We ring in the New Year with a New Moon on December 30. This is the perfect opportunity to set our intentions with conviction. Unlike many New Year’s resolutions that we often abandon after a few weeks, the energy of the planets this year supports us to follow through with our goals and truly transform our lives.
Read your Weekly Horoscope for December 29 to January 5, including a glittering New Year's Eve horoscope.
New Year's Eve Horoscope Overview: What To Expect Astrologically This Week
Brit + Co
Many of us are aware of vague, innate blockages that prevent us from living life to the fullest, without fully understanding their origins. These blockages—whether insecurities or scars from childhood or even past lives—cling stubbornly to our consciousness, hindering us from achieving our goals and ideals. Chiron, known as the Wounded Healer and Shaman of the Zodiac, often holds the key to these obstructions in our birth charts.
This week, Mercury, the planet of communication and knowledge, forms a harmonious trine with Chiron. This alignment encourages us to delve deep, uncover our impediments, and, in doing so, heal and move forward. Writing can be a powerful tool in this process, as can conversations with a therapist or astrologer.
Big Lessons In Communication Are Coming This Week
Brit + Co
Also this week, Chiron squares Saturn, the planet of responsibility and structure. This aspect challenges us to put in the work to remove these obstructions and create a solid framework for healing and learning from our wounds. The Sun in Capricorn sextiles Saturn in Pisces on January 4, further supporting us to uncover hidden hindrances and to find ways to fully express ourselves.
On January 2, Venus, the planet of personal love, enters Pisces, the archetype of universal love. Venus will remain in Pisces until February 5, when it transitions into Aries. During this month-long transit, we are encouraged to express love in refined and dignified ways that encompass humanity and all living beings. This is a time to deepen personal love connections and strengthen bonds with those we care for, including our animal companions. Imagine the impact if we all focused on spreading this healing, loving energy in our interactions with the world!
However, the peaceful and loving energy of Venus in Pisces is tempered by Mars, the planet of war, which will again oppose Pluto, the planet of transformation. This marks the second of three exact oppositions, bringing aggressive and confrontational energy. While this alignment reflects potential escalation in global conflicts, on a personal level it offers an opportunity to channel this intensity toward achieving personal goals. Use this energy wisely to propel yourself toward freedom and positive change, but avoid aggressive behavior and potentially dangerous situations.
Read Your Weekly Horoscope For December 29 to January 5, 2025
Aries (March 21 - April 19)
Your innate energy and determination are admirable. This week, if you find yourself feeling defensive or combative, take a moment to pause before reacting. Avoid acting on impulse. Instead, channel your energy creatively and ensure your actions are strategic and purposeful.
Taurus (April 21-May 21)
Taurus (April 20 – May 20)
This week brings the potential for positive developments at work. Relationships with superiors and coworkers are likely to be harmonious, and initiatives born of creativity and passion will be well-received. If you’re off work, indulge in artistic or creative projects for deep satisfaction. New intimate relationships formed during this time may grow into mutually supportive bonds.
Gemini (May 21 – June 20)
Focus on enhancing understanding and healing in personal relationships. Purposefully set aside time for meaningful conversations with loved ones. Professionally, negotiations may yield favorable outcomes if they align with shared goals. Collaboration will bring greater success than working alone.
Cancer (June 21 – July 22)
This week brings profound and soulful personal relationships. You may experience transformative exchanges, but their intensity could be overwhelming. Trust in your inner strength to navigate any challenges. Issues related to joint finances or shared resources may arise; approach these with clarity and fairness.
Leo (July 23 – August 22)
Take this opportunity to evaluate your daily routines and self-care practices. Are you using your time effectively? Replace unproductive habits with ones that promote health and balance. Consider joining a gym or hiking group to gain mutual support, which will amplify your success.
Virgo (August 23 – September 22)
Step back from technology and social media to recalibrate. Spend time in nature or places where you find peace. Journaling can uncover valuable insights during this introspective period. Reflect on your growth and the lessons of your past, including the path of your ancestors. Honor the journey that has shaped you.
Libra (September 23 – October 22)
Infuse joy and creativity into your New Year’s resolutions. Focus on artistic expression, as this can reconnect you with your inner child and bring renewal to your relationships. Break free from monotony and embrace activities that affirm life and love.
Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)
This is a time of deep psychological transformation. Consider therapy or counseling to uncover and resolve longstanding emotional patterns. Significant changes in parental relationships may arise. Confronting these issues will empower you to live authentically and free of emotional baggage. View this time as an excavation; there is no limit to the gems that might be revealed.
Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)
Personal growth is tied to your relationships. Foster collaboration and reciprocity as you deepen bonds with others. Authentic partnerships based on trust and honesty offer the best opportunities for self-discovery and expansion. Avoid over-idealizing relationships or compromising your needs to keep the peace.
Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)
Engage your mind in new ways. Explore meditation or creative outlets to break free from old thought patterns. Be patient and compassionate with yourself as you embark on this journey. With effort, you’ll unlock greater joy and freedom in life.
Aquarius (January 20 – February 19)
Uncover hidden aspects of your psyche and seek emotional and psychological liberation. Work with a counselor or explore ways to let go of generational trauma or outdated attitudes. This self-exploration will deepen your understanding of familial dynamics and enhance your personal growth.
Pisces (February 20 – March 20)
Stay grounded and question illusions. While noble, idealistic projects may draw you in, ensure there’s a practical plan to achieve them. Keep a dream journal to uncover insights about your inner world. This is the beginning of a transformative period for your self-awareness and growth.
Looking for a more thorough reading? Reach out to Tina at SevenSistersAstrology.com!
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Trader Joe’s, though very tempting with their vast array of sweet treats, is truly a secret weapon for eating healthy and sustaining a healthy diet. TJ’s aisles are packed full of nutritious (yet delicious) options, all of which are often easy to prepare and even easier to devour. Whether you’re focusing on fueling your workouts with protein, cutting back on sugar, or simply eating more whole foods in 2025, Trader Joe’s has plenty of affordable, wholesome finds to keep your diet inspired.
Below, find the best Trader Joe’s products that make sticking to your 2025 resolutions a breeze!
Trader Joe's
Creamy Dreamy Hummus
Hummus is an instant snack hack if you're trying to eat a high-protein diet – this $3 one from TJ's boasts a "thick, rich, and exquisitely creamy" texture. Slap it on a wrap or dip in some veggie sticks to give your meal a nice boost.
Trader Joe's
Vegetable Root Chips
These veggie root chips make a deliciously healthy swap for your traditional potato chips as they're packed with fiber and plenty of color to enjoy!
Trader Joe's
Organic Super Bread
Though you might not guess it at first glance, this loaf contains whole wheat flour, organic rye flour, organic rolled oats, organic millet, organic pumpkin seeds, organic flax seeds, organic sunflower seeds, organic carrots, organic dried apple, and organic dried banana – that's a mouthful! If your 2025 goal is to eat more whole foods without sacrificing a ton of familiar foods, this is the bread for you!
Trader Joe's
Cut Sweet Potatoes
These 'taters come already cut, so all you gotta do is toss 'em in some olive oil and spices, bake on a sheet pan, pair it with a protein, and voila! Dinner is served.
Trader Joe's
Organic Dried Ataulfo Mango Slices
These mango slices make a great healthy snack to enjoy on the go. They taste just like candy, except without all the excess processed sugar.
Trader Joe's
Solid White Albacore Tuna
Protein fiends already know what's up with canned tuna. It's the perfect base for tuna salads, wraps, and bakes. Plus, one can goes for just $2 at TJ's – stock up!
Trader Joe's
Caesar Broccoli Bake Kit
This pre-made kit makes getting a side dish on the table super easy and healthy. It comes with all the fixings, like Caesar dressing, crouton crumbs, and Parmesan cheese.
Trader Joe's
10 Minute Farro
Traditionally, farro takes anywhere from 30 to 45 minutes to fully cook. This bag of Trader Joe's farro defies all tradition and is ready in just 10 minutes! The whole grain is really rich in protein and fiber, so you know you'll be eating healthy when you choose to chow down.
Trader Joe's
Vanilla Bean Whole Milk Greek Yogurt
Greek yogurt is *the* breakfast hack to rule all breakfast hacks. It's high in protein, plus is typically packed with plenty of probiotics to keep your gut real healthy. Enjoy a heaping scoop with some fresh (or frozen) fruit, granola, and honey to get a tasty start to the day.
Trader Joe's
Rainbow's End Trail Mix Bars
Healthy snacks can be really hard to track down at TJ's, especially since they have so many sinful goodies on their shelves. Luckily, these trail mix bars exist, bringing a yummy medley of oats, nuts, raisins, and chocolatey bits to satisfy that sweet tooth without weighing you down during the day!
Trader Joe's
Carb Savvy Tortillas
If you're set on watching your intake of carbs, these tortillas are a must-have. They contain 21% of your daily recommended value of fiber (6 grams each) according to TJ's, and make an excellent addition to wraps, quesadillas, or just as a snack.
Trader Joe's
Organic Brown Rice Cake Thins
These rice cakes may be thinner than most, but they still boast an enjoyably dense texture, perfect for layering on some peanut butter and banana for an easy, fulfilling snack.
Trader Joe's
Pulled Chicken Salsa Verde
This fully-cooked chicken is ideal for people seeking a convenient, time-saving meal. The salsa verde flavoring instantly qualifies them for delicious tacos, quesadillas, burritos, burrito bowls, nachos – the list goes on! Just pop it in the microwave for 4 minutes, and boom – time to eat!
Trader Joe's
Perfect Bar Peanut Butter Protein Bar
This protein bar is called the Perfect Bar because it's literally perfect. The sweetness is at just the right level, the texture is so satisfying, and the high protein content (17 grams) fills you up easily if you're seeking a substantial mid-day snack.
Trader Joe's
Classic Greek Salad
With this ready-made salad kit, you won't have to think too hard at all about what you're having for a healthy lunch. Feel free to grab 5 at a time, because you will be hooked. Add some chicken or salmon on top to bulk it up with extra protein!
Trader Joe's
Stir Fry Veggie Blend
Why pick up 5 or more individual ingredients for stir fry when you can just grab this $3 bag, cook it, and call it a day? We highly recommend cheffing this up with TJ's Soyaki sauce and your protein of choice.
Trader Joe's
High Protein Organic Tofu
One serving of this tofu contains 14 grams of protein, which is higher than what you can typically find elsewhere. Plus, it's certifiably organic, so it's always gonna be clean eating-friendly.
Trader Joe's
Organic Tricolor Quinoa
Quinoa makes an impressive grain base for bowls and salads. This one boasts a healthy mix of white, red, and black quinoa for some good variety!
Trader Joe's
Crunchy Curls
These 100% vegan bites are the ultimate movie snack and are way healthier than your average bag of theater popcorn. They're made with lentil flour and potato starch for a superb texture every time.
Trader Joe's
Organic Brown Rice & Quinoa Fusilli Pasta
This organic, gluten-free pasta delivers 4 grams of protein and 2 grams of fiber per serving, making each meal nutritious as ever.
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Fashion trends come and go, but there are some that live in our hearts forever. Whether it’s pure nostalgia or reminiscing on just how bad they were, there are plenty of embarrassing and outdated fashion trends I can list off the top of my head: micro vests, chevron dresses, and *shudders* skinny jeans. (How did we let that happen?!)
Since it’s the season of cold, cold, cold, I figured I’d share several outdated winter coat trends that you simply shouldn’t shop anymore since they’re no longer en vogue, not practical at all, or all of the above. Plus, I’m offering some fresher winter coat alternatives to keep you lookin’ oh-so stylish this time of year!
From ultra-cropped coats to army jackets, here are the top 5 “outdated” winter coat trends to avoid at all costs, and what you should shop instead.
Nordstrom
Cotton On The Mother Puffer Cropped Soft Fleece Jacket
1. Swap cropped coats for long coats.
Because what good does a cropped coat do? They aren't very practical for keeping you comfy and warm, especially if you live somewhere where the temperature dips below freezing on the regular.
Plus, cropped coats often come in overly puffy, chunky styles, so they mess with your proportions, which is not flattering at all.
Quince
Quince Stretch Crepe Trench Coat
Instead, opt for an ever-stylish trench coat. They’re all the rage right now, plus they’ll give you that nice ‘quiet luxury’ look. Trench coats are shoppable in all sorts of fabrications, but if warmth and practicality is what you’re looking for, I’d recommend snagging a wool one.
Target
Wild Fable Faux Leather Oversized Moto Jacket
2. Trade faux leather for real leather.
When it comes to fashion trends, investment pieces stand the test of time – which is why you shouldn’t be shopping any faux leather winter coats. Not only do they have the possibility of looking cheap-y, they might not last you as long as a real leather coat would.
Nordstrom
Treasure & Bond Leather Jacket
Look for a real leather coat in a timeless color you know you’re going to wear again and again, like a deep brown or plain black. These neutral colors make ‘em easy to style with everything else you've got going on in your closet, plus a 100% real leather will easily stand up to any weathering as you don it throughout the years.
Abercrombie & Fitch
Abercrombie & Fitch Utility Jacket
3. Toss any army jackets (especially camo) for leopard print coats.
Army jackets feel so 2014 – and remember when camo was all the rage? Well, it’s not so much anymore. Army jackets and camo feel so 2014 for a reason, and that’s because much trendier (and much more flattering) coats have taken center stage.
Abercrombie & Fitch
Abercrombie & Fitch Faux Fur Coat
This season, try switching out your outdated army jacket for a different pattern, like leopard. Contrary to popular belief, you can wear leopard and not look too over-the-top. A basic leopard print coat (I love the fuzzy-looking ones) is an easy statement piece to throw over all-black outfits. We’ve matured past camo – try something new this time around!
H&M
4. Trade bomber jackets for barn jackets.
Bomber jackets are another ‘so 2014’ pick in my opinion. While they can work well in some instances, I don’t think they are very flattering. They typically come with elastic waistbands and wristbands, which can constrict your figure and movements in a way that just doesn’t feel good.
Free People
Loosen up a bit instead with barn jackets, AKA chore coats. They boast a roomier silhouette, plus everyone seems to be donning them right now. They add a subtle utilitarian look to any outfit, all while letting you layer up underneath with your favorite sweaters and long sleeve tees.
Urban Outfitters
Silence + Noise Yavonne Faux Fur Coat
5. Ditch dramatic furs for more stylish shearling coats.
While I do love a bit of drama, dramatic furs are just way too extra. They can distract from your look easily and drown out your figure instead of flattering it.
Nordstrom
Topshop Faux Shearling Aviator Jacket
I suggest toning down this “outdated” winter coat style by wearing some stylish shearling instead. Shearling will keep you just as warm, but it looks a pinch more polished. You can shop shearling coats in many colors or snag one that has mixed materials for added visual interest.
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Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.
So, you've found your 2025 word of the year and are ready for the biggest reset of your life. Now all you have to do is map out how you're going to get there. You could opt for vague ideas that live only in your head, but when has that motivated you to achieve your goals in the past?
If you think we're putting you on the spot, we're not! We're here to encourage you to dream boldly by being detailed about what you actually want. Of course, we have the perfect list of deep questions and journal prompts so you can tap into the life you want to live.
Here are 25 deep questions to ask yourself and journal about to guide you toward your 2025 vision of personal growth and self-improvement:
Questions About Your Daily Routine
Please don't throw eggs at us! We know you don't want to feel governed by a schedule like you're in grade school, but there are benefits to having something to guide you daily. According to Northwestern Medicine, you can "reduce stress" and even "get better rest" by having a routine.
If you've been promising yourself to improve in these areas, here are 5 questions to ask yourself:
- How many of hours of sleep do I typically get per night?
- What distractions can I eliminate before bed so I'm not groggy in the morning? (i.e., no more binge watching my favorite TV shows or scrolling mindlessly on TikTok)?
- Do I have a morning routine or do I rush through taking a shower, brushing my teeth, and eating breakfast?
- How do I usually feel when I get to work?
- Am I okay with setting a reminder for myself to take a break during the work day so I can stretch my legs, eat lunch, or go for a quick walk?
Questions About Your Self-Care
Making time for your self-care is a part of your daily routine, but we want to dig deeper by sharing questions that'll help you reflect on how you treat yourself.
- How do I want to feel about myself in 2025?
- Did I have moments I looked in the mirror and didn't like the way my skin or body looked this year?
- Have I been prioritizing my mental health?
- Did I make space for exercising (i.e. walking, yoga, running, etc.)?
- Did I create healthy boundaries with family, friends, or someone I'm dating?
Brit + Co
Questions About Your Career
We almost said, "Here comes the fun part," but that would be unfair for people who consider other areas of their lives more important to chasing a career. If you are focused on pursuing something you're passionate about or simply want to earn a new promotion, here's what you can ask yourself:
- What are my biggest career accomplishments this year?
- What skills do I need to sharpen that align with the position I want?
- How do I respond to constructive criticism?
- What is my usual response to change or tight deadlines?
- Do I ask for help when I don't understand a project or concept?
Brit + Co
Questions About Your Home
Your home is anywhere that you live even if you're renting or living with your parents for the time being.
- How did the energy in my home feel?
- Did I do anything to make it feel like me?
- How can I create a relaxing environment in my room that promotes rest and relaxation?
- Do I want to have a certain aesthetic for my living room, office, etc.?
- What does having a clean and organized home mean to me?
Questions About Your Relationships
Have you been making excuses for toxic friends or ignoring red flags? If it's okay, we're going to sit by you and gently suggest it's time for a change. The kind of life you want to live can't be weighed down by old habits of yours or some of the people you've been spending time with, especially if you've been feeling uncomfortable.
- What kind of friendships do I want to have in 2025?
- Do I have a reliable support system?
- What did I love about my romantic relationship this year?
- Are there certain conversations I need to have with family members, friends, or my partner that I've been avoiding?
- Do I need to change the way I show up in my platonic or romantic relationships?
Get a jumpstart on transforming your space for 2025 with easy feng shui tips!
The '90s were a great time, according to millennials. It was a time of rollerblading, listening to cassette players, playing Super Mario Bros. on Nintendos, having birthday parties at Chuck E. Cheese, and more. Besides this and other pop culture moments that went viral before social media existed, the '90s gave us classic stores we used to frequent as kids.
Despite meeting their demise as the Y2K age took over, we'll never forget the fun memories (and maximalist vibes) these stores gave us!
Take a walk down memory lane by revisiting our favorite '90s stores that will take you back in time (and make you feel old):
Getty Images
1. Party City
Our hearts are hurting because we don't understand why one of the most popular decor stores is closing. The brand was apparently facing "financial challenges," according to it's CEO Barry Litwin (via CNN). There were other issues behind the scenes, but everything trickled down to money, or a lack thereof.
It's so shocking because some of us just picked up a few holiday items from Party City this month! It was one of the stores that seemed to have everything we needed before Amazon became the mega wholesaler that it is today.
I guess this means we should've cherished Party City a little more because it's officially gone.
Getty Images
2. Blockbuster
Long before streaming platforms like Netflix and Peacock existed, people used to spend Friday nights looking at rows of VHS movies to rent. If you were lucky, your parents would stop by Blockbuster before picking up pizza for dinner. It was the ultimate '90s treat…until it wasn’t.
When we want to remember what it felt like visiting Blockbuster, we fast forward to that one scene in I Am Legend where Dr. Robert Neville is going to 'rent' movies. It's a little cringe now that we think about it, but it's the closet memory we have of spending at least 30 minutes picking out the VHS or DVD to watch.
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3. Circuit City
Raise your hand if you remember getting your first CD player or computer from Circuit City. The name alone conjures fun memories of running up and down the aisles pretending we could afford all the fun electronics. We watched desktop computers slowly morph into laptops, which seemed like an exciting time. Also, some of us watched our parents lament the cost of the required Texas Instrument calculators we needed for math class.
Although Circuit City isn't around like it used to be, we'll never forget watching the world change through its eyes.
Getty Images
4. Virgin Music Store
If you wanted to be a part of the cool crowd, you visited the Virgin music store. We aptly remember the neon sign and memorable displays that beckoned to us. Although we could find some of the same CDs at Circuit City, the store’s design didn’t feel stuffy.
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5. Radio Shack
This one’s personal because we stood in lines with our parents when they bought their first cell phones and DVD players. Also, one of our parents may or may not have purchased a very coveted Bratz convertible that played music from Radio Shack.
Even though it wasn’t the biggest store, it gave us a taste of what the future had for us. Little did we know we’d lose this sweet store though.
6. Border's
As much as we love recommending books from Amazon and local bookshops, we miss when Border’s was around. There’s not much to say about this store besides how grown-up we felt when our parents would let us spend time there while they shopped at their favorite stores in the mall.
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7. KB Toys
Aside from Toys ‘R’ Us, we also remember when K.B. Toys was popular. Not unlike today, there wasn’t such a thing as having too many toy stores. Sometimes we found things at K.B.s that felt like a treat. The cluttered aisles probably annoyed our parents, but we were always happy when we were allowed to pick something out.
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8. Wet Seal
Yes, Wet Seal made the list of stores we loved in the '90s. Unlike Goody’s, it was specifically geared towards pre-teens and teens who wanted to wear the latest fashions. It was one of the the places to discover your style at the time even if it meant leaving piles of clothes for weary store associates to put back (sorry!)
Though we miss it, we hope no one tries to revive it because we’re sure we’d see a few outdated fashion trends.
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9. Esprit
This was another store that screamed 'All American Teen Store.' Unlike Wet Seal, the store's layout and clothing were a little more 'sophisticated.' It spoke to teens who are now adults with a sleeker preppy style. It sounds like a reach, but it's not if you think about it. This store could give you logomania, tenniscore, or something that resembled the outfits from Saved By the Bell at the same time.
10. Goody's
Were you really a '90s kid if your mom didn’t drag you to Goody’s? Shockingly enough, we hardly ever complained because it felt like a huge store we could play in. Plus, it had clothes for everyone.
And if there were a sale during BTS season? You could always count on our moms to leave the store with stuffed shopping bags.
Which '90s stores do you wish were still open? Let us know on Facebook!