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Take a cue from one of our favorite singers with this Memorial Day recipe. This throwback tribute to T. Swift’s 2014 cake will always be worthy of bringing back via baking pan. (via Brit + Co.)

If you want to set off some serious fireworks at your Fourth of July BBQ, be sure to whip up a creamy, berry-filled treat like this one! Loads of berries make for a healthier alternative to other dessert options, which is always a good idea. (via Brit + Co.)

What’s the only thing better than homemade donuts? Nothing. Except when they’re red, white, and blue all over. Keep 'em plain or add sprinkles, chocolate chips, or even edible glitter. However you choose to serve them, they're sure to be the star of the show. (via Brit + Co.)

If you’ve already got a couple of boxes of white cake mix, you’re well on your way to making this simple poke cake. Once you’ve poked your holes in the cake, black cherry gelatin is poured in and left to form those signature red stripes. Yummm. (via Brit + Co.)

For a healthier treat option, these chocolate-covered bananas lend themselves to some pretty cool decorations, alongside getting in some fruit! (via Brit + Co.)

Caprese salad just got a fruity update. It’s hard to beat the simple combo of sweet tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fresh basil — unless you add a handful of blueberries, too! (via Brit + Co.)

Have pie, will travel (to the BBQ, of course). Try out different flavors of cream pie, or just make yours plain. Whichever you choose, don't forget about the berries on top! Our personal fave design is the star, but the stripes work *just* as well. (via Brit + Co.)

Jello shots are a must for the 4th. Instead of choosing between red, white or blue, why not layer all three? Top each shot with a squirt of whipped cream and edible blue glitter to make them really special. We'll take two, please! (via Brit + Co.)

If you’re scrambling for a last minute treat to bring to your neighborhood BBQ, scramble no more! This festive, patriotic treat is perfectly summery and super easy to make. (via Brit + Co.)

This delish DIY pudding will satisfy your craving for something sweet, *and* it’s totally vegan, so it's great for anyone who deals with dietary restrictions. What’s more, it’s super simple to prepare for your holiday picnic. Drizzle some honey on top for good measure. (via Brit + Co.)

Get your chill fill of creamy desserts a la classic cone, layered milkshake, or ice cream “soup.” YUM. Try one of these recipes, or try a different one each day of the holiday weekend! (via Brit + Co.)

Funfetti is always a great idea, but you *might* want to buy more sprinkles than you think you need… just in case you feel like adding extra on top. The good news is that this technique of icing the cake is a lot easier than it looks, and is a great beginner baker method to know. (via Brit + Co.)

Red, white and blue desserts don’t have to be artificially colored. These swirled homemade popsicles feature a mix of yogurt and berries that mimic the colors of the flag – naturally. (via Real Food By Dad)

This refreshing cocktail will be the buzz of your cookout. Hibiscus tea, fresh ber ries, and lemon sparkling water combine with vodka to make the most incredible summer drink that’s perfect for Independence Day. Just leave out the booze to make it appropriate for anyone who prefers a mocktail. Don't worry, it's still super tasty. (via My Modern Cookery)

Get your sparklers ready, because this cake deserves some *extra* bling. Taking the time to add some food coloring to your cake batter results in a beautiful pattern you’ll be so excited to cut into. The star-shaped sprinkles are just the cherry on top. (via Love Bakes Good Cakes)

Infuse this easy (and healthy!) yogurt treat with sliced strawberries, blueberries, and granola to emulate the colors of the American flag! (via Feel Good Foodie)

This popcorn is decorated with ALL the sprinkles, and is sure to cause a few new fireworks. Fill some paper bags with popcorn, and gift them to your party guests as they arrive. This is perfect for a loooong night of snacking. (via Spicy Southern Kitchen)

The Fourth of July is the USA's birthday, so it only makes sense that you make her a birthday cookie cake to celebrate! Use seasonal red, white and blue M&M’s and a ton of sprinkles to decorate. Making cookie cake yourself is also great because you know exactly what ingredients are added, and can make any swaps you need to. (via Crazy For Crust)

This star-spangled dessert is so simple to prepare, it’s practically unconstitutional. Investing in a few different sizes of star-shaped cookie cutters allows you to create a fun pie dough crust in place of a traditional lattice topping. (via The Simple Sweet Life)

Red velvet is the obvious choice for a patriotic cupcake. It’s vibrantly red, and it’s a southern-bred staple recipe, perfect for any Independence Day occasion. Top with cream cheese icing to keep it classic, and then go crazy with red, white, and blue sprinkles. (via Olivia’s Cuisine)

Everyone will love that they get their own personal brownie bite, and you’ll love how easy they are to make. To prepare the pizza base, you’ll bake your brownie batter in a sheet pan and use a biscuit cutter to cut out each individual round. (via Whole and Heavenly Oven)

This refreshing 4th of July recipe will come in handy for hot summer nights. (via Feel Good Foodie)

If individual parfaits seem too cumbersome to serve for a party, keep in mind that you can make all the components ahead of time and assemble right before serving. Even those show-stopping edible stars can be made way in advance to make your life easier! (via Just a Taste)

If the holiday snuck up on you this year, these fruit skewers are the perfect last-minute patriotic addition to your BBQ buffet. Simply by threading blueberries and strawberries on a skewer and drizzling white chocolate on top, you’ll create a tasty treat that looks like it took you all day. (via Nourished Peach)

If sangria is more your speed, then you need to make a *huge* pitcher of this recipe before your cookout. In addition to adding some berries, take a few minutes to cut out some apple stars for a garnish — you’ll be glad you did. (via Gimme Some Oven)

Seriously, how cute are these candies? Definitely get the kids involved to save yourself from sticky fingers. They're the perfect firework-watching treat that everyone on the block will want to taste. (via Mom on Timeout)

When you bring out a platter of these red, white, and blue treats at your BBQ, people will *gasp* with nostalgic emotion. This classic dessert is so good, you may want to think about setting a few aside for a midnight snack. (via Food Fanatic)

We’ve all heard of poke cake, but have you ever had it in cupcake form? These are so moist and flavorful, you’d never know they’re made with all boxed ingredients. For an extra frosty treat, freeze the blueberries before you put them on top. (via Taste and Tell)

When is Amazon's Memorial Day sale in 2024?

Memorial Day is May 27 this year, but Amazon's sale started a few weeks in advance. As we get closer to the holiday, we'll see even more deals develop.

What deals does Amazon's Memorial Day sale have?

Amazon's Memorial Day sale has deals on everything from headphones, TVs, vacuums, kitchen appliances, home goods like sheets and towels, and many more practical items.

Top Picks From the Amazon Memorial Day Sale

Beats Studio Pro Bluetooth Headphones

49% off

You'll save about $170 when you shop these noise-cancelling headphones on Amazon right now. Here's to more focused work days and fuss-free flights!

Apple AirPods (2nd Generation)

38% off

If you just can't ditch your music (or fave podcast) when you're on the go, AirPods are a saving grace. If you snag 'em from Amazon now, you'll save about $50!

iRobot Roomba 694 Robot Vacuum

35% off

This smart vac does all the work for you, which, if you ask us, is totally worth the investment. This early Amazon Memorial Day deal saves you $95 dollars on the fancy-schmancy cleaning machine.

KitchenAid Artisan Series 5 Quart Tilt Head Stand Mixer

27% off

This deal will make you wanna whip something up in the kitchen, ASAP. It's currently 27% off, which means you save a whopping $150! You can be sure that this KitchenAid stand mixer is uber-durable and easy to use with 10 different speeds for exactly what you need.

Signature Design by Ashley Queen Size Chime 12 Inch Medium Firm Memory Foam Mattress

22% off

Memorial Day weekend is *the* time to pick up a mattress if you've been wanting an upgrade. before you shop anywhere else, check out Amazon's sale, because it has amazing deals like this one: save $75 total, spending just $275 for a totally brand-new queen mattress!

Ulike Laser Hair Removal IPL Device

21% off

This hair removal device is the perfect personal tech to get your hands on ahead of summertime. It's completely painless but oh-so effective, providing results in just 3 weeks. Save $70 now! Vacation is calling!

Lane Linen 100% Organic Cotton Twin Sheets Set

20% off

Time for a bed refresh? You can snag this complete sheet set in a slew of different colors for about $26.

Chita Oversized Modular Sectional Fabric Sofa Set

18% off

You'd never guess this luxe-looking couch is from Amazon. With the Memorial Day sale, save $265 on your way to a dreamy living room upgrade.

Apple AirPods Max Wireless Over-Ear Headphones

18% off

If the Memorial Day weekend deals are screaming "treat yourself," opt for these Apple headphones that'll really show your wired ones who's boss.

Cosori TurboBlaze Air Fryer

17% off

If there's one thing we absolutely need in our kitchen, it's an air fryer! Luckily, this fan-favorite model is on deal for just $100 (you save $20 total), so you can cook up some amazing air fryer recipes.

Levoit Large Air Purifier

16% off

Up your at-home game with this air purifier made for large spaces. It's meant to filter out all the dirt, dust, and odor, so you can lounge around and sleep with the cleanest inside air possible. Save $30 now!

Peloton Bike

13% off

It's never too late to get on your fitness grind, and the Peloton bike is downright addicting since you can keep it at home and work out whenever you want. It's an investment, but you'll save about $200 when you purchase it now!

Momcozy Breast Pump

35% off

Get your hands on this affordable breast pump that doesn't require you to spend over $300. It comes with flanges that are doubled-sealed, have 3 modes, and 9 levels for all your pumping needs. You'll save $90 which is a plus in my book!

Carote Pots and Pans Set

47% off

Save $70 on this chic, nonstick pots and pans set. There's 10 pieces that'll cover your basic cooking needs and you can rest easy knowing they're incredibly durable.

SplashEZ Splash Pad

50% off

The kiddos deserve to have some fun in the sun and water this summer which is why this splash pad is the perfect investment. For just $20, the toddlers in your life can have fun while learning to name various animals in alphabetical order.

Ninja Compact Blender

25% off

The moment you've been waiting for has arrived! You can finally snag your own compact blender to make the most delicious strawberry smoothie you've been talking non-stop about.

Asakuki Essential Oil Diffuser

41% off

This cute diffuser is the perfect addition to any space in your home if you're looking for other ways to freshen it up. It comes with a remote that allows you to set a timer or allow a delicious-smelling scent to continuously fill the room.

1. Women with a lot of friends value connection & community.

The one thing everyone with a solid group of friends can agree on is how it feels like you've built your own supportive community. Friends are often the first people we turn to with good or bad news, or the ones we simply want to go on adventures with. Osequeda says, "Women with strong friendship circles often value connection, community, and the power of vulnerability."

There's a realization that women in this unique position are able to "recognize that life is richer with a support system," says Osequeda. This involves "people who will listen, validate, and be there through both the highs and lows" she adds. From the friend who stayed up with you all night after a bad breakup to the one who cheered the loudest at your graduation, women who have a huge friend circle know that life feels better when we can connect with others.

Based on her experience as a therapist, she's "observed how women start friendships by gradually sharing layers of themselves." This can look like "having children at the same school or bonding over shared interests," she adds. This vulnerability is important because it creates a foundation that signals to women they've found their tribe.

2. Women with multiple friendships are open to vulnerability.

Like Osequeda mentioned, vulnerability can deepen our friendships. "These women are open to sharing the 'messy' parts of themselves which builds a deeper, more authentic bond." Also, she notes women with a lot of friends "aren't afraid to shed layers and be real" because "this vulnerability strengthens their sense of community." The more this happens over time, the more it "helps foster the connections" women with a lot of friends "cherish," according to Osequeda.

Honestly, she says "we’re all wired to seek out connection, and friendships provide that sense of community, validation, and belonging." She believes we truly "crave spaces where we can share our thoughts and feelings about what truly matters to us."

Asher believes women with lots of friends are "usually drawn towards one another in friendship" based on two levels:

• Level 1: Shared interests, appearance of confidence, a positive energy that they feel (smiling helps with this!)
• Level 2: (When in conversation) the safety they feel when speaking to another person, [emotional compatibility], how engaged the person is in conversation, and a desire to learn more about them, ultimately to find shared values.

This determines how women move forward in friendships. The approach is often led with "a deep sense of authenticity and care," according to Osequeda. "This is because women want relationships where they can be themselves, sharing hopes, dreams, and frustrations without judgment."

3. Women who have a lot of friends like other people they're friends with.

Again, the fact women with lots of friends actually like the people in their chosen circle is monumental. Asher says, "An interesting Yale study done in 2003 sought to look at 'popularity' in high schools to see if they could find something that all of the most liked and most popular kids had in common (outside of being a jock, etc.,)."

The common thread? "THEY liked the highest amount of people," Asher reveals. I talk about being a people pleaser a lot, but genuinely liking others isn't the same as that. IMO, it's actually admirable when people can respect others regardless of their race, religion, socioeconomic status, or sexuality.

She knows you're likely asking, "How does this apply to women having a lot of friends?" Her answer? "Across the board, the principle here is that women with the most friends are continuously on a hunt to find good and likable things about others."

However, this isn't based on a selfish need or want. "They've determined that the time invested in others is of mutual benefit," says Asher because "the biggest coast in adult female friendships is time — the most finite resource we all share in common."

4. These women also don't mind making new friends.

While making friends as adults shouldn't be hard, it definitely doesn't mean it comes easily. From overthinking to social anxiety, there's so many reasons why we struggle. Also, this idea we're doing fine without friends isn't exactly helpful or positive. Asher says, "The CDC has said that the impacts of loneliness on our bodies are more harmful than smoking 15 cigarettes A DAY! Making time for quality friendships (and the pursuit of it) is just as important for your physical state as working out is."

Where should you start if you want to forge new friendships? Osequeda says, "Start within communities that already resonate with you — whether it’s your child’s school, your workplace, a gym, dog park or a shared hobby. Places where you already belong create natural opportunities to connect." She even suggests giving "apps like Bumble BFF or local meet-up groups" a chance because they "can also help you find like-minded friends." But don't think you're limited to this!

Though Asher agrees that women tend to approach "friendships by trying to find commonalities right from the beginning," she says you don't have to confine yourself to this formula. "The reason I don't think this is best is because we are boxing ourselves in when we do this. The greatest friends could be on the other side of the stereotypes we're creating," she notes. Taking it a step further, Asher shared her own experience with this. "I watched all 3 of my best friends get married and have kids all before I ever got married. On the outside, most women would think 'They don’t have anything in common.' But on the inside, the character traits and values we each were looking for were mutual, and that became a more important compass for our friendship than the stage in life we were each in."

She was even surprised she'd become close to her best friends because of how things looked externally. "We had nothing in common, but I'm so glad I didn't box myself in," she says excitedly.

Here Are Even More Ways To Make New Friends!

Asher has three ways you can open yourself up to new adult friendships if you're interested.

1. The most important place to start is our mindset. We have to first decide “I don’t want to be lonely anymore, and I’m worth having meaningful friendships.” When we make that decision, then we give ourselves permission and the courage to step out and take action in that! Important note about this: there was a study done at Stanford that revealed that people are 1.5x MORE likely to accept us than we think they are! So don’t let the fear of rejection hold you back!
2. Go first. Make the ask, and then make the plans! Saying “We should hang out sometime” is ineffective because “sometime” isn’t a day on the calendar! We cannot wait for other people to want to pursue a friendship with us, because most of us are in this same boat — not knowing where to start! We can pursue connection, get plugged into a community (examples: book club, fitness class, church, etc), or create our own connections by just inviting someone over to our house/apartment. The biggest thing we need to remind ourselves of that is to stop making excuses, or pre-determining how we think people will respond!
3. Again, don’t box yourself in. Don’t let your preconceived notions of what you think your archetype of a friend will look like stop you from spending time with others who don't fit that label. As addressed above, the friendships we’ve been looking for our whole lives could be right behind the stereotypes we’ve created! It’s more about character traits than it is about the external compatibility of hobbies or stages of life.

Osequeda's last piece of advice? "If you already have a friend group, meeting friends of friends is another great way to grow your circle. They key is taking that first step with a little bit of vulnerability — start a conversation, ask a question, and show interest." She's sure "it's these small moments of openness that create lasting connections!"