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Best-Selling Author’s Novel Ranked Among ‘Most Read Books’ in United States on Goodreads
Best-selling author Elle Kennedy is once again connecting with readers all across the country.
Her novel, Love Song, has been ranked among the most-read books in the United States on Goodreads, based on recent user activity. The distinction reflects how frequently readers are marking the book as "read," signaling strong momentum and widespread interest.
Known for her ability to blend romance with emotional depth and sharp dialogue, Kennedy has built a loyal following through her bestselling titles, including The Deal and the popular Off-Campus series. With Love Song, she continues that streak, delivering a story that resonates with fans of contemporary romance.
View this post on InstagramLove Song follows Blake Logan, a college student who retreats to her family's lake house in Tahoe after a painful breakup, determined to avoid romance altogether. But her plans unravel when Wyatt Graham, an older, off-limits connection from her past and the one who once broke her heart, reenters her life.
As Wyatt searches for direction in his stalled music career, the two find themselves drawn together by a slow-burning chemistry that quickly reignites. What begins as a fleeting summer connection deepens into something far more meaningful— until an unexpected tragedy pulls them apart. When their paths cross again, Blake and Wyatt are forced to confront whether their story was just a moment in time or a love worth fighting for.
Since its release, Love Song has gained traction through word-of-mouth and online reader communities, where fans have praised its engaging characters and emotionally driven storyline. Its placement among Goodreads' most-read books underscores just how quickly it has captured attention.
"It really depends on the story, but most of the time I have a character already in mind when I start writing, and an idea of where I want their story to go," Kennedy told BookTrib. "The only time I focus on setting first is when I’m plotting a new series, because that's when a location really matters."
For Kennedy, the recognition adds to an already impressive track record of bestsellers and reader-favorite titles.
"I think readers enjoy stories that have those unexpected relationships and interpersonal communications – those 'I didn’t see this coming!' moments," she said. "Because while one of the reasons we read romances is the knowledge that in the end the couple gets together, if everything went exactly how you thought it would, it'd probably be a boring read."
As Love Song continues to climb in popularity, it's clear the novel has struck a chord, proving that Kennedy’s brand of romance remains as compelling as ever.
Related: Best-Selling Author’s Novel Ranked ‘Worst Book’ of All Time on Goodreads
1976 Classic Ranked Among 'Best Songs About New York' Was Written in an Hour
There's no shortage of songs inspired by New York City. From Frank Sinatra's "New York, New York" to Billie Holiday's "Autumn in New York" to The Beastie Boys' "No Sleep Till Brooklyn," the Big Apple has been musically honored countless times in just about every genre, but not all of these tunes turned into classics.
One NY-themed song that's been hailed as a fitting tribute to the city that never sleeps for decades is, of course, Billy Joel's 1976 hit, "New York State of Mind." Ranked among the "best songs about New York" by Time Out New York and Paste alike, the song has been striking a chord with New Yorkers since its release on Joel's fourth studio album, Turnstiles.
It makes perfect sense that "New York State of Mind" continues to resonate with so many listeners, considering how much Joel's sincere love for the Empire State comes through in the song. As the singer-songwriter explained in the documentary Billy Joel: And So It Goes, he wrote "New York State of Mind" in a burst of appreciation for his birth state after moving back from Los Angeles. He came up with the idea for the tune while riding a Greyhound bus to his newly rented home in Highland Falls on the Hudson River in upstate New York (as the lyrics suggest).
View this post on Instagram“Some folks like to get away, take a holiday from the neighborhood,” Joel said in the doc, recalling how the words came to him. “I’m in a New York state of mind.”
“The minute I got back to this rented house, and I saw my wife, I said, ‘Do we have a piano?' ‘Yeah, it’s upstairs,'" he continued. "'Let me just go up to the piano.’ Ran up to the piano and wrote the song probably within about an hour. It just came out.”
In the same documentary, rapper Nas (who released a popular song of his own called "N.Y. State of Mind" in 1994) opened up about how much the song affected him as a young boy.
Related: Billy Joel Refused to Play This Grammy-Winning 'Gloppy Ballad' for Years
“‘New York State of Mind,’ that one stood out,” he said. “It was a phrase that I heard my dad say all the time with his friends, and I thought it was the most sophisticated, brilliant phrase.”
Interestingly enough, "New York State of Mind" was never released as a single, and Turnstiles — while considered a classic — peaked at just #122 on the Billboard 200. (Don't feel too bad for Joel, though; he went on to have a total of four #1 albums, with 11 landing in the top 10.)
Now, half a century after its release, "New York State of Mind" is just as relevant as ever. At the time of this writing, the song has 113,101,195 streams on Spotify alone.
Related: 1989 No. 1 Hit Ranked Among 'Worst Songs of All Time' Has Over 600 Million Streams
Why Roseanne Barr Says She Has No Plans to Follow Doctor's Serious Warning About Her 'Damaged' Heart
Roseanne Barr has received a serious health warning from her doctor, and she wants everyone to know she has absolutely no intention of acting on it.
The 73-year-old actress opened up on the Friday, March 27 episode of her podcast, revealing that her doctor recently told her she has a "damaged" heart and urged her to seek further medical care.
The news left her less than impressed. "He's always sending me to other doctors to check me out, and I'm like, why do I have to go find something wrong when nothing's wrong?" she said. "And then get in shape so I can have surgery and die on the surgery [table]. I mean, it doesn't make any sense."
Barr was candid about her reasoning, and pretty unfiltered about where she'd rather end up. "I would rather not get ready for any sort of surgery ever again in my life and just get a heart attack or a stroke and just be put into a home," she explained. "That is the life. Living in the hospice…That's all I want. You're dying and they give you morphine."
The blunt comments track with a broader pattern—Barr previously revealed to Fox News Digital in 2025 that she had suffered an injury while mowing her lawn, suggesting her relationship with her own health has always been somewhat laissez-faire.
The podcast return comes after Barr drummed up attention on social media with a clip that had fans doing a double take. She posted a video of herself dancing on top of a coffee table in polka-dot socks to "Fight the Power, Part 1" by The Isley Brothers, sporting her short natural hair. Little kids, likely her grandchildren, could be heard playing in the background. She used the moment to tease the podcast's return, captioning it: "How it feels to be right all the time. #roseannebarrpodcast coming back this Friday!"
Jessica Simpson Looks Incredible in Surprise ‘Masked Singer’ Appearance
Jessica Simpson made a rare TV appearance during the season 14 finale of The Masked Singer—and immediately had viewers doing a double take.
The singer and fashion mogul appeared onstage alongside host Nick Cannon as part of the night’s festivities, drawing attention not just for the surprise cameo but for how great she looked.
“I could not be more proud. I will say, this is the moment. How amazing, right?! I'm just so proud!” Simpson said during the episode.
Related: Pangolin Unmasked on ‘The Masked Singer’ Ahead of Season 14 Finale
Dressed in a fitted top and black pants, Simpson looked confident and radiant under the stage lights, marking one of her most high-profile television appearances in recent months.
Her appearance comes as she gears up for a busy year. Earlier this month, Simpson announced new tour dates for 2026, writing on Instagram that she’s “very ready for my concert era” and “fired up to rock n roll.”
View this post on InstagramThe pop star has remained active across multiple ventures in recent years, including her billion-dollar fashion brand, The Jessica Simpson Collection, as well as new music releases in 2025 with her two-part EP Nashville Canyon.
Related: Meet the Cast Competing on ‘The Masked Singer’ Season 14
Simpson first rose to fame in the late 1990s with her debut album "Sweet Kisses," which included the hit single "I Wanna Love You Forever." She went on to become one of the biggest pop stars of the early 2000s, later expanding into acting, reality television and fashion.
Over the years, Simpson has also been open about her personal journey, including her health and wellness evolution, something fans have followed closely as she’s made occasional public appearances.
Her latest moment on The Masked Singer offered a fresh glimpse at where she is today—and judging by the reaction in the room, it made quite an impression.
Simpson’s appearance also played a role in one of the night’s biggest moments, as she helped introduce a key clue tied to one of the remaining contestants.
At one point, she referenced a book titled “All About Me,” calling it “just a little piece of her story, but an important one.”
She also joked about another costumed character onstage, quipping, “[Eggplant is] much bigger in real life.”
Whether she’s on stage, on tour or building her brand, Simpson continues to prove she knows how to command attention—and her latest TV appearance was no exception.
Walmart's Space-Saving $64 Cabinet Is a 'Roomy' Storage Upgrade for Bathrooms and Kitchens
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Once clutter accumulates in the bathroom, it can feel like a huge challenge gaining control over the situation. Before you know it, there's stuff everywhere you turn and no real home for any of it. If you're ready to finally make some sense of the chaos, a stylish storage cabinet that doesn't occupy too much room can be a lifesaver.
That's the case with the Ktaxon Floor Cabinet, which houses four drawers and two shelves to give you plenty of room for all of those assorted items. It's an excellent price at Walmart right now, reduced from its usual $103 to just $64 in the white color. It's on sale in several other shades too, including black, navy, green, gray, and natural wood. This is a limited-time flash deal, so you'll want to snap it up quickly to get in on the sale.
Ktaxon Floor Cabinet, From $64 (was $103) at Walmart Shop at WalmartEverything comes together beautifully in this cleanly designed cabinet. It stands 31.9 inches tall by 11.8 inches wide by 21.7 inches long, making it a great size for smaller spots that beg for a little organization. Whether that's the snug corner in your bathroom or the compact space in the bedroom, this fits in nicely while blending in with your existing decor.
The design is straightforward enough to complement a variety of interiors. If your tastes lean more classic, it adds some homey, farmhouse charm to your surroundings. Because it has such a streamlined silhouette, it's equally well suited to a more contemporary space. The drawers have simple arched cutouts for easy opening and closing, while the cabinet door is designed with a simple round metal pull.
Related: Walmart's 'Extraordinary' $20 4-Piece Storage Basket Set Is 'So Perfect' for Organizing
The simple style and thoughtful layout make it a natural addition to your bathroom, but you could just as easily use it to organize kitchen pantry items or bring some order to your laundry room. It can even serve as an entryway table, giving you a catchall location to keep keys, umbrellas, and other miscellaneous items. While the drawers are ideal for laying items flat, the cabinet has an adjustable shelf to accommodate taller bottles.
It's extremely easy to maintain, which is vital in bathrooms, laundry rooms, basements, or anywhere where it can be exposed to moisture. Made from engineered wood, it's waterproof and safe to wipe down from top to bottom. The drawers glide open on smooth rails, so you never have to worry about them getting jammed.
"So cute and functional," one shopper raved. "It's perfect for a small space in my kitchen. Very sturdy!" Another reviewer commented that it's "so roomy," adding that "the drawers are really big and hold lots of items. Really attractive cabinet."
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Bridging the gap between style and function, the Ktaxon Floor Cabinet is a space-saving solution for close quarters that need some attention. At this price and in several lovely colors, it's the ideal addition to any home! Don't miss it during Walmart's flash event.
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Trader Joe's Pranked Their Fans on April Fools — and It Did Not Go as Planned
Trader Joe's tried to pull a fast one on April Fools Day. But it completely backfired in the best possible way.
The beloved grocery chain took to Instagram on Wednesday, April 1 with what appeared to be an exciting new product launch: a lip mask flavored like their iconic Chile Lime Rolled Corn Tortilla Chips. The tangy, slightly spicy fan-favorite snack is already something of a cult item, so the idea of wearing it on your lips sent followers into a frenzy. The only problem? It was a joke.
Fans, however, are not ready to let it go—and the comments section quickly filled with customers begging Trader Joe's to make the product a reality.
“The way i would go crazy for this tho,” one user noted while another agreed, “Um is it sad that I would actually use this.”
A third noted, “You know what april fools joke aside i would actually be down for this in real life. Might make a good lip plumper 😂.”
“Okay lip plumperrr,” a fourth shared.
View this post on InstagramTrader Joe's is known for dropping some interesting products, so it’s no surprise some fans we’re down for the beauty item. The chain has built a fiercely loyal following that treats every new drop like a major event, which means even a joke announcement carries serious weight.
READ MORE: Trader Joe’s Beauty Dupes Shoppers Swear Are Better Than the Luxe Originals
But there's another Trader Joe's product generating just as much buzz right now, and this one is very real. The Lemon Mini Sheet Cake, a springtime staple that typically hits shelves around mid-March, has yet to appear in stores this year, and the chain's fan base is getting restless.
The mini sheet cake line has developed a passionate following, with flavors ranging from Dark Chocolate Ganache and Strawberry to seasonal hits like Pumpkin Spice and the newer Cookies 'n' Cream and Toasted Coconut varieties. But for many, the Lemon version reigns supreme.
A Redditor who claims to work for Trader Joe's and has access to an internal lookup system offered some relief though, posting that the cake is expected to arrive in April.
Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce’s Upcoming Wedding Plans: What We Know So Far
Ever since singer Taylor Swift and footballer Travis Kelce announced their engagement back in August 2025, fans and media have been clamoring to get the specifics on the wedding plans. Finally now, some wedding details are beginning to emerge, which is exciting, even if we have to take every nugget and rumor with a grain of salt because = major celebrity wedding!
The happily engaged couple recently made their first official awards show appearance together at the 2026 iHeartRadio Music Awards. According to People, the couple is approaching their wedding planning "as a partnership, talking things through together and enjoying the process in a way that feels natural to them."
So here's what we've gathered about Swift and Kelce's upcoming wedding so far.
Related: Taylor Swift Is Being Sued—And the Reason May Surprise You
Taylor and Travis’s wedding plans: What we know so farAccording to new wedding planning reports in US Weekly:
- Date: It's a Summer 2026 wedding, set for Saturday, June 13, 2026.
- Location: Rhode Island (more on this below).
- Venue: The wedding and surrounding festivities will likely be split between two venues: 1) Swift's $18 million mansion, often referred to as "High Watch" or "Holiday House," which overlooks the Block Island Sound in the Watch Hill area of Westerly, Rhode Island, and 2) A five-star seaside resort perched high on the bluffs, called Ocean House, not too far from Swift's Holiday House.
- Dress: Sources say Swift's wedding gown has been chosen, and it's already getting its alterations. The singer has been known to love Oscar de la Renta, Roberto Cavalli, and Versace, but mum's the word on which designer she picked.
- Bridal party: Sounds like having formal bridesmaids is out, but being surrounded by close girlfriends, like Selena Gomez and Gigi Hadid, is in. Reportedly, Swift has already asked her friends to sleep over at Holiday House on the wedding eve.
- Invitations: No paper invitations by mail so far; likely gotta keep it hush hush. It's a good idea to put nothing in writing!
- Guest list: Sources say the guest list will include about 150 people, "They’ve scaled it down. It’s no longer going to be a massive blowout.” Guest names being floated include several of the couple's celebrity friends include Gomez and Hadid, of course, as well as brotherJason Kelce, actors Zoë Kravitz, Miles Teller, and Emma Stone, Kansas City Chief's friend and teammate Patrick Mahomes, and the Haim sisters.
- Theme: All that's being reported so far is that the couple will include several traditional elements at their wedding, like having Swift’s dad, Scott Swift, walk her down the aisle and celebrating afterward with father-daughter and mother-son dances.
The US Weekly sources do mention that a bachelorette getaway is in the works, but what about the bachelor party? According to Page Six, Kelce's bachelor party is a go, too, and here are the reported details:
- The bachelor party will be held at the end of of May.
- It will be a "chill trip with his buddies," likely including his brother Jason and Mahomes.
- Kelce and the guys will rent a large-scale villa in the Bahamas.
- There will be golfing.
And what about the honeymoon?
- Recent reports say the couple plans take a three-week honeymoon in the Caribbean (the Bahamas), also hitting Europe (specifically Lake Como, the Italian coast, the French Riviera, Croatia, and Greece) and Asia (Singapore). That's a lot of stops and Taylor and Travis are a busy couple, but hopefully they really can take this kind of time away together to celebrate.
Sounds like several incredible events are coming around the much-anticipated nuptials, but, of course, they're always subject to change.
Yes, That Was Palpatine's Voice In The Brand-New 'Star Wars' Teaser Trailer
A brand-new teaser for the upcoming Star WarsTV Show Maul: Shadow Lordkicks off with the voice of Emperor Palpatine himself, but that may not mean what you think.
Shadow Lord will be set just after the events of Star Wars: Episode III - Revenge of the Sith, in what is known as the Dark Times in the Star Wars timeline. The story, although it's largely been kept under wraps, is confirmed to center on the titular villain Maul, who was once Darth Maul, Palpatine/Darth Sidious' Sith apprentice.
However, after Maul's apparent death in Star Wars: Episode I - The Phantom Menace, Palpatine brought on a new apprentice, Count Dooku, who took Maul's place. He, too, was eventually replaced when Anakin Skywalker decapitated him in Revenge of the Sith and ultimately became Palpatine's new Sith apprentice, the infamous Darth Vader.
It is that specific succession that the new Shadow Lord teaser seems to reference. The video, posted to Star Wars' official Instagram account, begins with Palpatine's voice (presumably speaking to Maul) saying, "You have been replaced" and then doing his signature evil laugh.
View this post on InstagramSome have begun to speculate that this means yet another Palpatine appearance in Star Wars—a touchy subject after his extremely controversial sudden appearance in Star Wars: The Rise of Skywalker. However, the specific line Palpatine delivers in the teaser is telling. While it's possible that Palpatine will be a character in the show, it seems more likely that this concept that Palpatine replaced him will frame Maul's Shadow Lord story.
Star Wars: The Clone Wars already laid the groundwork for that, with Maul telling Ahsoka Tano how he had been cast aside by Palpatine during the Siege of Mandalore battle. Given that Shadow Lord is going to show how Maul survived during the Dark Times, it would make sense for the show to depict his anger and bitterness over being replaced and explore how that shaped his story in the long term.
The teaser also offers an interesting twist on Star Wars' previous mantra, "I am one with the Force, and the Force is with me." Maul's version is apparently, "I master the Force, and the Force serves me," which is a complete reversal of how the Force is meant to be used. This, too, sets up a fascinating focus for Shadow Lord, which may offer audiences a much closer look at how differently dark side Force-users view (and use) the Force.
Maul: Shadow Lord debuts with a two-episode premiere on Disney+ on April 6.
1971 Career-Defining Classic Ranked Among 'Best Breakup Songs Of All Time'
Breakups are hard, and listening to some well-known tracks about a broken heart and losing someone somehow makes it better. In 1971, Bill Withersreleased his debut album with a hit track that became known as one of the best breakup anthems to ever be released.
UDiscoverMusic created a list of some of the most iconic breakup songs, dating from the 60s to 70s classics to modern-day hits. While many sing about unrequited love, harsh relationships that aren't working, and the woes of what it means to love, one song is universally known.
Withers' "Ain't No Sunshine" became a favorite for good reason and became a career-defining breakthrough hit for the singer. The track has become a relationship staple and has been covered by multiple artists since its release, not to mention it has an all-star lineup of collaborators.
The track was released as part of Withers' debut album titled Just As I Am. It included Donald "Duck" Dunn on bass guitar, Al Jackson Jr. on drums, and Stephen Stills on guitar. All who have been inducted into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame for their work in the industry. It was originally released as a single and as the B-Side to another song called "Harlem."
As the story goes, Withers was inspired to write the song after watching the 1962 movie Days of Wine and Roses starring Lee Remick and Jack Lemmon. He saw their relationship as being toxic, but something many people sometimes can't stop themselves from going back to.
"They were both alcoholics who were alternately weak and strong. It's like going back for seconds on rat poison. Sometimes you miss things that weren't particularly good for you. It's just something that crossed my mind from watching that movie, and probably something else that happened in my life that I'm not aware of," he said, according to Smooth Radio.
Related: Iconic Rock Band’s Era-Defining Hit Ranked No.1 ‘Best Album of the ’70s’
At the time he wrote the track, Withers was a factory worker and took the advice of keeping the repeating phrase "I know" 26 times. It ultimately became a staple of the hit track and led "Ain't No Sunshine" to hit the Billboard Hot 100 charts at No. 3 and R&B charts at No. 6.
It was tagged by Billboard as being one of the biggest hit singles to have been released in 1971, and earned Withers a gold record. The record company reportedly gave Withers a gold toilet seat to mark the start of his career, seeing as he worked making lavatories for airplanes.
"Ain't No Sunshine" also became certified platinum in multiple countries and was listed by Rolling Stone as one of the "greatest Songs of All Time." It even led the Library of Congress to add the track to their National Recording Registry in 2024. The song's fame also led Michael Jackson to record his own version in 1971 for his debut album Got to Be There.
Hallmark Shuts Down Its TV Everywhere App—Now What?
If you tried to open the Hallmark app on your Roku, Fire TV or Google TV this morning and hit an error screen, you're not alone—and no, it's not an April Fool's joke.
Hallmark Media officially shut down its TV Everywhere app on March 31, 2026. That means the free app that let cable and satellite subscribers log in with their provider credentials to watch Hallmark content on streaming devices is now gone.
The news has understandably rattled some fans, so let's break down exactly what happened and what your options are going forward.
What was the Hallmark TV Everywhere app?A TV Everywhere app lets you use your existing cable or satellite login to watch a network's content on devices beyond your television—like on your phone, tablet, Roku, Amazon Fire Stick or other similar streaming devices. The Hallmark version featured on-demand access to programming from Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Mystery and Hallmark Family.
It was free to download and didn't require a separate subscription beyond your existing cable or satellite package, which is why Hallmark fans loved it!
Why did Hallmark shut it down?Hallmark stated that rising costs to operate across dozens of device ecosystems—and declining engagement with the app compared to larger streaming platforms—were to blame for the decision.
But here's the thing: Hallmark isn't alone in this. Disney (ABC, Freeform, FX, NatGeo), Paramount (Comedy Central, CMT, MTV, TV Land), Warner Bros. Discovery and NBC have all made similar moves in recent years. It makes sense when you think about it—networks are consolidating their digital efforts and pushing viewers toward their own dedicated platforms. For example, they'd rather people use Hallmark+ to stream content rather than go through a free app using their cable login because Hallmark+ is a paid subscription that—unlike TV Everywhere—generates revenue and gives Hallmark full control over the viewer relationship.
Is Hallmark Channel shutting down?No. Hallmark's linear cable channels—Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Mystery and Hallmark Family—remain fully operational for subscribers with traditional cable or satellite packages. This change only affects TV Everywhere.
Related: Meet the New Harry Potter: HBO Drops First Look, Teaser Trailer and Premiere Date
How Can I Still Watch Hallmark?Not to worry—you have plenty of options! Your cable or satellite provider still carries Hallmark's channels through your set-top box, just as it always has.
Hallmark's separate Hallmark+ streaming service also continues to operate outside of the cable TV realm. For $7.99 a month (or $79.99 a year), it offers ad-free, on-demand access to hit original movies and fan-favorite shows like When Calls the Heart.
Why have so many studios/networks stopped using TV Everywhere?Shifting trends—as well as the push toward their own platforms—are likely the reasons many studios and networks have chosen to discontinue use of TV Everywhere apps.
How can I watch Hallmark Channel?Hallmark Channel will still be broadcast through your cable/satellite provider. For cord-cutters who want live Hallmark channels, several streaming services carry them. Frndly TV is the most affordable option. I do want to note that while both Hallmark+ and Frndly TV are similarly priced—starting at $7.99 and $8.99, respectively—they offer different things: Hallmark+ is for exclusive original series and perks, while Frndly TV is for watching the live broadcast as it airs.
Other services that carry Hallmark Channel include Sling TV (with the Lifestyle Extra add-on), Hulu + Live TV, Fubo, YouTube TV and DIRECTV Stream.
Will refunds be issued?No refunds are necessary. The TV Everywhere app was always free—it simply required a valid cable or satellite subscription to log in.
Are viewers upset?Reactions have been mixed. Some longtime users are frustrated by the loss of its convenient access on their streaming devices. But with so many alternative ways to watch, most fans seem to be taking the change in stride and finding a new path to get their Hallmark fix!
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Amazon Has 'Chic' Mary Jane Pumps on Sale for Under $50 That You Can Wear Comfortably for 'Hours'
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There's one shoe trend that we're so happy has come back into the picture, and that's Mary Janes— we love flats, pumps, and everything in between. The style is undeniably classic, making it a timeless wardrobe piece that will last you years, and a worthy investment. Luckily, you won't have to invest too much dough, because Amazon is selling the LifeStride True Mary Jane Pumps for up to 40% off at a 90-day low price.
The shoes initially cost customers $80, but have been reduced to as low as $48 in the black, navy, and black patent colorway. You can shop the footwear in 10 total hues, ranging from cream to dark cherry. The sizes are between 5 and 12, including half and wide sizes. Several customers went up half a size but others said that the shoes are true to size, so make sure to consult the available size chart in the product description before buying.
LifeStride True Mary Jane Pumps, From $48 (was $80) at Amazon Shop at AmazonThe pumps are made of a 100% synthetic fabric and polyurethane sole that has traction for uneven terrains. The style features a 2.38-inch block heel that offers height and ankle stability and two small straps on the top of the foot that have adjustable buckles for ultimate comfort. The almond-toe style is pretty traditional and stylish, so they go with "an array of outfits."
LifeStride True Mary Jane Pumps, From $48 (was $80) at Amazon Shop at AmazonThe beauty of these shoes is that you can wear them in professional, formal, or casual settings. Plus, if you pair them with frilly socks, they're even cuter. One shopper said that these are "the most comfortable heels" they've ever worn, adding that they wore them "for hours," including up and down stairs and a steep driveway, without any toe or foot pain. Another agreed that they're so "easy to walk in."
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They "stayed on the entire night and the heel remained intact," a third customer said. They may scuff slightly, so try your best not to bump into things or rub them against each other. Several reviewers additionally described the pumps as "sharp," "very cute," and "perfect" for any occasion. Plus, according to shoppers, no break-in period is needed— you can wear them right out of the box.
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These gorgeous Mary Jane heels are about to become your go-to shoe all year-round. Add them to your shoe collection while they're up to 40% off at Amazon!
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3, 2, 1, Blast Off! How Long Does It Actually Take To Get to the Moon?
It's hard to believe that the last manned Moon landing was way back in 1972. However, new interest in Moon travel is on the rise due to NASA's Artemis 2 mission, which is set for Apr. 1, 2026. But how long does it take to get to the Moon, exactly? We'll answer all of your questions here!
Although the astronauts will not be landing on the surface in 2026, their ten-day journey is paving the way for a future landing with Artemis 3. One of the reasons it is taking so long to have another Moon landing is the cost. (Don't worry, we'll cover how much it costs to go to the Moon as well.)
There are a lot of interesting facts on the subject, and we're taking an in-depth look at some of the most common questions about Moon travel (plus, the excitement around the two upcoming Artemis missions!).
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On average, it takes approximately three days to get to the Moon. The shortest amount of time taken (on a manned spacecraft) was with the Apollo 8 mission, which took 69 hours and 8 minutes.
Of course, it also depends on the spacecraft used to get to the Moon. The fastest unmanned spacecraft was New Horizons, which took only 8 hours and 35 minutes.
Most recently, on November 16, 2022, Artemis 1 was launched using the Orion spacecraft. It took a total of 5 days, one hour and 10 minutes to travel to the Moon's orbit. This was just over 121 hours. Although this was slower than earlier missions, the goal wasn't speed. The mission was to test the flight systems and new technology to prepare for a manned mission in 2026.
The very first Moon landing happened in 1969 with the Apollo 11 mission. This was a great moment in history when astronauts Neil Armstrong and Buzz Aldrin took those first steps on the Moon (the third astronaut on this mission, Michael Collins, remained in lunar orbit). They launched from the Kennedy Space Center on July 16, 1969, and arrived on the Moon on July 20, 1969.
The total time taken for that first journey was 75 hours and 49 minutes—just a little over three days.
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Science Photo Library/Canva
According to NASA, the distance from Earth to the Moon is about 238,855 miles. This distance changes a little with the Earth's orbit. The closest distance is 221,500 miles, and the furthest distance is 252,700 miles. The Moon is also getting about an inch further away each year. However, that's not a lot of movement when you consider that there are 63,360 inches in one mile.
How Much Does It Cost To Go to the Moon?A trip to the Moon is not a cheap excursion. According to CBS, the Artemis program is estimated to cost nearly $93 billion by the end of 2025. Each of the first four flights will cost $4.1 billion. On top of the flight costs are the SLS rocket development program, as well as the cost of the Orion spacecraft.
Related: 100 Best Moon Quotes for Starry Nights and Big Dreams
Believe it or not, even though no man has walked on the Moon in over half a century, some of the planted flags are likely still there. Photos taken by the Lunar Reconnaissance Orbiter in 2012 confirmed that the American flags were still on the Moon at that time. There were a total of six flags put there during the Apollo missions, and the only one not there is the original flag.
Buzz Aldrin saw the flag get knocked down as they were heading back to Earth after the last mission. The spacecraft's exhaust blew it over during liftoff. Even though five of the flags could be still standing, it's believed they are extremely faded.
So far, there have been six missions to the Moon. During those Apollo missions, 24 astronauts visited the Moon, and 12 of them walked on its surface.
Who Was the First Person To Walk on the Moon?Neil Armstrong was the first person to walk on the Moon. He took those first steps in 1969.
Who Are the Astronauts Going Around the Moon in 2026?NASA announced in early April 2023 the names of the four astronauts who will be traveling around the Moon on Artemis 2. Three of them are NASA astronauts and include Reid Wiseman, Victor Glover and Christina Hammock Koch. The other is a CSA astronaut named Jeremy Hansen.
Why Was Artemis 2 Delayed?Although the original mission was scheduled for November 2024, unexpected erosion of the Orion's heat shield prompted NASA to delay Artemis 2. Other issues, including a problem with the rocket itself, prompted further delays. As a result, Artemis 3 has also been delayed and is now scheduled for mid-2027.
Get to know the #Artemis II astronauts headed to the Moon! Learn more about @Astro_Christina, @Astro_Jeremy, @AstroVicGlover, and @Astro_Reid: https://t.co/Ad3TYs6O5N pic.twitter.com/Rz4lXDfDSG
— NASA (@NASA) April 4, 2023 What Year Is the Next Moon Landing Planned?Artemis 3 will be the next time astronauts set foot on the Moon. This mission is expected to happen in 2027, with the crew landing near the lunar south pole.
Related: What a Wonderful World! 75 Absolutely Fascinating Facts About Planet Earth
Legendary '70s Rocker Announces More Tour Dates With Stacked Lineup This Summer
Gene Simmons fans are getting a bit more of the iconic ‘70s rocker this summer.
The KISS frontman has added three dates to his solo tour this summer: July 17 in Fresno, California, July 18 in Murphys, California, and July 19 in Stateline, Nevada.
And he’s not going at it alone—Lita Ford, Sebastian Bach, and Quiet Riotwill be joining the 76-year-old on stage. All three will support Simmons for the first two dates, with just Ford and Bach joining for the Nevada show.
The added dates will accompany Simmons’ band’s already busy summer. A month before the July gigs, he’s set to perform two other shows in California at Fantasy Springs Resort Casino in Fresno and the Alamo Country Fair in Pleasanton. For fans who want a getaway to some warmer weather, he also has an exciting residency in Cancun this October at The Sands. Fans can get their hands on tickets now.
The added dates come off the heels of some controversial comments made by Simmons in early March. The Rock and Roll Hall of Famer sparked a heated debate among fans, calling out celebrities who are open about their political preferences and comments. According to Simmons, he thinks celebrities should “shut their pie holes” when it comes to any political commentary.
READ MORE: Gene Simmons Calls Ace Frehley’s Funeral ‘Too Much’ Weeks After Controversial Comments
The footage shows Simmons' blunt reaction to TMZ reporters' questions regardingBen Stiller’s criticism of Donald Trump, in which the actor called on the White House to remove a clip of one of his films promoting military presence in Iran on their social media.
Gene Simmons says celebrities like Ben Stiller should “shut the f**k up” about politics.
“Basically shut the f**k up. Do your art and shut up! Nobody’s interested in your opinions….who the f**k do you think you are?”
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“Yeah, because everyone in the world should listen to what actors and comedians say because they’re so qualified,” Simmons quipped. “Basically, shut the f**k up,” he followed up, encouraging other celebrities to “Do [their] art and shut up. Nobody’s interested in your opinions...who the f*ck do you think you are?”
Simmons remained self-aware too, in the process: “That includes me, who I vote for, who I like. People in America work hard for their living and they don’t wanna be lectured to by people who live in mansions and drive Rolls Royces.”
Randy Jackson’s Dramatic Weight Loss Over the Years—What He’s Said About His Health
Randy Jackson has undergone one of the most dramatic health transformations in television history—and it’s something fans continue to notice every time he appears on screen.
The former American Idol judge, who became a household name during the show’s early years, has been open about his weight loss journey and the lifestyle changes that helped him maintain it for nearly two decades.
So what has Jackson said about his weight loss and health over the years?
Related: Carrie Underwood Has ‘PTSD’ From ‘American Idol’: ‘Flash of Fear In My Heart’
Randy Jackson’s Weight Loss JourneyJackson first made headlines in the early 2000s after undergoing gastric bypass surgery following a diagnosis of type 2 diabetes.
At the time, he revealed the decision was driven by serious health concerns rather than appearance.
“I was having serious issues with becoming a diabetic,” he said in a 2004 interview on CBS News' The Early Show. “I really need to do something to nip this in the bud right now.”
The procedure helped him lose more than 100 pounds, dropping from over 300 pounds to the low 200s and dramatically changing his appearance during his run on American Idol.
Related: ‘American Idol’ Reject Implies Carrie Underwood Said No Because of Taylor Swift
Why He Says It Was a 'Life Choice'Jackson has consistently emphasized that the surgery wasn’t a quick fix—but the beginning of a complete lifestyle overhaul.
“It’s a life choice because you change and alter your complete life when you do this,” he said.
He has also cautioned others about the risks involved, noting that the procedure is serious and not something he broadly recommends without careful consideration.
Related: Carrie Underwood Doesn’t ‘Want to Be Put in That Position Again’ on ‘American Idol’
How He Maintained the Weight LossIn the years since his surgery, Jackson has focused on maintaining his weight loss through long-term habits rather than short-term dieting.
“I hate the word diet,” he said in a 2022 interview with People. “I don’t use that anymore.”
Instead, he has emphasized balance, portion control and consistency—often eating smaller meals throughout the day and prioritizing overall health.
He’s also spoken about the importance of addressing the mental side of eating, calling it “behavioral psychology” that helped him avoid regaining the weight.
Related: Kelly Clarkson Turns Heads With Slim Figure in Skintight Catsuit on 'Today'
Because Jackson’s transformation has been so significant—and has continued to evolve over time—fans often comment on how different he looks compared to his early American Idol days. Over the years, he has appeared noticeably slimmer on such things as the new Name That Tune game show on FOX, sparking ongoing curiosity about his health and how he’s maintained his weight loss long-term.
Despite the attention, Jackson has remained focused on feeling better physically and mentally rather than chasing a specific number on the scale.
“I’m proud to know that we did something that helps me… and takes the guesswork out of it,” he said.
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Target’s 'Comfy' Outdoor Convertible Daybed Is Now 63% Off and Perfect for Spring Lounging
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If you’ve been looking for an easy way to upgrade your outdoor space without adding multiple pieces, the Costway Outdoor Convertible Sofa Daybed is now on sale at Target for as low as $140, down from $280, in the white colorway. It’s also available in two other color options: gray for $150 (originally $379) and navy for $141 (originally $380), with the navy version offering the biggest discount at 63% off.
Its design can be switched between a loveseat and a daybed with adjustable armrests that fold up or down. In daybed mode, it extends up to 72 inches long and supports up to 710 pounds. It’s made with a metal frame and fade-resistant handwoven rattan, and it's built for outdoor use. The cushions are removable with zippered covers and are easy to clean and quick to dry.
Costway Outdoor Convertible Sofa Daybed, From $140 (was $280) at Target Shop at TargetThe materials are designed for outdoor durability, with fade-resistant rattan and cushions that can handle sun exposure and quick cleanups. The sturdy frame and high weight capacity also make it very practical for everyday use, keeping it low-maintenance year-round.
Shoppers described it as “sturdy and comfy,” noting that “the cushions are nice and firm.” Others said it “looks fantastic,” calling it “classy looking” and “gorgeous, [made of] great material, and easy to put together.” One reviewer even said it “looks higher end and it's more comfortable than you might imagine,” which says a lot for a daybed under $150.
Related: Amazon Has a 'Sturdy' $25 Raised Garden Bed That’s 'Perfect for Fresh Veggies'
This piece works especially well for smaller patios, balconies, or backyards since it combines seating and lounging in one. You can keep it upright for everyday use or extend it when you want more space to relax. You could also style it with a small outdoor table and a few neutral pillows for a clean, pulled-together look, or place it poolside.
Shop More Deals- Costway Acacia Wood Patio Dining Table, $120 (was $410) at Target
- Costway Glass Patio Bistro Table, $55 (was $190) at Target
- Best Choice Products Set of 2 Patio Wicker Ottomans, $68 (was $158) at Target
The Costway Outdoor Convertible Sofa Daybed is a practical way to upgrade your outdoor setup without investing in multiple pieces. If you’ve been thinking about refreshing your space for warmer weather, now is a great time to grab it while it’s still on sale at Target.
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.
Yahoo Unveiled a Doom Scroll Cure-All for April Fool's — But Can You Actually Buy It?
Happy April Fool's Day to all who celebrate. Have you considered buying yourself a silly gift to make the occasion?
Yahoo continued its trend of unveiling an absurd new product on the holiday for the second year in a row, after releasing the ridiculous — and ultimately sold out — "Touch Grass" Keyboard in 2025.
This year, the longtime web company dropped a glamorous little gadget that would certainly come in hand for all the doom-scrollers out there. We all know the feeling — you pick up your phone for a "quick check," and somehow, 45 minutes have vanished into the void.
"We present to you, The Scrōll Stoppr," reads the caption of Yahoo's Instagram post on Wednesday, April 1. "Available now in the TikTok Shop."
The campaign video (see below), created in partnership with Conscious Minds, shows in up-close detail just how the nifty contraption works.
View this post on InstagramFans seem eager to get their hands on at least one to help cut down on time wasted scrolling through our phones' countless, addicting mobile apps. "NEED THIS," one Instagram user commented on Yahoo's clever post, while another person wrote, "I need one for all fingers rn."
In basic terms, the delightfully absurd finger accessory physically blocks your thumb from touching your phone screen, stopping the scroll before it even starts.
“From Mail to Finance to Sports and more, our products are built to help you accomplish your goals, not go down rabbit holes,” said Kemma Kefalas, head of Creative Lab at Yahoo, in a statement. “The Scrōll Stoppr is a delightfully absurd reminder that sometimes the best way to take back your time is to quite literally stop the scroll!”
The rumors are true, by the way: The Scrōll Stoppr is available for purchase while supplies last on Yahoo TikTok Shop for $4.99, delivered in a box that plays the nostalgic Yahoo signature yodel. And yes, it really works — at least when it comes to stopping scrolling!
Costco Shoppers Over 40 Say This New Fitness Find Transforms Their Daily Walks
There's a new Costco find getting a lot of attention in the fitness aisle, and it's not a treadmill or a protein powder. Shoppers say it's simple, affordable and surprisingly powerful. Some even claim it has completely changed their daily walks.
If you're someone who walks the dog every morning or likes to squeeze in steps after dinner, this might be worth a closer look.
User @costconewdeals shared that Costco is now carrying a 12-pound weighted vest from Nautilus for just $27.99, and shoppers over 40 are especially excited about it. The vest is designed to add resistance to everyday movement, whether you're walking, running or doing bodyweight workouts at home.
@costconewdealsCostco has this 12 lb weighted vest for $27.99 from @nautilusofficial and it’s Perfect for walking, running, or workouts 👀 it helps increase calorie burn, build strength, and support bone health. And if you’ve seen their vibration board — I have it and I love it 🙌 use it every day Definitely one to look out for on your next Costco run. #costcofinds #costco #costcodeals #fitnessfinds #homeworkout
♬ original sound - costconewdeals Why a Weighted Vest Is Trending With the Over-40 CrowdAs we get older, it's normal to lose some muscle mass and bone density. This process can start as early as your thirties and tends to speed up over time. That's one reason many people are looking for easy ways to support their health without adding intense workouts to their schedule.
A weighted vest adds extra load to movements you're already doing. When you wear it while walking, your body has to work a little harder. Shoppers say that small change makes a big difference.
People report feeling stronger in their legs and core after adding a weighted vest to their routine. Others say it helps them stay more aware of their posture because the extra weight encourages better alignment. Some also like that it can increase calorie burn during a regular walk without requiring more time at the gym.
Related: This $22 Ceramic Drink Dispenser at Costco Looks Like a Designer Find
What to Know Before Adding It to Your RoutineThe Nautilus weighted vest at Costco is 12 pounds, which may be a good starting point for many adults. If you have concerns about your knee, shoulder or back, it's smart to check with a medical professional before trying one.
Shoppers say they love using the vest for neighborhood walks, treadmill sessions and quick at-home workouts. Some even pair it with other popular Costco finds like the vibration board for a full routine focused on strength and health.
At under $30, this Costco find feels like a low-risk way to level up your daily steps. If you've been looking for a simple upgrade to your walking routine, this weighted vest might be the fitness boost you didn't know you needed.
‘Love on the Spectrum’ Season 4: Where Is Tanner Now?
Tanner Smith was first introduced on Love on the Spectrum in season 2. He lived with a roommate in Clemson, South Carolina. Tanner, now 27, went on his first date and continued dating the next season.
He wasn't a main character in season 4, which might disappoint fans. Here is what he did while away from the Netflix series.
Who Is Tanner Smith of Love on the Spectrum Dating? Tanner on 'Love on the Spectrum'The social butterfly is the brand ambassador for an app called Wable. It's an app for neurodivergent people to meet, make friends, or date. Tanner and his sister, Madelyn (Midge) Smith appeared at Wable's speed dating events together.
Related: ‘Love on the Spectrum’ Pari and Tina: Where Are They Now?
Tanner continued posting on his YouTube account after last season. He has a series called "Tanner Tries" and he recently tried nursing, pilates, TikTok recipes, and more. The YouTuber also reads books with his series "Tanner's Tales."
He's close to Connor Tomlinson from the show. They had a vlog of them riding around Atlanta last July. This is because Connor, 26, records car rides on his own YouTube channel, Car Rides With Connor.
Love on the Spectrum fans last saw Tanner on a date with Callie last season. They laughed at jokes, and Tanner called her hot. He didn't go on dates in season 4. But he appeared in the finale.
Tanner revealed to other cast members that he's single and just friends with Callie. However, viewers got to see Tanner happy to be with Tyler White and called him his best friend.
"I'm too busy to think about getting married," he told Tyler. He also isn't dating. Perhaps Tanner will return when he has time again to date.
Love on the Spectrum Season 4 is available now on Netflix.
'The Valley' Cast Teases 'Messy' Season 3 as New Tensions Emerge Within the Group (Exclusive)
There’s no shortage of drama on The Valley—even without Jax Taylor at the center of it.
Ahead of Season 3, the cast spoke exclusively with Parade about what fans can expect following Jax's exit in July 2025, when he stepped away to focus on his sobriety and mental health. “There’s petty drama, not dark drama,” Jesse Lally said, hinting at a return to the show’s original vibe, even as tensions from last season continue to carry over.
Jesse’s ex-wife, Michelle Saniei, agreed things feel different this time around, but not necessarily easier as they continue to navigate their coparenting dynamic. "I was going through the beginning, middle of our divorce and some other challenges,” she said of last year. “But [this season is] definitely lighter overall.”
Though, Jesse’s girlfriend, Lacey Nicole, officially joins the show this season after initially opting not to film so early on in their relationship. She and Michelle didn't have the best relationship last time we saw them interact on screen. 'I’m only telling half of my story if she doesn’t join,” Jesse explained. Lacey said she ultimately decided to participate for her own reasons. “Selfishly, my ego—I want to defend myself,” she told Parade.
Surprisingly, most of the cast had nothing but great things to say about Jesse's new love, and welcomed her into the group. Lacey said Jasmine Goode, Kristen Doute and Zack Wickham, in particular, were all “immediately super kind” to her. Michelle maintains that her conversations with Lacey have been inconsistent. “I’ve just had different type of interactions with her, so it’s kind of hard to grasp and understand,” she said.
Meanwhile, Janet Caperna admitted there were “definitely some awkward moments” going into filming following the fallout from her allegations against Danny Booko. Still, she said her goal was simply to coexist. “My goal was… let’s be able to at least be in the same room, have fun together,” she said.
But that may be easier said than done. "It’s not fun to go film with people who you’re not getting along with,” her husband, Jason Caperna, said, adding that everyone is trying to “chip away” at lingering issues over time.
And while the drama may be more “petty” this season, that doesn’t mean it’s low stakes. In fact, some cast members say things escalate to dangerous proportions. Janet even described parts of the season as feeling like “a medical drama,” with “ambulances” and “emergency rooms” involved, while Jason revealed he suffers a “pretty serious injury” at one point.
At the same time, Taylor’s absence has shifted the focus away from one central figure and onto the group as a whole. “I think it was refreshing to not have him in the picture,” Michelle said of the Vanderpump Rules alum. “We could talk about other things and learn even more about each couple and each person.”
Fellow VPR stars Tom Schwartz and Lala Kent also join the show this season, bringing new energy to the group. “I feel like I’ve really come into my own… it feels like a rebirth,” Schwartz told Parade.
The Valley premieres on Bravo tonight, April 1 at 8/7c.
9 Traits of Parents Whose Adult Kids Call Them ‘Just Because,’ Psychologists Reveal
Michael B. Jordan, Ryan Gosling, Leonardo DiCaprio. All these Hollywood men are famous for two things: their acting abilities and bringing their moms as dates to award shows. Now, we can't all be so lucky as to have kids nominated for Oscars, but I know some parents who would give up a golden statue if it meant getting a call from their adult child “just because.” (Though, I'm guessing those actors also call their parents from time to time.)
When an adult child reaches out “just because,” they do so without an agenda—no major news to deliver or favors to ask; the kind of call you might receive from a longtime friend or neighbor. It might sound simple, but an unprompted call is a sign that your child wants to nurture your connection. But adult children don't just get up one day with a burning desire to call their parents—that kind of behavior is entirely dependent on the relationship you've built over their entire lives.
So, what are some traits of parents whose adult kids call them “just because,” and how can you adapt them into your own parenting style? Parade spoke to experts Dr. Meera Khan, PhD, PsyD, a psychologist at LifeStance Health, and Dr. Kathryn Smerling, a family psychologist, to find out.
Why Do Some Grown-up Children Call Their Parents Without Needing Anything, While Others Don’t?There are a few factors that contribute to why some adult kids call their parents without needing anything, while others don't. For one thing, it depends on your communication style. Just because an adult kid doesn't call to talk on the phone doesn't mean they don't want to communicate.
“There are some people that just don't like to talk on the phone,” Dr. Smerling tells Parade, adding that they might instead prefer to text or even send a little emoji, something she calls “a little connection without being intrusive.”
Communication preferences aside, Dr. Kahn says that having an adult child who calls “just because” is all about the “individual dynamics between kids and their parents.” In other words, it's about the bond parents built with their children from birth. Dr. Smerling agrees.
“It's all about the relationship,” she states. “If you have a relationship in which you share things with your parents and you get comfort from speaking to your parents, then you call. If your parents have been an obstacle to you growing up or finding yourself, you stay away.”
Related: 9 Things Parents Need From Their Adult Children—but Won’t Ask For, Psychologist Shares
9 Traits of Parents With Adult Children Who Call Them ‘Just Because,' According to PsychologistsLightFieldStudios/Getty Images
1. They're curiousAn adult kid will only call “just because” if they think their parent is actually interested in them, so curiosity in a child's life is something parents should consider showing early and often.
“You have to see what your children's interests are,” Dr. Smerling says, adding that parents also have to respond positively to what their children are interested in. “Let's say your child is not particularly athletic, and you keep pushing that child to be athletic. There's certainly going to be a resentment that will happen later in life.”
“Show an interest in their lives,” Dr. Khan agrees. “This is a sign the parents have fostered a culture of openness and nonjudgmentalness with their kids, which is less likely to result in conflict.”
2. They practice non-intrusive parentingIt's hard to keep your opinions to yourself in any situation, but in this case, it's actually good to sometimes hold your tongue and practice some non-intrusive parenting.
According to Dr. Smerling, a lot of parents with adult children “feel as though they have ultimate control over their kids,” which can lead to crossing boundaries that make their adult children uncomfortable. Instead, she suggests practicing non-intrusive parenting, which she describes as “active listening without offering your opinions.”
3. They don't judge“Why would you want to call someone if you know they're going to judge you? You don't. You wouldn't,” Dr. Smerling notes, adding that adult kids need to feel secure and accepted before they decide to call just because.
Being non-judgmental helps foster a feeling of safety, which she says is key to making an adult child feel secure and accepted.
“You have to give your child enough of a birth so that they can express themselves freely without feeling as though they're being judged,” she shares.
4. They're respectfulThis might feel a bit redundant, but it's worth repeating that parents whose adult kids call them “just because” aren't just tolerant of their kids; they respect them.
“Mutually respectful dynamics allow for trust building and sharing,“ Dr. Khan says.
Related: Psychologist Says if You Have These 8 Habits, You Are Highly Emotionally Mature
5. They don't project themselves onto their childrenJudgment can happen when parents don't see their kids for who they are, but who they want them to be. But both Dr. Khan and Dr. Smerling agree that projection isn't exactly conducive to a healthy relationship with an adult child.
“Good parenting comes from moving with your kids developmentally and giving them room to individuate,” says Dr. Khan.
“Your child is not yourself,” Dr. Smerling shares. “You birthed the child, or you adopted the child, or you're stepparent to the child, but you are not the child. You are not that person. You have to be able to separate and individuate.”
6. They encourage independence with parallel play“I always feel as though parallel play is a very useful thing," advises Dr. Smerling. “That's when two people are playing in the same sandbox, if you will, but you're doing your own thing.”
Parallel play can help your kids feel like equals in this parent-child relationship, which significantly ups the chances of calling just because.
7. They foster a secure attachment styleDr. Smerling notes that fostering a secure attachment style can help an adult child be independent while still feeling close to their parents.
"It's being attached and knowing that your parents are there for you no matter what,” she explains. “But it's also having enough independence to be able to let your child go.”
This might sound like the opposite of what you want, but the key is making sure that you remain a safe space for your child even as they grow into adulthood. Ideally, a secure attachment style will make adult children want to seek comfort in their parents.
8. They let go of traditional expectations and prioritize reciprocal relationshipsSome parents feel strongly that their children should always be the ones to call; now might be a good idea to start setting that expectation aside.
“That's a very traditional notion of how things should be, that when you're out of the house, you're the one that has to reach out,” Dr. Smerling says, adding that what she thinks is really valuable is creating a “reciprocal relationship,” another factor in whether or not kids call just because. "Letting go of goals and making your own version of what an adult, or two adult-adult, is like," she notes.
Reciprocal relationships make a child feel more independent and free from judgment, which therefore makes them more likely to give you a ring as adults.
“You have to give your child options, but you don't have to give your child weighted options or say, ‘This is what has to happen,’” she expands.
9. They call *their* parents just becauseNo two parent-child relationships are the same, but if you want your kid to know that it's possible for an adult child to call their parent out of the blue for no particular reason, you might want to consider modeling the behavior yourself. Granted, this depends on your own relationship with your parents, but if you are willing and able, calling your parents "just because" can have a huge influence on your child.
“It affects the child deeply,” Dr. Smerling shares when asked how important modeling this behavior can be. “If they see a strong attachment to your own parents, they will have that strong attachment to you as well, very often.”
Related: Psychologists Reveal: You’ve ‘Succeeded’ as a Parent if Your Adult Child Has These 11 Subtle Habits
How To Strengthen Your Relationship With Your Adult KidsBoth psychologists agree that strengthening your relationship with your adult kids is dependent on how you show up for them.
“Show an interest in their lives,” says Dr. Khan. “Allow them to be their full selves, even if that looks different than what you might do or would want them to do. Show up for them fully despite those differences.”
Dr. Smerling adds that a great way to strengthen your relationship with adult children is to include them in planning a get-together.
“It's ‘Would you like to go to the theater? What are some of the things that you like to do? I'd like to do something that you enjoy doing,’” she suggests. “Instead of just superimposing what you want to do on your kids, you ask them and include them in the decision-making, because very often, when people have skin in the game, they're going to have a better time.”
If you can't do activities in person, you can still create that sense of active participation in the relationship with an occasional text message.
“You are making sure that even though the person is not with you physically, that emotionally you're thinking of them and you want them to be okay and to be with people they're happy with,” Dr. Smerling says.
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Sources:- Dr. Kathryn Smerling is a psychologist and licensed clinical social worker who specializes in individual and family therapy. She is also the author of Learning to Play Again: Rediscovering Our Early Selves to Become Better Adults.
- Dr. Meera Khan, PhD, PsyD, is a psychologist with LifeStance Health who specializes in treating anxiety, depression and other trauma disorders.