. 

Originally $232, the beautiful bedding is marked down to just $64 in the full/queen-sized option as part of the retailer's Black Friday in July event. It comes in a range of versatile color options, including ivory, green, seafoam, and more, and you can also shop it in king/California king and daybed sizes ranging from $77 to $80.  

Madison Park Tuscany Scalloped 3-Piece Quilt Set, $64 (was $232) at Macy's

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The popular set comes with a reversible coverlet and two matching pillow shams, offering an elegant, coordinated look that will elevate any room. All three pieces are made of a soft microfiber fabric that's lightweight and silky to the touch, with a pre-washed finish that gives it a slightly lived-in look. The quilt features a cotton filling that's cozy without feeling heavy, making it perfect to use on its own in hotter months and easy to layer with heavier comforters in cooler temperatures. 

Related: Macy's 'Lightweight' Floral Comforter Sets Brighten Up Any Bedroom, Starting at $33

Both the quilt and the shams feature pretty scalloped edges and a beautiful stitched pattern that add visual interest while remaining subtle enough to blend in with any decor. Maintenance is also simple. The set is machine-washable and wrinkle-resistant, allowing for easy care. 

With over 275 five-star ratings, this quilt set is a favorite among Macy's shoppers. Multiple reviewers praised the "elegant" design and "gorgeous scalloped edges." Others said that the "lightweight" and "super soft" fabric is ideal for summer, while one buyer noted that it's "just the right thickness." 

Shop More Deals:

• Madison Park Quebec Quilted 3-Piece Set, $76 (was $295) at Macy's
• Charter Club Bailey Scallop 3-Piece Quilt Set, $100 (was $285) at Macy's
• Eddie Bauer Flower Field Reversible 3-Piece Quilt Set, $121 (was $270) at Macy's

If you're looking for stylish and lightweight bedding to upgrade your bedroom this summer, this three-piece reversible quilt set is an excellent buy. It's soft, easy to maintain, and available in a range of colors to suit any home. Grab one while it's still on sale for over 70% off at Macy's. 

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Christopher Nolan's The Odyssey has been making waves this month, after being officially released in theaters on July 17. While some of us are eagerly anticipating our moment to see it on the big screen (my 6:30 a.m. 70mm IMAX showing is coming up in just a couple of days!), other fans have already attended multiple viewings.

Dr. Gillian O’Shea Brown, psychotherapist, complex trauma specialist and NYU adjunct professor, tells Parade she's actually seen this adaptation in theaters "several" times so far.

And it's no wonder—Dr. O’Shea-Brown, author of the forthcoming Psyche’s Awakening: A Guide to Emotional and Somatic Healing Through the Wisdom of Greek Myth (out in September), has been "spellbound" by Greek mythology and "the hero's journey—specifically, how mythological figures transformed intense pain into a higher purpose" ever since childhood, where she says "classroom lessons on mythology, folklore and literary classics completely blew my world open."

"That childhood wonder never faded as I entered adulthood," she continues, sharing that as a trauma therapist, she's found the therapy room to be "like a modern arena for those same timeless myths."

"I am privileged to listen to real-world stories of survival, partnering with my clients to move through dark chapters into a new narrative of hope and renewal," she tells Parade. "Bearing witness to their resilience is a deeply profound, almost mystical experience. It has shown me that the ultimate 'character development' doesn't just happen in ancient scrolls—it lives within all of us as we unburden ourselves from the past and step into our own transformation."

Hearing this, it should come as no surprise that Dr. O’Shea-Brown's favorite character from The Odyssey is Odysseus.

"He is the only character explored in his full depth—therefore, he is the most deeply complex and psychologically realistic figure in the epic," she says. "He is not a flawless archetype; instead, his strength and cleverness are constantly balanced by his pride, weakness and vulnerability."

And throughout his entire journey, there are many psychological themes on display.

"Psychologically, his journey home represents the individuation process—the painful but necessary struggle to overcome temptation and confront the shadow self," she explains. "He represents the sleeping hero in all of us—waiting to be reawoken."

Here, Dr. O’Shea-Brown reveals her three favorite scenes from Nolan's The Odyssey and why they're "psychological projections of his own internal conflicts, flaws and desires," along with what she believes this new adaption actually gets wrong about the classic story.

Related: 11 Epic and Captivating Books Like ‘The Odyssey,’ According to Librarians

What Greek Mythology Gets Right About Psychology

While Greek myths are classics for a reason, they're also a lot more relatable for this day and age than we might realize.

"Many of us view Greek mythology as a collection of dusty, ancient bedtime stories," Dr. O’Shea-Brown says. "But if you look closer, these tales actually serve as the foundational blueprint for modern psychology. In fact, many of the terms we use today to map out our mental health—from our darkest phobias (Phobos) to the traps of narcissism (Narcissus)—trace their roots directly back to the ancient characters in Greek Myth."

That's something she wishes more people understood and embraced.

"Mythology, at its heart, is simply the language of the human soul," she explains. "Passed down through generations of storytelling, these legends aren’t just fiction; they serve as timeless mirrors and maps. The archetypal energy of each mythological figure lives within us, reminding us of the hidden power, resilience and wisdom that already resides within, waiting to be rediscovered and claimed."

And that's not where the connections end.

"While in ancient myth the hero had to slay a monster, in real life, our quest is to conquer the struggles that lie within," she continues. "Every emotional challenge we face is actually a compelling invitation for growth and self-evolution. The truth is, you will never truly know your own strength, or the true quality of your relationships, until you have been tested by adversity."

This is when real metamorphosis can take place.

"True magic happens in our everyday lives when we choose the path of transformation: turning our wounds into wisdom, our shame into self-forgiveness and our deepest pain into newfound purpose," Dr. O’Shea-Brown tells Parade. "By embracing our inner hero's journey, we can finally reach a place of true harmony, enlightenment and self-realization."

Related: 6 Tips for Cultivating a 'Growth Mindset' (And Why It Will Totally Change Your Life)

A Psychotherapist's 3 Favorite Scenes from 'The Odyssey'

Dr. O’Shea-Brown reveals that she has three distinct favorite scenes from Nolan's The Odyssey. But to better understand why they each made such an impression, she points to the typical elements of a "hero's journey."

"Joseph Campbell explained that the hero's journey is not merely an external adventure of battling monsters," she shares. "Instead, it is equally—if not more—about the psychological journey of confronting one’s fears, doubts and deepest insecurities: the shadow. Your 'shadow' is the hidden, darker side of you. It lurks in the periphery of your mind and encompasses everything that you do not want to accept about yourself—your repressed feelings, memories, weaknesses, destructive impulses and unacknowledged desires... It is through the confrontation with his ‘shadow’—which can take many forms (the most feared enemy, a painful memory or an impossible task)—that the seeker truly becomes a hero." 

"In The Odyssey, the mythical monsters and obstacles Odysseus encounters are psychological projections of his own internal conflicts, flaws and desires—his shadow," she continues, explaining that the following three scenes "stand out as powerful milestones of this internal transformation."

Related: 135 Deep Shadow Work Prompts To Help With Self-Awareness, Self-Compassion and Authenticity

1. Confrontation With His Shadow: The Descent Into the Underworld

"Throughout The Odyssey, external adversaries serve as psychological mirrors for the hero's inner flaws," Dr. O’Shea-Brown explains. "Ultimately, by defeating these external threats, Odysseus conquers his ‘shadow’—the disowned parts of his identity to achieve true self-mastery. Odysseus’s journey to the Land of the Dead represents the ultimate confrontation with his psychological shadow."

She says that in Nolan's adaptation, this is "without a doubt the most powerful scene in the movie."

"We the audience, are transported to this dark, subconscious realm—the monsters Odysseus faces are not beasts of flesh and bone, but the ghosts of his own past," she continues. "The weight of sacrifice is heavy in the air—the broken promises of greatness and victory—it all feels completely hollow now. One after another, meeting his fallen comrades from the Trojan War forces him to reckon with the brutal reality of the violence, loss of human life and carnage he left behind in his pursuit for glory."

It's a significant turning point in Odysseus' journey.

"To move forward, Odysseus must look past his warrior ego, accept his vulnerability and swallow the bitter truths offered by the prophet Tiresias," Dr. O’Shea-Brown says. "By confronting these repressed fears and sorrows, he integrates his shadow. This dark night of the soul is a period of intense suffering, a painful but necessary phase of destruction that sets the stage for profound rebirth and spiritual evolution. This harrowing scene ultimately leads to his transformation from a reckless warrior into a wiser leader capable of navigating the path home."

Related: The New Greece Tour That Traces the Actual Path of ‘The Odyssey’

2. The Surrender: Weeping on Calypso’s Shores

"The concept of surrender is often viewed as a defeat, but in the hero’s journey, it is a necessary ego-death—the complete loss of your sense of self," Dr. O’Shea-Brown explains. "It forces you to unlearn everything that kept you small, to shed false identities, break lifelong conditioning and embrace your vulnerability. You’ll experience a temporary or permanent loss of your identity, your perception will alter, your sense of personal control will melt away and you will be forced to surrender."

She reveals that this is "beautifully captured" in the movie adaptation while Odysseus was on Calypso's island.

"Despite being offered physical immortality and a life of effortless luxury with a goddess, Odysseus is found weeping on the shoreline, staring out at the barren sea," she says, describing the scene. "Here, he surrenders his pride, his past glory and the illusion of control. He accepts his mortal limitations and acknowledges that a life hidden from his true purpose is no life at all. We see Odysseus lay on a very scant piece of wooden debris—weak, vulnerable to the elements but hopeful. In the stillness and serenity of surrender, he is forced to find peace by aligning himself with the flow of life, trusting that he is capable and strong enough to handle whatever comes his way."

And, yet again, this is a turning point in his story.

"This moment of absolute surrender to his mortal destiny is what allows the universe—via Hermes and Athena—to divinely finally open the gates for his release, proving that one must let go of the life they planned to receive the life waiting for them," she tells Parade.

3. The Reunion: Homecoming

"The final reunion in Ithaca is the crown jewel of the epic's story arc—it models the process of returning to the self," Dr. O’Shea-Brown says. "It is the quintessential tale of the hero: a person who leaves their ordinary world, faces trials and tribulation, and ultimately returns home wiser and stronger, transformed by the experience."

The transformation of Odysseus is apparent—both inwardly and outwardly.

"Odysseus has grown grace and humility over the course of his 20 years of suffering—he does not walk through the front door seeking a garland, instead he cautiously assesses disguised as a lowly beggar in his own palace," she explains. "He expects nothing and returns with an open and sincere heart. This is the ultimate sign of his internal growth, he has let go of his ego driven his warrior pride while being insulted and struck by the suitors."

This personal growth makes the resolution at the end that much sweeter.

"When he finally strings his old bow, slaughters the suitors and stands before Penelope, the reunion is not just a physical return to a place, but a spiritual return to himself," Dr. O’Shea-Brown says. "He is no longer his ego, but now a transformed, humble and healed king. The restoration of his marriage and kingdom symbolizes the absolute alignment of his inner and outer worlds."

Related: ‘The Odyssey’ Is Off to a Record-Chasing Start at the Box Office—Here’s What Critics Are Saying

How 'The Odyssey' Accurately Portrays Self-Transformation and Healing

According to Dr. O’Shea-Brown, Nolan's adaptation does an incredible job showing the complex, often unpleasant process and layers of self-growth.

"This movie beautifully portrays the transformation process through pain into healing," she says. "The knowledge that you have emerged stronger and wiser from the pain means that you are forever secure in your ability to survive. For those brave enough to take on the quest, it can be a beautiful and transformative experience."

And that's where recovery and renewal come in.

"Healing is a process of learning to choose: choosing yourself, choosing a better life and choosing self-care over self-destruction," she explains. "Healing from traumatic and painful life experiences is difficult. The walk is long and uncomfortable and can often be lonely, but it is a process of evolution. Just as Odysseus did in his epic adventure, as you journey deeper into the landscape of your experiences, you will uncover hidden strengths you never knew you possessed like treasures buried beneath the surface. This journey reveals your inner resources, allowing you to face challenges with newfound courage, self-compassion and insight."

She adds, "Just like Odysseus with each revelation, you are not just healing; you are transforming into a more resilient and authentic version of yourself, finally coming home to the essence of who you are meant to be."

Related: New Audiobook of ‘The Odyssey’ Is Narrated by Michael Caine — With a Twist

What 'The Odyssey' Gets Wrong, According to a Psychotherapist

Nolan's adaptation has evoked interesting conversations around real scenery vs. CGI, elevated language vs. modern English and more. However, one topic Dr. O’Shea-Brown wants to call out is what the movie gets wrong from a psychological standpoint.

"Greek mythology is full of powerful and deeply complex female archetypes," she tells Parade. "While the film attempts to capture the grand scale of Greek mythology, it significantly flattens the psychological depth of its female characters. Ancient Greek lore is rich with complex, powerful women who embody a nuanced psychological blend of vices and virtues, light and darkness.Unfortunately, characters like Penelope, Athena, and Calypso feel severely underdeveloped in this cinematic adaptation. Instead of portraying their intricate internal motivations—such as Penelope’s strategic resilience, Athena’s cold and calculating wisdom, or Calypso’s profound loneliness and desire for control—the movie reduces them to one-dimensional archetypes."

According to Dr. O’Shea-Brown, "By stripping away their moral ambiguities and emotional conflicts, the portrayal misses a vital psychological truth: that true strength lies in their complexity, not just their status."

Up Next:

Related: Inside the Chaotic, Brilliant Process Behind Christopher Nolan’s ‘The Odyssey’ Soundtrack

Source:

• Dr. Gillian O’Shea Brown, psychotherapist, complex trauma specialist, NYU adjunct professor and author of the forthcoming Psyche’s Awakening: A Guide to Emotional and Somatic Healing Through the Wisdom of Greek Myth (out in September)

Simone Biles is back at the doctor's office just weeks after revealing she nearly died during a frightening health scare.

On Thursday, July 23, the Olympic gymnast shared a series of Instagram Stories documenting another medical visit. While Biles didn't reveal what “procedure” she underwent, the update caught attention given her recent hospitalization and the fact that she has yet to explain exactly what happened.

The first Story featured a large bouquet of flowers, a new Gucci purse and a handwritten note waiting for her at home from her husband Jonathan Owens. "I got back from the DR the night before his bday & he SURPRISED ME WHAAAATT," Biles wrote.

She followed it up with a black-and-white photo of herself wearing a hospital gown and hair net while Owens stood beside her. "his birthday but he takes me to get my procedure 🥹🥹🥹🤍🤍🤍 i woke up singing bossman dlow 'talk my shit,' 🤣🤣🤣" she captioned the sweet snapshot, which had the song playing in the background.

A screenshot of Simone Biles's Instagram on July 23.

The 29-year-old did not share any additional details about the procedure, but it comes just over a month after she revealed she had experienced what she described as one of the scariest moments of her life.

Back on June 6, the seven-time Olympic gold medalist shared a photo of her hospital wristbands on Instagram, explaining, "I’m not one to normally share things like this because I value privacy in today’s age." She then stunned fans by adding, "But almost dying wasn’t on my bingo card earlier this week."

Biles went on to call it "one of, if not the scariest experience of [her] life," noting that Owens was away in Indianapolis for Colts practice at the time. She also thanked her close friends and family for checking in, visiting and sending flowers while she recovered.

A few days later, after a fan asked for an update under one of her Instagram posts, Biles made it clear she still wasn't ready to discuss the ordeal, replying that she's "not ready to talk about it just yet."

Biles hasn't indicated whether her latest procedure is connected to the health scare she experienced in June, and she continues to keep the details private. 

Related: Simone Biles Shuts Down Question About Taylor Swift Wedding Invite With One Perfect Response

Swedish metal band Meshuggah is set to make a special appearance at San Diego Comic-Con on Friday, with members Tomas Haake and Mårten Hagstrom scheduled to meet fans and sign autographs.

The appearance will take place at the Reigning Phoenix Music/Stern Pinball booth, #4029, at 3:30 P.M. The event comes as Meshuggah continues its activities outside of a regular touring schedule and marks a special moment for fans of the influential extreme metal band.

The signing will also feature the unveiling of a limited-edition Meshuggah x Hasbro Transformers T-shirt. The collaboration celebrates two major anniversaries: four decades of The Transformers: The Movie and 30 years of Meshuggah's landmark 1995 album Destroy Erase Improve.

Meshuggah posed for a group portrait.

Photo by Naki/Redferns

Fans attending San Diego Comic-Con will have the chance to meet Haake and Hagström while checking out the new shirt and other exclusive releases connected to the band's catalog.

According to Blabbermouth, the limited-edition shirt takes its inspiration from Megatron's transformation into Galvatron in the 1986 animated Transformers: The Movie.

In the film, Megatron is defeated by Optimus Prime, betrayed by Starscream and left in space. He is later rebuilt by Unicron and transformed into Galvatron.

That story has a clear connection to the title Destroy Erase Improve, according to the band. The album's name reflects a process of breaking down and changing into something new, which also fits the transformation at the heart of the Transformers story.

Mårten Hagström explained the connection in a statement, "Big machinery. Massive destruction. Reconfiguration. A pretty accurate analogy to our sound, is it not?"

The design was created by Ken Christiansen, a well-known artist who has worked on Transformers and G.I. Joe projects. His work with the Transformers franchise has included toy packaging, lore artwork, video game concept art and comic book covers.

Christiansen also shared his excitement about the project, saying, "Two of my favorite things are 'Transformers' and metal music, when the chance came up to combine the two, how could I pass that up? And to do it for a killer band like Meshuggah, can't get much better."

The special appearance is also tied to the release of newly remastered editions of Destroy Erase Improve and Catch Thirtythree.

Destroy Erase Improve was released in 1995 and is now marking its 30th anniversary. Catch Thirtythree, released in 2005, is celebrating 20 years, per Metal Injection. Both albums have played important roles in Meshuggah's history and in the band's influence on modern heavy music.

Reigning Phoenix Music will mark the anniversaries with San Diego Comic-Con-exclusive splatter vinyl versions of the two remastered releases.

The remastered editions were announced ahead of their Friday release through Reigning Phoenix Music. The albums are being offered in formats that include vinyl, CD pack and digital versions, while the Comic-Con event will feature special splatter vinyl variants made exclusively for the convention.

Formed in Umeå, Sweden, in 1987, Meshuggah became one of the most influential names in extreme and progressive metal. The band's sound is known for complex rhythms, down-tuned guitars, unusual time patterns and highly precise drumming.

The group gained major attention during the 1990s, with Destroy Erase Improve becoming a key release in its career. The album helped establish the band's distinctive approach to heavy music and became an important influence on later progressive and extreme metal acts.

Meshuggah continued developing that sound through albums such as Chaosphere, Nothing, Catch Thirtythree, obZen, Koloss, The Violent Sleep of Reason and Immutable. The band has also been widely linked to the development of the djent movement in modern progressive metal.

The band's latest studio album, Immutable, arrived in 2022. Its current lineup includes founding members Jens Kidman and Fredrik Thordendal, along with Marten Hagstrom, Tomas Haake and bassist Dick Lovgren.

Related: '80s Pop-Rock Band Is Suddenly Climbing the Charts 41 Years After No. 1 Hit

Halloween decorating is getting a charming new upgrade thanks to Lenox’s latest seasonal launch.

The heritage home brand has introduced a new Spice Village Halloween Set, a spooky twist on its beloved collectible spice jar collection that brings a little haunted-house charm to the kitchen.

The Lenox Spice Village 6-Piece Halloween Set ($75) reimagines the classic Spice Village design with a festive fall makeover. Instead of the colorful village homes fans know, the new collection features miniature haunted Victorian houses complete with spooky details like black cats, bats and ravens peeking through the windows.

Lenox

Like the original collection, each piece is artisan-made and hand-painted, giving the set the detailed craftsmanship Lenox collectors have come to expect.

The six-piece set includes spice jars designed to hold poppy seeds, sesame seeds, anise stars, mulling spice, cardamom and fennel, making it both a decorative display and a functional kitchen accessory.

The Halloween collection arrives as shoppers continue looking for ways to bring seasonal touches into their homes earlier each year. From kitchen accents to tabletop décor, Halloween has become one of the biggest decorating seasons, with many fans searching for unique pieces that can be displayed year after year.

The new Spice Village set is part of Lenox’s expanded Halloween Shop, which includes several other spooky home finds, including a Haunted Halloween Hors d'Oeuvres Tray, Haunted Village Accent Plates, a Vintage Halloween Hotel Lit Figurine and a Ghost Chip and Dip Bowl.

For fans who loved the original Spice Village collection, the Halloween edition offers a new way to celebrate the season without committing to over-the-top décor. The miniature haunted homes add a playful, collectible touch that can easily transition from Halloween parties to everyday fall kitchen displays.

RELATED: Costco Brings Back Its Viral Giant Halloween Skeleton Ahead of Fall

Some songs spend years waiting for the right moment.

That was the case with "Melissa," one of The Allman Brothers Band's most cherished ballads. Although the song appeared on the band's 1972 album Eat a Peach, Gregg Allman first wrote it years earlier when he was just 19 years old.

"I wrote that song in 1967 in a place called the Evergreen Hotel in Pensacola, Florida," Allman said in an interview. "By that time I got so sick of playing other people's material that I just sat down and said, 'Okay, here we go. One, two, three – we’re going to try to write songs.' And about 200 songs later – much garbage to take out – I wrote this song called 'Melissa.'"

The heartfelt composition would eventually become one of the defining songs of his career and a timeless heartbreak anthem. The song's journey to the studio wasn't a straightforward one.

Allman wrote most of "Melissa" while still a teenager, but he struggled to settle on one lyric: the name of the woman in the song.

"It was a person that I had dreamed up, and I had everything in the song written but the title," Allman told CBS Sunday Morning. "And I got, 'But back home I'll always run with sweet Barbara . . .' 'With sweet Mary Jo. . ."

And then, a moment in a grocery store changed everything.

"I was the only one in the store, except for this one Spanish lady and she had this little toddler with her," Allman continued. "She was everywhere. And one time, she just took off down this one aisle, and the lady just freaked out. And she went, 'Oh, Melissa, Melissa come back!' And I went, 'Oh! (snap) Lady, I could kiss 'ya, Mlissa, that's it!'"

By the time the song came out in 1972, the Allman Brothers Band had become one of rock's most acclaimed acts.

Released on Eat a Peach, "Melissa" offered a gentler, more reflective side of the Southern rock pioneers. Built around Gregg Allman's warm vocals and acoustic guitar, the song stood in contrast to the band's extended blues-rock jams while showcasing his gift for intimate, emotional songwriting.

The ballad has remained one of the group's most enduring recordings ever since.

Its themes of love, longing, and searching for peace have resonated with generations of listeners, making it a staple of classic rock radio and one of the songs most closely associated with Gregg Allman. Over the years, he often cited "Melissa" as one of his favorite compositions, noting that the song's long path to completion ultimately made it even more meaningful.

More than 50 years after it was released, "Melissa" continues to captivate audiences with its quiet beauty and emotional honesty. What Gregg Allman began writing as a 19 year-old in 1967 ultimately became one of classic rock's most beloved ballads, proving that sometimes the songs worth waiting for become the ones that last forever.

Related: 1971 Classic Ballad, Written in 60 Minutes, Became a Soft Rock Anthem

Even though The Odyssey by ancient Greek poet Homer predates modern publishing metrics by nearly three millennia, the epic poem frequently lands on official bestseller lists. And for the first time this week, it landed on Amazon Charts.

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A long, epic poem divided into 24 smaller sections called “books,” The Odyssey was composed around the 8th century BCE as an oral performance. The story was then passed down by memory through traveling bards long before actual bound books existed.

Now that it’s been translated into dozens of languages worldwide, the modern version sits at No. 7 on Amazon’s most-sold fiction books chart.

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For the uninitiated, The Odyssey tells the story of Odysseus, the king of Ithaca who embarks on a 10-year journey home and a battle to reclaim his kingdom. Leaving home to fight in the Trojan War, Odysseus encounters monsters, gods, and sirens on his way back, and then has to take his palace and wife Penelope back from the suitors holding court who believe he’s dead. It’s an everyman’s tale—a struggle between good and evil—for the ages.

And now, to call out the elephant in the room: Although Homer’s adventure is an enduring epic that has not only informed the way we speak, the way we learn, and the way we live, the real reason the ancient text is popping again is thanks to the massive blockbuster dominating the zeitgeist right now.

Christopher Nolan’s The Odyssey, a massive production boasting a marquee cast, from Tom Holland and Zendaya to Matt Damon and Lupita Nyong’o, hit theaters a week ago, on July 17. And already the adaptation is one of the biggest box office hits of the year, raking in an estimated $264 million on its opening weekend.

Beyond the theater, though, the success and star power of the film has inspired fans to go back to the source, with book sales and audiobook listening numbers spiking, per the BBC.

“Almost 8,000 print copies of The Odyssey were sold in the U.K. last week,” the outlet shared, “taking the total so far this year to 47,000. That's a 95% year-on-year increase, according to NielsenIQ BookData.”

Though numbers aren’t as readily available in the U.S. at the moment, Publishers Weekly noted that year-to-date print sales across all U.S. editions are up 76%, fueled by Nolan’s adaptation.

"There are two concepts that are most often referred to from the poem ... one is nostos,” Nolan said in an interview with NPR. “That's the idea of a homecoming narrative, coming home changed and home having changed and the emotion of that and the catharsis of that."

He added, “The other is a concept called xenia. … To keep things simple, I refer to it by its other name, which is Zeus' law. And that's essentially the idea that when you meet a stranger, however humble that stranger might seem, … they could be a god in disguise, so you have to treat them the way you would want to be treated.”

If it's No. 7 spot on Amazon’s fiction chart is any indication, Homer’s ancient epic is having a homecoming of its own, proving that it still has plenty of life and readers left.

Related: Best-Selling Author’s Highly Anticipated Fall Release Ranked No. 1 Most-Sold Fiction Book on Amazon Right Now

It's fairly obvious to see why the fantasy genre is a favorite among book lovers, with its fantastical worlds to explore, hidden threats, and plucky protagonists. The publication Collider recently showcased a few popular novels in the wondrous genre by releasing a list of the "9 greatest fantasy books of the last 50 years."

Some of the books highlighted on the July 23 list include A Game of Thrones by George R. R. Martin, released in 1996, Terry Pratchett's Night Watch from 2002, andJ. R. R. Tolkien's The Silmarillion, published in 1977. Collider named Philip Pullman's first His Dark Materials novel, published as either Northern Lights or The Golden Compass, the "greatest fantasy book" released after 1976. The publication complimented the 1995 young-adult fantasy book for elegantly exploring sophisticated ideas as the reader goes on adventures alongside Lyra Belacqua.

Collider also referenced that Northern Lights and its sequels The Subtle Knife (1997) and The Amber Spyglass (2000) examine themes of theology. In a 2007 interview, Pullman explained why he is "preoccupied by the questions that religion is preoccupied with," especially in his writing.

"Religion is a thing that human beings do. Every society that we know, about every human culture has had a religion of some sort, a body of thought that deals with the big questions," said the British author, now 79. "'Who created the universe? Was it created at all? What are we here for? What's the purpose of life? What happens when we die?' Things like that, these, I think, are the religious questions. And in that sense, I am a religious man because I think about these things and I have done all my life, these are very deep and important questions."

Northern Lights has a rating of 4.04 out of 5 from 1,639,909 readers on Goodreads. The film adaptation of Northern Lights, 2007's The Golden Compass, has a score of 42 percent on Rotten Tomatoes. Meanwhile, the BBC One three-season series, His Dark Materials, which ended in 2022, secured a Rotten Tomatoes score of 83 percent.

While other people’s opinions don’t matter, to an extent, most of us want to be liked, right? Feeling accepted and saying the “right” thing can feel especially important in certain situations, like on a first date or at a job interview. 

Social settings, in their various forms, can be tricky. It’s fair to need some tips on navigating them. Besides the general advice to “be yourself,” there are many phrases you can say to come across as instantly likable, according to psychologists. Generally speaking, examples include showing appreciation for a person and interest in what they're saying. Makes sense.

On the flip side, certain phrases can make you instantly unlikable, too, psychologists say, such as trivializing someone’s feelings (I’m sure many of us have been on the receiving end of this one, and realized how hurtful it feels). Another key example, according to a psychologist, is a “humble-brag” statement, or "back-bragging." 

If you're not totally sure what “humble-bragging” is and why it turns people off, don’t worry: A licensed psychologist provides insights and explanations ahead—and they're quite interesting. Read on for what she had to say, including the "number one" false modesty phrase to avoid using.

Related: 11 Habits That Make You ‘Instantly Unlikable’ in Group Settings, According to Etiquette Experts

What Is ‘Humble-Bragging’?

“Humble-bragging” is a bit of an oxymoron, and it’s what it sounds like.

“When someone is humble-bragging, they're using something negative as a decoy to sneak in an expression of status, power or superiority,” Dr. Golee Abrishami, PhD, a psychologist and the Vice President of Clinical Care at Octave, tells Parade. “A humble-bragger wants you to know they're great, but they are veiling their boast by whining or complaining.”

She lists some examples of humble-brags:

• “Oh no, my dog got hair all over my Porsche.”
• “First-class was so cold today, I could barely enjoy my free champagne.”
• “I was so embarrassed today when I won an award in front of my entire class.”
• “I am so bored at work. I mean, the money is absolutely amazing, but I'm kind of checked out.”

Related: 4 Common ‘Negging’ Phrases—and How To Respond, According to Psychologists

Why Do People ‘Humble-Brag’?

There is no shortage of reasons why people might humble-brag. Dr. Abrishami shares some:

• They have a big ego, think they're the best and want to let you know.
• They want to impress you, but they're too embarrassed to say something confidently, or feel that taking credit is shameful.
• They always find something to complain about.

Regardless, they all come down to one main trait: struggling with self-awareness.

“If you’re aware of yourself and your intent, you likely won’t mask what you’re really thinking and feeling,” the psychologist explains.

Related: Psychologists Say These 9 Habits Make You Seem Insecure Without Realizing It

The #1 ‘Humble-Brag’ Phrase That Makes You Instantly Unlikable, According to a Psychologist

Out of the many examples of humble-bragging, Dr. Abrishami says people are typically most bothered by those that start with “I was so embarrassed when…” That’s because the speaker is pretending to be vulnerable but actually using the phrase to show off.

“There’s something that hits people wrong about that pivot from being vulnerable to bragging,” she states. “Vulnerability is meant for bonding, and when it’s used as a Trojan horse for arrogance and ego, it’s distasteful and unlikable.”

The example listed earlier was, “I was so embarrassed today when I won an award in front of my entire class.” Another example might be, “I was so embarrassed today trying to park my 2026 SUV in that small lot.”

This is not to say you’re not “allowed” to express embarrassment—just don’t follow that with a statement that could come across as boastful.

Related: 8 Phrases High-Level Narcissists Often Use, According to Psychologists

3 Other ‘Humble-Brag’ Phrases That Make a Person Instantly Unlikable

While that phrase is Dr. Abrishami’s No. 1 example, it’s not the only one that has a negative effect. She shares and explains three more examples below.

1. “It’s so annoying when…”

Again, saying something is annoying isn’t inherently a humble-brag unless it’s followed by bragging. It’s that unexpected (and debatably manipulative) pivot that’s the problem.

“The humble-bragger is teeing up to share a pet peeve, but instead they switch gears to share something positive,” Dr. Abrishami explains. “The fake complaint is a thin veil for showing off.”

This might look like someone saying, “It’s so annoying when I get a bunch of job offers at once.”

2. “I know a lot of people think so, but I'm not really that great/smart/wealthy.”

Someone may say a phrase like this thinking it sounds modest, but actually, it’s the opposite.

“They’re using a big group of people to try to validate something they believe about themselves, but then use self-deprecating language to act as if they're being humble,” Dr. Abrishami says. 

3. “I was really into X a long time ago.”

People are often trying to “flex,” or show off, with this phrase.

“They may be acting as if the new trend is old news to them to demonstrate that they're a trendsetter or really well-versed in a certain area, like fashion or music,” Dr. Abrishami explains.

In short, if your thought feels like a humble-brag, or you’re trying to “brag without bragging,” you may want to keep it to yourself. While it’s good and fair to be proud of yourself and have self-esteem, certain wording can cause those sentiments to come across the wrong way—and even make you “instantly unlikable.”

Up Next:

Related: 9 Common Phrases People Think Sound Confident, but Actually Sound Arrogant, Psychologist Reveals

Source:

• Dr. Golee Abrishami, PhD, is a psychologist and the Vice President of Clinical Care at Octave.

Blackfoot was on the rise in the late 1970s when the Southern rock band released "Train, Train," a fan favorite written by frontman Rickey Medlocke's grandfather.

In 1979, Blackfoot released their first major album, Strikes, and landed at No. 183 on the Billboard 200 before making its way to No. 42. Among its list of tracks were two main hits, "Highway Song," which reached No. 26 on the Billboard Hot 100, and "Train, Train", which reached No. 38.

What captured the interest of fans was the song's harmonica intro that mimics the sound of a steam locomotive blowing its whistle. Its lyrics talk about a man whose lover is leaving town on a "midnight train to Memphis" and his decision to follow her. "Train, Train" has a longer history before it was released by Blackfoot.

The song was created in the late '30s and recorded in 1971 by Shorty Medlocke. He originally sang the track alongside his daughter under "Train" by Shorty Medlock & Mickey with the Fla. Plow Hands.

"There is a song that my granddaddy Shorty wrote way back in 1938... I started to play the lick and the next thing you know 'Train, Train' is born," said Medlocke, according to Hit Channel.

Decades later, the song would get a new life thanks to Blackfoot when Shorty gave the track to the band to record for their own album. The blues singer would still have his hand in the track as its original creator and played its harmonica solo.

"He toured with the band.  He would come out and play 'Train Train'”' on stage with us on the harmonica.  He would play 'Rattlesnake Rock ‘N Roller' and 'Fox Chase' with us.  He got his chance… I would introduce him to the audience as the world’s oldest rock star.  He ate that up because the audience would just freak out.  Here was this guy standing in front of them, blowing the harmonica, and it was amazing.  Here is a guy in his late ‘60s, soon to be 70, and he was out there just rocking," he said, according to Classic Rock Revisited.

Strikes would be Blackfoot's first platinum album and their most successful, which yielded two hits for the band. Medlocke adds that recording "Train, Train," was his "way of saying ‘thank you’ to him for everything that he and my ma gave me growing up.  They let me explore what I wanted to do in my life.  Shorty Medlocke was a one of a kind."

Sadly, the band didn't flourish as a Southern rock gem as they had hoped, as they broke up and got together multiple times, with Medlocke having been one of the early members of Lynyrd Skynyrd. Blackfoot would reform over the years until Medlocke brought together a new lineup in 2012 to carry on the name. He stayed on as their producer and released their album Southern Native in 2016, and is now more active with Lynyrd Skynyrd.

Related: 1972 Rock Classic, The Band's Final Hit Before Breaking Up, Became a Signature Anthem

It's not your traditional breakup song, but George Strait's "All My Ex's Live in Texas" is a beloved country classic that puts a honky-tonk spin on heartbreak.

Released in 1987 as the second single from his Ocean Front Property album, "All My Ex's Live in Texas" is one of the most beloved songs from Strait's catalog, and remains a fan-favorite country track, even more than 35 years later.

The witty, tongue-in-cheek breakup anthem was written by Sanger D. "Whitey" Shafer and his fourth wife, Lyndia Shafer, who, coincidentally, would later end up as another one of his exes.

"That was a fun song to write," Whitey previously admitted, according to American Songwriter. "I was kinda writing my biography. I changed the names to protect the guilty, and I do have some exes in Texas. Thank God they live down there."

"It’s not really why I live in Tennessee, but it’s a good kicker for the song," he added

Once it was recorded and released by Strait in April 1987, it didn't take long for "All My Ex's" to debut on Billboard's Hot Country Songs chart the following month, before it soared to No. 1 later that summer.

It was Strait's 11th song to hit No. 1 on Billboard's country chart, and the fourth of 11 consecutive chart-topping singles. It also earned him his first-ever Grammy nomination, for Male Country Vocal Performance in 1988 (though the award ultimately went to Randy Travis for "Always & Forever.")

Even as Strait has racked up 33 more No. 1 hits on the Hot Country Songs chart since releasing "All My Ex's," there's still something about the playful country classic that makes it one of Strait's most enduring tracks.

The song is included on Parade's own 101 Best Country Songs of All Time list, where it's ranked at No. 27, while it also appears on several roundup lists of the best songs about Texas, including a fan-voted list from Ranker, which places it at No. 3, and Holler's "Best Texas Country Songs," where it comes in at No. 13.

Related: 64-Year-Old Country Superstar Reaches Impressive Milestone, Over 35 Years After Starting His Career

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Keeping your bedroom, living room, or entryway organized can be tricky, but having furniture that doubles as extra storage can help you keep things in their place. If you're looking for a stylish way to declutter your home, Walmart's bestselling EDX 5-Tier Bookcase offers ample space to hold books, toys, keepsakes, and other items, and it's on sale for over 20% off right now. 

Originally $64, the versatile cabinet is now on sale for just $50 in the rustic brown color. You can also shop it in a sleek all-black hue at $53. Both styles feature multiple tiers of sturdy shelving that can be adjusted to best suit your needs. If you need a larger option, there's also a six-tier version currently available at $55.  

EDX 5-Tier Bookcase, $50 (was $64) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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At 9.2 inches deep, 23.6 inches long, and 71.2 inches high, the tall bookcase offers plenty of storage without taking up too much floor space. It features five shelves made of high-quality medium-density fiberboard that's waterproof, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean. Each shelf is 10.5 inches high, allowing you to easily fit stacks of books, tall vases, photo frames, and more, and several of the shelves are detachable if you need more space for larger-sized items.  

Featuring a clean, minimalist look, the multi-shelf bookcase has a stylish, versatile look that effortlessly complements any style of decor, from farmhouse and traditional to modern and industrial. It comes with detailed instructions for easy setup, an anti-tip kit for enhanced stability, and four adjustable feet that help keep the cabinet level on uneven floors. 

Related: Walmart's $36 2-Tier Side Table Is the 'Perfect Size' for Displaying Books, Plants, and More

The EDX bookcase is a Walmart bestseller, earning over 325 five-star ratings from shoppers. Multiple reviewers highlighted its "stylish" and "modern" design. One buyer said it offers "great storage" for any space, while another noted that "the shelves are sturdy and hold a good amount of weight." 

Shop More Deals

• Yoobure 4-Tier Ladder Shelf, $34 (was $65) at Walmart
• Casacomoda 6-Tier LED Tree Bookshelf, $26 (was $55) at Walmart
• Casacomoda 5-Tier Bookshelf, $40 (was $74) at Walmart 

If you want a stylish and functional way to add some organizational space to your home, this versatile five-tier bookcase ticks all the right boxes. Snag one for as low as $50 before this limited-time flash deal comes to an end at Walmart.

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Former Bond girl Britt Ekland is living her best life at 83.

Ekland, who rose to fame as a Bond girl alongside legendary actor Roger Moore in The Man with the Golden Gun, earned acclaim for her role opposite the star in the 1974 James Bond film. However, she also had several other highly successful projects throughout the years, like The Wicker Man and Get Carter. She was also known for several high-profile romances, like her marriage to iconic star Peter Sellers, and later relationships with Rod Stewart, Lou Adler, and Stray Cats drummer Slim Jim Phantom. But fans love to remember Ekland in the role of Mary Goodnight, Bond’s second personal secretary, in the beloved ’70s flick.

In the present day, Ekland is having the time of her life. The blonde beauty shared a series of photos and videos of herself as she cruised through the canals of Venice on Instagram. Sporting a sequined top and a bright smile, Ekland is definitely thriving.

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If you need a quick refresher of Ekland’s work in the classic Bond film, check out the trailer for The Man with the Golden Gun below:

Ekland Has Thoughts About the Next Bond Girl

As a legendary Bond Girl, it’s only right that Ekland has plenty of thoughts about the women who carry on that legacy. Ekland told the UK’s Times that the right woman “should be attractive … chosen for her natural beauty. And she should be athletic.”

Evening Standard / Getty Images

The actress has strong feelings about the issues because she’s just so proud of the legacy. It’s also a tremendous responsibility to carry.

“I’m the proudest Bond girl there is because there are not a lot of us left, and there won’t be any in the future,” Ekland told The Guardian back in 2020. In the past, she pointed out in a piece in The Independent that modern Bond girls have it harder than she did since there are “so many demands” on them.

“The Bond girl has to look good in a bikini: that was her role … The Bond girl of my era exists no more because they’re not presented that way. You wouldn’t see her in a bikini next to Daniel Craig in a suit today,” Ekland said. “The PR department would make sure that didn’t happen.”

Related: Former Bond Girl Léa Seydoux, 40, Has Only Gotten More Stunning Since Starring Onscreen With Daniel Craig

Balancing two legendary metal bands proved harder than one musician expected.

Brian Tatler, the founding guitarist of Diamond Head, revealed that the influential British metal band will go on hiatus while he focuses on his work with Saxon. In a new interview, Tatler explained that he once expected to continue with both groups, but Saxon's demanding schedule has made that increasingly difficult.

"I think Diamond Head will have to go on a bit of a hiatus until there's either a suitable break or there's an opportunity that we all want to do and we all can do," Tatler said. He did not offer a timeline for when Diamond Head might become active again.

Tatler formed Diamond Head with school friends Sean Harris, Duncan Scott and Colin Kimberley in 1976. Still teenagers, they emerged as part of the New Wave of British Heavy Metal and opened for AC/DC and Iron Maiden while recording their 1980 debut, Lightning to the Nations.

The album eventually became one of the era's most influential metal releases. Metallica famously recorded Diamond Head's "Am I Evil?" and later covered several more of the band's songs, introducing its music to millions of new listeners. Tatler has repeatedly credited Metallica with helping Diamond Head remain active and bringing the group opportunities it otherwise may not have received.

Diamond Head went through several breakups and reunions over the following decades, with Tatler remaining at the center of the band. Its most recent album of new material, The Coffin Train, arrived in 2019, followed by a re-recorded version of Lightning to the Nations in 2020.

Tatler joined Saxon in 2023 after longtime guitarist Paul Quinn retired from touring. He contributed material to the band's 2024 album, Hell, Fire and Damnation, and has also helped write its next record, which he said is expected to be titled Gods of Thunder and released in January 2027.

For now, Saxon remains Tatler's priority. Diamond Head's future is not over, but after 50 years with the band, its founder is waiting until the right opportunity gives him a reason to bring it back.

Related: '70s Rocker and Member of Beloved Rock Band Turns 76

Fifty-nine years ago, beloved rock group The Box Tops released "The Letter"—a track that became a massive success despite being recorded by a teenager.

Released in August 1967 as the lead single from their debut studio album The Letter/Neon Rainbow, the track quickly garnered major mainstream attention. Upon its release, it climbed the Billboard Hot 100 chart, peaking at No. 1 on September 23 where it stayed for four consecutive weeks. The song also topped the chart in Canada, attesting to its impressive reach for a debut work.

Aside from chart dominance, "The Letter" achieved a great deal of commercial triumph. Since its release, the chart-topper has been certified Gold by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) for selling over 1 million copies in the U.S. In total, the track has moved over 4 million units worldwide.

Musician Alex Chilton performs at Mickey Ruskin's Lower Manhattan Ocean Club, in New York City, New York, on April 19, 1977.

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Written by American country and pop songwriter Wayne Carson, "The Letter" tells the story of a man urgently returning home after receiving a letter in the mail from his former lover. In the letter, his ex-partner reveals that she cannot live without him, prompting his desperate scramble to be by her side as fast as possible.

Impressively, "The Letter" was recorded by lead singer Alex Chilton when he was only 16 years old. The track's deeply soulful vocals made it nearly unbelievable that it was sung by a teenager, but Chilton pulled it off seamlessly. Paired with the song's signature Memphis soul-rock elements, his gruff, powerful voice amplified its lyrical storytelling immensely.

The track's urgent themes of returning home to loved ones resonated deeply with younger generations at the time. The song debuted in the thick of the Vietnam War, leading to it becoming an unofficial anthem of sorts for deployed soldiers yearning to return home to their families.

Nearly six decades after its release, "The Letter" continues to reach new audiences in the digital era. On the popular streaming service Spotify, the No. 1 hit has accumulated over 236 million streams—attesting to its generational impact and ability to bridge the gap between older fans and modern demographics.

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