This Colorful Papercraft DIY Will Cure All Your Rainy Day Blues

Hey friends! Irene here, Production Assistant at Brit + Co. Here in San Francisco, home of Brit + Co HQ, it’s been raining all types of cats and dogs. The best part of the wet weather is that it gives me the excuse to get in my comfiest pants and stay in and craft. The only problem that remains is figuring out what to DIY. Cozy DIYs (like knitting!) are nice, but I’m craving something sunnier. Don’t get me wrong, I love rainy days, but having multiple of them in a row makes me wistful for blue skies, sun and fresh air. If you’re feeling the same way, why not bring the outdoors in? We teamed up with McDonald’s to show you how to DIY a paper orange tree that never wilts!

Isn’t this tree a cutie? There’s nothing like fresh fruit, and for a limited time, McDonald’s Happy Meals® come with Cuties® so your kids can cap off their meal with something juicy and sweet.

This DIY also makes the perfect mom and kid activity. Get creative with the colors and patterns in the paper. Kids have the most active imaginations, so we say the sky’s the limit with this DIY!

Speaking of Cuties®, I think I need one right now…

So easy to make, yet so beautiful.

Happy crafting!

In our Take 5 series, sponsored by Verizon, we ask women in business about unexpected challenges, their inspirations, recent wins, and how the free Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program has helped propel their business forward. Here, we meet Therise Edwards, founder/CEO of Teshley Solutions, an education consultancy firm that helps students and families navigate the complexities of the education system K through 12.

What is an unexpected business challenge that you faced and how did you overcome it?

I wouldn't call myself a FAFSA (Free Application for Student Aid) expert, but I ended up having to know a lot more about it than I ever anticipated. FAFSA is what administers Pell Grants, which is what a lot of colleges base their financial aid on. I knew about the application changes, and some were excellent, but they made a series of critical errors and a lot of parents were scrambling. It was not my intent to have this as my area of focus; it just became a necessity.

What's a recent small win for your business?

Recent small wins are my collaborations. I formed partnerships with one organization that focuses on students with special needs. I hosted a webinar with the executive director of that organization. I formed a partnership with members from an insurance company on planning and paying for college. That was my first corporate sponsorship. And I've got a series of events coming out because others actually reached out to me. One of them I met through another networking platform, but I got to that platform from one of the sessions that I did with Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program.

How did you start to collaborate with external partners?

Just changing my strategies and my approach, and just being more secure and more emphatic in making connections. It ends up being this continual cycle.

Is there a woman in business that you admire or that you look up to?

I have two. Leontyne Anglin, who runs a nonprofit called Beyond Expectations. She works with a small pool of students, but she just gives them enormous exposure and opportunity. She's brilliant with collaborating with individuals and businesses and really bringing the students what they need. And then the other on a bigger scale is Cate Luzio, founder and CEO of Luminary, who taught her Business Plan Bootcamp through the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program. She is just a dynamo. She is just so supportive of women entrepreneurs. She's awesome.

How did the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program help propel your business forward?

All of the collaborations and partnerships with the exception of one all came from joining the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program. I’ve taken all of the free classes and the one on projections and pricing, something every entrepreneur struggles with, was very helpful. There have been so many of them. Sometimes you're completely ignorant in a category so you take the class and it's like, okay, that's good to have. But then sometimes you sign up for it and it's like, oh, yeah, I did know 90 percent of that, but this other 10 percent is going to be very, very helpful.

Learn more about the free Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program and Teshley Solutions.

Illustration by Daniela Jordan-Villaveces


The holidays are the perfect time for all kinds of surprises, and Gilmore Girls fans are convinced two of the show's stars are giving us a present tomorrow, December 3. When both Lauren Graham (Lorelai Gilmore) and Scott Patterson (Luke Danes) posted from Stars Hollow, fans picked up on the connection faster than you can say "coffee coffee coffee!" And all signs point to a very special Gilmore Girls cast reunion.

Here's everything we know about Lauren Graham and Scott Patterson's Gilmore Girls surprise.

  • Lauren Graham and Scott Patterson starred as Lorelai and Luke on Gilmore Girls from 2000 to 2007.
  • The show is known for its obsession with coffee, and Lauren, Scott, and Sean Gunn teased a special announcement coming December 3, 2024.
  • Fans think it could be a reunion between the actors (and their characters).

Lauren Graham/Instagram

Lauren posted this shot of Luke's Diner in a snowy Stars Hollow, teasing she's "got something brewing" that she'd announce on December 3. And when Scott made an almost-identical post that he was "back at #LukesDiner for something really special," fans flooded his comments with everything from "KING LUKE WHAT DOES THIS MEAN?!?!?" to "I’m ready for whatever this is ☕️ 😍."

And on November 26, another member of the Gilmore Girls family teased the collab too: Sean Gunn. "Kirkʼs 63rd job? Find out on 12/3 📦☕," he said on Instagram. And in the words of one fan in his comments: "WHAT is going on."

Considering all three actors tagged Walmart in their post, I was expecting a Luke's Coffee x Scotty P's Big Mug Coffee collab, but it looks like it could be something even better: a reunion!

"I think this has already accidentally aired on Hulu, Lauren and Scott are in a commercial as Luke and Lorelai, where she says 'coffee coffee coffee!' and he pulls out a Walmart shipping box full of brew lol!" one Reddit user says. "I was very surprised when I saw it but it was cute!"

This totally make sense in my headcanon of Gilmore Girls in 2024. Because you can't tell me Lorelai wouldn't totally be obsessed with grocery delivery. Paying someone else to do a chore for her AND avoiding Taylor Doose at the market? Well that's a win-win baby.

Here's hoping we see Alexis Bledel as Rory again too!

What do you think about this potential Gilmore Girls reunion? Tune in December 3 to find out what this is all about and read up on 24 Cozy Gilmore Girls Gift Ideas For Anyone Who'd Rather Be In Stars Hollow.

This post has been updated.

In our Take 5 series, sponsored by Verizon, we ask women in business about unexpected challenges, their inspirations, recent wins, and how the free Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program has helped propel their business forward. Here, we meet Rita Suzanne, a marketing strategist for health and wellness businesses who learned to network, connect with other entrepreneurs, and build her business online and IRL.

What's an unexpected business challenge that you've had to face and how did you overcome it?

The hardest thing for me was my sister passed away and I ended up taking custody of my nieces. I ended up being a single mom of four kids. This is the thing that transitioned my whole entire life. I stopped doing web design and started my podcast Mom Owned and Operated. I wanted to reconnect with other moms and figure out how they were able to run their businesses and raise a family and take care of themselves because I wasn't able to do all three at the same time. Through that journey, I realized that I really needed to connect with other people and how important it was for my business. It helped me to create that community that I was yearning for that I didn't realize that I needed.

What's a recent small win for your business?

For me, the win was just pivoting back to something that I actually wanted to do. Also, I’ve started to say no to things that I no longer want to do.

Who is a woman in business that you look up to and why?

I have always admired and looked up to Amy Porterfield [author of Two Weeks Notice]. I listened to her all the time when I was starting out. I think that she's amazing and I love her stuff. She just seems like a very genuine person.

Is there a resource that has made an impact on you as an entrepreneur?

I listen to a lot of audio books. One of my favorites that has been huge for me is You Are A Badass by Jen Sincero. I was told when I first started my business, by a friend who was a business coach, that I have a mindset problem. Ten years ago, I had no idea even what “mindset” was. Sincero’s book helped me to see what she meant by “mindset” and helped me adjust that mindset and fix some of the things that I didn't realize were broken.

How has the Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program helped propel your business forward?

There are a lot of things that I have loved about it. There are local networking and training opportunities, and that has been great, and the online training is very valuable. It's a great resource. I find that marketing needs a three-tiered approach, meaning you need to network it locally, socially, and then also have a very comprehensive online approach to your marketing. One of the Verizon Small Business trainings that I took was all about taking advantage of your local resources. I found that to be extremely valuable because often people think they need to just focus on social media. I don't think that people focus enough on their local community.

Learn more about the free Verizon Small Business Digital Ready Program and Rita Suzanne.

Illustration by Daniela Jordan-Villaveces

Party season is fast approaching, and if you're planning to host a Christmas or New Year's Eve bash, why not make it memorable with a creative theme? Whether you go for Futuristic Glam, Celestial or a Time Traveler's throwback, a themed celebration is the perfect way to make your party the best of the season. Check out these 14 creative ideas to celebrate the holidays and ring in a rockin' new year.

Юлиана Маринина

Futuristic Glam Holiday Party

Metallic disco vibes here. Think silver or neon outfits for dress code; glow-in-the-dark drinks; and even a VR experience. Plus, DIY a future predictions time capsule!

Nicole Hill Gerulat

Swiftie Merry Era Party

Each room is inspired by Swift’s different albums and eras: Evermore/Red with cozy plaid blankets, vintage books, candles, and hot chocolate with sprinkles on top; Lover with a pastel Christmas tree, heart-shaped ornaments, and glittering pink decor serving Lover’s Lemonade; Midnights with starry backdrops, disco balls, and rich purples and blues serving Midnight Margaritas. Playlist is ofc a curated Swiftie-approved playlist. Plus, you can DIY friendship bracelets as gifts! Photo: Brit + Co x Moonpig Holiday Collection

Forever 21

Naughty or Nice Pajama Party

Whatever your guests decide, Naughty or Nice, comfort is key here. Have a fireplace going if you have one (or fake it), sleeping bags to snuggle into, and serve a Christmas breakfast with pancakes, bacon and holiday cocktails!

Shinesty

Tacky Christmas Party

Guests wear their most over-the-top Christmas sweaters or ridiculous 'fits and you serve up classic comfort foods like sliders and spiked eggnog. Create a photo booth with tacky props too!

Paige Cody

Holiday '20s Revival Party

The vibe here is the Jazz age with a modern twist as we head into 2025! Guests wear flapper dresses, pinstripes, and sequins. Your decor is filled with art deco details and Champagne towers with jazz playing in the background.

Brooke Lark

Charcuterie + Cocktails Christmas Happy Hour

Flex your charcuterie skills, even making personalized individual charcuterie boards for smaller gatherings, and check out our Christmas cocktails to sip and sparkle your way through the holidays. This is the perfect happy hour before holiday party hopping!

RDNE Stock project

Time Travelers' Ball

Celebrate every decade from the 1920s to the 2020s. Guests choose their favorite decade and each room is styled after a specific era with different music from that time!

Amazon

Winter Wonderland Party

Everyone wears white, silver, or icy blue and you decorate with snowflakes, twinkling lights, and faux fur and shearling accessories. Feature a hot chocolate bar with cinnamon sticks and whipped cream, snowflake-shaped cookies, and sparkling cocktails, and play icebreaker games like a snowman building contest (using marshmallows and toothpicks).

Amazon

Celestial Countdown Party

What does 2025 have in store for you? Try this zodiac-inspired theme with starry backdrops, constellation lights, and moon props. Everyone wears shimmering outfits, and you serve up cocktails like galaxy martinis and moon pies. Hire a tarot reader if you're feeling really fancy!

Target

Come As Your Favorite Christmas Character Party

Project holiday movies on your wall, create a popcorn bar station, and everyone dresses as their favorite Christmas movie character. Holiday movie trivia optional!

Nicole Michalou

Cookie + Cake Decorating Party

Here's a more casual theme that's also great for families. Let guests show off their sweet decorating skills with pre-baked cookies, plus milk and cocktails. You can do a blind taste test too and gift the winner with aCrumbs cookbook at the end of the night!

RDNE Stock project

Secret Santa Soirée

Serve up a buffet with festive finger foods and mulled wine, and host a gift exchange with games like "Guess the Gifter." You can also do gift themes like from the zodiac, color based, earth-friendly, self care, and $15 and under.

Shutterstock

Christmas Karaoke Night

Break out the karaoke machine for a night of Christmas tune belting. You can also play holiday-themed games like "Finish That Carol"!

Pavel Danilyuk

DIY Christmas Craft Party

Get your pals together for a night of DIY gift making. Serve simple easy-to-eat snacks like mini quiches and mocktails, and create craft stations for decorating ornaments, wreaths, or self care items like scrubs and soaps, even jewelry! You can turn this into potluck where each guest brings a craft too!

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It's a busy week astrologicallywith December in full swing, and we can make progress on many fronts if we have the desire and will. With the Sun (representing our egos and personas) and Mercury (symbolizing our minds and communication) both in Sagittarius, we're feeling philosophical and open to broad perspectives. There is an eagerness to learn and expand our consciousness. However, be mindful of a tendency to be stubborn or act as if we have all the answers — no one appreciates a know-it-all. Practice active listening and choose your words carefully.

So what does this all mean for your weekly horoscope? Read on to find out!

What's happening astrologically during the week of December 1-8, 2024?

Codi Foster

The Sun opposes Jupiter until December 17, creating a tendency to procrastinate or overindulge. Don’t let these impulses overshadow the meaningful progress you can make, especially while Mercury forms a beneficial trine with Chiron, the wounded healer and shaman of the zodiac. This alignment supports deep psychological work and provides access to our inner psyche. Sudden revelations may occur. Writing in a journal can be enlightening, meeting with a therapist can accelerate healing, and an astrology reading may offer valuable insights into the blocks hindering your growth and how to overcome them. If you are willing to put in the effort, you’ll have ample opportunities for both joy and transformation this week.

Mars will join Mercuryin retrograde, from December 7 through February 24, 2025. During this retrograde period, we’ll benefit from slowing down, consciously practicing patience, and ensuring we get plenty of rest. For those prone to a short temper, it’s especially important to be self-aware. Sagittarius season often encourages bluntness, but fire signs (Aries, Leo, Sagittarius) and air signs (Gemini, Libra, Aquarius) need to be particularly cautious with their words. Take the high road, avoid unnecessary confrontations, and remain kind and thoughtful. Don’t hesitate to stand up for yourself for others, as you might feel more courageous than usual. With both personal planets in retrograde, it is really important to plan ahead, review our work, exercise caution, be mindful, patient and have a sense of humor.

Rachel Bacchi

Finally, Venus forms a trine with Uranus, culminating on December 7. You might feel inspired to try something new, as your desires could push you to seek unique and exciting forms of stimulation, pleasure, and enjoyment. Creativity is heightened, allowing you to explore and express your artistic side in fresh ways. Experiment in the studio, garden, kitchen, or even the bedroom — this energy aligns perfectly with Sagittarius' adventurous spirit.

Read Your Weekly Horoscope For Your Sun & Rising Signs Here!

Reema Polignano

Aries (March 21 – April 20)

Now is your time to shine and share your wealth of life experience with the world around you, Aries. If you’re a teacher, you can effectively impart your knowledge and wisdom to your students. As a parent, the lessons you teach your kids will have a lasting impact. At work, you might record the perfect video or write a compelling proposal. Publishing or producing projects is favored this week. Let your imagination soar, and don’t hold back — your world may expand exponentially.

Taurus (April 21 – May 21)

Feeling a lots of feelings right now, Taurus? It’s a little early, but this is a great week to write your holiday cards. You’ll feel inspired to connect with loved ones on a deep, meaningful level. Taking your time to write from the heart can spark healing. Connect with elders and be playful with children. Consider planning a yoga retreat or ski trip with family and friends. However you decide to embrace these big feelings, do whatever you can to nurture meaningful connections for yourself while you've got all this love swirling around.

Gemini (May 22 – June 21)

You've got a lot of big ideas, and right now is such a good time to embrace them, no matter where you are — but especially at work. Collaboration within your career will amplify your creative energy. Brainstorming with others can help you refine ideas and find solutions. And while you're at it, take on leadership roles when possible — your natural communication skills will shine. However, don’t rush; take your time and double-check your work before submitting final projects. PS: Your intimate relationships will thrive as you engage in heart-to-heart conversations outside of work, too!

Cancer (June 22 – July 22)

You’re likely to feel energized and ready to tackle a variety of tasks this week. It's definitely great to get into gear and lean into that energy, but don't neglect your softer, sensual side while you do so. Pay attention to your dreams — they’ll carry significant messages. Connect with your partner and be willing to be vulnerable to deepen your bond. If you’re single, focus on building a stronger relationship with yourself. Refine your self-care routine and ensure you’re nurturing your mind, body, and spirit equally. You can do it!

Leo (July 23 – August 22)

Your words have power this week, and you’ll excel at advocating for causes you’re passionate about. Channel your energy toward creative goals or community projects — you’ll likely inspire those around you. If you don’t already have a community, seek one out. Consider joining a book club, cooking class, or art group to connect with like-minded individuals. It's the perfect time for you to harness all that excitability that colors your days.

Virgo (August 23 – September 21)

This week, focus on nurturing yourself and reflecting on the meaning of “home.” Is it simply a place, or something you hold in your heart? Explore questions about your lineage and how you were nurtured. Balance home and work life by setting plans to maintain harmony throughout the holidays. Create a magical, peaceful space by cleaning or decorating your home, and connect with loved ones, such as your mother or grandmother.

Libra (September 22 – October 22)

Your world is expanding, and growth opportunities abound. Conversations with others — whether neighbors, clerks, or friends — might shift your perspective. Make plans for a journey or enroll in a class to broaden your horizons. Deepen relationships with siblings through meaningful conversations, paving the way for a fulfilling connection. Just don't let indecision keep you from embracing this energy to the fullest!

Scorpio (October 23 – November 21)

It's a really, really good time to tackle your financial responsibilities this week, Scorpio. Meet with a financial planner to assess your resources and plan for future growth. Avoid impulsive spending if you receive unexpected windfalls. Stick to a holiday budget to avoid financial stress later. Communicate clearly with loved ones about your goals and balance your dreaming with realistic planning. This will go a long way!

Sagittarius (November 22 – December 21)

Nobody has to tell you this twice: you're fiery to the max, Sagittarius. Choose your words carefully and ensure you’re communicating with sensitivity, especially with loved ones. While your enthusiasm is contagious, it may overwhelm more sensitive individuals. Channel your energy into clear-cut projects or physical activities, like dancing or working out. You also wanna pay attention to your dreams — they may reveal valuable insights from your subconscious.

Capricorn (December 22 – January 19)

While you're usually the more grounded, in-the-moment person, don't forget that your dreams hold important messages. Before bed, set the intention to remember them and prepare to record them upon waking. Jungian theory suggests every dream character represents a part of yourself — listen to these messages. Oh, and music can also help unlock your inner wisdom this week. Take time to enjoy or create music that uplifts your soul.

Aquarius (January 20 – February 18)

You're typically pretty connected with your community, but acts of service will be deeply and especially fulfilling this week. Group activities are definitely highlighted for you right now — be sure share your knowledge and take on leadership roles in the appropriate settings when you can. Balance your external efforts with quiet contemplation and spiritual practice to stay grounded. Focus on what makes you feel safe and extend that to others in your community.

Pisces (February 19 – March 20)

This is a good week for you to take time to pause and set your intentions, Pisces. Clear communication is essential at work, so pay attention to how you express yourself (and maybe add an extra emoji or two to that Slack message), double-check and refine your projects before submission., and practice presentations to ensure success. And though work is a centerpiece of your week, be sure to balance your professional life with moments of quiet reflection, as these will inspire you and deepen your connection to the spiritual realm.

Looking for a more thorough reading? Reach out to Tina at SevenSistersAstrology.com!

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