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You may not be able to get Martha Stewart to design your space in person, but purchasing pieces from her popular home collection is the next best thing. The television personality has incredible furniture and decor options at retailers like Amazon, spanning from this classy home office desk to the Martha Stewart Delaney Upholstered Mid-Century Counter Stool, which is 28% off now. 

The stool originally cost $246, but has been reduced to $178. The piece is 20 inches wide, 23 inches long, and 35 inches tall, while the seat cushion is 5 inches tall and can hold up to 300 pounds. With the sale price, it may be beneficial to purchase two chairs that you can place at your counter or bar. The furniture is specifically designed for indoor seating, so we wouldn't recommend placing it outdoors. 

Martha Stewart Delaney Upholstered Mid-Century Counter Stool, $178 (was $246) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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The chair is made of 100% polyester and a solid wooden frame with a kickrest for comfort and durability. What we love about the seating, other than the gorgeous blue color, is the detailing at the top of the legs, which gives the piece a unique texture. The legs also look slightly distressed — perfect for those who want a vintage style. 

Due to the material, it's advised to spot clean the fabric for best results. You will have to assemble the furniture upon arrival, but there is a tool kit provided and shoppers assured that putting it together was "easy." According to reviews, the stool comes in a box with all of the pieces inside. 

Related: Amazon's $20 Linen Button-Down Tank Is the Perfect ‘Lightweight’ Summer Travel Companion

Shoppers described the piece as "durable," "beautiful," "very pretty," and "comfortable." Another customer loves that the "blue is a very forgiving color," adding that they "clean up so easily. The reviewer further noted that they scotch-guarded the stool for extra protection, which may be worth it if you have children around or frequent guests. 

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Martha Stewart is here to personalize your home, starting with this stunning counter stool. The muted blue will add color to your space without overwhelming it. Shop the gorgeous island chair now, while it's 28% off at Amazon! 

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Heart's "Alone" reached No. 1 on the Billboard Hot 100 in 1987 and since then has been called the greatest power ballad ever recorded. Ann Wilson's vocal performance is the reason. Before Wilson even sang a single note of it, "Alone" had already been turned down twice. The song that defined a generation of big-voiced love songs spent years going nowhere before it found the voice it needed.

Billy Steinberg, who died in 2025, and Tom Kelly wrote "Alone." The same writers who gave Madonna "Like a Virgin" couldn't get this one off the ground. They recorded it first with i-Ten, their short-lived side project, in 1983. Nothing happened. Then a young John Stamosrecorded it for the soundtrack of a CBSsitcom called Dreams in 1984, years before Full House made him a household name. Still nothing. Two attempts. Two failures. The song sat there, fully formed and completely overlooked, until Heart heard it.

When Ann Wilson sang it, something completely different happened.

Nancy Wilson's guitar figure opens the song with four notes that are immediately and unmistakably "Alone." Her playing amplifies Ann Wilson's voice and brings that story to life. And Ann Wilson was only 37 when she recorded it. That age matters. The lyric is about a loner who's unexpectedly fallen deeply in love and can't hide it anymore. A 37-year-old singing that with full conviction isn't performing vulnerability. She's lived enough to mean every single word. Two previous recordings couldn't bring those words to life. Wilson made them feel inevitable. Tom Kelly, who co-wrote the song, sang the high harmony parts on Heart's recording, the songwriter's own voice wrapped around Ann Wilson's, both of them finally hearing what the song had always been capable of.

Classic Pop describes the performance as "delivered with utter conviction." That's the key phrase. The song had always been great. It just needed the right person.

By the mid-1980s, Heart's glory days were considered long gone. Ann and Nancy Wilson had built their reputation on 1970s arena rock. Crazy on You. Barracuda. Magic Man. The music industry had moved on. Nobody was waiting for Heart to come back.

Related: 48 Years Ago Today, Iconic ‘Heart of Glass’ Band Took a Momentous Step That Made Them Legends

And then they chose to sing: "Til now I always got by on my own / I never really cared until I met you / And now it chills me to the bone." A band that had always got by on its own, suddenly admitting it hadn't been fine.

"These Dreams" went to No. 1 in 1986. "Alone" went to No. 1 in 1987 and stayed there for three weeks. Two back-to-back chart-toppers from a band everyone had given up on. Their die-hard fans weren't pleased with the shift toward polished, emotionally direct love songs. The general public sent both to the top of the charts anyway.

And, while Bonnie Tyler may have pioneered the power ballad genre with "Total Eclipse of the Heart" in 1983, it was Heart who perfected the form four years later. Not the greatest power ballad of 1987 but the greatest power ballad ever - from a band that no one expected to have another hit.

The Voice That Made It Famous Is Still Finding New Ways to Use It

In 2024, Ann Wilson revealed her cancer diagnosis. She'd had successful surgery, but her doctors recommended preventive chemotherapy and time away from the stage. She told fans: "This is merely a pause. I've much more to sing."

She was right. Wilson made her return to the stage in 2025 as Heart celebrated their 50th anniversary with arena tours all across North America. "Alone" was in every setlist. The song she recorded at 37 was still stopping crowds cold at 74.

In March 2026, she launched a screening tour for her new documentary "In My Voice," visiting ten cities including Seattle, Nashville, New York and Cleveland's Rock and Roll Hall of Fame. Her statement about the film could have been written about the song "Alone" itself: "This film is my story in my own words, told the way I've always wanted to tell it. It's about finding my voice, keeping it alive and sharing the journey with the people who've been part of it all along."

A documentary about finding her voice. For the woman whose voice transformed a twice rejected song into the greatest power ballad ever recorded.

Billy Steinberg and Tom Kelly wrote "Alone" and watched it go nowhere twice. Then Ann Wilson sang it, and it went to No. 1. Nearly 40 years later, she's touring a documentary about finding her voice, having beaten cancer to keep using it.

The greatest power ballad ever recorded was rejected twice before it found the right person.

Some songs just have to wait.

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Go to any IKEA on a weekday afternoon, and you’ll most likely find the cafeteria packed. Diners in suits sitting alongside construction workers in high-visibility vests, parents maneuvering strollers, or remote workers hunched over laptops. There's a chance they aren't taking a break while browsing flat-pack desks or testing mattress firmness. They are probably pulling off an increasingly popular budget hack: using the retail giant purely as a restaurant, and walking right back out.

Across the globe, the big-box furniture store is quietly turning into a primary dining spot for budget-conscious crowds. A recent thread on the IKEA subreddit brought the trend into full view when a user asked the question: “Is it weird if I go to IKEA just for lunch?”
The response was enthusiastic, with hundreds of regulars explaining how they bypass the showroom entirely.

"I have a coworker that has been going to IKEA for breakfast every day for over a decade," wrote one user. "He insists it’s much cheaper than making it at home, and tastes better because someone else made it."

Employees on the platform confirmed the practice is standard. "When I worked there, a big construction site was nextdoor and the workers would walk over most days for lunch," shared a former employee. "There was an older gentleman who came in at least once a week for lunch at the bistro. He always bought two hotdogs and would pull out a slice of American cheese from his pocket to put on top. He was affectionately referred to as 'cheese guy'."

The strategy relies on low prices, free perks, and strategic shortcuts. Users highlighted main courses like salmon and cod with sides landing between $10 and $12, paired with free coffee for IKEA Family cardholders. "At the IKEA I frequent, there's a shortcut directly to the bistro at the entrance of the store," noted one user.

For commuters and remote workers, the store offers free parking, climate control, and cheap meals. "If you're driving on the M4 motorway near to Reading and you want to stop at the services for a meal/drink/fuel etc. DONT," advised UK user sheddyian. "Very nearby is another motorway exit for IKEA, and there you can get much cheaper food & free tea/coffee and use the toilets… so much cheaper!"

While store designers may have originally built the food halls as loss leaders to entice furniture buyers, millions are flipping the script — treating the showroom as an affordable local diner and skipping the shopping cart entirely.

If you're the kind of traveler who believes evening entertainment is just as crucial to a great cruise as the ports of call, Holland America Line is completely changing the game on the water.

The cruise line has officially rolled out four brand-new World Stage productions aboard the Oosterdam, giving guests an immersive mix of Broadway history, 1970s disco, Las Vegas glamour, and a heavy-hitting concert created right alongside Rolling Stone.

The clear headliner of the new lineup is "Holland America Line and Rolling Stone Present, All Access: The Songs That Shaped Us." Building on the massive popularity of the shipboard Rolling Stone Lounges, this full-scale main-stage show takes passengers on a high-energy journey through 60s classic rock and 70s anthems.

Backed by a live band, powerhouse singers, and dynamic dancers, the production celebrates timeless hits from rock legends like Janis Joplin, The Eagles, Fleetwood Mac, and Van Halen.

Related: Holland America Just Unveiled Its Next Cruise Season—Complete With Refreshed Ships and Private Island Upgrades

Holland America Line Just Launched 4 Brand-New Stage Shows—Including a 60s Classic Rock Concert with Rolling Stone

Holland America Line

Speaking on the collaboration, Julian Holguin, chief executive officer of Rolling Stone, shared why bringing these iconic tracks to sea felt like a natural fit for passengers looking for a deeper connection to music:

“Rolling Stone has always celebrated the songs and artists that shape how people feel, connect and create memories, and this partnership with Holland America Line brings that spirit to audiences in a fresh, immersive way. We’re excited to build on the momentum of Rolling Stone Lounge with a new live experience that feels both unmistakably Rolling Stone and perfectly suited for guests looking to engage with music in a meaningful, memorable setting.”

Beyond the 60s classic rock tribute, the Oosterdam is filling out its evening schedule with three other distinct theatrical experiences. Fans of musical theater can catch "Fosse and Verdon, The Duet That Changed Broadway," an acclaimed production developed directly with the Verdon Fosse Legacy that blends iconic choreography with never-before-seen archival audio and video footage from hits like Chicago and Cabaret.

Related: Holland America Line Upgrades the Ultimate Alaska Adventure With New Lodging and Free Land Dining Packages

Holland America Line

For those craving high-octane energy, "Decadence" blends old-school Hollywood glamour with Las Vegas pulse and precision showgirls, while "Disco Fever" transforms the theater into a glittering 1970s dance party set to timeless tracks like "Le Freak" and "It's Raining Men."

All four productions are currently running live on the Oosterdam as it sails through its Mediterranean, Adriatic, and South American itineraries this season. The entertainment refresh also offers a sneak peek into the future of the fleet, as the ship prepares to kick off the "Holland America Evolution" initiative—a multi-million-dollar guest experience upgrade that will fully revitalize six vessels, culminating in the Oosterdam's complete shipwide refresh in December 2027.

Related: Holland America Line Reveals Next Ship to Get Transformation—And It's a Fan-Favorite

Sixty-two years ago today, one of rock's most instantly recognizable songs was sitting on top of the charts, and it owed its name to an accident.

On July 23, 1964, the Beatles' "A Hard Day's Night" was No. 1 on the UK singles chart, the band's fifth chart-topper there. Within weeks it also topped the US Billboard Hot 100, making it a worldwide smash.

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The title came from Ringo Starr. After a marathon day of work that stretched into the early hours, the drummer meant to say it had been a hard day, then caught himself when he noticed it was already dark and blurted, "It's been a hard day's night."John Lennon loved the phrase, and once it was picked as the title of the band's first film, he and Paul McCartney suddenly had a theme song to write on demand. Lennon wrote it overnight and brought it in the next morning, and the group recorded it days later, in April 1964.

Related: 1967 Rock Classic, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Songs of All Time,’ Was Just Reimagined by Bon Jovi

From a Slip to a Signature

Everything about the song announced the moment. It opens with one of the most famous chords in pop history, a bright, unresolved jangle that fans and musicians still argue over how to play. From there it races through in barely two and a half minutes, catching the Beatles at the peak of Beatlemania.

It was one of several 1964 chart-toppers for the group, alongside "Can't Buy Me Love". More than six decades on, the band's catalog still climbs the charts for new generations, but few songs capture a single moment like this one, a throwaway remark that turned into a worldwide No. 1.

Next: 1969 Timeless Hit, Written ‘Quickly’ in Between Studio Takes, Turned a 20-Year-Old Into a Rock Icon

After success with YA books, Ashley Elston made her adult debut in 2024 in First Lie Wins. It lead to a lot of anticipation for her second adult novel, Anatomy of an Alibi.

Now that we’re at the halfway point of the year, Goodreads has looked back at the most popular reads for 2026 so far. It wasn’t surprising to see that Anatomy of an Alibi was on the list, hitting No. 9, just ahead of Frieda McFadden’s The Divorce.

Anatomy of an Alibi was released on Jan. 13, 2026, and it was one of the most anticipated mysteries and thrillers of the year. It immediately ranked on the New York Times bestseller list, peaking at No. 2 during the first week on the list. After spending consecutive weeks in the top spot, it slowly dropped off.

The novel brings a Strangers on a Train feel to it, where two women want one man dead. They need to provide each other with an alibi, and it seems like the perfect way to get away with murder.

Courtesy of Penguin Random House

One night at Chantilly’s Bar, everyone noticed Camille Bayliss sipping on her Negroni. She appears to have the picture-perfect life thanks to her happy marriage and her Louisiana family money. However, her husband, Ben, isn’t as perfect as he seems, hiding dirty secrets for years that she can’t quite prove.

Enter Aubrey Price, the real woman at Chantilly’s Bar that night. She is sure that Ben knows something about the terrible night that she is still haunted by. What if his wife is willing to help get the answers? Camille can spy on Ben, while Aubrey takes her place to make it look like she has an alibi.

Ben was never meant to be murdered, and when he’s found the next morning, both women need to stick together. All it takes is one to betray the other and the entire plan comes undone. Of course, they also need to figure out what happened to Camille’s husband.

In a 2025 interview, she shared that, “This was probably the hardest book I’ve ever written. It took me the longest of all to decide when to step away from it.”

Of course, part of the difficulty came from coming off the back of the success of First Lie Wins, which shot to the No. 1 spot on the NYT bestseller list, bringing pressure for the sophomore adult book. “I was in my head a lot for the writing of this book. In the end, I’m very proud of it. I’m proud that I did it!”

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If you've been looking for a fun way to get around town or to add a little adventure to your fitness routine, Walmart just dropped a deal that’s beyond enticing. The retailer is selling the XKJQTA Electric Bike, which typically costs $1,100, for a fantastic discount. Right now, you can get the e-bike for just $350.

E-bikes are a great way to stay active, and ideal for all fitness levels. The biggest advantage of using them is that you are able to control how hard you work, thanks to customizable pedal modes that let you dial in exactly how much effort you want to put in. There is also a display panel that will keep track of your speed, distance, and ride stats along the way.

XKJQTA Electric Bike, $350 (was $1,100) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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This particular model, a Walmart bestseller, has a powerful 750W motor that reaches speeds up to 25 miles per hour. That’s fast enough to keep pace with traffic on a short commute or a quick errand run, with shoppers describing the motion as "very smooth and fun." The bike comes with a removable lithium battery that will power the bike for 40 to 45 miles per charge. Charging takes just five to six hours.

There are two additional models in stock with varying wattages and other features, both available for between $300 and $320, but you'll score the biggest discount on the $350 option with a 750W motor.

A 7-speed gear system helps the bike adapt easily to different terrain, whether you’re climbing hills or cruising on long, flat roads. The 26-inch tires are puncture-resistant, so you shouldn't have to worry about flats so much. 

Built to support riders up to 300 pounds, the bike offers a more inclusive fit for different body types and riding needs. For added safety, it includes a front LED headlight and a rear reflector to improve visibility, helping make those dawn or evening rides feel more secure.

"This bike is a great value. It's not fancy, but it's great for riding around the neighborhood," one reviewer raved.

Related: Walmart's Whimsical $60 Tree Trunk Floor Lamp Looks Straight Out of a Fairytale

Overall, the XKJQTA Electric Bike is packed with features, which makes it a steal for its current low price. At $350 — nearly $800 off the original price — shoppers are scooping the deal up fast.

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.

Foo Fighters are making a comeback on the music charts with an almost 30-year-old album.

The band's iconic record, The Colour and The Shape, recently re-entered Billboard's Top Hard Rock Albums chart more than 29 years after it was first released in May 1997.

According to new chart standings, the album landed at No. 24 for the week of July 25, earning its 22nd week spent on the chart, where it previously peaked at No. 16 in 2024.

Released over 29 years ago, The Colour and The Shape album features some of the band's biggest hits, including their top-certified single, "Everlong," which has spent a whopping 300 weeks on Billboard's Hard Rock Streaming Songs chart, including 108 weeks at No. 1.

Other popular tracks on The Colour and The Shape include fan-favorite Foo Fighters songs like "Monkey Wrench" and "My Hero."

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The Colour and The Shape is indisputably one of the Foo Fighters' most revered albums, and was certified Platinum by the Recording Industry Association of America (RIAA) in 1998, signifying one million units sold. It's frequently ranked by critics as the top album in the band's entire catalog, according to music sites like Louder and NME.

Shortlist even considers the album to be one of the best rock albums ever recorded, placing it at No. 48 in a January 2026 ranking of the 50 Best Rock Albums of All Time.

The Colour and The Shape is also frequently named among the best records of the decade, earning a spot on Stacker's 2020 list of the 100 Best Albums of the '90s, where it's ranked at No. 61.

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

On July 23, one of rock music's most celebrated guitarists celebrates his 61st birthday.

Best known as the lead guitarist of Guns N' Roses, Slash has spent nearly four decades creating some of the most recognizable guitar parts in rock history. Among them is the unforgettable opening riff to "Sweet Child o' Mine," which Total Guitar once named the No. 1 greatest guitar riff of all time, ahead of countless other classics. In a fun coincidence, "Sweet Child" entered the Billboard Hot 100 at no. 34 on Slash's birthday in 1988.

Related: 1987 Guns N' Roses Classic, Ranked Among ‘Greatest Albums of All Time,’ Gets an Unexpected New Honor

Born Saul Hudson in London in 1965, Slash moved to Los Angeles as a child and helped transform Guns N' Roses into one of the defining rock bands of the late 1980s. Their 1987 debut Appetite for Destruction eventually became the best-selling debut album in U.S. history, powered by enduring hits including "Welcome to the Jungle," "Paradise City" and the Billboard Hot 100 No. 1 smash "Sweet Child o' Mine."

The guitarist's reputation extends well beyond a single song. In 2009, TIME ranked Slash No. 2 among the world's best electric guitar players, behind only Jimi Hendrix, calling Slash "a remarkably precise player who had to put up with more crap from his lead singers than any other guitarist on this list."

They cheekily added, "Does he make the cut partially because of the hat? Yes. Yes he does."

Related: Guns N’ Roses’ Take on the Song Bob Dylan Called 'Greatest Ever Written’ Divides Fans

Guitar World later placed his soaring "November Rain" solo among the greatest guitar solos ever recorded, whileRolling Stone included him among its list of the 100 Greatest Guitarists of All Time in 2011.

"As far as the guitar solo [in 'November Rain'], it was so natural from the first time I ever played it ... One of the best things about a melody for a guitar solo is when it comes to you the same way every time, and that was definitely the case with ‘November Rain,'" Slash told Guitar World.

Rolling Stone wrote at the time they compiled the list, "He may have spent much of his Guns N' Roses prime shirtless, drunk and surrounded by snakes, but Slash brought good taste and restraint back to hard-rock guitar."

Related: Guns N’ Roses Stun Fans in Luxembourg Debut: ‘Best I’ve Seen Axl Look in a While’

After leaving Guns N' Roses in the 1990s, Slash formed the supergroup Slash's Snakepit before co-founding Velvet Revolver with Scott Weiland, Duff McKagan, Matt Sorum and Dave Kushner. The band enjoyed major commercial success in the 2000s before Slash eventually reconciled with Axl Rose and rejoined Guns N' Roses in 2016.

Despite his legendary status, Slash has often spoken with humility about his career. Recalling the moment Michael Jackson invited him to perform on "Black or White," he admitted he was stunned.

"I was in shock! … Why me?" he recalled in a 2011 interview with Guitar World, adding that Jackson's team later explained, "They said that they wanted my feel."

Related: Singer Behind One of the Strangest Hits of the ’70s Turns 79

He's also reflected on the winding path his career has taken.

"I don't believe in regrets. You live and learn… I don't regret anything," Slash said during an interview with KISS 92.5.

Today, Slash remains one of rock's most influential guitarists. From the instantly recognizable riff that opens "Sweet Child o' Mine" to the emotional solo in "November Rain," his playing has inspired generations of musicians. More than 20 years after readers crowned his signature riff the greatest of all time, it remains one of the first guitar parts aspiring rock musicians learn and one of the most recognizable moments in classic rock history.

Related: 1987 Classic Ranked Among ‘Greatest Albums of All Time’ Gets Unexpected New Honor

The universe is such an unexplored and massive place that it’s no wonder so many of us are transfixed by the stars, planets and what lies beyond—just space in general, basically. One of the most prominent astronomers and science communicators in modern times, Carl Sagan, captured millions of people’s attention with his work surrounding the cosmos. He was an American astronomer and science writer, plus he was influential in popular culture, not just in the science world. According to Britannica, he was also deemed controversial because of his views regarding extraterrestrial intelligence and religion, among other things. Regardless, his scientific research has left a lasting legacy. And our quote of the day highlights his thoughts on how important imagination is, even (and especially) in the world of science. 

Born in 1934, Sagan attended the University of Chicago, earning his bachelor’s and master’s degrees in physics by 1956, per Britannica. He went on to work at Harvard University and the Smithsonian Astrophysical Observatory from 1962 to 1968. He researched the “physical conditions of planets,” specifically Venus and Jupiter. He then went on to be the director of Cornell University’s Laboratory for Planetary Studies, which is where he stayed until he died of pneumonia in 1996 at the age of 62. 

Per FROMTBOT, Sagan “made significant contributions” to many NASA projects, including the Viking mission to Mars, as well as the Pioneer and Voyager space probes that went out to explore outside of our solar system. As his website says, he was the reason the famous “Pale Blue Dot” photograph was taken; he tried to get NASA to get the Voyager 1 spacecraft to take a picture facing toward Earth for 10 years. Finally, in 1990 it did, and it showed Earth as just a pixelated single dot from that distance (beyond the orbits of Neptune and Pluto). 

As Britannica reported, Sagan made it a point and his primary focus to be a “spokesman for science and a popularizer of astronomy,” even though he did conduct significant research on planetary atmospheres and the origin of life (in astrobiology). And through his work as a writer and presenter in popular media, he shared today’s quote, which sheds some light on how creativity and imagination got us to different worlds. 

Related: Mark Twain’s 'Best Way' To Stay Positive Is Exactly What We Need To Hear Today

Quote of the Day by Carl Sagan

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“Imagination will often carry us to worlds that never were. But without it we go nowhere.”

Sagan said this quote in the 1980 science docuseries, Cosmos. Since it was a mini-series, it only had one season and 13 episodes. According to IMDb, he was the presenter and main face in the series, as well as a co-creator and co-writer for the show, alongside Ann Druyan and Steve Soter. 

The show focused on cosmology, which is the study of the universe and—you guessed it—the cosmos, and how it connected to the origin of life. As CosmoLearning reported, the series was most well-known for its “groundbreaking” special effects for the time.

It premiered on the Public Broadcasting Service (PBS) in 1980 and “was the most widely watched series in the history of American public television until The Civil War,” which premiered a decade later, per CosmoLearning. Despite that, it still holds the title of “the most widely watched PBS series in the world” and won an Emmy and a Peabody Award. 

Related: Friedrich Nietzsche's Quote on Persevering Through Hard Times Still Applies Today

Deeper Meaning of Carl Sagan's Quote—Importance of Imagination

The first part of Sagan’s quote can be taken two ways: he’s either saying that our imagination can carry us to places in search of worlds that actually don’t exist, or it can carry us to places that we didn’t know existed until we went there. Though he's most likely saying the former. Either way, he notes that the power we have to create in our mind is what can propel us anywhere we want. 

Through creativity and dreaming, we can figure out how to travel to far-off worlds outside of Earth. Yes, of course, you need science and the knowledge of how to create a way to do that, but so much of science, especially astronomy, involves ingenuity. It’s not enough to just be smart; you need to have the imagination to try all different angles to figure out how to succeed, and this includes exploring the universe. 

And that brings us to the end of Sagan’s quote. Without inventiveness, we would be stuck right where we are. Imagination is our jetpack, our rocket, and without it we have no power to go to places we want to explore. 

Related: Quote of the Day: Poet Maya Angelou on Passion, Drive and Putting Your Heart in 'Everything You Do'

More Quotes from Carl Sagan

• “For small creatures such as we the vastness is bearable only through love.”
• “Personally, I would be delighted if there were a life after death, especially if it permitted me to continue to learn about this world and others, if it gave me a chance to discover how history turns out.”
• “Our posturings, our imagined self-importance, the delusion that we have some privileged position in the universe are challenged by this point of pale light.”
• “By looking far out into space we are also looking far back into time, back toward the horizon of the universe, back toward the epoch of the Big Bang.”
• “I think if we ever reach the point where we think we thoroughly understand who we are and where we came from, we will have failed.”

Up Next:

Related: Sir Ken Robinson’s 27-Year-Old Advice on Creating a Lasting Legacy Still Rings True Today

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If your social feed is a stream of flawless Get Ready With Me (GRWM) videos, you're probably well aware that powering every gorgeously lit take your favorite creator films is a well-organized vanity. Achieving that same sleek aesthetic for your own glow-up station doesn't have to break the bank, and you definitely don't have to be an influencer to get ready like one. If you've been drooling over the lighted vanities plastered across TikTok, now's your chance to snag viral GRWM organization at a steal. 

Walmart has a limited-time flash deal on the Ktaxon Get Ready With Me Makeup Vanity Desk, dropping the usual $165 price to just $99. Delivering all the high-end functionality of a professional beauty station at a fraction of the cost, this hyper-organized vanity with conveniently integrated tech can keep you looking camera-ready, even on the most mundane of days. It's on sale right now in all five colors, including white, black, purple, and two shades of pink, so you can choose whichever shade best matches your room's aesthetic. 

Ktaxon Get Ready With Me Makeup Vanity Desk, $99 (was $165) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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What sets this vanity apart from other dressing tables is its built-in charging station and exceptional organization. It has a power hub with two AC outlets, one USB port, and one USB-C port where you can plug in curling irons or straighteners, and charge your phone or tablet simultaneously without overcrowding your wall outlets or getting tangled in extension cords. A side-mounted rack keeps your hairdryer or other hot tools neatly off the main counter while keeping it instantly accessible.

Keeping a vanity uncluttered isn't easy, but this piece offers smart storage solutions that help you do just that in a super stylish way. On top, three designated slots provide space to store your perfumes, skincare, and hair products in a curated, readily accessible setup. The transparent drawer tops allow you to see what's inside, while the acrylic drawer dividers let you customize your storage space for easy access to lipsticks, brushes, and compacts.

The generously sized lighted mirror measures over 26 inches wide and 16.5 inches high, and features three adjustable brightness levels. With warm, cool, and natural lighting options, even if you're planning to film your own videos sitting at this vanity, you'll never have to worry about applying mismatched foundation again.

Walmart shoppers raved about the "very pretty" look of this vanity. Several customers were impressed with its functionality, noting that it doubles as a desk in smaller rooms. Though some reviewers mentioned that assembly took more time than they anticipated, multiple shoppers said the vanity is "easy to put together."

Shop More Deals

• Unbranded Butterfly Backrest Chair, $33 at Walmart
• Huauoo 20-Piece Makeup Brushes Set, $12 (was $23) at Walmart
• Suptree Cosmetic Case, $10 (was $17) at Walmart

Related: Drew Barrymore’s Luxe 3-Shelf Fluted Bookcase Is 'So Stylish' for Modern Homes, and It's Over $75 Off

With the Ktaxon Get Ready with Me Makeup Vanity Desk, your morning routine will be anything but boring. Snag influencer-level style and organization for just $99 while it's still on sale at Walmart!

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Owning a few pairs of casual shoes that you slip on at a moment's notice is undeniably convenient. That's why I always have a few pairs of styles at my disposal, including flip flops, and slides. Adidas has some of the most popular slip-on shoes for everything from sports practices to everyday errands, with the Adidas Adelette Arsenal Slides on sale at Amazon for 33% right now.

The slides initially cost $30, but have been reduced to as low as $20 in the off-white, cheetah print, green, and all black colorway. The shoe is being sold in 14 total colors, with most offerings being some version of black, white, and grey. The sizes range from 5 to 19 in women's and 4 to 18 in men's, with certain wide and half sizes available. Several shoppers say that the style runs true to size, but the product description advises purchasing half a size bigger. 

Adidas Adilette Arsenal Slides, From $20 (was $30) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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Therefore, we advise taking advantage of the available size chart to best fit your feet. The style is marked as a no.1 best seller in men's athletic and outdoor sandals, as over 6,000 pairs have already been purchased by Amazon customers in the past month. The slides are made of 100% synthetic rubber, with the low-top design featuring a quick-drying thick strap that's decorated with the classic Adidas logo and stripes. 

Adidas Adilette Arsenal Slides, From $20 (was $30) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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The slides additionally have a cloudfoam footbed and midsole that allows you to step in them and feel immediate comfort. Shoppers described the footwear as "unbelievably comfortable," "beautiful quality," "well-made," "supportive," "water-friendly," and "versatile." The beauty of the shoe is that it's perfect for all ages and genders, as it's universally loved.

Related: Amazon's 'Vibrant' 12-Piece Ceramic Dinnerware Set Offers Pottery Barn Vibes for Under $50

"These sandals have become my 11-year-old's absolute go-to for swim meet days," one shopper added. "They're easy to slip on, dry quickly after being around the pool, and are comfortable enough for him to wear all day between events." Due to the material, they're also fairly easy to clean — all you have to do is wipe them with a cloth. 

Shop More Deals 

• Eqaudes Platform Espadrille Sandals, $38 (was $50) at Amazon
• Phikttu Retro Sunglasses, $7 (was $20) at Amazon
• Mazeskin Memory Foam Flip Flops, $10 (was $22) at Amazon

These comfy Adidas slides are going to become your new favorite everyday style. Plus, shoppers love that they're "durable" and "great for wider feet." Shop the footwear for as little as $20 at Amazon! 

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.

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A side table might be a small piece of furniture, but the right one can make life a whole lot easier. It’s a place where you can set down a drink, charge a phone, or store books and decor. If you’re looking for a simple way to add more function to your living room, bedroom, or reading nook, Walmart has a stylish option shoppers are adding to their carts. 

Right now, Walmart shoppers can score the Jioabl 3-Tier Side Table at a standout discount. The $49 single table is marked down to as low as $35. However, the biggest savings come with the two-pack. For a limited time, shoppers can grab two tables for just $45 — which breaks down to less than $23 each.

Jioabl 3-Tier Side Table Set, From $45 (was $69) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Measuring 15 inches long, 11 inches wide, and 21.7 inches tall, the Jioabl side table is well suited for bedrooms, apartments, dorm rooms, and other areas where space is limited. It has a three-tier design consisting of an adjustable hardboard shelf and a lower mesh shelf. Each shelf has a 33-pound weight capacity, so you can pile on the decor, books, plants, or other everyday essentials.

Its most practical feature is the integrated charging station. Equipped with two AC outlets, one USB port, and one Type-C port, the table creates a convenient charging hub for phones, devices, lamps, fans, and other electronics. It's an especially useful addition to bedrooms, living rooms, and home offices where outlets aren't always within easy reach. 

Shoppers were impressed with the quality. One Walmart reviewer said it was "perfect" beside their chair, while others described it as “sturdy” and “easy to put together.” The table is available in black and rustic brown colors, which are neutral enough to fit in just about anywhere. 

Shop More Deals

• Sleep Zone 3D Waffle Weave Comforter Set, From $23 (was $45) at Walmart
• Natyswan Tree Trunk Floor Lamp, $60 (was $100) at Walmart
• Vasagle Maezo 2-Tier Side Table, $36 (was $72) at Walmart

Related: Walmart Has the 'Cutest Little Accent Table' With a Charming, Vintage-Inspired Design for Under $30

At just $35 for a single table or $45 for the two-pack, the Jioabl 3-Tier Side Table with Charging Station is an affordable way to add extra storage and convenient charging to your home. If you’ve been looking for a practical piece that works in small spaces, head to Walmart before the deal is over!

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To solve today's NYT Connections: Sports Edition puzzle, you'll need to have a mix of sports familiarity, name recognition and a little outside-the-box thinking. Get excited—there's another New York Times game to add to your daily routine! Those of us word game addicts who already play Wordle, Connections, Strands and the Mini Crossword now have Connections Sports Edition to add to the mix.

So, if you're looking for some hints and answers for today's Connections Sports Edition on Thursday, July 23, 2026, you've come to the right place.

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Today's NYT Connections Sports Puzzle for Thursday, July 23, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

What Is Connections Sports Edition?

Connections Sports Edition is just like the regular Connections word puzzle, in that it's a game that resets at 12 a.m. EST each day and has 16 different words listed. It's up to you to figure out each group of four words that belong to a certain category, with four categories in total.

This new version is sports-specific, however, as a partnership between The New York Times and The Athletic.

As the NYT site instructs, for Connections Sports Edition, you "group sports terms that share a common thread."

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You'll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Hints for Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories on July 23, 2026

Here are some hints about the four categories to help you figure out the word groupings.

• Yellow: All part of the same half of a major league.
• Green: Squads that represent the same U.S. state.
• Blue: People who share the same first name.
• Purple: Phrases that begin with a common three-letter word.

Here Are Today's Connections Sports Edition Categories

OK, time for a second hint…we'll give you the actual categories now. Spoilers below!

• Yellow: EASTERN CONFERENCE NBA TEAMS
• Green: MINNESOTA TEAMS
• Blue: SCOTTS
• Purple: BOX _____

If you're looking for the answers, no worries—we've got them below. So, don't scroll any further if you don't want to see the solutions!

The answers to today's Connections Sports Edition #668 are coming up next.

Related: 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day

What Are the Answers to Connections Sports Edition Today?

• EASTERN CONFERENCE NBA TEAMS: HAWKS, MAGIC, NETS, PISTONS
• MINNESOTA TEAMS: FROST, TIMBERWOLVES, TWINS, WILD
• SCOTTS: MCTOMINAY, NIEDERMAYER, ROLEN, VAN PELT
• BOX _____: AND ONE, JUMP, LACROSSE, SCORE

Don't worry if you didn't get them this time—we've all been there.

Up next, catch up on the answers to recent Wordle puzzles.

Related: NYT Connections Sports Edition Today: Hints and Answers for Wednesday, July 22, 2026

Today's NYT Strands puzzle is all about titles you'll find within one branch of the U.S. military. Move over, Wordle, Connections, Connections Sports Edition, and Mini Crossword—there’s a new NYT word game in town! The New York Times' recent game, "Strands," is becoming increasingly popular as another daily activity fans can find on the NYT website and app.

With daily themes and "spangrams" to discover, this is the latest addictive game to cross off your to-do list before a new one pops up 24 hours later.

We'll cover exactly how to play Strands, hints for today's Spangram, and all of the answers for Strands #872 on Thursday, July 23.

How to Play Strands

The New York Times

According to the New York Times, here's exactly how to play Strands:

Find theme words to fill the board.

• Theme words stay highlighted in blue when found.
• Drag or tap letters to create words. If tapping, double-tap the last letter to submit.
• Theme words fill the board entirely. No theme words overlap.

Find the “spangram.”

• The spangram describes the puzzle's theme and touches two opposite sides of the board. It may be two words.
• The spangram highlights in yellow when found.
• An example spangram with corresponding theme words: PEAR, FRUIT, BANANA, APPLE, etc.

Need a hint?

• Find non-theme words to get hints.
• For every three non-theme words you find, you earn a hint.
• Hints show the letters of a theme word. If there is already an active hint on the board, a hint will show that word's letter order.

What Is Today's Strands Hint for the Theme: "Hail to the chief petty officer."

A hint for today's Strands game: Anchors aweigh!

What Are Today's NYT Strands Hints?

Warning: Spoilers ahead!

In today's puzzle, there are six theme words to find (including the spangram). Here are the first two letters for each word:

• EN
• AD
• RE
• CO
• LI
• NA (SPANGRAM)

NYT Strands Spangram Hint: Is It Vertical or Horizontal?

Today's Spangram is mostly vertical.

NYT Strands Spangram Answer for July 23

Today's Spangram answer on Today's NYT 'Strands' Hints, Spangram and Answers for Thursday, July 23, 2026, isNAVYRANKS.

What Are Today's NYT Strands Answers, Word List for Thursday, July 23?

• ENSIGN
• ADMIRAL
• RECRUIT
• COMMANDER
• LIEUTENANT
• SPANGRAM: NAVYRANKS

Related: Today’s NYT ‘Strands’ Hints, Spangram and Answers for Wednesday, July 22, 2026

Kingdom Come is making a comeback. Following a shakeup in the band’s lineup, the ’80s hard rock/heavy metal band just announced that they have new music on the way.

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According to Blabbermouth, drummer Matt Muckle shared the news with Doc Rock’s Metal Shop 101, saying, “We have three [new songs] finished right now. We're gonna probably release a single every few months, I think. And the first single's called 'Payback's A Bi-ch'. It's banging. It's a banger.”

He added that the song still needs to be remastered but will most likely see a late-summer release.

“I'm hoping early September,” he said. “And we're pretty excited. If you like rock and roll, then you're gonna like it.”

Kingdom Come’s current lineup includes founding guitarist Danny Stag, guitarist Rick Steier, bassist Johnny B. Frank, and new additions Muckle on percussion and Ezekiel Kaplan on vocals. The band recently performed “Payback’s a B-tch” for a crowd at the Token Lounge in Westland, Michigan (seen above).  

Also per the outlet, the band played their first two shows with the new lineup back in March 2024. And so far, the response to the new guys has been positive.

“I have had really, really great feedback,” Kaplan said. “There's been a lot of YouTube videos on the return of Kingdom Come. And I've been reached out to a lot saying that this is the best the band has sounded since the olden days with Lenny [Wolf].”

He added, “I'm very proud of what we have accomplished and how we sound after only several months of rehearsals and kind of really quickly getting the ball rolling.”

Following Keith St. John’s departure from the band in February 2024, as well as the death of James Kottak in April 2024, the band moved forward with a revamped lineup and even launched a new website.

Formed in 1987, the German/American rock band made its debut with their self-titled album, Kingdom Come, in 1988. The record was a breakout success, peaking at No. 12 on the Billboard 200 and producing fan-favorite songs like “Get It On.”

Their most recent studio album, Outlier, arrived in May 2013 and featured tracks written, performed, and produced primarily by longtime frontman Lenny Wolf.

Related: 1980 Hit, Voted One of the Top 5 Best Yacht Rock Songs of the ’80s, Became a Soft Rock Anthem

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Craving that salty-air, sun-faded, toes-in-the-sand feeling? Bringing coastal style into your space is the easiest way to make waves at home. Think breezy blankets, ocean-kissed colors, and natural materials incorporated into furniture like rattan storage and wicker chairs. The vibe turns winding down into a mini escape — no sunscreen, no packing, no fighting for an umbrella.

If you’re looking to bring those laid-back, beachy vibes home without splashing out, Macy's Beatrice Home Fashions Queen Coastal Printed 4-Piece Sheet Set is just $18, down 56% during the Black Friday in July event. At this price, it’s a shore thing — and the simplest way to turn your bedroom into a dreamy seaside retreat. Also on sale in full and king sizes, these sheets make it easy to bring a little beachy bliss to any bed.

Beatrice Home Fashions Queen Coastal Printed 4-Piece Sheet Set, From $18 (was $40) at Macy’s 

Courtesy of Macy's

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Made from plush microfiber, this ensemble feels silky against the skin, with shoppers comparing the quality to the “smooth” and “soft” feel of “perma-press cotton.” Each set includes a flat sheet, a fitted sheet, and two standard pillowcases, giving you everything you need to pull a coordinated, ocean-inspired look together. The fitted sheet stretches to fit mattresses up to 16 inches deep, staying snug and secure so you don’t have to constantly adjust the corners. 

“Cool” and “crisp,” these sheets are also incredibly low-maintenance. They resist wrinkles and hold up beautifully through repeated machine washes and dries, making it simple to keep your bedroom looking fresh and feeling cozy night after night. 

This collection comes in seven fun and playful patterns, each with its own little seaside personality. You’ll find everything from lobsters, seahorses, starfish, and seashells to fish, coral, crabs, turtles, flamingos, and more, so you can pick the coastal creatures that speak to you. The colors range from bright and cheerful to soft and neutral, so it’s easy to pick a set that fits your style and your room. 

With summer approaching, it's no surprise that shoppers were eager to add this “very pretty” and “simply lovely” set to their linen closet rotation. “The brushed fibers are so soft and comfortable, and the affordability is great,” one shopper wrote.

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

The Black Friday in July sale event only lasts through July 26. Snag the Beatrice Home Fashions Queen Coastal Printed 4-Piece Sheet Set at Macy's and ride the waves of comfort at 56% off.

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.

Today’s New York Times Connections puzzle includes a group of round things, some high-energy emotions, a travel-related category and a clever wordplay twist. There's nothing quite as exhilarating as the feeling of completing the daily New York Times Wordle, Strands, Mini Crossword and Connections Sports Edition word games in one fell swoop. But sometimes that can be easier said than done. If you need help with today's Connections puzzle, keep reading.

Spoilers ahead! We've warned you. We mean it. Read no further until you really want some clues or you've completely given up and want the answers ASAP. Get ready for all of today's NYT 'Connections’ hints and answers for #1138 onThursday, July 23, 2026.

Today's NYT Connections Puzzle for Thursday, July 23, 2026 / New York Times

The New York Times

If you've been having trouble with any of the connections or words in Thursday's puzzle, you're not alone, and these hints should definitely help you out. Plus, I'll reveal the answers further down.

Related: The 26 Funniest NYT Connections Game Memes You'll Appreciate if You Do This Daily Word Puzzle

Hints About Today's NYT Connections Categories on Thursday, July 23

1. Round in three dimensions.
2. Don’t worry.
3. LAX or JFK.
4. High-school math.

Related: 300 Trivia Questions and Answers to Jumpstart Your Fun Game Night

Ready for the answers? Scroll below this image (the image that represents your very appreciated patience!).

iStock

Today's Connections Game Answers for Thursday, July 23:

1. SPHERICAL THINGS: BASEBALL, GLOBE, MARBLE, ORANGE
2. IN AN ANXIOUS STATE: EXCITED, FEBRILE, FRENETIC, INTENSE
3. PARTS OF AN AIRPORT: APRON, HANGAR, RUNWAY, TERMINAL
4. ENDING IN GEOMETRY TERMS: APPOINT, DEPLANE, FELINE, JANGLE

How'd you do?

Up Next:

- 15 Fun Games Like Connections to Play Every Day
- Hints, Clues and Answers to the NYT's 'Mini Crossword' Puzzle

Did You Miss a Few Days? Let's Catch You Up With Recent Connections Answers

Related: NYT ‘Connections’ Hints, Clues and Answers Today, Wednesday, July 22, 2026

Dolly Partonhas built a career on breaking boundaries, but one of her biggest Hollywood films faced an unexpected hurdle before audiences ever saw it.

When The Best Little Whorehouse in Texas premiered on July 23, 1982, the movie's title proved to be almost as memorable as the film itself. In fact, it was so controversial at the time that some newspapers and advertisers refused to print the word "whorehouse" in promotional materials.

Instead, the film was marketed in certain parts of the country as The Best Little Cathouse in Texas, a toned-down alternative created specifically for newspaper ads and other advertising where the original title was considered too risqué.

The musical comedy, based on the hit 1978 Broadway production of the same name, starred Parton, 80, alongside Burt Reynolds. Parton played Miss Mona Stangley, the charismatic owner of the fictional Chicken Ranch, while Reynolds portrayed Sheriff Ed Earl Dodd.

Although the title sparked debate, the movie itself was a box office success, earning more than $69 million worldwide and becoming one of Universal Pictures' biggest releases of the year.

It also produced one of Parton's most beloved movie songs, "I Will Always Love You" and collaborator Carol Hall's "Hard Candy Christmas." The heartfelt ballad has since become a holiday favorite and remains closely associated with Parton's career more than four decades later.

Looking back, it's hard to imagine a time when simply printing a movie title could create such controversy. But in 1982, attitudes toward language in mainstream advertising were far different than they are today, prompting distributors to make regional changes just to get the film promoted.

For Parton, however, the temporary name change did little to slow her momentum. Already one of country music's biggest stars, she continued expanding her acting career throughout the 1980s with memorable roles in films including Rhinestone and Steel Magnolias.

RELATED: Dolly Parton’s Legal Dispute With Porter Wagoner Marked a Turning Point in Her Career