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Roasting, steaming or sautéing veggies is great and all, but nothing beats the smoky flavor and charred exterior of grilled veggies. Those charcoal-black grill marks add a distinctive taste to any vegetable that makes you wonder why you don't grill more often.

To help us up our grill game, we spoke to an award-winning chef—Jonathon Sawyer of Kindling in Chicago—about how to make grilled veggies the star of the cookout this season. He's basically the go-to guy you can count on for everything wood-fired, earning accolades left and right, from his James Beard Award for Best Chef: Great Lakes in 2015 to winning season two of Food Network's 24 in 24: Last Chef Standing.

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His expertise is smoke-kissed everything, and he treats vegetables with the same complexity and respect as a prime steak. At Kindling, his flagship Chicago restaurant, he operates a massive 13-foot live-fire hearth, imparting a deep, smoky char to seasonal menu items like the wood-fired baby carrots with Peruvian lima bean purée and gremolata, and crispy Brussels sprouts with torn mint and Thai chili sauce.

So, if you've been looking to elevate your veggie sides and make them worthy of being mains, Chef Sawyer shares his tips below on how to take grilled veggies to their fullest potential. Here's what he recommends to make the best grilled veggies.

The Genius Way To Make Grilled Veggies 10x Better, According to an Award-Winning Chef

Photo by Ana Rocio Garcia Franco on Getty Images

There are plenty of tips on seasoning, marinating and cooking vegetables, but not much attention is placed on the visual aspect and presentation. Even everyday meals can look straight out of a Michelin-starred restaurant with just a little bit of guidance.

Chef Sawyer says one of the things he loves to do at home to reinforce the experience of cooking over fire is to purposely add extra char to a few extra pieces of whatever he's grilling and strategically place them on top of the finished dish.

"The idea is that we eat with our eyes first, and seeing those deeply charred vegetables immediately signals that wood-fired flavor and technique before you even take a bite," Sawyer says. The extra-charred vegetables act as a visual cue to reinforce the smoky flavors that follow.

Related: The Genius Way To Make Lamb Burgers Taste 10x Better

3 Other Chef-Approved Tips for Grilled Veggies

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Extra-charred veggies are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to Chef Sawyer's tips on how to make grilled veggies better. Here, he shares some additional tricks to help you guarantee full flavor in every bite.

1. Double-Cook Your Veggies

Some vegetables benefit from a two-step cooking process rather than going straight from the cutting board to the grill. For some veggies, steaming, poaching or roasting can deeply infuse flavors, preserve color and soften tough fibers. Grilling gives these cooked veggies a crispy, smoky finish.

Chef Sawyer takes this approach by double-cooking maitake (hen of the woods) mushrooms by lightly poaching them in dashi, miso or shoyu broth, then chilling them and finishing them off on the grill. "They are some of the simplest yet most umami-packed ingredients out there," Sawyer says.

2. Preheat Your Grill

Getting the proper sear depends a lot on having high heat ready on contact. Preheating a grill usually takes between 10 and 15 minutes, so be patient. "I prefer live oak wood fire, but use what you've got. Make sure to scrub your grill grates to keep the carbon steel clean," Sawyer says.

3. Stage Your Veggies

Chef Sawyer recommends staging your veggies based on how long they need on the grill. "I’ll group everything into fast, medium and slow cooks. Things like zucchini and asparagus go in later, while carrots, onions or potatoes get a head start (often par-cooked first)," he says. "This prevents the ‘one thing is raw, one thing is mush’ problem and keeps everything landing at the same moment."

Related: The Italian Way To Make Sausage 10x Better

Common Mistakes To Avoid

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To really master grilled veggies, make sure you avoid the common mistakes below.

1. Not Letting the Char Develop

Many people like to fiddle around with veggies, but that means they never get a chance to develop a deep char to give them a deeper flavor. Chef Sawyer says you should "embrace high heat and let them develop real color before moving them around." Flipping the veggies too early prevents that caramelization and char flavor from developing, he says.

"Just make sure the vegetables are dry before they hit the grill and lightly coated with oil so they sear instead of steam," Sawyer says. And if you're using a marinade, let any excess drip off before the vegetables hit the grates so they can brown more easily.

2. Skipping the Finishing Touches

Veggies are an add-on to a meal and act as a supporting role, so Chef Sawyer always treats grilled veggies as a base—not the final step of the process. Unlike meats, veggies require some additional layering to make them the best they could be. Chef Sawyer recommends finishing veggies "like a salad, not just a grill plate."

"A little acid like lemon, sherry vinegar, even pickled brine, plus fresh herbs or a drizzle of good oil wakes everything back up," he says. "Fire builds depth, but acid and freshness are what make it feel complete and not heavy."

And there you have it: the tricks to making grilled veggies shine this season, straight from a chef. With Chef Sawyer's advice in mind, it looks like your grill might be the go-to spot this summer.

Source:

Chef Jonathon Sawyer, James Beard Award-winning chef and Chef Partner at Kindling Downtown Cookout & Cocktails, a live-fire restaurant in Chicago.

Related: We Asked 5 Chefs What Trader Joe's Products They Love—and We're Taking Plenty of Notes

Jenn Todryk didn't leave HGTV because she stopped loving No Demo Reno. Instead, the home renovation star says she reached a breaking point when she realized the demands of the series were beginning to affect the thing she valued most: her family.

Years after stepping away from the show, Todryk is revealing the behind-the-scenes reason she decided it was time to hit pause, admitting she was exhausted from "trying to wear all the hats" as both a mother and the star of the series.

The revelation struck her one day on set.  "I didn't want my kids to spend their childhood on a set. I didn't want their home and safe space to feel like a set or [have them] be at home while I was away," she told People.

Todryk, who now has three children, had just given birth to her daughter Vivienne when the series was being developed in 2018. But as time went on, her growing family and the show put increasing demands on her, pulling her in two directions.

She gained a producer credit, which meant her involvement extended far beyond being the face of the series. "I was also behind the scenes as far as what the show's tone was and how we showed everything, how we shot things," she recalled, which allowed her to inject "more of my humor and how I wanted things shot and more of the interviews that are off the cuff, more improv style." 

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With her workload growing, Todryk tried to put boundaries on her schedule, but realized she was going to have to make a choice. "It just got to the point during season 3 where I was very stubborn and I stuck to my guns that work was done at 4:30," she recounted. "I wanted to be done because we have three kids. They're all very active and my husband is one person and we can't clone him."

At the same time, she wasn't willing to hand over control of the show to someone else. "I had to really look at myself and be like, 'Am I willing to give up the design where someone designs behind the scenes and I say I did it?'" she remarked.

Trying to be totally present and engaged in every aspect of her life was too much and she wasn't willing give both only half her effort.  "I worked really hard to get into this perfect, well-oiled machine and me having so much say in the content and how the show was and I just felt very in control. And then I left," she said.

Todryk is staying in the game while raising her children, striking a better balance as a full-time content creator. "I get to do my really fun thing, which is show up on social media, make my community and do whatever the heck I want and be weird as all get out," she said.

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If you’re a hot sleeper or prefer not to rack up your electricity bill by running the air conditioning all night long, you may want to replace your comforter with a lighter option now that summer is right around the corner. There’s nothing worse than waking up in the middle of the night in a puddle of sweat. Luckily, Walmart’s bestselling Smuge 3-Piece Patchwork Quilt Set can help you combat that and all your other warm night woes. 

Right now, you can score this farmhouse-inspired quilt set on sale for less than $30 for a limited time with a Walmart flash deal. Normally retailing for $43, the full/queen quilt set is now marked down to just $29 in nine styles. For just a few dollars more, you can score it in three other styles. Those normally retail for $45, but are now only $31. This quilt set is also available in twin and king sizes, which are currently on sale starting at $27 and $31, respectively. 

Smuge 3-Piece Queen Patchwork Quilt Set, From $29 (was $43) at Walmart

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Featuring an eye-catching patchwork design with earthy tones, this quilt set oozes with farmhouse charm. It’ll instantly elevate the aesthetic of your bedroom, making it feel cozy and inviting. Each set comes with two pillow shams to create a cohesive look that’ll have your room looking put-together effortlessly. 

The designs vary depending on which colorway you choose. Certain styles feature larger squares while others have smaller grids. The squares are filled with various patterns, including plaid, stripes, and more. The quilt and shams are stitched all over the fabric, which adds some texture, depth, and dimension. 

Breathable and lightweight, this quilt set is ideal for warm summer nights. The quilt is crafted with three layers, including a shell made of 100% polyester microfiber and light filling made of a cotton and polyester blend. Cotton is great at regulating body temperature and promoting airflow, so this quilt shouldn't cause you to overheat in the middle of the night. It also helps wick away moisture, working to draw sweat away from your body. 

Smuge 3-Piece Queen Patchwork Quilt Set, From $29 (was $43) at Walmart

Courtesy of Walmart

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Several customers confirmed that this quilt is an ideal choice for the summer, noting that the weight is just right and isn't too heavy. While the quilt helps to keep you cool, it’ll still provide that cozy and comforting layer that you need to fall asleep. The microfiber shell has a smooth and soft feel. Additionally, this quilt set isn’t just limited to the summer months. You can use it as a bed cover or as an additional layer when the temperatures start to drop. 

One reviewer said that it’s “lightweight and perfect for summer.” Another shopper raved that the “breathability stands out,” mentioning that it kept them “comfortable through warm summer nights.” A customer described the style as "beautiful" and said that it “brightens up any room.” 

Related: Amazon’s 'Breathable' $22 Comforter Set Feels 'Like Sleeping in a Cloud' and Comes in 8 Colors

As a bonus, this quilt set is easy to care for. Wherever you want to give it a refresh, you can toss it in the washing machine with warm water and tumble dry on low afterwards. Because the fabric squares are stitched, it prevents the filling from moving around and clumping up. Reviewers noted that this quilt set washes well and has maintained its shape through many cycles. 

For size reference, the twin quilt measures 68 inches by 86 inches, the full/queen quilt measures 90 inches by 90 inches, and the king quilt measures 96 inches by 108 inches. The twin and queen/full pillow shams are 20 inches by 26 inches, while the king pillow shams are 20 inches by 36 inches.

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• Exclusivo Mezcla 3-Piece Floral Quilt Set, From $30 (was $60) at Walmart
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If summer nights tend to leave you tossing and turning, don’t hesitate to check out the Smuge 3-Piece Patchwork Quilt Set at Walmart so you can finally get some restful sleep. Be sure to hurry because it’ll only be on sale for $29 for a limited time! 

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What do actress JoAnna Garcia Swisher and her Sweet Magnolias character, Maddie Townsend, have in common? They both have a soft spot for baseball players! Similar to Maddie (who started dating baseball coach Cal in Season 2), Swisher found her happily ever after with a former professional athlete. In 2009, the actress fell in love with New York Yankee Nick Swisher, who proposed to Swisher later that same year.

“We have a very real friendship," Swisher once told Us Weekly of her relationship. "The one thing that really enchanted me about Nick when I first met him was he obviously was a young, successful guy but he was so happy and grateful. And I think we both have that spirit. So we work hard at staying close and connected."

Keep reading to learn more about JoAnna Garcia Swisher and husband Nick Swisher’s love story.

Related: All About Sweet Magnolias Season 5

Is JoAnna Garcia Swisher married? View this post on Instagram

JoAnna Garcia Swisher has been married to former Yankee ball-player Nick Swisher since 2010. Speaking with Us Weekly, Swisher said that her husband was “very honest” about his intentions when they first started dating.

“He was really consistent and he was very willing to prove himself. He’s like, ‘I don’t want you to think that I’m some stereotypical athlete,'” she said. “He was very honest about that. He was like, ‘I’m only going to be dating you and you are the only one and until you believe that I’ll be here reminding you of that.’ And that just really struck me like he’s in it to win it.”

Who is JoAnna Garcia Swisher’s husband?

Nick Swisher is a former professional baseball player who had a successful MLB career from 2005 to 2017. The outfielder and first baseman made his rookie debut while playing for the Oakland A’s in 2005. Three years later, he was traded to the Chicago White Sox, who in turn traded him the following year to the New York Yankees.

During his four-year run with the Yankees, Swisher was part of the 2009 World Series championship team. He went on to play for the Cleveland Indians in 2012 and the Atlanta Braves in 2015, but many fans believe he'll always be a Yankee at heart. The athlete officially announced his retirement from baseball in 2017.

What does JoAnna Garcia Swisher’s husband do for a living?

Since his retirement from professional baseball in 2017, Nick Swisher has become a FOX Sports commentator and studio analyst. You can catch him on MLB Whiparound, and making regular appearances on FS1 daily studio shows. Swisher is still with the New York Yankees, but now as a special advisor to general manager Brian Cashman. His responsibilities include visiting minor league teams, making Yankee Stadium appearances and working closely with the front office.

In an interview with Newsday, Swisher said the coveted position is a stepping stone to possibly becoming an MLB general manager. “I don’t know quite exactly what I want to do,” he said. “I know I really enjoy being home with my family and being a dad. But down the road, maybe I’m a manager. Maybe I’m a general manager. That’s the reason why I took this job [special advisor to the GM]. I want to learn.”

How did JoAnna Garcia Swisher and her husband,  Nick Swisher, meet? View this post on Instagram

JoAnna Garcia Swisher and Nick Swisher were set up by a mutual friend. Talking candidly with Us Weekly, the Sweet Magnolias actress admitted that "athlete" wasn’t high on her dream-guy list. “It certainly wasn’t the first type of profession for a guy that I wanted to date. I didn’t think like, ‘Yea! This sounds great,’” she shared. But all that changed the moment she met Swisher in person.

“I went to go see him play a baseball game against the Mets and I thought, ‘Wow, he’s just really refreshing and he’s really kind.’ He’s exactly what people would imagine him to be. He is what you think he is. He’s a good egg."

When did JoAnna Garcia Swisher and her husband,  Nick Swisher, get married?

JoAnna Garcia Swisher and Nick Swisher tied the knot on Dec. 11, 2010 at the Breakers Hotel & Resort in Palm Beach, Florida. According to People, the bride wore an ivory ball-gown with a drop-waist and sweetheart neckline. Cameron Diaz, Jamie-Lynn Sigler, Reba McEntire and Lance Bass were among the A-list guests, as well as Swisher’s then-Yankee teammates, Alex Rodriguez and Johnny Damon.

Ahead of their wedding day, the groom gushed about his soon-to-be bride. “I think for the first time in my life, I have a woman who I could not be more proud of,” Swisher told People. “We do such a great job really pushing the other one to do better and I think that’s what you have to have.”

Related: The 24 Best Romantic Movies on Netflix Right Now

Do JoAnna Garcia Swisher and her husband have kids? View this post on Instagram

JoAnna Garcia Swisher shares two daughters with her husband. The pair became first-time parents in 2013 when they welcomed their oldest daughter, Emerson, and they added to their family in 2016 with the arrival of Sailor.

In a conversation with PopSugar, Swisher shared that the kitchen is her family’s favorite room in the house. "We do a lot of cooking, we play board games, but a lot of our time is spent in the kitchen," she said. "I love to cook with the girls, and I find that they're a little bit more adventurous with their eating when they cook it themselves. They see it all; there's no sneaky anything."

Who did JoAnna Garcia Swisher date before getting married?

JoAnna Garcia Swisher dated Trace Ayala (Justin Timberlake’s best friend and business partner) for two years, and the former couple even got engaged in June 2008. But the relationship didn't last—Swisher had a home-run to hit with someone else. 

Related: JoAnna Garcia Swisher Teases Season 5 of 'Sweet Magnolias': 'The Most Romance and Drama We've Ever Had' (Exclusive)

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Finding a great pair of sandals that's comfortable enough for all-day wear isn't always easy. While many styles look appealing, not all of them offer the support you need if you plan to be on your feet for hours.

For shoppers searching for sandals that look good and feel good, the Skechers Lifted Comfort Sandals are currently on sale at Amazon for as low as $36. Discounts vary by style, but most sizes have at least one colorway marked down to under $40. The sandals feature a plush memory foam footbed and adjustable strap, making them a solid option for anyone who needs a supportive walking shoe. One reviewer called them "so comfy," adding that they have "good arch support." Plus, they’re cute enough to wear with just about anything!

Skechers Lifted Comfort Sandals, $36 (was $50) at Amazon

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Whether you're shopping, traveling, or just enjoying a day out, these sandals are built for lasting comfort. Their memory foam footbed is contoured and trimmed with cork to cushion your foot and provide extra support. An adjustable vegan leather strap lets you dial in the fit, and the three-quarter-inch heel gives just enough lift to take pressure off the ball of your foot. This feature makes the shoes ideal for long stretches of walking. 

Thanks to the sandals' relaxed fit, there's extra room in the toe box and forefoot — something reviewers with wider feet appreciated. "Perfect for wide feet, and so comfy!" one shopper wrote. Another confirmed: "I have wide feet and [they] fit great!"

Related: Amazon's Skechers Slip-in Sandals Feel Like 'Walking on a Cloud' and They’re Over 25% Off Right Now

They are also easy to style. The sandals’ simple, strappy look works with shorts, jeans, skirts, and casual dresses alike. One reviewer called it "very stylish," noting it looks just as good with a skirt as it does with shorts. The sandals come in four colors: white, black, chestnut, and taupe. Black is currently the most affordable colorway at $35, with other colors priced up to $48. Sizing runs from 5 to 12.

Shop More Deals

• Shibever Wedge Sandals, $39 (was $49) at Amazon
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For as low as $35, the Skechers Lifted Comfort Sandals are a practical and stylish must-have for summer vacation, errands, and any day when you're on your feet.  With prices this low, it's worth grabbing a pair before the deal is gone.

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For people with celiac disease, like myself, going on a cruise can be a stressful experience. There are certain cruise lines that are wonderful with people who need to eat gluten-free, but it’s still difficult to ensure that the things you are served are actually safe to eat. The Celiac Cruise has changed all of that, offering sailings on various cruise lines every single year where there are gluten-free dedicated areas available onboard.

In 2028, The Celiac Cruise is debuting its very first 100% gluten-free cruise on the Oceania Vista, which will sail the British Isles for 12 nights from May 31st to June 12th, 2028. With 11 cafés and restaurants onboard, guests will be able to eat at each one without a single worry. The crew will be trained meticulously, each food label will be reviewed thoroughly, and high standards will be upheld in the galleys and venues.

Related: Oceania Cruises Just Dropped Two 180-Day World Cruises—and They’re a ‘Slow-Travel’ Dream

As someone who has been on over 100 cruises, it’s always been a dream of mine to sail on Oceania. The cruise line is specifically known for its fine cuisine, and now knowing that an entire sailing will be dedicated gluten-free, I couldn’t be more excited. The ship itself is also a beauty. It has an upscale, modern design that sets itself apart from the family-style cruises that The Celiac Cruise tends to sail with. Onboard, guests can enjoy the pool deck and the specialized Aquamar Spa + Vitality Center, partake in culinary workshops, shop in the onboard boutiques, gamble in the casino, experience high-quality entertainment and more.

Luxury in every detail: Between gourmet, worry-free meals, guests can lounge on the ultra-sleek, resort-style pool deck of the Oceania Vista.

Oceania Cruises

The itinerary is also a major highlight. The ship will depart from Southampton, England and sail to 9 different ports in Ireland, Northern Ireland, Scotland and England. With this being a luxury cruise line, there are a lot of benefits that come with your reservation. Free Starlink Wi-Fi, room service, gratuities, free specialty coffee, tea, smoothies and ice cream, and free fitness classes all come with the price you pay on your room. Guests also get to choose a choice amenity, such as a house select beverage package or a $600 shore excursion credit. The only extra costs you will pay for onboard would be at the casino or in the shops.

Related: Oceania Cruises Just Dropped Two 180-Day World Cruises—and They’re a ‘Slow-Travel’ Dream

From picturesque ports of call to unforgettable days at sea, here is the full breakdown of the 2028 gluten-free voyage.

Oceania Cruises

Guests who book now will receive priority cabin selection and pricing, and the rates are expected to increase as the sailing gets closer. Packages for this cruise start at $8,349 per person, and flexible payment plans are available. To book or learn more, head to celiaccruise.com/oceania-vista-2028. To learn more about The Celiac Cruise's upcoming voyages, follow the brand on Instagram and Facebook.

Related: Popular Cruise Line Announces It’s Going Adults-Only Starting in 2026

The "empty nest era" can be one of transformation rather than loss. While watching your little ones grow into fully independent adults can be bittersweet, there's greatness to be explored when you're finally given back ample time to spend however you wish. Maybe you're set to travel the globe, eager to catch flights and unwind in tropical bliss. Perhaps you're able to volunteer, work toward your dreams, or get busy helping other family members in a new light.

When exploring birth datenumerology and its connection to astrological planetary rulership, we find that certain birth dates are linked to a natural ability to adapt, evolve, and thrive during significant life changes. Such changes often create opportunities for greater independence, reflection, and personal freedom. Although parenting and caring for children can be fulfilling, life doesn't stop when they leave home. In fact, the following individuals can anticipate gaining more happiness and independence in your post-parenting chapter, allowing you to flourish in this new season of freedom.

Which Birth Dates Thrive as Empty Nesters?

Check for your birth date. Disregard birth months.

Born on the 10th

Ruled by the Sun, the planet of identity and independence, those born on the 10th will thrive in their empty-nest era. After years of focusing on building healthy egos in their children, it’s time to reconnect with what makes them shine. Expect a creative renaissance filled with inspiration. If you’re artistic, pull out your paintbrush, camera, or favorite medium.

Alternatively, your newfound inspiration might manifest as a desire to take on more leadership roles and delegate tasks in meaningful ways—such as offering volunteer aid or caring for older family members. While you’ll want a meaningful project or craft to renew your sense of purpose, you’ll also find joy in slowing down and rediscovering passion in the little surprises of your everyday life.

Born on the 12th

Jupiter, the planet of expansive light, rules those born on the 12th. Naturally, they thrive when given independence and freedom. During your empty nest era, you're likely to be filled with a rush of surprising excitement. There's a vast world out there waiting for you, and your adventurous spirit is renewed by having less responsibility and more time to explore.

This is the perfect time in your life to ponder new possibilities. Who have you always wanted to be? What do you long to experience first-hand? Whether it's spontaneous road trips, flights across the globe, or even exploring new spots in your local community, branching out feels inspiring rather than exhausting during this stage of life. Your kids will get a kick out of seeing you learn new things and keeping your youthful spark alive.

Born on the 22nd 

People born on the 22nd are known for their devotion. However, this loyalty does not stem from neediness; instead, it comes from a strong sense of self-awareness and acceptance of diverse individuality. During their empty-nest phase, they don't wait for their children to provide them with purpose and fulfillment with their calls or visits. Rather, they seek to inspire not only themselves but also their loved ones by making the most of life and embracing their newfound freedoms.

Ruled by Uranus, the planet of disrupting the status quo, they seek to shake up their routines during this stage of life. Why settle for mundane and predictable when you can expand your mind? Whether taking new classes, prioritizing their health, or building new systems that better support their daily needs, this birth date knows how to be resourceful with newfound freedom. They take control of the narrative, inspiring others.

Born on the 27th

People born on the 27th are influenced by Mars, the warrior planet associated with justice and action. During their empty-nest phase, they often engage in personal competition, challenging themselves to become a better version of themselves. Self-improvement is a significant driving force for them. They may set ambitious fitness goals, pursue inspiring projects, or seek renewed meaning in discovering themselves after parenting.

This birth date takes proactive steps to ensure that this stage of life aligns with the person they're evolving into. While they may have a fiery side, people born on this date also possess a humanitarian compassion. They often become fierce advocates for society's underdogs, using their free time to support good causes they couldn’t focus on while they were occupied with others' needs. Their loved ones find joy in watching them transform into positive forces for change in the world.

UP NEXT:

Whether you've been waiting for your favorite HGTV shows to return or if you're hankering for something new, the TV network has got you covered.

HGTV just announced its July programming lineup, which includes two new shows set to premiere, as well as three fan-favorite shows slated to return! Read on for the details.

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Related: HGTV Shares Sneak Peek Into Upcoming Spinoff 'Renovation Island: The Adventure Continues'

Worst Yard on the Block Will Help Homeowners With Disorderly Front Lawns Host Jared “J Paul” Foster & Tucker Kincaid, as seen on Worst Yard on the Block, Season 1.

HGTV

The new show Worst Yard on the Block is set to premiering on HGTV on Wednesday July 15, at 10 and 10:30 p.m. ET/PT.

On the 12-episode reality show, people with "unsightly" yards from across the U.S. will get treated to free lawn makeovers by outdoor design experts Tucker Kincaid, Jared "J.Paul” Foster, Blake Hawthorn and Margo Fairchild. The experts will work to transform wildly overgrown and seriously messy yards into oases with killer curb appeal.

Extreme Buyers Club Will Help Buyers Find Incredibly Specific Homes

Extreme Buyers Club, another new show for the network, will debut on HGTV on Tuesday, July 21, at 9 p.m. ET/PT.

The show will follow real estate agent Noel Collier as she helps clients find homes with some seriously specific requests. For example, the eight-episode season will focus on a couple looking for a home haunted by ghosts, a "professional mermaid" looking for a home with plenty of water and a recent divorcée in search of a house with land where her llamas can graze.

Renovation Resort Showdown, Holmes on Homes and Ugliest House in America Are Returning to HGTV in July

Three beloved HGTV shows are also coming back for new seasons this July.

Season 3 of Renovation Resort Showdown will premiere on HGTV on Wednesday, July 1, at 9 p.m. ET/PT. On the show, Scott McGillivray and Bryan Baeumler will challenge four duos to renovate a dilapidated lakeside resort in Canada's Kawartha Lakes region, turning it into a beautiful and functional vacation destination. Each duo will have a $150,000 budget and two months to conduct their renovations, and the winning team will score a $100,000 cash prize.

Holmes on Homes: Building a Legacywill be back with a six-episode order starting Sunday, July 19, at 8 p.m. ET/PT. On the show, Mike Holmes, Michael Holmes, Jr. and Sherry Holmes will work together to help fix homeowners' living in dangerous or dysfunctional spaces due to faulty renovations.

Retta hosts Ugliest House in America on HGTV.

HGTV

And finally, on Monday, July 20, at 9 p.m. ET/PT, Ugliest House in America will return with Season 8. On the six-episode season, actress and host Retta will tour "preposterous properties" with bizarre layouts and questionable design choices all around the country. At the end of the season, HGTV will declare one home the "ugliest house in America" and gift the homeowners a renovation by designer Alison Victoria.

Related: Jack McBrayer Shares His Favorite Part of Filming 'Zillow Gone Wild' and It Made Us Say 'Aww!' (Exclusive)

In 1977, Cosby, Stills & Nash had their biggest hit with a song that happened by chance.

Recorded by musical trio David Crosby, Stephen Stills and Graham Nash, “Just a Song Before I Go” appeared on the album CSN and went to No. 7 on the Billboard Hot 100 in the summer of 1977, becoming the legendary supergroup’s highest-charting hit of all time.

The hit song features a simple, acoustic melody and lyrics about saying goodbye. And not only is “Just a Song before I Go” a quick, radio-friendly listen—literally, clocking in at just 2:14 minutes long— but it was penned by Nash in record time.

In the liner notes to the 1991 CSN box set, Crosby revealed that Nash was challenged to write the song on the spot.

"Graham was at home in Hawaii, about to go off on tour,” Crosby recalled. “The guy who was going to take him to the airport said, 'We've got 15 minutes, I'll bet you can't write a song in that amount of time.' Well, you don't smart off to Nash like that, he'll do it. This is the result."

RELATED: 1976 No. 1 One-Hit Wonder Was Written in Five Minutes

Graham Nash confirmed he wrote the song on a bet

The songwriting challenge also came with money, according to Nash. In an interview with Music Radar, the music legend shared the full origin story for “Just a Song Before I Go.”

“I was in the Hawaiian Islands, and I had a couple of hours to waste before I had to catch a plane back to Los Angeles,” he said in the 2019 interview. “I was at the home of a friend of mine, Spider was his name, and as I got up to leave, he said, ‘You know what? You’re supposed to be a big-shot songwriter … I bet you can’t write a song before you go home.’ I said, ‘Really? You bet? How much do you bet?’ He said, ‘$500 you can’t write a song just before you leave.’”

Not only did he write the song, but he took his pal’s $500.

“I still have his $500 because it was written on a bet, really,” Nash said. “It was the biggest single hit that CSN ever had, I believe. Like my friend Joe Wall says, ‘If I’d have known it was going to be such a big hit I’d have written a better song.’”

Nash has written a long list of famous songs for CSN and others, including “Our House," “Teach Your Children Well" and "Marrakesh Express." He once told Rock Cellar magazine that inspiration could come from anywhere or anything.

“I’m recognizing more and more as I go along in my life just how important the muse of music is,” the CSN legend said. “No writer knows when it’s coming. It can be incredibly simple, like somebody saying, 'You can’t write a song just before you go' and then you write a song called 'Just a Song Before I Go,' or Joni (Mitchell) buying a vase from an antique store that we passed that became 'Our House.' You never know when it’s coming."

Related: ‘70s Rock Supergroup Released Debut Album 57 Years Ago Today—‘We Knew That It Was Going To Be a Hit’

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If it feels like clutter is slowly taking over your bedroom, living room, or entryway, a storage ottoman might be the easiest fix. These structures keep blankets, pillows, toys, and everyday odds and ends out of sight, offering an extra place to sit. They can even make a room look a little more polished!

Right now, the Concetta Storage Ottoman Bench is on sale at Walmart for as little as $21 in the 30-inch size, while a 43-inch size is available for $28. Prices vary slightly by color, but you’ll score a great deal no matter what. Shoppers are big fans of this bestselling bench, with some calling it "awesome" and a major "space-saver" for their homes.

Concetta Storage Ottoman Bench, From at $21 at Walmart

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This faux leather storage bench is made with a sturdy wood composite frame and a cushioned foam top. It supports up to 660 pounds, making it a handy extra seat whenever you need one. 

Lift the lid and you'll find up to 42 gallons of hidden storage space — ideal for blankets, pillows, toys, and any miscellaneous items that tend to pile up around the house. When you’re not using it, you can fold it completely flat, making it easy to store or move as needed. There are also eight colors to choose from, including black, gray, brown, beige, and pink, so there's a styling option for just about every space.

Related: Target's 'Lovely' $110 Ottoman Bench Comes in 3 Colors and Has 'Sturdy' Built-in Storage

Buyers loved that this bench doubles as a functional storage solution and an attractive accent piece. One reviewer shared that it's "great for storing toys and extra bedding" while also being "very sturdy." Another called it “beautiful,” while a third added that it works well for extra seating and has even become a favorite hang out spot for their pets.

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• Poshby Square Faux Leather Storage Ottoman, $130 (was $255) at Walmart
• Duhome Vanity Stool, $55 (was $67) at Walmart
• Zunmos Ottoman Vanity Stool Chair with Storage, $30 was $50 at Walmart

Starting at just $21, the Concetta Storage Ottoman Bench is an affordable way to add seating, storage, and style all at once. If you've been looking for a simple solution to tame everyday clutter, now's a great time to grab one while it's still on sale!

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Long before it became a defining hit of the hair metal era, one of its most beloved songs was shaped by an unlikely source 43 years ago.

Def Leppard was recording the second single for their breakthrough LP Pyromania when lead singer and songwriter Joe Elliott found himself in a quandary. He didn't have a chorus for the song that would eventually become "Rock of Ages."

The band was chugging through the album's recording process, Ultimate Classic Rock reported, when they came to a standstill. Despite a push from their producer Robert "Mutt" Lange, there was no link to pull together the soon-to-be hard rock classic.

After the band exited the studio, a local church used it to record some vocals. They left a few of their hymn books behind. Then, inspiration hit.

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"We came in the next day, and there were a couple of hymn books left behind, and one of them was in the control room. It was open to the hymn 'Rock of Ages,'" Elliott said in an interview for the website Leppard Vault,

"I remember picking it up and looking at it, and Mutt must have been playing the chorus. It went past, and I looked at this thing, and I went, 'How about this?' I started singing 'Rock of Ages,' and he spins around in his chair, and whoever else was in the room went, '[Expletive] yeah! That's great!' So that's how the chorus was born."

One of the tune's musicians was Thomas Dolby, who had a 1982 hit with the song "She Blinded Me With Science." He was credited under the pseudonym Booker T. Boffin so as not to confuse listeners.

The song was anchored by Lange's now-iconic count-in for the band. He used a gibberish set of words to catch their attention and begin the recording process, "Gunter, gleiben, glauchen, globen."

"Rock of Ages" would peak at No. 16 on the Billboard charts in August 1983. It would remain a chart staple for 15 weeks.

The hard rock smash inspired a hit Broadway musical of the same name in 2009. Following, a film adaptation was created in 2012.

"Rock of Ages" was ranked No. 1 on the list of the 20 Greatest Hair Metal Anthems of All Time in 2015 by Louder.

Related: 1986 Blue-Collar Rock Anthem Scores a Remarkable Chart Resurgence 40 Years After Its Release

If you have a drawer full of past guest lanyards or regularly count down the days until your next weekend getaway at sea, you might want to pay close attention to your cruise account.

Carnival Cruise Line is currently preparing for one of the most significant changes to its passenger experience in years. In less than three months, the line will officially retire its long-standing Very Important Fun Person (VIFP) loyalty model. Replacing it on September 1, 2026, is the brand-new, spend-based "Carnival Rewards" program—and park-and-cruise veterans need to know exactly how this shift alters their upcoming sailings.

To clear up growing confusion among the fan base, Carnival Cruise Line President Christine Duffy and popular Brand Ambassador John Heald recently sat down for a detailed video briefing to break down the mechanics of the new system.

The most immediate change loyalists will notice is a shift in how travelers climb the ranks to reach coveted "Milestone" perks. Under the outgoing VIFP rules, the line tallied your total number of individual vacations. The incoming program throws out the raw cruise count, focusing instead on the cumulative number of individual days you spend on the water. According to Duffy, this change actually serves as an acceleration tool for passengers who prefer longer itineraries over quick weekend getaways.

“With the new program, you’ll be able to achieve milestones faster using days sailed rather than just counting individual cruises,” Duffy explained in a recent YouTube video.

Under the revised structure, the first major milestone lands at 50 days, which instantly hits a passenger's account with 5,000 Carnival Reward Points. Reaching 100 days secures 10,000 points, with an additional 10,000-point packet provided for every 100-day block achieved moving forward.

While this new rewards chart replaces the automatic onboard credits previously tied to milestone sailings, these new points carry flexible purchasing power. Travelers will be able to apply them directly toward future cruise fares or redeem them on board for upscale specialty steakhouse dinners, spa treatments or beverage packages.

Related: This Cruise Line Is Planning a Massive Seven-Ship Rendezvous for America’s 250th Birthday

Beyond the math, the physical souvenirs you take home from the ship are getting a face-lift too. The iconic Sail & Sign room key cards are being completely reimagined with a sleek, vertical layout specifically optimized to fit clearly into standard lanyards. While the cards will retain their signature tier colors (red, gold, platinum and diamond), they are introducing a highly personalized badge of honor.

“One of the things that we know was so important is that we continue to recognize our guest loyalty in cruising with Carnival. And so, now on your card, it will include the number of days that you have sailed with Carnival from your very first cruise,” said Duffy.

Heald noted that this specific aesthetic change is bound to be an instant hit on the promenade deck. “They are going to love that,” Heald commented. “I think I can say more than any other cruise line in the world, our guests love to show their loyalty to show here exactly how many days.”

To keep your rewards straightforward, the line is separating your progress into two categories: "Stars" will dictate your overall tier status, while "Points" represent your redeemable spending cash. Passengers can accumulate points both at sea and through daily land-based purchases using the official Carnival Mastercard.

However, there's one critical catch that longtime travelers must navigate before the autumn launch. Because this is a entirely separate platform, your historical data will not automatically port over. If you don't manually sign up for the new program, you will miss out on your perks.

Related: How I Pack for a 5-Day Carnival Cruise With a Single Carry-On

“Of course we need to remind people that they must opt in,” Heald noted during the update.

Duffy emphasized that legal protocols prevent the cruise line from handling the enrollment behind the scenes. “It's a brand new program,” Duffy reminded viewers. “It has new terms and conditions, and guests should review and accept them. Privacy rules prevent us from automatically enrolling guests, even our longtime cruisers.”

Unless you currently hold the co-branded credit card—which automatically processes your enrollment under its existing financial terms—you will need to log into your online account profile and manually accept the new terms. With the September 1 cutoff fast approaching, taking a quick two-minute pause to protect your hard-earned vacation days ensures your loyalty status stays completely intact before you next step foot on the gangway.

Related: Here Are 4 Cool Things to Know About Carnival’s Transformed Private Island

The Backstreet Boys have unveiled a major surprise for fans as the iconic ’90s pop group prepares for another busy summer on the road.

In a post shared on Instagram, the group announced that their new single, “Bottle Up,” will be released on Friday. The song is featured in PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie, the upcoming animated family film set to arrive in theaters on Aug. 14.

“We’re so excited to announce that our new single ‘Bottle Up’ from ‘Paw Patrol: The Dino Movie’ will finally be yours this Fri June 12!” the boy band wrote.

“Tune in to CBS Mornings Friday at 8 A.M. to catch the world premiere of the ‘Bottle Up’ music video!”

Backstreet Boys perform onstage at the 60th Academy Of Country Music Awards.

Photo by Rich Polk/Penske Media via Getty Images

The announcement arrives as the Backstreet Boys continue a packed 2026 schedule that includes their ongoing Into the Millennium residency at Sphere in Las Vegas. The release also marks a rare collaboration between one of the most successful boy bands in music history and the globally popular PAW Patrol franchise.

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The new single was recently previewed in the latest trailer for PAW Patrol: The Dino Movie, giving fans their first listen to the track before its official release.

According to the film’s synopsis, the story follows the PAW Patrol pups after a mysterious storm leaves them stranded on an uncharted tropical island filled with dinosaurs. There, they meet Rex, a pup who has survived on the island for years and has become an expert on dinosaurs.

The adventure escalates when Mayor Humdinger begins mining the island's resources, accidentally triggering the eruption of a dormant volcano. The pups are then forced into a series of large-scale rescue missions as they attempt to save the island and its inhabitants.

Directed by Cal Brunker, who returns after helming previous entries in the franchise, the film features a voice cast that includes Mckenna Grace, Terry Crews, Jennifer Hudson, Jameela Jamil, Fortune Feimster, Bill Nye, Paris Hilton, Snoop Dogg and several returning cast members.

The trailer highlights the movie’s prehistoric setting, action-packed rescue sequences, and family-friendly humor while also introducing “Bottle Up” as part of the soundtrack.

The song announcement follows a series of high-profile appearances from the group in recent weeks.

In May, Nick Carter, Howie Dorough, Brian Littrell, AJ McLean, and Kevin Richardson headlined the BottleRock festival in Napa Valley. The performance featured many of the group’s biggest hits, including “Larger Than Life,” “It's Gotta Be You” and “As Long as You Love Me.”

During the show, Brian Littrell promoted the group's Las Vegas residency and encouraged fans to attend the performances scheduled throughout the summer.

Meanwhile, Nick Carter is preparing for another notable appearance later this month. The singer has been announced as the national anthem performer for the seventh annual Battle For Vegas charity softball event on June 27. Carter will also participate in the game as part of the team captained by Vegas Golden Knights forward Reilly Smith.

The Backstreet Boys remain one of the most successful acts in pop music. Formed in Orlando, Florida, in 1993, the group consists of Carter, Dorough, McLean, Littrell and Kevin Richardson. Over the course of more than three decades, they have sold more than 130 million records worldwide and built a catalog that includes hit albums such as Millennium, Black & Blue and DNA.

The release of “Bottle Up” adds another chapter to the group's long-running career, while introducing their music to a new generation of young moviegoers through one of today's most recognizable children's entertainment franchises.

Related: Backstreet Boys Announce Summer 2026 Shows at Las Vegas Sphere

So, you have a big decision to make. You sit down with your trusty pen and paper (or take to your phone's Notes app) and make your customary pros-and-cons list. It’s something that people have seemingly done since the beginning of time, and it can make your thoughts clearer and help you make tough choices. 

Lists of specific benefits and drawbacks frequently make their way into pop culture, from Rory Gilmore of Gilmore Girls zealously making multiple pros-and-cons lists to Leslie Knope of Parks and Recreation habitually creating decision-making lists. You can even turn to a “Pros-and-Cons List Maker” online.

Many individuals use this method to get all of their thoughts down, also finding it helpful to have a visual that makes it more obvious if one "side" is winning over the other with more entries.

As common as they are, making two columns to denote advantages and disadvantages of a certain life decision can actually be linked to several unique personality traits. Here, a psychologist tells Parade the "good" and "bad" aspects of this practicing this habit, eight personality traits typically linked to it and what to do if you relate to having "analysis paralysis."

Related: Psychologist Says if You Need Background Noise To Focus, You Likely Have These 7 Traits

Benefits and Downsides of Pros-and-Cons Lists

Psychologist Dr. Craig Kain says that says that pros-and-cons lists can help reduce anxiety and feelings of overwhelm. 

“If someone is generally anxious, making decisions can be extremely challenging,” he says. “No one functions well when they’re overwhelmed. Thoughts swirl around in our head and it becomes difficult to sort them out. Putting thoughts down on paper, and organizing them in lists, can often help reduce cognitive strain and exhaustion.”

Additionally, these types of lists can bring on a shift in perspective.

“Sometimes we get stuck seeing things in a singular way. In the absence of other perspectives, we become siloed and believe the way we see things is absolutely correct,” Dr. Kain says. “Making a pro-con list breaks us out of the silo and forces us to see things from an additional perspective.”

Pros-and-cons lists can help you pinpoint your values and “learn what’s significant,” as Dr. Kain says. 

He explains, “Just the act of putting together a pro-con list forces us to identify important things. Many times we rush through life never pausing to ask whether something we’re thinking of doing, or buying or saying has value. Making a pro-con list can be an exercise in mindfulness where we observe and identify things that are of consequence to us.”

Although these lists have their benefits, there are some negative things to consider as well. In fact, Dr. Kain says that they can be “problematic.” 

“If we rely on them too much or make them too elaborate, we can fall into ‘paralysis by analysis’ where we become unable to make a decision,” he says. “Pro-con lists are good, just not good for everything. Knowing when and how to use a pro-con list is paramount.” 

Related: 7 Psychological Benefits of Doing Puzzles, According to a Psychologist

chaofann/Getty Images

8 Common Traits of People Who Make Pros-and-Cons Lists, Psychologist Explains1. They typically have anxiety

“Anxious people look for ways to reduce stress and anxiety,” Dr. Kain says. “Decision-making, by its very nature, has consequences, and consequences often cause distress. Anxious people view a pro-con list as a way to minimize consequences and reduce distress.”

Related: If You Can Relate to These 9 Phrases, You Might Have High-Functioning Anxiety, According to a Psychologist

2. They don't usually trust their intuition

While the phrase “trust your gut” is exceedingly common, you may actually find it to be superficial or untrue. In your case, Dr. Kain says that you may prefer to rely “only on logic.”

“For people who don’t trust their intuition, pro-con lists are highly appealing because they provide, in theory, a rational way to make a decision,” he explains. 

3. They can be easily overwhelmed

A pros-and-cons list may simplify the decision-making process, but it can complicate things as well.

“People who are overwhelmed often do better by trying to keep things simple, so to them, a simple pro-con list seems very appealing,” Dr. Kain tells Parade. “The challenge for people who are easily overwhelmed is to keep the pro-con list simple. When they try to make an exhaustive pro-con list where every pro and con they can possibly think of is listed, they often find themselves thrown back into feeling overwhelmed.”

Related: 9 Signs Someone Is Emotionally Overstimulated, Not Actually Angry, According to a Psychologist

4. They tend to struggle to organize their thoughts

Dr. Kain says that some people are natural “writers” with lots of stories and thoughts playing out in their minds.

“Creative, non-linear people often find organization difficult,” he adds. “Putting things down on paper can be an effective way to make abstract thoughts concrete, and pro-con lists provide an exceptional amount of organizational structure for decision-making.”

Related: ‘I Struggled With Anxiety for Decades,’ Mel Robbins Reveals—Here’s What Made the Biggest Difference (Exclusive)

5. They see things in black and white

You might be someone who often has “black-and-white thinking,” meaning that you avoid ambiguity and uncertainty in life. 

“People like this see the world as dichotomous—it’s either this or that, right or wrong, yes or no,” Dr. Kain says. “People who avoid shades of gray are naturally drawn to pro-con lists because they are, by their very nature, black or white: you pick either option A or option B, depending on which list is longer. With a traditional pro-con list, there is no middle ground.”

6. They want to minimize mistakes

“Many people avoid taking risks because they are fearful of doing the wrong thing,” Dr. Kain says. “Pro-con lists appeal to risk-avoiders because they are seen as a way to make the right choice and avoid errors.”

Related: Individuals Who Grew Up as 'People-Pleasers' Usually Develop These 12 Traits as Adults, Psychologists Say

7. They like to be in control

You might use pros-and-cons lists “to bring order out of chaos,” as Dr. Kain puts it.

8. They can be impulsive

Even though pros-and-cons lists are typically associated with those who prefer control, on the flip side, you could be an impulsive person, and you know this about yourself.

Dr. Kain states, “People who are impulsive exist in a world where thought equals behavior, where if I think it, I do it. Pro-con lists are highly effective in breaking that reflex. In order to make a pro-con list, we have to pause. Slowing down and resting a beat to write down a pro-con list can be a powerful deterrent to regrettable impulsive behavior.”

Related: Psychologist Says Overthinking at Night Is Closely Linked to These 9 Traits

Final Takeaways if You Have Decision-Making Paralysis

You might have times that you make several pros-and-cons lists, only to end up at square one. There may be an equal number of pros and cons, leading you to experience decision-making paralysis. 

“People who view pro-con lists as a way to find the absolutely correct solution can easily get caught in a continuous loop, looking for the perfect solution, as opposed to the best decision,” Dr. Kain says. “This constant search leads people to edit and extend lists, making it more difficult to choose, not easier. Many times we must come to accept that there are no perfect solutions.”

Related: 115 Relatable Quotes About Overthinking to Inspire Peacefulness and Letting Go

There could be moments in your life when a pros-and-cons list won’t do the trick, and you have to be comfortable with the uncertainty of a situation. They can’t always “help you avoid regret,” as Dr. Kain says. 

“We believe making a pro-con list and selecting the choice with the most items results in enjoying whatever we’ve chosen. But that’s not how pro-con lists work when they are done to avoid regret,” he explains. “They are not designed to optimize pleasure. Avoiding what we believe is a bad decision is not the same as choosing something that we will take pleasure in.” 

Up Next:

Related: Psychologist Reveals That People Who Write Out To-Do Lists by Hand Share These 7 Unique Traits

Source:

• Dr. Craig Kain, psychologist.

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Finding the perfect t-shirt can feel a little like spotting a unicorn in the wild. It seems simple enough—just a basic tee, right?—until you realize how many boxes a truly great one has to check. The best t-shirts strike that elusive balance between comfort and streamlined. They skim the body without clinging, have sleeves that hit in just the right spot, and feature a neckline that flatters rather than stretches out after a few washes.

Material matters, too. Soft, breathable cotton is a perennial favorite, while a touch of stretch can help a tee keep its shape throughout the day. Weight is another factor. Because when it's too thin it can feel flimsy, but if it's too heavy and it loses that easygoing appeal. The sweet spot is a fabric that feels substantial but still light enough for everyday wear.

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AE Everyday T-Shirt, $9.99 (reg. $19.95) at American Eagle AE Everyday T-Shirt

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A great-fitting t-shirt is one of the hardest-working pieces in any wardrobe, like this AE Everyday T-Shirt at American Eagle. It can anchor a blazer, pair effortlessly with jeans, tuck neatly into a skirt, or become your go-to weekend staple.

American Eagle's take on the basic tee is made of a soft cotton jersey material, so it almost feels lived in before you even put it on. And it has a crewneck, which is a little more classic than, say, a v-neck.

Related: Aldi's Pretty Pink Slides Are the Best $9 You Can Spend on Your Feet This Week

The fit is not too tight, not too loose, and I personally love that the length hits at the waist—this isn't a cropped situation.

Right now the AE Everyday T-Shirt is half off in most colorways and shoppers can't stop raving about it.

"True to size," says a customer in their online review. "Perfect basic t-shirt."

Others admit they've purchased it in multiple colors because they love the fit so much.

"I now own seven of these t-shirts," says another reviewer. "They are the best basic tee in the cutest colors."

These tees work so well with Kohl's popular mid-rise linen pants (that also come in a bunch of different hues) and Target's sleek but comfy Crocs sandals. It just makes for an easy summer outfit that looks beautiful without a ton of effort.

Related: Five Below Just Turned Balletcore Into a Glow Show With These Pink Bow String Lights

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Our motto: you can never have too many shoes. We are constantly searching on our favorite retailers websites — Nordstrom Rack, Walmart, Amazon, Nike, and more — for the best trendy, budget-friendly, and functional styles. With the summer season coming soon, we've been focusing on flip flops and sandals, like these cozy Vionic Haven Mesh Recovery Slide Sandals, which are 50% off at Nordstrom Rack right now.

The sandals initially cost $100, but have been reduced to $50 just in time for warmer weather. The shoes are available in navy, pink, and white (though sizes are limited for the white colorway). The available sizes range from 6 to 11, with the product description citing the footwear as true to size. It's recommended to break the sandals in for a few hours throughout the first few days of use so that they become accustomed to your foot shape and provide ultimate comfort.

Vionic Haven Mesh Recovery Slide Sandal, $50 (was $100) at Nordstrom Rack

Courtesy of Nordstrom Rack

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The footwear design features a 1.25-inch with a 1-inch platform, so they provide height and stability. They're made with a textile upper, synthetic lining, and synthetic sole. The insole consists of a motion technology footbed that's shock-absorbent and offers contoured arch support with a deep heel cup for even more stability. The mesh upper is breathable, so these sandals are perfect for post-workout relief or those days when you're on your feet for hours.

Vionic Haven Mesh Recovery Slide Sandal, $50 (was $100) at Nordstrom Rack

Courtesy of Nordstrom Rack

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Furthermore, the gripped outsole provides traction so that you won't be slipping and sliding easily on uneven terrain. One shopper noted that they have high arches and normally have to wear inserts in all of their shoes for good support, but they can wear these sandals with no problem. "The footbed is textured but not painful for me at all," the customer wrote, adding that it's a "great house shoe."

Related: Nordstrom Rack’s 'Comfy and Cute' $25 Striped Linen-Blend Shorts Are Breathable for 'Hot Summer Days'

Other reviewers described the sandals as "stylish," "supportive," "perfect," "soothing," and "cute enough to wear out." Another customer said that they're wearing these "all day everyday," while a third noted that the sandals provide "instant comfort." Some even walk miles in them, so they truly are a long-term investment. 

Shop More Deals

• Dr. Scholl's Madison Cloud Slip-On Sneaker, $55 (was $80) at Nordstrom Rack
• Eurosoft Gannon Slingback Sandal, $45 (was $75) at Nordstrom Rack
• Cole Haan Zerogrand Stitchlite Wingtip Oxford Sneaker, $37 (was $170) at Nordstrom Rack

This is the kind of footwear that will last you for years, so make sure to shop for them while they're on sale. Add these comfy sandals to your Nordstrom Rack cart for 50% off! 

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Donnie Van Zant built a career on the hit “Hold On Loosley.” These days, however, he’s holding onto something else worth celebrating. As he marks another trip around the sun, the rocker is also toasting to amazing health news. 

In October 2025, Donnie shared with fans his prostate cancer diagnosis, along with his plan to fight the disease, which included a rigorous 45 sessions of radiation. Last March, Donnie joined his younger brother, Johnny Van Zant, on social media to share that his cancer is officially undetectable. 

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“Undetecable!” they both said, with Donnie adding, “I want to thank you for your prayers and your blessings and your thoughts,” before Johnny said, “God is great, ain't he?”

The news was posted to Instagram and Facebook with the caption reading in part: “Happy Sunday and it is a spectacular Sunday over here at Sulfar Water Studios! Donnie got some amazing news this week that the C word is undetectable so we cannot thank you enough for your continued prayers of healing. Please keep those coming as we try and keep that ole nasty stuff far, far away.”

Born June 11, 1952, in Jacksonville, Florida, Donnie is ringing in 74 years today. A rock vocalist and guitarist, he fronted the Southern rock outfit 38 Special, lured into music by his older brother, Ronnie Van Zant, the original singer for Lynyrd Skynyrd who died in 1977 (Johnny now fronts the band). 

Founded in 1974, 38 Special helped define the hard rock sound of the '70s with hits like “Hold On Loosely,” “Caught Up in You,” and “If I’d Been the One.” In 2013, Donnie exited the band and retired from heavy touring due to inner-ear nerve damage. But he couldn’t stay away from music for long. 

In 1998, Donnie teamed up with Johnny to form country rock duo Van Zant. Their debut, Brother to Brother, was a Southern blues-rock tribute to their late brother, while their 2005 release, Get Right With the Man, cemented their move into country music and spawned fan-favorite track “Help Somebody.” 

Their latest album, Always Look Up, arrived in 2024, marking their return to the spotlight after nearly two decades. Described on their website as a “bold venture into Christian-themed music,” the record stays true to their rock roots, while blending “faith-based lyrics with the gritty blues- and country-tinged rock sound the brothers are known for.”

Congratulations on the positive health update, Donnie. Here’s wishing you nothing but clear skies ahead. Happy birthday!

Related: Instantly Recognizable Southern-Rock Anthem From 1981 Is Hitting the Road Again

TikTok star Livvy Dunne is giving fans a closer look at a heartwarming moment involving her boyfriend, Pittsburgh Pirates pitcher Paul Skenes, after a surprise stop at a Little League practice captured attention across social media.

Dunne recently shared her reaction to the viral moment through a video reposted by House of Highlights on Instagram. 

The clip showed the former LSU gymnast reacting as Skenes unexpectedly pulled over during a drive home to spend time with young baseball players practicing at a local field.

The video featured Dunne's reaction alongside the caption: "Remembering your MLB bf is just a boy wdym he saw a little league team practicing while driving home and pulled over to show me and play catch with them."

Paul Skenes of the Pittsburgh Pirates watches the selection show with his girlfriend Olivia Dunne during the ROY 2024 National League Jackie Robinson Rookie of the Year Award Announcement.

Photo by Lucas Casel/MLB Photos via Getty Images

Part of the video also included footage Skenes recorded as he stopped at the field and joined the children for an impromptu baseball session.

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The moment quickly gained traction online, with many fans praising the Pittsburgh Pirates star for taking time out of his day to interact with aspiring young athletes.

According to reports, Skenes was driving home on Monday during a day off when he noticed a Little League team practicing under the lights in Wexford, Pennsylvania.

Feeling bored and with some extra time available, the National League Cy Young Award winner decided to pull over and watch the practice. What started as a casual stop soon became a memorable experience for everyone at the field.

As players recognized the Pirates ace, excitement spread quickly among the young athletes.

"We didn't believe it at first," 10-year-old Anthony Greco told USA Today. "but then we went over there and we saw him."

Rather than making a brief appearance, Skenes stayed for more than two hours. During that time, he signed autographs, posed for photos, talked baseball with players, and played catch with the team.

The day after his Little League visit, Skenes returned to work on the mound against the Los Angeles Dodgers. He allowed two runs across six innings before leaving the game with the score tied.

Although Pittsburgh eventually lost 12-3, the memories from his stop at the youth practice remained one of the biggest talking points surrounding the star pitcher.

Dunne and Skenes have become one of sports' most-followed young couples since meeting while attending LSU. The social media star regularly attends Pirates games and often shares glimpses of their relationship with fans.

For the Little Leaguers who received an unexpected visit from one of Major League Baseball's brightest stars, it was a day they are unlikely to forget anytime soon.

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Everyone has that one group chat. Someone drops an inspired idea for a real vacation, the initial response is instant and unanimous, and then—inevitably—it is followed by absolutely nothing. Schedules collide, picking a hotel feels impossible and deposits suddenly feel like a massive commitment because nobody wants to be the one stuck chasing people down for cash. If your text threads have been stuck in planning mode for longer than anyone wants to admit, a massive new fleet-wide rollout from Virgin Voyages is aiming to give those conversations a much cleaner ending.

The exclusively adults-only cruise line has officially launched its brand-new unified Groups program, specifically designed to strip the headache out of traveling with your crew. Moving forward, groups booking eight or more cabins can hold their spaces with no deposit required up front. Even better for the budget-conscious planner? Your group's fare rate locks in the exact moment you book, completely protecting everyone in your party from future price hikes no matter what happens to general cruise pricing down the road. To sweeten the pot, every single cabin in the group now automatically comes with a Group Bar Tab of up to $200, scaled to the length of your voyage.

Related: Your Favorite Adults-Only Cruise Just Reimagined Its Signature Spaces for Alaska

Virgin Voyages

"Group trips aren't really about the destination. They're about the people," said Nathan Rosenberg, chief brand experience, marketing and momentum officer at Virgin Voyages in a recent release. "Some of life's best moments happen when the people you care about most are all in the same place at the same time, and that's become harder than ever to pull off. Our ships are designed to bring people together, creating space for the conversations, laughter and shared moments that are often missing from everyday life. The logistics get everyone there. What they remember is how it felt to disconnect from the noise, reconnect with each other and create memories they'll be talking about for years."

Related: Virgin Voyages Finally Brings Its Adults-Only Style to LA and Alaska

Part of what makes a mega-ship cruise so inherently perfect for a "friendcation" or family reunion is that it solves the age-old argument of trying to please everyone at dinner. Onboard Virgin's fleet, groups have access to a dedicated dining concierge to sort out up to three group dinner reservations. The ships feature more than 20 distinct restaurants boasting menus from Michelin-starred chefs, all without a single cover charge. That means the foodies can indulge in upscale dining, the night owls can hit the club or catch live entertainment, the gym rats can tackle spin classes with floor-to-ceiling ocean views, and the spa fans can disappear into a thermal suite mud room—all before everyone meets back up for drinks.

The new program is custom-built to handle everything from milestone birthdays in your 40s, 50s and 60s to bachelorette parties and wedding groups. For parties wanting to elevate a specific milestone, you can tack on custom add-ons like buying out a restaurant for the night, booking a private show or arranging for in-cabin champagne and flowers on arrival.

Under the standard rules, you earn one completely free cabin for every 16 booked. However, if you act fast, Virgin is running a limited-time launch promotion: groups created through June 30, 2026, can score that free cabin for every 12 booked across all voyages. With itineraries sailing from Miami, Barcelona, Athens and Seattle to over 150 destinations, the logistical heavy lifting is officially handled—leaving your group chat with only one thing left to argue about: picking a calendar date.

Related: Virgin Voyages Just Handed the Keys to Its Flagship to 1,000 Content Creators

In 1956, a future football legend was born in western Pennsylvania.

Joe Montana turns 70 on June 11, more than four decades after becoming one of the most successful quarterbacks in NFL history. Known as "Joe Cool" and "The Comeback Kid," Montana built a legacy defined by championships, clutch performances and an uncanny ability to deliver when the stakes were highest.

Before becoming an NFL legend, Montana starred at the University of Notre Dame. In 1977, he helped lead the Fighting Irish to an 11-1 record and a national championship, highlighted by a 38-10 victory over top-ranked Texas in the 1978 Cotton Bowl. His performance cemented his reputation as a clutch quarterback long before he reached the professional ranks.

Montana spent most of his 16 NFL seasons with the San Francisco 49ers, where he helped transform the franchise into a dynasty. Working alongside head coach Bill Walsh, Montana became the ideal quarterback for the innovative West Coast offense and ushered in a new era of football built around precision passing and timing.

His list of accomplishments is staggering. Montana won four Super Bowls, earned three Super Bowl MVP awards, was named NFL MVP twice and made eight Pro Bowls. Yet one achievement continues to stand above the rest: he retired with a perfect 4-0 record in Super Bowls. The only other QB to do that was Terry Bradshaw.

Even more remarkably, Montana never threw an interception in a Super Bowl. Across four championship games, he completed 83 of 122 passes for 1,142 yards, 11 touchdowns and zero interceptions while posting a Super Bowl passer rating of 127.8, still an NFL record. Not even Tom Brady accomplished that.

Many of Montana's greatest moments came when everything was on the line.

In the 1981 NFC Championship Game, he connected with Dwight Clark on the iconic touchdown pass forever known as "The Catch," helping send the 49ers to their first Super Bowl. Seven years later, he authored one of the most famous drives in NFL history, leading a 92-yard march in the closing minutes of Super Bowl XXIII and throwing the game-winning touchdown pass to John Taylor with just 34 seconds remaining.

For years, Montana was widely regarded as the greatest quarterback in football history. NFL.com ranked him No. 2 on its all-time quarterback list, noting that "for a long time, it was Joe Montana and then everybody else" in the debate over the game's greatest signal-caller. Bleacher Report and ESPN have also ranked him among the top two quarterbacks ever.

His reputation for delivering in big moments became so legendary that Sports Illustrated once named him the greatest clutch quarterback of all time. The nicknames "Joe Cool" and "The Comeback Kid" reflected a player who never seemed rattled, no matter the circumstance.

After leaving San Francisco, Montana spent two seasons with the Kansas City Chiefs and helped lead the franchise to its first AFC Championship Game since the AFL-NFL merger. He was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2000.

Today, Montana's place in football history remains secure. While debates over the greatest quarterback ever continue, few players can match his combination of championships, postseason excellence and unforgettable moments.

And no quarterback who retired after winning four Super Bowls can say they were undefeated in every single one and never threw an interception in any.