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Lego teamed up with Herschel to bring some seriously cool bags and accessories to your everyday lineup, and it’s blooming with personality. The collection combines Herschel’s recognizable bag silhouettes with Lego-ish botanical floral prints, giving practical carryalls a playful makeover that feels right at home on everything from everyday errands to weekend getaways. Whether you’re a backpack devotee, a tote bag enthusiast or a big fan of a unique Lego floral print situation, these carryall finds are worth a closer look.

The standout style is the Herschel Classic Backpack, a roomy everyday essential for anyone who needs a little extra space without sacrificing style. The botanical print adds a fresh twist to a familiar backpack silhouette, making it a fun option for carrying your daily must-haves, packing for a trip or adding a pop of personality to your commute.

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Herschel x Lego Collection, Classic Backpack XL, $80 at Hershel

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And the floral fun doesn’t stop at backpacks. The Lego x Herschel collection includes smaller bags and travel accessories, too, so you can coordinate your carryall lineup or choose a single standout piece. Here are four styles to check out.

• Herschel Retreat Tote – Botanical Floral Black: A fresh take on the classic tote, this black floral style brings a botanical touch to your everyday carry. It’s a versatile pick for days when you want to carry your essentials while adding a little extra character to your outfit.
• Herschel Retreat Small Backpack – Botanical Floral Black: Prefer a more compact carryall? This smaller backpack delivers the collection’s floral look in a streamlined silhouette, making it a fun alternative to a full-size bag.

Related: Aldi’s $9 Holiday Sheet Sets Come in 7 Adorable Prints for the Coziest Christmas

• Herschel Retreat Chapter Kit – Botanical Floral Black: If you want a hands-free option that’s perfect for travel, this is your best option. It has the same cute print in a smaller size, and it’s pretty much a must-have for any bag enthusiast.
• Herschel Settlement Pencil Case – Falling Florals: Keep your office supplies neat and tidy with this adorable pencil case. The print features florals in blue, purple, red and white, with just the right amount of personality.

The best part of this collaboration is how easily the floral designs bring a little fun to everyday functionality. You can go all in with matching pieces or let one botanical bag do the talking. Either way, Lego x Herschel makes a strong case for giving your daily carry a fresh new look.

Related: Target’s New 12-Piece Scalloped Stoneware Set Brings Elevated Classic Charm to the Table

On the second night of a multigenerational Disney Wish sailing, my dad, my husband and I settled in for an epic, unforgettable meal.

While our three children played happily in Disney’s Oceaneer Club, we dined at Palo Steakhouse, one of two adult-exclusive specialty restaurants aboard the ship. We started with tender, lightly fried calamari and shrimp with signature dipping sauces, then moved on to seared sea scallops and piquant dover sole. Dessert was a freshly baked hot chocolate soufflé, drizzled tableside with vanilla bean and chocolate sauces.

Disney Cruise Line is known for the many experiences included its cruise fares (Disney cruises feel practically all-inclusive), but a few extras are worth the splurge, and this was one of them. Here are the best paid experiences on a Disney cruise and how to plan for them.

Related: We Took Disney’s Halloween Cruise—and Found the Perfect Spooky Season Getaway for Every Generation

Book an Adults-Only Brunch or Dinner Found on Disney Cruise Line’s Wish-class ships, Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement offers an adult-exclusive, ultra-luxury fine dining experience.

Photo credit: Disney

Every Disney ship has at least one adults-only restaurant, though the venues vary by vessel. Disney’s rotational dining is excellent, but these kid-free spots are the place to slip away for a truly special meal.

Choose from northern Italian fare at Palo (found aboard Disney Magic, Wonder, Dream and Fantasy), Palo Steakhouse (Wish, Treasure and Destiny) or Palo Trattoria (Disney Adventure). For French cuisine, head to Remy (Dream and Fantasy) or Enchanté by Chef Arnaud Lallement (Wish, Treasure and Destiny). The upcoming Disney Believe, which debuts in December 2027, will also feature both Palo Steakhouse and Enchanté.

Brunch is particularly fun to savor on a sea day, when there’s no port to race off to.

Related: We Asked 3 Disney Travel Experts for the Best Multigenerational Family Vacation Upgrade—They All Said the Same Thing

Venture Beyond the Pier on a Port Adventure Disney’s private island destination Castaway Cay features port adventures that include snorkeling with stingrays, kayaking and parasailing.

Photo credit: Matt Stroshane, courtesy of Disney

Disney Cruise Line’s reputation for stellar service extends to its guided excursions. With itineraries spanning the Caribbean, Mexico, Europe, Alaska and Southeast Asia, you can ride a vintage steam train through an Alaskan mountain pass, explore historic sites in Mexico or sail a catamaran along the reefs of St. Thomas, Aruba or St. Lucia.

And Disney’s exclusive island destinations in the Bahamas have excursions of their own. At Castaway Cay, you can snorkel with stingrays or go parasailing over turquoise water, while at Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point on Eleuthera, you can take a guided ATV adventure or a private historical and cultural SUV tour with a local guide.

Related: My Dad Hadn’t Been to Disney World Since the ’80s—So We Planned an ’80s-Style Nostalgic Trip Back

Reserve a Cabana at Castaway Cay or Lookout Cay Disney’s island destinations Castaway Cay and Lookout Cay at Lighthouse Point both offer private cabanas for rent.

Photo credit: Kent Phillips, courtesy of Disney

For a luxurious beach day on Disney’s private island destinations, rent a cabana. Each private, shaded beach hut comes with a dedicated attendant, a stocked mini-fridge, snacks, sunscreen, towels and comfortable lounge chairs. Cabanas also include complimentary sand toys, one-hour bicycle rentals and snorkel gear.

Both island destinations offer cabanas for families and in the adults-only Serenity Bay area, so you can choose how you want to spend your day. Just be sure to reserve early, since cabanas are popular and book up quickly.

Related: Disney Treasure Review: Is It the Perfect Family Cruise Line Ship?

Upgrade Your Stateroom The inside of a Concierge-level stateroom aboard Disney Treasure features a spacious bathroom with artwork inspired by The Lion King.

Photo credit: Kent Phillips, courtesy of Disney

Disney’s staterooms are designed with families in mind, with smart storage and whimsical touches throughout. But if you want to treat yourself, an upgraded stateroom can bring extra space, better views and, at the top tiers, concierge-level service.

A verandah stateroom adds a private balcony for sipping coffee at sunrise or gorgeous sunset views. A suite or Concierge-level stateroom adds benefits like priority boarding, access to exclusive onboard spaces, priority booking for island cabanas and in-room and dining perks.

When traveling as a multigenerational group, my favorite splurge is two connecting verandah staterooms, which together effectively create one big suite for the family.

Related: I’ve Been On 50+ Cruises—These Are The 5 Best Weeklong Sailings To Book Right Now

Melt Away at Senses Spa Heated lounge chairs are seen inside the Rainforest Room at Senses Spa.

Photo credit: Disney

Senses Spa is an adults-only sanctuary found on every Disney ship except the Disney Adventure (where spa options include Infinite Bliss Spa – Elemis at Sea and the concierge-exclusive Opulence Spa – Elemis at Sea).

Beyond its extensive treatment menu, the standout of Senses Spa is the Rainforest Room, a thermal suite with tropical rainforest showers, heated ceramic or stone loungers, steam rooms and saunas. It’s the perfect spot to unwind and recharge between cruise activities.

Related: Your Disney Vacation Photos Just Got Much Easier to Share Thanks to a New Shutterfly Perk

Get a Fresh Look at Sea Untangled Salon is a serene spot for a new ‘do or manicure aboard Disney Cruise Line’s Wish-class ships.

Photo credit: Preston Mack, courtesy of Disney

Stopping into the salon for a new hairstyle or the barbershop for a cut or shave has become one of our family’s favorite traditions at sea.

Every Disney ship offers full-service salon and grooming services, but the Wish-class ships (Wish, Treasure and Destiny, plus the upcoming Believe) have especially memorable spaces. The Tangled-themed Untangled Salon has touches like hand mirrors shaped like frying pans and a chandelier designed to look like the film’s Sundrop Flower, while Hook’s Barbery is a classic barbershop inspired by Captain Hook’s quarters aboard the Jolly Roger.

My kids love visiting both, and we’ve started “saving” their haircut appointments for Disney cruises. Children ages 3 to 12 can also be transformed into princesses, knights and sea captains at Bibbidi Bobbidi Boutique.

Related: Disney Destiny & Star of the Seas Top the 2026 Hot List

Find the Secret Bar Linnea Bailey stands in front of the hidden bar at Hook’s Barbery aboard Disney Destiny.

Photo credit: Linnea Bailey

Of all the places to sip a cocktail on Disney’s Wish-class ships, the most intriguing may be the one you’d least expect: behind the doors of Hook’s Barbery.

Found aboard the Wish, Treasure, Destiny and the upcoming Believe, the barbery offers haircuts, hot shaves and beard trims. Later in the day, it doubles as a speakeasy: discreet decorative paneling opens to reveal a fully stocked bourbon bar, where a dedicated bartender crafts bespoke cocktails.

If you like a whisky-forward drink in a place that feels undiscovered, this is it. On my recent visit, I enjoyed a smoked Old Fashioned made with Woodford Reserve and layered with spiced brown sugar and cherry notes, while my husband savored an aged Japanese whisky from Suntory.

Shake Up Your Cocktail Skills Bartender Jhon prepares drinks during a small group mixology class aboard Disney Wish.

Photo credit: Linnea Bailey

On a cruise this past summer, I signed up on a whim for a mixology class aboard the Disney Wish, and I’m so glad I did.

Led by onboard bartenders, the interactive, adults-only class guides small groups through making and tasting several cocktails from the ship’s drink menus. Classes are held in the ship’s lounges and bars. Mine took place in Nightingale’s, the Cinderella-themed piano bar and one of the best spots onboard for a gin-forward cocktail. Our bartender, Jhon, taught us how to make a gin mojito made with fresh strawberries, jalapeño, agave, St-Germain and Hendrick’s Amazonia Gin, a limited-edition gin with a hint of bright, tropical notes. It was my favorite drink of the class.

I’ve always loved Disney’s signature cocktails, and learning to make them at home was a lot of fun. I’d definitely take another mixology class.

Pedal or Snorkel Your Way Around the Islands Renting bikes is a fun way to get around Disney Cruise Line’s private island destinations like Castaway Cay.

Photo credit: Kent Phillips, courtesy of Disney

I adore Disney’s exclusive island destinations, and two of the best ways to see them are by bicycle and snorkel.

The first couple of times I visited Castaway Cay, I headed straight for a free lounge chair on the beach or into the water. But then I discovered the joy of renting a bike, which is far more fun than I can describe. On a recent Halloween on the High Seas sailing, my family rode the island’s forest loop to the four-story observation tower, where we found 360-degree views of the island, the water and our docked ship. Bikes are also a fast, efficient way to get around the island.

Snorkeling is just as magical. The crystal-clear water is ideal for beginners, and the low-key atmosphere (with plenty of lifeguards watching) makes it an easy, safe place to rent gear and swim out to the submerged Prince Eric statue and other themed treasures marked by buoys.

Order a Disney-Themed Latte Disney Cruise Line’s specialty coffees feature character art in the foam on top of each drink, such as this one of Prince Eric from Disney’s The Little Mermaid.

Photo credit: Linnea Bailey

Disney cruise fares include a wide variety of drinks, including soda, Joffrey’s coffee, hot chocolate, tea, juice and filtered water.

But Disney Cruise Line’s specialty coffees are in a league of their own. They’re barista-made, topped with custom character art printed in foam and served in themed lounges that are part of the fun. Take the “Royal Voyage,” a specialty latte coming to the upcoming Disney Believe. It’s made with white chocolate, toasted coconut, espresso and your choice of milk, and topped with edible foam art of The Little Mermaid’s Prince Eric. It’s one of the reasons coffee lovers line up at the ship’s lounges to upgrade, and the results are worth it.

Splurge on Something Sweet Inside Out: Joyful Sweets is a colorful sweet shop themed to the Disney and Pixar animated film Inside Out.

Photo credit: Disney

One thing that fans love about Disney cruises is the complimentary soft serve, with its delicious rotating daily flavors like coconut and pineapple. But for something truly special, head to one of Disney’s specialty sweet shops.

Found on most ships, these colorful shops serve hand-crafted treats like gelato, sundaes served in souvenir dishes, cookies, cupcakes and candy, and each is themed to a beloved Disney or Pixar film. On the Wish, Inside Out: Joyful Sweets is themed to Riley’s mind control center, while the Destiny’s Edna À La Mode Sweets is themed to Edna Mode’s fashion and super-suit lab from The Incredibles. The upcoming Believe will have a new shop inspired by Inside Out 2, with larger-than-life character sculptures and hand-scooped gelato and ice cream.

These shops are visually stunning, and the perfect spot for a memorable dessert or a special occasion.

Shout “Bingo!” on a Sea Day Bingo is a family-friendly chance to win big on Disney Cruise Line ships.

Photo credit: Linnea Bailey

You won’t find casinos on Disney cruise ships. But you will find Disney Cruise Line’s version of Bingo: a high-energy, game-show-style gathering where people cheer and celebrate together. There’s also a chance to win big, especially in the guaranteed payout in the very last bingo game of the cruise.

It’s family-friendly, though an adult must buy the cards and claim any cash prizes, and sessions are run by entertainment cast members. We bought a family pack, which included two electronic handsets and two paper card packs, and had a blast singing along to the songs played during the session. The cash prize was significant, and while we didn’t win, it was still fun to see another passenger take it home.

Start the Morning With a Fitness Class The fitness center aboard Disney Treasure.

Photo credit: Amy Smith, courtesy of Disney

Every Disney ship has a complimentary fitness center and select instructor-led classes, but you can step up your routine with specialized group classes. If you’ve ever wanted to try spin, yoga, Pilates or a body-sculpt boot camp led by a trained instructor at sea, Disney has some terrific options. Private sessions with a certified personal trainer are also available.

It’s a great way to stay on track on vacation, or just to burn off the desserts from the night before.

Buy the Unlimited Photo Package Linnea Bailey with her children aboard Disney Wish cruise ship.

Photo credit: Disney

The unlimited photo package is the one paid extra I buy on every Disney cruise, no matter what. It’s 100 percent worth it. Like the excellent photo packages at Walt Disney World, it lets you enjoy the trip without worrying about missing a shot.

Professional photographers are stationed throughout the ship, including at character meet-and-greets, in the Grand Hall, at themed backdrops and in dining rooms, as well as on Disney’s island destinations. It’s an easy way to get everyone in the frame, and for one price, you keep every high-quality digital photo.

It’s the perfect souvenir — and thanks to a new partnership with Shutterfly, Disney Cruise Line guests will soon be able to opt-in to automatically connect their Disney cruise photos directly to their Shutterfly account, where they can turn their favorite vacation photos into keepsakes.

Lock in Your Next Sailing Minnie and Mickey Mouse pose in front of a docked Disney Cruise Line ship at Disney’s Castaway Cay.

Photo credit: Disney

The best part of a Disney cruise? Looking forward to the next one. Booking a placeholder onboard lets you save money and lock in future perks without choosing a specific date or itinerary right away. Put down a $250 deposit per stateroom toward your next cruise, and you’ll receive 10 percent off the prevailing rate for most stateroom categories, with up to 24 months from the purchase date to sail. It’s also risk-free: if you don’t use the placeholder within 24 months, Disney automatically cancels it and refunds your deposit. It turns the end of one vacation into the beginning of another, giving you a future Disney Cruise Line sailing to look forward to.

Related: The Best New 2027 Cruises Built for Everyone From Kids to Grandparents

In his posthumous memoir, My Book of Days: A Memoir in Moments, late actor Eric Dane details an early ALS symptom he tried to ignore before his diagnosis.

According to Entertainment Weekly, the Grey’s Anatomy actor was eating with his children when he noticed he was having a hard time with his utensils.

“I’m eating sushi with my kids and suddenly I can’t work the chopsticks with my right hand,” he said in an excerpt of his memoir obtained by People. “And then my fingers feel numb.”

Dane initially tried to “shake it off,” assuming that the numbness he was feeling was because he was “probably texting too much,” but the sensation persisted.

“Three weeks later, it happens again, only worse,” Dane recalled in the book. “I can’t grip the chopsticks at all.”

After months of searching for answers, Dane reached out to San Francisco neurologist Dr. Mark Terrelonge. The late actor recalled Dr. Terrelonge contacted him immediately after their meeting to confirm his ALS, which stands for amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, diagnosis.

“I don’t remember a single word I said after that,” the actor wrote. “I remember only feeling a violent impact, like getting the wind knocked out of me, and Rebecca wailing on the other end of the phone, and then I really lose it, and my sobs make my body shudder, and I hear her words pouring out amid her tears, ‘I’m here, we’ll fight this together, I’m not going anywhere.’”

Dane announced his ALS diagnosis in April 2025. “I am grateful to have my loving family by my side as we navigate this next chapter,” he told People at the time. Dane added that he planned to keep working and was “looking forward to returning to set of Euphoria next week.”

“I kindly ask that you give my family and I privacy during this time,” he said.

My Book of Days: A Memoir in Moments releases on Nov. 3.

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Dolly Parton has always embodied the spirit of country charm, and her popular home line is further proof. From personality-packed dinnerware to playful mugs and office supplies, the label is packed with finds blending practicality with fun, country-inspired designs that can brighten anyone’s day. Available in a range of versatile sizes, the Dolly Parton Preserving Clamp Jar is one major standout from the brand.

The jar starts at just $11 in the 33.8-ounce size, while 67.6-ounce and 101-ounce sizes are available for $18 and $21, respectively. Shoppers can also snag a set of three 8-ounce jars for just a little over $12. These glass jars have won over many customers who love their gentle pink color palette and sturdy glass construction. They also appreciate the elegant stainless steel clamp, which adds vintage-style flair while creating an airtight seal to keep everything from homemade jams to pantry staples fresh. 

Dolly Parton Preserving Clamp Jar, From $11 at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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The delightful design of these jars is a sweet nod to Dolly’s music, bringing a bit of joy and country charm to any kitchen counter. They feature soft pink hues and floral details, with certain sizes incorporating vibrant butterflies as well. They’re standout pieces whether you use them for food storage or just adding a decorative pop of color to your space.

Some of the jars even reference Dolly’s iconic songs, with the large 67.6-ounce size featuring the classic lyric “wildflowers don’t care where they grow.” Meanwhile, the 101-ounce size features the playful line “I beg your Parton.” You can purchase all four sizes for an adorable coordinating storage set, or pick the design that suits your kitchen best.

Dolly Parton Preserving Clamp Jar, From $11 at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

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The uses do not stop in the kitchen, though. The Dolly Parton Clamp Jar is also a clever solution for organizing personal care items in the bathroom, corralling craft supplies in the office, or displaying your favorite trinkets anywhere in the home. Maintenance is relatively simple, too. Just remove the clamp and wash by hand to keep the glass sparkling and the seal working its best.

Reviewers loved how the jar is both sturdy and easy to use, with a wide mouth for hassle-free filling and scooping. “[We] use it to hold coffee on our coffee bar, and it looks amazing,” one shopper said, adding that the jar is “pretty and functional.”

“Super cute and well designed,” another shopper stated. “This lovely giant mason jar is perfect to have on your countertop.”

Related: Dolly Parton’s Charming $29 Christmas Tumbler Is Just the Cup of Ambition You Need to ‘Sleigh’ the Holidays

The Dolly Parton Preserving Clamp Jars make a charming and useful addition to your kitchen, or anywhere you need a little more organization with a lot more personality. Snag one or several while they’re as low as $11! 

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Chad Smith, the legendary drummer for the Red Hot Chili Peppers, is 65 years old today. The rock star was born Oct. 25, 1961, in Saint Paul, Minnesota; 27 years later, he joined the iconic funk-rock band with Anthony Kiedis, Flea and John Frusciante.

Smith has been part of the Red Hot Chili Peppers for every album since 1989’s Mother’s Milk and the blockbuster follow-up Blood Sugar Sex Magik. He was also the drummer for the hard rock supergroup Chickenfoot, which featured Sammy Hagar, Michael Anthony and Joe Satriani.

As part of the Chili Peppers, Smith is the drummer behind a record 15 No. 1 Alternative Airplay hits, according to Billboard, with songs that include 1991’s “Give It Away,” 2006’s “Dani California,” and 2022’s “Black Summer.”

The band still performs live, most recently at a benefit for the Silverlake Conservancy held at the Hollywood Palladium in October 2026.

Scott Dudelson / Getty Images

Smith, who is heavily involved in charitable causes, once told NJ Arts that he planned to continue as a drummer for as long as he can.

“I’ve been playing a long, long time and I do play very physically,” he said in the 2021 interview. “I love it. That’s just the way I feel when I’m back there. I’ve always banged the crap out of the drums, but I especially like to play with power with the Chili Peppers. It’s how I feel the best expressing myself. … When you’re younger, you think you’re bulletproof and you party hard and stay up all night and then go play 25 shows in a row. Obviously that’s changed for us, a lot, and we do get rest and eat well but I also ice my wrists after playing for inflammation and do the other things I need to do to be able to perform at the level I want to. That’s the thing. I want to be able to play as long as I can, the way that I want to. Outside of a couple of little things, I’ve been really fortunate. Nothing nagging.”

The RHCP drummer added that his philosophy is “use it or lose it.”

“I’ve talked to some other players as they get older and they stop playing in between tours or whatever, and they try to crank it back up again. I think that’s difficult, so I play all the time. Not for hours and hours, but I think it’s important to keep the grease in your joints. And I love playing anyway. It doesn’t feel like a job,” he shared.

One of Smith’s most unexpected drumming moments came in 2014 when he faced off against comedian Will Ferrell in a drumming challenge on The Tonight Show Starring Jimmy Fallon. Smith and Ferrell look remarkably similar, and their twinning has been an ongoing joke for years.

On Fallon’s show, they wore matching black leather jackets, Kiss T-shirts, and backwards blue baseball caps as they explained their “imposter” rivalry before taking turns behind the drums. Or in Ferrell’s case, the cowbell.

More recently, Smith hijacked Ferrell’s monologue on Saturday Night Live in May 2026. The two appeared onstage wearing matching blue suits as Smith tried to fake out the audience with his impression of the comedian.

In 2024, Smith looked back on his incredible career with the Red Hot Chili Peppers, telling Mixdown Magazine he never dreamed it would last so long.

“To be still relevant, playing, and making new music with people filling up stadiums all over the world – it’s insane! It is, come on,” he said. “We’re in the f—ing [Rock and Roll] Hall of Fame, it’s unbelievable.”

Related: 1989 Cover of ‘70s No. 1 Hit Became Band’s First Mainstream Radio Smash

In 1975, Alice Cooper had already made his mark as one of music’s most provocative artists, even earning the nickname the Godfather of Shock Rock. But his Welcome to My Nightmare album took things over the edge, attracting the attention of one of the most famous newspaper columnists of the era.

A concept album, Welcome to My Nightmare featured one of Cooper’s most controversial tracks, “Cold Ethyl,” which detailed the album’s central character Stephen’s nightmare about a tryst with a corpse.

Ultimate Classic Rock ranked “Cold Ethyl” among the creepiest rock songs of all time, begging the question, “How could Alice Cooper shock and anger advice columnist Ann Landers with a song in which he sincerely pledges to love his woman even if he lives until he’s 97? Well, it would probably help to know the subject of 1975’s ‘Cold Ethyl’ is deceased, right?”

RELATED: 1966 Monkees Hit Featured a Producer’s Scream You May Have Missed

Landers, the twin sister of Dear Abby columnist Abigail Van Buren, was one of the most popular nationally syndicated advice columnists of the time. Several years after “Cold Ethyl” was released, she wrote a column criticizing the song and calling it unsustainable for kids.

When Cooper responded to her, Landers actually published his letter in her column in 1979.

“I’m really sorry you found that old song of mine crude and offensive,” the rocker wrote. “Actually, ‘Cold Ethyl’ is just a harmless number about necrophilia. The point I want to make is that the kids are not bothered by this — their parents are. The kids see the song and gruesome antics, like with the guillotine, for exactly what it is — satire, done with a sense of humor to a rock ‘n’ roll beat. Kids know I am harmless. It’s their parents that make me out to be some kind of a monster.”

Landers responded with: “For those who don’t know what necrophilia is, it’s sexual intercourse with someone who is dead. You can call it funny if you want to, Alice. I call it sick.”

Landers also slammed Cooper’s gory stage antics and told him, “You have in your group some exceptionally talented performers, and you’re no slouch yourself, Alice. I just wish you’d clean up your act.”

Cooper once recalled his exchange with Landers as one of the most laughable bits of press he ever received.

“Ann Landers—every housewife in America read Ann Landers every day in the paper, and one of the funniest things was that when Nightmare came out, she decided that “Cold Ethyl,” which is about necrophilia in a very comical way, was going to change the entire complexion of our youth,” he told Tampa Bay’s Creative Loafing in a 2022 interview. “I had read the thing, and I was just laughing.”

“I wrote a letter back saying, ’Listen, Ann. If there is an incredible rash of necrophilia because of this song, then I’m guilty. I don’t think there will be. Get a sense of humor,’ you know?” Cooper continued. “Because it was totally written as a comedy song, but it was a very cool rock and roll song, and the same time, it was part of this kid’s nightmare.”

Cooper, now 78, recently said his stage persona is often misunderstood.

“There’s never been anything satanic about Alice Cooper because I come from a Christian home,” he told BBC Breakfast in October 2026, while promoting his memoir Devil on My Shoulder. “I’m Christian now. I would never do anything satanic in my show. But it got interpreted like that because it was theatrical and nobody knew what to do with it.”

He also told BBC 6 Music that off stage he’s just a regular grandpa.

“I have five grandchildren,” Cooper said. “I’ve been married 50 years. Go to church on Sunday. Play golf every day. So I’m nothing like the character I play. … I invented Alice to be my favorite rock star. That’s really what it was.”

Related: Alice Cooper Names the Movie Star Who Inspired His Wild Stage Persona

This week’s episode of Marshals looks to be an explosive one, literally. When Kayce (Luke Grimes) and Andrea (Ash Santos) go off books and unexpectedly discover a notorious bomber who fell through the cracks, the team is called in to capture him. Does anyone else think they’re trying to pair off Kayce and Andrea now that Dolly (Ellyn Jameson) is gone?

Meanwhile, we’ll see how Tate (Brecken Merrill) fares with therapy. Do you think he’ll refuse to go or lash out at the therapist or his dad?

Read on for more about this week’s episode of Marshals.

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What happened in last week’s episode of Marshals? Brecken Merrill as Tate Dutton. Photo: Fred Hayes/CBS ©2026 CBS Broadcasting, Inc. All Rights Reserved.

CBS

In “Falling Sky,” last week’s episode of Marshals, the Marshals are sent to track three Broken Rock residents accused of shooting down a military test drone, and tensions rise between federal authorities and tribal leadership after the drone crash takes the life of a Broken Rock member. Meanwhile, Kayce (Luke Grimes) worries for Tate’s (Brecken Merrill) mental state and finds new methods to connect with his son. Eventually, Kayce makes an appointment with a therapist for Tate in hopes it’ll help Tate cope with everything he’s gone through.

Related: ‘Marshals’ Sends the Team on a High-Stakes Manhunt—Plus Riley Green’s Acting Debut (Exclusive Sneak Peek)

What happens in this week’s episode of Marshals? Ash Santos as Andrea Cruz, Luke Grimes as Kayce Dutton, Logan Marshall-Green as Pete Calvin, Arielle Kebbel as Belle, and Tatanka Means as Miles Kittle.

Paramount+

In “Blast Radius,” this week’s all new episode of Marshals, when Kayce and Andrea’s (Ash Santos) off-hours fugitive hunt unexpectedly reveals the whereabouts of a notorious bomber who previously slipped through Cal’s (Logan Marshall-Green) fingers, the team is pulled into a dangerous pursuit that threatens to open old wounds. Meanwhile, threats against Belle (Arielle Kebbel) move frighteningly close to home, and Miles (Tatanka Means) finds himself hiding crucial information from Maddie (Morgan Lindholm) about Cal’s cancer.

Related: Beth and Rip Return! Your Complete Guide to ‘Dutton Ranch’ Season 1: Cast, Release Date, Trailer and More

When can I watch this week’s episode of Marshals?

“Blast Radius” premieres on Sunday, Oct. 25 at 8 p.m. ET on CBS. If you have a Paramount+ Premium tier subscription, you can stream it live and on-demand. For Essential tier subscribers, it will become available to stream the following day.

Next, Luke Grimes ‘Yellowstone’ Spinoff ‘Marshals’ Releases New Extended Trailer, Images

Both of my children are pandemic babies, with one born in late February 2020, when things were getting rather weird. As a toddler, my eldest was an absolute master of independent play. He made games out of rolling La Croix cans around the kitchen and taking Tupperware out of the cabinet. Sometimes, I felt bad—Montessori parenting was all over my feed back then, and I saw these beautifully curated playrooms with lots of toys. My child was playing with sparkling water and plastic.

I have since learned that Montessori is less about the toys/aesthetic and more about child-led play. I finally released that guilt in 2023, when The New York Times ran a piece titled “Let Kids Be Bored. It’s Good for Them.” Around this time, the zeitgeist also focused on teaching us “how to raise independent kids.” I scrolled past all of that advice—my oldest was nailing it, and his younger brother, ever eager to be just like his sibling, followed suit. They also loved playing in the snow and rain, so I felt like I already knew how to get kids to play outside.

These habits continued throughout preschool. Yet, one thing I noticed this past summer after my oldest graduated from kindergarten: he’d gotten used to structured days with activities—Art! Gym! Circle time! The number of times I heard “I’m bored” on the first day of summer made my hair stand on end.

I started scheduling lots of fun activities to curate my children’s summer. By mid-August, I was dealing with modern parenting burnout. I knew fall would bring school, but I needed weekends to feel less structured. I started to wonder, “Why was childhood better in the ’90s?” Then it occurred to me: my parents didn’t care if I was bored, meaning I had to find ways to entertain myself. So, I decided to bring back one of the ’90s parenting rules I thought my kids needed most. It turns out, my intuition was right. Here’s what happened.

Related: We Asked 3 Child Psychologists What Hobby Is Best for Kids—They All Said the Same Thing

The ‘90s Rule We Brought Back: You Can Deal With Boredom

Courtesy Beth Ann Mayer

Did I love all ’90s parenting rules? Nah. My kids drink more water than apple juice, and I don’t do timeouts and try not to raise my voice. But looking back, I appreciated the more free-range parenting style I grew up with. My parents didn’t see boredom as a problem to fix; I read voraciously and made books for family and friends out of printer paper, crayons and staples. (And look at me now!)

It’s hard to do that in the modern era, with screens everywhere (dial-up internet didn’t enter my home until I was in middle school, and my mom had some of the strictest recommended “screen-time rules for families” ever). Yet life seemed… less stressful, and I missed those moments. I wanted them for my boys.

So I pledged: I’m going to let my kids be bored. I’m going to let them figure it out, as long as they aren’t putting themselves at risk (no diving off couches, youngest child). Boredom isn’t a problem to fix most of the time—it’s an opportunity.

Related: When Did We Stop Letting Our Minds Wander? Neuropsychologists Think It’s More Important Than Ever

Why Modern ‘Intensive Parenting’ Was Burning Us Out

I don’t have time to be a helicopter parent with my work schedule. But when I am around my children, I’m a bit more intense as a parent. Since life went back to normal-ish post-pandemic, I’ve done a ton of curating, and this summer was off the rails.

See, my oldest truly blossomed at school (and so did my youngest, who was more of an end-of-pandemic baby and had a more normal early childhood). After the weirdest first two years of life in modern history (hidden away for safety reasons during a pandemic), he could finally play with other kids. I have adored his teachers.

There’s also so much pressure to curate every aspect of your child’s life. Sometimes, I feel guilty in group texts where parents list how many activities their kids are in. I wonder, “Am I not doing enough?” Other times, I feel like I’m already doing too much, especially when I rush to come up with ideas to keep my kids from getting bored. This summer, I planned grand adventures for my kids from Montauk to Manhattan. We went to the Museum of Natural History, which was admittedly a lot of fun. We also went to the Hamptons, plus library programs, two vacations and camps—anything to keep them from feeling bored!

Unsurprisingly, I’m dealing with burnout from modern parenting. I was getting snippy and short—which I don’t want to do—because I was exhausted, and it was rubbing off on my kids.

I’m not alone. Research suggests parents spend more leisure time with their children than they used to, especially moms.

Related: When Did We Stop Letting Kids Get Bored? Child Psychologists Are Begging To Bring It Back

The Psychological Benefits of ’90s-Style Parenting

Courtesy Beth Ann Mayer

My desire to bring back a ’90s-style parenting rule wasn’t based on the same nostalgia as my love of Peloton’s boy band and Britney Spears rides. There was something to a more unstructured life.

“We want to raise kids who don’t surrender their judgment outward, and look inward for direction,” states Dr. Amy Vigliotti, PhD, a licensed psychologist and the founder of SelfWorks.

Here are some of the psychological benefits of unstructured play, and what I noticed when I implemented this ’90s parenting rule.

1. It gives kids more freedom

As long as safety is the most important thing, Dr. Vigliotti notes that “unstructured play encourages more freedom in the child and lets them learn their own lessons and interests.”

Isn’t it ironic? I’ve been signing my kids up for camps to help them explore their interests, and all this time they could’ve found them by playing with LEGO sets and reading? And after some initial griping, my sons did indeed lose themselves in books.

They began playing with blocks and action figures again, making up their own storylines—it was like before they got used to their teachers and parents filling their time with structured art projects, worksheets and museum trips.

2. It opens the door to creativity

Dr. Vigliotti points out that unstructured play lets kids explore their imaginations.

“Being bored forces your brain to utilize its creativity,” she shares.

I remember all the worlds I created during periods of “boredom” as a child. Besides making books, I filled my time by inventing personalities and backstories for my stuffed animals, playing in box forts and seeing how far I could jump off a swing.

These skills matter as kids grow into adults and enter the workforce—even if they don’t go into a creative field. For instance, scientists, politicians and public health officials have to solve problems creatively, too, right?

My kids spent time drawing with chalk and crayons. They made up games in the backyard without a single toy. When I saw that, I knew we were making progress.

3. It gives kids independence and confidence

I see parenting as a long game, so this psychological benefit of unstructured play hit home.

“Less control over children gives them a sense of independence and confidence in their own thinking and character,” Dr. Vigliotti says.

To me, this benefit is especially necessary in a world with so much on-demand technology that can think for us.

“One of the most important things we can do as parents is guide our kids to reflect inward and develop trust in what their body is telling them,” she explains. “This self-trust grows with them. It starts as recognizing when they are bored or tired or hungry, and later develops into the kind of confidence teens need to prevent danger and move away from peer pressure.”

Related: Dr. Becky Says This Parenting Advice About Confidence in Kids Is Outdated—Here’s Why

How To Implement This Retro Rule Without the Modern Guilt

Courtesy Beth Ann Mayer

It’s not easy to let kids be bored, but if you’re tired of planning every aspect of their lives, here are some tips for implementing unstructured play, sans guilt.

• Get your mindset right. I realized the biggest barrier to letting my kids be themselves was my guilt and my low tolerance for whining. I had to zoom out and remind myself of the long game I’ve tried to prioritize over the years. Have your “why” or some sort of mantra. Stick it on a mirror or in your journal if you need to, but get your mind in the right place (including thinking about how you’ll handle problems) before setting ground rules with kids.
• Be kind and firm. Lead with empathy, but hold your boundary. Dr. Vigliotti suggests “breathing through the whining without the frustration of being dismissive.” I often said, “I know! Boredom is annoying sometimes! I also know you’re a creative and fun kid who can figure this out.”
• Don’t solve the problem. Thanks to the mindset work, I didn’t give my kids toys or start planning activities for them. I kept expressing confidence that they could find something to do. “When we remain curious and don’t correct or solve a feeling away for a kid, we help them notice what their brain and body are telling them and give them the space to learn to respond to it,” Dr. Vigliotti states.

Related: We Asked 4 Child Psychologists What Actually Motivates Kids—They All Said the Same Thing

3 More ’90s Parenting Habits Worth Resurrecting Today

Impressed with my results from this experiment, I was eager to try some other ’90s parenting trends. Dr. Vigliotti gave me some ideas.

• Bringing back family time and connection. Dr. Vigliotti says this time “supports the child with a sense of identity and security in the household.” I’m also trying to make family dinners and breakfasts more consistent in our home this fall.
• Fewer screens. You knew this one was coming, right? “Children in the ’90s were raised with less technology, which gave children access to a healthy amount of screen time,” Dr. Vigliotti shares. I’ve held off on getting my kids iPads, and I’ll stick with that. But every family is different. Think about what screen-time rules work for your family.
• Solve peer problems. We haven’t run into this one yet, but I am hoping that learning how to be bored sets the stage for our kids to try to solve most of their conflicts with peers as we did back in the day. “This was beneficial for the child’s development of social skills and allowed them to come up with their own ways to solve their issues instead of relying on the parent,” Dr. Vigliotti reports.

Up Next:

Related: We Asked 3 Child Psychologists What After-School Routine Is Best for Kids—They All Said the Same Thing

Sources:

• Dr. Amy Vigliotti, PhD, is a licensed psychologist and the founder of SelfWorks.
• Who Experiences Leisure Deficits? Mothers’ Marital Status and Leisure Time (2016). Journal of Marriage and Family.
• Meeting the Challenges of Intensive Parenting Culture: Gender, Risk Management and the Moral Parent (2011). British Sociological Association.
• Family Leisure and Changing Ideologies of Parenthood (2008). Sociology Compass.

If you want to know what travel will actually look like in 2027, look at the calendars of women over 55.

Across the industry, mature women are taking more solo and small-group trips than ever before, snapping up departures so quickly that tour companies are scrambling to add dates. At Women Travel Abroad, an operator where the average guest is 60 years old, 2027 spring departures to classic bucket-list staples like Scotland, Greece, and the Amalfi Coast have already sold out completely.

Yet according to Women Travel Abroad owner and CEO Katherine Butler-Dines, the single most surprising breakout hit for 2027 isn’t an overseas Mediterranean enclave. It’s a four-day weekend just across the Canadian border.

“We decided to launch a trip to Canada because we wanted to give women something a little closer to home for 2027,” Butler-Dines explains. “So we’re going to Quebec City for a three-night, four-day kind of long weekend. And it sold out in less than two weeks and we’ve added additional dates. And I did not expect that to be the case.”

For women who want the cobblestone charm and French culinary flair of Europe without committing to a transatlantic red-eye or a 10-day trip with strangers, the quick getaway struck an immediate chord.

“When I’ve spoken to the women, most of them are first-time new Women Travel Abroad travelers,” Butler-Dines notes. “It’s across one border. It’s a short two-to-three-hour flight for a lot of people. It felt like they could dip their toe into solo travel without having to commit to seven to 10 days with a group of strangers. And so I think that’s been the other bigger shift we’re seeing for 2027 is a lot of interest… where they’re not 100% ready for the long trip. They want to figure out: Is this a good fit? Is small group travel, is solo travel the right thing for me?”

Related: The 7 Best Destinations for Women Over 50 to Visit Right Now, According to Travel Advisors

Ditching the “Wait Until Next Year” Mindset

The surge in bookings points to a fundamental post-pandemic shift in how mature women view their bucket lists. The days of putting off dream trips while waiting for a spouse, sister, or friend to align schedules are officially over.

“Pre-pandemic, we saw a lot of women traveling in pairs or groups of two or three,” Butler-Dines says. “It felt like when you talk to them, they were like, ‘Oh, I’m not ready to travel solo. Let me go find a friend to take this trip with me or my sister or my cousin or whoever.’ And I think that really shifted in the pandemic… The pandemic, obviously it canceled people’s travel plans. I think they saw how fragile the world and also travel could be. And I think there was this huge swing in, ‘I’m going to stop waiting. I’m going to stop saying, oh, this will be next year, oh, if I find the right travel buddy,’ and just take the trip.”

Related: 10 Best Travel Tips for Women Over 50, According to Travel Advisors

Surprising Adventures: From Patagonia Treks to Fiji

When it comes to where women are heading next, the assumptions about what a 60-year-old wants to do on vacation are completely crumbling.

A high-intensity hiking trip through Patagonia featuring daily six-to-seven-mile treks sold out with an average traveler age of 63—including an 83-year-old traveler who completed every hike. Meanwhile, for late 2027, the company is launching its first-ever solo group trip to Fiji, dismantling the myth that the South Pacific is strictly reserved for honeymooners.

“I think a lot of women have this assumption that traveling to Fiji or French Polynesia or anywhere else in the Pacific Islands is like, ‘If I’m not on my honeymoon, I can’t do it,’” Butler-Dines says. “And we had several women who’d taken, they’d done all of our wellness trips. They’d done Europe. And they were like, ‘My bucket list is getting to somewhere in the Pacific Islands.’ And I was like, ‘Okay, we’re going to figure this out for you.’”

Whether it’s a quick four-day weekend in French Canada or an off-the-grid trek across the Southern Hemisphere, the message from travelers over 50 is loud and clear: they are ready to explore the world on their own terms, at their own speed, and without waiting for anyone else to catch up.

Related: We Asked 4 Travel Advisors the #1 Flight Habit Travelers Over 50 Should Drop Immediately

Back in July, ‘80s soap opera icon Donna Mills announced she was joining OnlyFans. Now, she’s opening up about what she’s comfortable and not comfortable posting on the online subscription platform.

According to Entertainment Weekly, the Knots Landing actress revealed she posts moments from her “everyday life” on OnlyFans, which is often associated with adult content, including her workout routine.

“I do the Peloton,” she said on the Oct. 23 episode of Nightlight, per an exclusive clip shared with People on Friday. “Just, you know, they’re the things of everyday life: having a cup of coffee, you know. They say they like it when you brush your teeth … I’m not going to brush my teeth.”

When asked if most of her subscribers on OnlyFans are men, Mills said, “I think so. Yeah. Sometimes you don’t know.”

While her current content on the platform shows her everyday life, the actress shared that she may reveal more in the future, including some of the photos she took for Playboy in 1987 and 1989, neither of which featured her nude, Entertainment Weekly reported.

“I think it’s sexier to be not just totally naked, you know, and have a little imagination about it,” Mills said on Nightline. “One of the pictures in Playboy, which I think is one of the sexiest things, is me in the shower, in a dress.”

As for what she’ll charge for the pictures, Mills said, “Oh, boy, I’m not sure. Maybe—I’m not sure, $100.”

Mills, who’s appeared in TV shows like Nip/Tuck, Doctor Odyssey, General Hospital and Melrose Place, has found success on OnlyFans quickly. Only a month after creating her account, the 85-year-old told People that she’d already earned “many six figures” from her content on the platform.

With Halloween just around the corner, there’s no better time to curl up with a chilling thriller that will keep you turning pages long after dark. 

Target’s latest recommendation is perfect if you’re on the hunt for your next spooky-season read.

The retailer’s October Book Club pick is Hear the Dead by award-winning author Ann Dávila Cardinal. It’s a supernatural thriller that blends a decades-old mystery with eerie twists, haunting memories, and a search for justice.

The novel follows Elena Altieri, a 66-year-old retired photographer who spent her younger years documenting New York City’s punk-rock scene. But more than four decades after the death of her best friend, Sin, and the disappearance of other women, Elena finds herself confronting a past she thought she’d left behind. 

It all begins when she starts hearing disturbing sounds beneath the ringing of her tinnitus. Soon, Elena suspects she’s hearing the screams of murdered women, including Sin, drawing her into a mystery that has remained unresolved for decades and forcing her to confront the truth about what happened. 

“One woman. A string of unsolved murders. Only she can hear the victims,” the synopsis notes.

The book has already caught readers’ attention, with one Goodreads reviewer describing it as “deeply human and unsettling,” as it blends supernatural suspense with human themes like aging and friendship.

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“The atmosphere was immaculate and I was definitely transported to the 80s punk scene, the prose and descriptions were gorgeous,” another Goodreads reader wrote.

The book earned a 3.88 rating on the site.

Cardinal is no stranger to the horror genre. Her previous novel Five Midnights was a Bram Stoker Award finalist and won an International Latino Book Award, while The Storyteller’s Death also earned an International Latino Book Award.

Published on October 6, 2026, Hear the Dead is available in a special Target Book Club paperback edition.

Target’s book club, as well as the Bookmarked Breakout program, both started in 2005. 

As for Cardinal’s atmospheric and edgy thriller, it is just the thing for readers looking to add something haunting to their October reading list, helping them get into the Halloween spirit, all from the comfort of their home.

Patrick Bateman may be a murderous investment banker with an alarming morning routine, but apparently that hasn’t hurt his sex appeal.

The American Psycho killer topped a new ranking of the sexiest horror villains, earning a near-perfect sex appeal score of 95 out of 100 and beating Hannibal Lecter, Norman Bates and, somehow, Freddy Krueger.

The research, commissioned by Psychic World, compared 11 well-known horror villains using two decidedly different measurements: social media posts describing the characters as sexy and how closely their facial proportions align with the so-called golden ratio.

Christian Bale’s Patrick Bateman came out on top.

Bateman generated nearly 179 “sexy” X posts per 100,000 posts analyzed and received an 84 percent golden ratio score, giving him an overall sex appeal score of 95 out of 100.

Hannibal Lecter and Norman Bates tied for second place with scores of 94.

For Hannibal, the analysis used Mads Mikkelsen’s portrayal of the cannibalistic psychiatrist on NBC’s Hannibal. The character generated roughly 175 sexy posts per 100,000 and scored 84 percent for proximity to the golden ratio.

Norman Bates, the killer made famous by Anthony Perkins in Alfred Hitchcock’s Psycho, performed even better on social media, generating approximately 185 sexy posts per 100,000. His 79 percent golden ratio result left him tied with Hannibal overall.

Then things get considerably stranger.

Freddy Krueger ranked as the fourth-sexiest horror villain with an 84 out of 100 sex appeal score.

Yes, that Freddy Krueger.

The burned, razor-gloved killer from A Nightmare on Elm Street actually generated more sexy social media posts per 100,000 than anyone else included in the ranking, although his lower golden ratio score pulled him down to fourth place overall.

Pinhead rounded out the top five with a sex appeal score of 82, followed by Jigsaw, Pennywise, Chucky, Leatherface, Michael Myers and Jason Voorhees.

There may actually be some psychology behind our attraction to fictional characters who would be spectacularly bad dating prospects.

A 2025 study published in Frontiers in Psychology examined women’s romantic parasocial relationships with “bad boys” in movies and television. Researchers surveyed 47 women and found that sensation seeking and “ludus,” a love style characterized by playful and unattached relationships, were significant predictors of romantic parasocial relationships with bad-boy characters.

The researchers cautioned that the study was small and correlational, meaning it could not establish that those traits cause women to become attracted to fictional bad boys.

The Halloween ranking produced another curious result when the researchers flipped the question from sexy to scary.

Jason Voorhees, who finished dead last in sex appeal, was named the scariest villain with a score of 98 out of 100. Michael Myers placed second with 70, followed by Freddy Krueger with 66.

That makes Freddy the rare horror villain who apparently succeeds on both fronts: He’s scary, but according to this analysis, he’s considerably sexier.

Patrick Bateman had almost the opposite result. Despite winning the sex appeal ranking, he finished near the bottom for scariness.

And Hannibal pulled off perhaps the strangest result of all.

The character tied for second among the sexiest villains but finished dead last for scariness. Apparently, being a cannibal isn’t the problem. Being handsome while doing it is.

When planning a fall trip, most travelers feel like they have to make a tough choice. Do you lean into the cozy, atmospheric mood of autumn—historic streets, crisp evenings, and centuries-old ghost stories—or do you run in the opposite direction and chase sunny beaches before winter sets in?

Savvy travelers know you don’t actually have to pick one or the other. In fact, one of the smartest cruise moves this season combines an iconic cultural city break with an easy tropical getaway, all without booking multiple flights or unpacking twice.

The secret lies in sailing out of New Orleans.

While Florida ports like Miami and Port Canaveral handle the bulk of mega-ship traffic, cruising out of the Crescent City offers something completely different: built-in destination immersion before you even step foot on the gangway. In October and November, New Orleans is in prime form. The stifling summer humidity finally breaks, evening breezes roll off the Mississippi River, and the city’s rich, 300-year-old history takes center stage.

Related: The Chic New Orleans Boutique Hotel With an In-House Mystic

Norwegian Cruise Line

Spending two or three days in town ahead of your embarkation lets you soak up everything that makes New Orleans legendary in the fall. You can spend your mornings sipping café au lait under the Spanish moss in City Park, wander the cobblestone alleys and wrought-iron balconies of the French Quarter, and take in world-class street jazz. Come evening, the city leans into its famously eerie side, offering guided twilight walks past above-ground crypts in historic St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 and haunted tavern tours through the oldest corners of town.

Then, instead of heading to the airport to fly home, you simply head to the riverfront cruise terminal and board your ship.

Norwegian Cruise Line sails seven-day Western Caribbean round-trips straight out of New Orleans, sweeping travelers from spooky Southern charm straight into 80-degree island warmth. The itineraries hit heavy-hitting tropical ports, including the white-sand shores of Harvest Caye—NCL’s resort-style private island retreat in Belize—along with premier coral reef snorkeling in Roatán, Honduras, and Mayan ruins and beach clubs in Cozumel and Costa Maya, Mexico.

Related: We Asked Three Travel Agents for Their Best Fall Getaways

The real kicker is the value. With seven-day Caribbean sailings starting as low as $549 per person, it is one of the most budget-friendly ways to stretch your vacation dollar. You get all the dining, ocean views, and warm-weather pampering of a resort cruise, right on the heels of one of America’s greatest cultural and historic road trips.

For travelers who love a little variety on their calendar, pairing a weekend of beignets and ghost tours with a week of turquoise waters is proof that you really can have it all in one suitcase.

Related: Norwegian Cruise Line’s Newest Mega-Ship Will Have More Space to Soak Up the Sun

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Cozy bedding is one of life’s greatest pleasures. There’s nothing like ending the day on smooth sheets and pillowcases, complete with a plump comforter. Even better? When it looks as good as it feels! The Regency Heights Comforter Set is an excellent choice if you’re looking for some dreamy bedding. Not only does it come with six to nine pieces, but it’s also available in 12 beautiful prints.

The bundle is an amazing deal at Walmart right now. Normally $130, the queen set is currently on sale for as low as $42. Discounts vary slightly by color, but none cost more than $57, which is still a great deal for a full bedding collection. Walmart also offers the set in twin, twin XL, full, and king sizes at varying discounts. With patterns ranging from soft florals to intricate medallion designs, it’s easy to find one that blends nicely with your bedroom’s decor.

Regency Heights Queen Comforter Set, From $42 (was $130) at Walmart Shop at Walmart

This is a set unlike any other for a few reasons. The colors are rich and true, with an array of striking patterns that catch the eye. There are color palettes for every season, mood, and layout, from blacks and blues to lighter tones like pink and yellow. 

This set is more than just good-looking, though. It checks every box and offers a little bit more than you might expect of the usual comforter set. In addition to the comforter, you’ll also receive two standard shams, four standard pillow cases, one flat sheet, and one fitted sheet with the larger sets. The twin and twin XL sets come with one less sham and two less pillow cases for a total of six pieces.

For convenience, the fitted sheet has a roomy pocket measuring 8 inches wide by 9 inches deep on each side. It’s perfect for holding must-haves like your phone, remote, or a book.

The pieces are made from supple microfiber, while the comforter has a fluffy hypoallergenic fill that lends it just enough weight to keep you warm without feeling overwhelming. Over 1,700 shoppers have awarded the set five stars, with many sharing how much they appreciate the combination of style, quality, and value.

“The comforter and sheet set is so comfortable and super soft,” one person wrote. “Quality is above and beyond.” 

“I love this comforter so much. It’s not too over the top, and the colors are so vibrant and beautiful,” another raved.

On top of being attractive, this set is very easy to maintain. Just toss it in the washing machine, using cold water on a gentle cycle. Tumble dry on low and everything will emerge looking refreshed and as good as new. 

Related: Walmart’s ‘Soft’ $38 Waffle Blanket Is ‘Just the Right Weight’ for Chilly Fall Nights

It’s not often that you come across bedding as affordable and stylish as the Regency Heights Comforter Set. Don’t miss this opportunity to add a little elegance to your bedroom without spending a fortune! Pick up the set for as low as $42 in the queen size while it’s on sale at Walmart.

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.

Another Tuesday is almost here, and it’s one of the Tuesdays everyone has been waiting for. The sixth book in the A Court of Thorns and Roses franchise is coming out this week, and romantasy fans are already preparing for the midnight release parties.

However, there are many other books worth checking out. Whether you want horror that keeps you up all night or a spicy romance that sets the book boyfriend bar extremely high, you’ll want to pay attention. There is something for everyone on this list. The question will be: what are you reading first? And from there, you will need to book a week off work!

Target

‘A Court of Splintered Harmony’ by Sarah J. Maas

There is no way we can have the Oct. 27 list without mentioning A Court of Splintered Harmony by Sarah J. Maas. It’s the first in The Valkyrie Cycle set in the story, with the second releasing in January 2027, set deep in the heart of the continent. Koschei the Deathless has been bound to the mountain lake for millennia, but he’s hell-bent on reclaiming what was once his.

After five years of wondering if there would be more to the story, it’s here. This novel is split into four parts, and it is the shortest of the ACOTAR books so far, at around 350 pages, but it’s perfect for those ready for more from the world of the fae. Be prepared for an unfinished feeling at the end, as the story continues in the seventh book. I think it’ll feel more like a duology to most.

Courtesy of Bloom Books ‘The Keeper’ by Ana Huang

The third in the Gods of the Game series is out, and it’s everything you need. The Keeper by Ana Huang follows Noah and Carina’s love story, and it’s not going to be easy at first. Noah is a grumpy single dad who just wants to do right by his daughter. The problem is he can’t find a nanny, and time is running out as the World Cup approaches.

Enter Carina, who Noah definitely did not want to give the job to. She’s so great with his daughter, though, that he can’t say no. And so starts their romance, and it hits all the right notes that leave you happy, content, and with a high bar for boyfriends.

Courtesy of St. Martin’s Griffin ‘Falling for a Villainous Vampire’ by Charlotte Stein

Charlotte Stein is another master at standalone, interconnected stories, and Falling for a Villainous Vampire is the third in her Sanctuary for Supernatural Creatures series. This time, we follow Marley Maples, who is sure that she’s evaded her vampire mortal enemy. She’s in Hollow Brook and ready to live her life, but when he turns back up, Marley’s friends get a brilliant idea.

They cast a spell that allows Marley to forget all about Halsten. The problem is the spell backfires in a hilarious way, with Halsten forgetting all about himself. He knows he’s a vampire and a hot Viking, but he forgets that he was trying to kill Marley. What happens as he starts to fall for her? One spell changes everything in an entertaining and romantic way.

Courtesy of Little, Brown Books for Young Readers ‘For Ever More’ by Sue Lynn Tan

If you read Never Ever After, then you will need to pick up the highly anticipated sequel, For Ever More, by Sue Lynn Tan. It picks up directly after the explosive events, with Yining fleeing the Iron Mountains with unlikely allies.

This continues the beautiful story of ancestral secrets and magic. It’s packed with learning about powers and the truth, while dealing with the effects of a stolen kingdom. Can Yining protect her family and heart from harm? Chinese folklore remains one of the strongest aspects of the entire story, creating a memorable and outstanding tale.

Courtesy of Berkley ‘Savage Lake’ by Nick Medina

Nick Medina is back with another terrifying horror story. If you loved The Whistler and Sisters of the Lost Nation, then you need to read Savage Lake. It brings all the right horror elements, from the dilapidated cabin to haunting memories of the past.

Nell swore she would never return home, but when her estranged father dies, she has no choice. As she passes through Native land barricaded by the local Tribe, Nell’s journey home turns into weeks, and her son Oscar is a horror movie buff who isn’t afraid to share the tropes. What he doesn’t realize is that things that go bump in the night can be real and dangerous!

Courtesy of Erewhon Books ‘The Jewel of Corlivo’ by Kathleen Carr Foster

When you need historical fiction and romantasy put together, The Jewel of Corlivo by Kathleen Carr Foster is the release to turn to. It’s set in a reimagined Byzantine Empire, following a runaway courtesan and her disgraced suitor, but not for love. At least, not fully. It’s for an ancient treasure that promises to pay off her debts.

The Jewel of Corlivo is more than a romance. It brings adventure and high stakes in the court-life setting, making it clear that sometimes the scariest thing is watching for who lurks in the shadows. Mix in the family secrets, and you get something perfect for fans of Reign and The Tudors.

Courtesy of MacMillan Publishing ‘Mortal Things’ by Marie Lu

Finally, we have another young adult release that is perfect for those who love mythology mixed into their fantasy: Mortal Things by Marie Lu. Rose Lin Fairchild never believed in gods until Raven, the god of Death, chose her. Now, she is his Harbinger, and she would love nothing more than to escape, but it’s a sacrifice she must make to keep her best friend alive.

What if there was a way to free her friend once and for all? That’s the latest mission, and Rose goes on a journey with Étienne, a fellow Harbinger who would usually stand in her way, to learn the secrets of the gods. It’s a twisty and thrilling tale that brings both romantic and platonic love to the forefront.

Rod Stewart may be considered one of the best singers of all time, but he didn’t always have a stage. Before hitting it big with his memorable music, the “Maggie May” crooner worked many odd jobs away from a spotlight, including as a silk-screen printer, an electrician’s assistant and a soccer player, but there was one particular job that led to a years-long rumor that he was a gravedigger.

Stewart, 81, who left school at 15, once worked at London’s Highgate Cemetery, where he would measure out and mark burial plots.

“… there were a couple of Saturdays up at Highgate Cemetery, earning a few quid by measuring out plots and marking them off with string,” the British star wrote in his 2012 memoir, Rod: The Autobiography, per Culture Sonar. “You learn a lot about yourself, doing physical work. And what I learned about myself was that I didn’t like doing physical work.”

Despite physically helping with the grave sites, Stewart never considered himself to be a gravedigger, but somehow, an urban myth was started, and it turns out the talented artist doesn’t mind it.

“Incidentally, it was from these few hours of casual labor at the cemetery that the popular myth arose (one I happily rode along with) that I was once a gravedigger. It’s a delicious, mysterious piece of back-story, but again we must move to strike it from the record,” he wrote.

In addition to opening up about his past jobs in his memoir, Stewart once talked about how much easier it is to be a musician.

“Well, a musician’s life is a lot easier and I can also get drunk and make music, and I can’t do that and play football. I plumped for music … They’re the only two things I can do actually: play football and sing,” he said, per Paul Nelson and Lester Bangs‘ 1981 biography of the album maker.

Stewart’s come a long way since his days as an aspiring singer. He was named the 17th most successful artist on the “Billboard Hot 100 All-Time Top Artists” list in 2008 and announced his “last rock and roll tour,” which will take place across the U.S., Canada and Europe in 2027, last month.

“Ladies and gentlemen, after much deliberation and sadness, I have to announce next year will be my last tour ever, ever, ever,” Stewart, who had a heart procedure in August, said on Instagram on Sept. 28. “I’m not retiring, but this will be the last rock and roll tour.”

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The right accent can breathe new life into any yard. If you’re looking for a new way to liven up your outdoor space as the days grow shorter, a lighting refresh could be just the thing. While there are many ways to illuminate a garden, few offer the charm and cozy cottage appeal of Patiopia Firefly Lights. These twinkling accessories brighten up the yard while adding their own unique flair to your home.

Normally $11 at Amazon for a pack of two, the set is currently reduced to just $9. A single frond of lights features 10 compact LED bulbs set on flexible stems that fan outward. That’s a fun detail that lends them the illusion of little glowing fireflies. They even sway in the breeze, adding to their aesthetic appeal.

Patiopia Firefly Lights, $9 (was $11) at Amazon

Courtesy of Amazon

Shop at Amazon

While they exude an elevated vibe, they’re easy for anyone to use. The lights are powered entirely by solar energy, charging during the day and switching on automatically in the evening. After about six to eight hours of sunlight, the fireflies can stay illuminated for approximately 12 to 14 hours. Because they don’t rely on wiring or outlets, they’re an appealing option for anyone who wants to implement some garden lighting without the fuss.

They’re designed to withstand different conditions and maintain their integrity through constant use throughout the year, too. The lamp body and stainless steel posts are resistant to rust, while the waterproof design protects the lights from rain and temperature fluctuations. Whether you set them along a walkway or place them directly onto a flower bed, you can be confident they’ll stay in great shape. 

That makes them versatile enough to use elsewhere, too. Many shoppers stated that they love using the fireflies to give their yards a festive touch through the holiday season. During the warmer months, they make a lovely decorative addition to a deck or patio, and can make outdoor entertaining feel even more special.

Related: Amazon’s ‘Enchanting’ $7 Solar Firefly Lights Add a ‘Touch of Whimsy’ to Patios and Garden Paths

One reviewer commented that they look “like magical fairy flowers” and said they instantly “elevate curb appeal.” Another person noted that they “look so whimsical during the day and so charming at night.” Even when they aren’t illuminated during the day, they add an interesting visual detail to the yard.

The Patiopia Firefly Lights have the potential to completely transform your yard. With their eye-catching aesthetic and playful design, they’re perfect for giving your home an affordable makeover just in time to light up autumn nights.

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If you have a complex medication routine, you understand how important it is to stay organized (and focused) while going through your daily regimen. Pill organizers make it so much easier to stay on top of all of your meds, letting you know when you’ve taken your daily medicines. Aldi is currently selling a vibrant option for just $4.99, and it makes taking both your AM and PM medicines a total breeze.

Aldi’s Welby 7-Day Pill Organizer is organized for each and every day of the week, both morning and night, making it so simple to make sure you take all of your daily medications. Divided into two colors, either vivid purple for AM on one side and bright blue for PM on the other side, this 14-slot pill organizer helps you prep your meds for the week ahead.

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Welby 7-Day Pill Organizer, $4.99 at Aldi

Aldi

While, yes, it does take a little time to get a pill organizer all situated, it is way more efficient (and safe) than needing to comb through your memory to determine if you already took your blood pressure medication, for example. The see-through covers of each day let you easily see inside to see what still needs to be taken for the day or night. So easy.

Related: Aldi’s Chic New Mini Totes Are Giving Longchamp Vibes

This Welby 7-Day Pill Organizer is available at select Aldi stores right now as part of Aldi Finds, weekly product specials that are limited stock and are only available while supplies last. You can shop these nifty products in the center aisle of stores.

Other Aldi Finds to Check Out

If you’re interested in other Aldi Finds, be sure to check out this new glass food storage set that’s giving Caraway vibes for only $17, these rustic handwoven layering rugs that are hitting stores on Nov. 4, this plush bed pillow that retails for just $9.99 or this $8 acacia wood cutting board that has a clever design feature that makes hosting so much easier this holiday season.

Related: Aldi’s Stand Mixer Is Giving Major KitchenAid Vibes for Less

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What if we told you that you could replicate Martha Stewart’s exact interior decor palette? Thanks to Wayfair, you can shop for the television personality’s stunning home collection at impressive discounts right now, including everything from this damask wool rugs to this elegant three-tier bookcase. Now, we’re adding the Martha Stewart Lily Pond Philippe Round End Table to our shopping wishlist, while it’s over 40% off.

The brown end table originally cost $258, but is now on sale for just $144. The furniture is made from manufactured wood with a natural wood grain detailing that looks like rich walnut. It gives off a moody seasonal vibe that’s great for this time of year, but is still perfect for all year-round. If you really want to dress up your home this autumn, we especially love the idea of placing a vase with fall-colored leaves on the tabletop, and even a few miniature pumpkins. 

Martha Stewart Lily Pond Philippe Round End Table, $144 (was $258) at Wayfair

Courtesy of Wayfair

Shop at Wayfair

The piece is 24 inches tall, 20 inches wide, and 20 inches long, which is a standard size for a round side table, so you can place it virtually anywhere you’d like. Put it next to your bed or by the sofa so that you can use the tabletop for food and beverages, or use it solely for decorative purposes in your entryway. The open bottom shelf is a great place to store books, picture frames, and any other decor that you’d like to display, since it can hold up to 75 pounds worth of items. 

The table itself weighs approximately 20 pounds, which makes it easy to maneuver anywhere, especially if you’re moving it solo. Plus, the four “very sturdy” legs offer stability. You will have to assemble the table when it gets delivered, but all of the necessary tools are included in your purchase and shoppers said it’s “super easy” to put together.

Our favorite aspect of this table is not only its durability, but its rounded spindle legs that will easily add character to any space. The style is perfect for farmhouse, cottagecore, traditional, and vintage-style homes, since its design is timeless and presents an effortless charm. Reviewers further described the high-end table as “beautiful,” “perfect,” and a “great value.” 

Shop More Martha Stewart Deals 

• Martha Stewart Bedford London Armchair, $371 (was $700) at Wayfair
• Martha Stewart Hutton Shaker Style Home Office Desk, $252 (was $340) at Wayfair
• Martha Stewart Mira Modern Heathered Anti-Fatigue Kitchen Mat, $40 (was $60) at Wayfair

Related: Martha Stewart’s Festive $13 Dessert Plates Bring Cheery Holiday Charm to Your Table

Due to the affordable cost, some customers even purchased two of Martha Stewart’s stunning end tables for their home. You’ll want to snag yours soon though, because this unbeatable fall sale won’t last for long. Shop the furniture now at Wayfair, while it’s 44% off! 

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Christopher Abbott is loving parenthood. The 40-year-old actor sat down for an interview with Rolling Stone and briefly commented on what it feels like after welcoming his first child, daughter, with partner Aubrey Plaza, in July.

“I don’t like to talk too much about like, personal family stuff, but it’s just…it’s like the best movie ever,” he gushed in a video released on Rolling Stone‘s X account on Oct. 23.

Christopher Abbott talks about welcoming a child with partner Aubrey Plaza.

“It’s like the best movie ever.” pic.twitter.com/hHMtpBgm5E

— Rolling Stone (@RollingStone) October 24, 2026

The proud dad also commented on how he’s been balancing both his thriving career and personal life. “Again, it’s early, so, so far so good, but I haven’t, you know, I haven’t really worked-worked yet, and that’s been nice, you know,” he said. “I have to cross that bridge maybe when I get there, but you know, I think you figure it out, just like, you know, everyone’s got jobs, it’s just…you figure it out.”

Abbott’s latest words about fatherhood come just over two months since news broke about the birth of his baby girl after Plaza, 42, was photographed with the newborn on Aug. 9, while supporting him at his final Broadway performance in Death of a Salesman in New York City. PEOPLE first confirmed the couple was expecting back in April.

Before his recent Rolling Stone interview, Abbott made a rare comment about being a dad for the first time during his appearance on the Oct. 1 episode of the Happy Sad Confused podcast.

“When you really reflect on it like that, I got to put Dad first,” the East of Eden star said after being asked to rank his accomplishments.

“Then Knicks,” he joked. “Just because I’ve been waiting. I’ve been a Knicks fan my whole life.”

Plaza also commented about becoming a mom on a bonus episode of the Smartless podcast on April 13.

“I’ve always wanted to see what that’s all about, you know?” the actress said. “It just seems so interesting, that whole thing.”