Digital Dating: Looking for Love in Lockdown

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Some of us are coming up on a year. For those without an S-O, that may mean close to a year without that sweet sweet fix, that hot hook up, or that magical first date feeling. It means digital dating.

Physical contact releases feel-good chemicals and helps 'calm the nerves', which is especially important during these uncertain times. However, if you don't have someone to snog during this time, there are some ways to date from a distance to get that emotional connection we crave! While staying apart, you can connect through a your screen, and make it hot!

Social distancing is not only mandated in some states, but is imperative to our safety. Dating apps are a great way to connect. Many of the apps have taken their location limiters off their apps, meaning you can date anywhere around the world. Always wanted to meet an Australian? Change your location to Down Under. Ever wanted to date an Argentinian? Someone from Japan? Now is the time for a global connection to spark!

HOW TO ACT

We are truly living in a new age. This 'digital meeting' is both distancing and more intimate in many ways. You're able to see how this person lives, how they speak, what the cadence of their voice is, and how their face reacts to you. It even can lead to a digital get down. But always remember – the number one rule of digital or real world dating is consent and comfort.

The number two rule is fun! It can be awkward to get to know someone through the phone. But sometimes jumping right into an emotional or mental conversation, talking about each other's families, what each other's hopes and dreams are, can spark really honest connective moments that can absolutely lead to something long term, or something hot and heavy.

Here are a few on-screen dates you can try with a new boo:

Dine & Date

The dinner date. It's a classic, and a definite staple that can be applied to digital dating! Pick an easy recipe, uncork a bottle of wine, and get to know each other while cooking together. Once you're a glass of wine in, play a game of Never Have I Ever. Once you're two glasses of wine in, try Truth of Dare.

Show & Tell

Now's the time to show off some secret talents – do you sing or dance? Do you love plants? Show them to your date! Show off the things that excite you. A peek into your personal life is way more intimate then meeting at a noisy bar, and this is the time to go out on that limb! Do a talent swap, trade sexy dances, role playing the screen is a great way to both have fun and explore both your creative and sexy side.

Netflix & Chill

Pick a movie to watch and start it at the same time. Whether it's your favorite movie from your childhood or a new release, Netflix and Chill is a dating staple for a reason. It reveals your date's taste in humor, drama, and how they connect to something emotionally.

Digital Get Down

Which can lead to a carnal connection. This digital dating connection can lead to other sexy places – use Snapchat to send each other explicit pictures, videos, and messages. Cyber sex can be awkward at first, but we all have some pent up sexual tension during these times. Now's the time to release.

There are no rules in this new world of digitally connecting with others. It can give you the freedom to make up your own rules and boundaries without judgement or shame.

Relationships can be whatever you want them to be – casual, emotional, purely physical, mentally stimulating, just a way to pass time. But always make sure to keep private information private, and use your discretion when sharing personal information.

Digital dating is a brand new world. It could be the time to meet the love of your life. Just know that we are in a different world – connecting with other people through a screen is different than meeting in real life. When things begin to go back to the way things were, give yourself the opportunity to try and connect with that person in real life. At the very least, you'll always have your quarantine bae love story.

Editor's Note: This article is part of a week devoted to sex education. We reached out to a few of our favorite sex experts (sexperts? couldn't resist) to share their advice, knowledge and thoughts on sexual wellness, relationships and more. This story originally appeared on SexWithEmily.com.

Taylor Swift & Travis Kelce have been taking some deserved time off after Tay's whirlwind Eras Tour and Travis' third consecutive Super Bowl. And amid engagement rumors and reports Taylor's "taking a year off" to see how things go with their relationship, this couple has been doing the most important thing: connecting!

Here's the latest update on Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce after the Super Bowl.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce finally had a low-key date.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce were spotted in Park City, Utah on March 10 (thanks to this clip from DeuxMoi). The couple had grabbed dinner together before hopping into their car, and considering how wild their outings are in New York City — with fans and paparazzi galore — I'm glad they were able to enjoy what looks like a more low-key experience.

Taylor appears to be in a gray coat and black boots, with her signature waves and bangs, while Travis rocks a pale two-piece outfit. And like the gentleman he is, Travis lets Tay inside the white SUV first before climbing inside.

And they continually proves how much they love each other.

The date comes after the couple spent some time away “reconnecting after a very busy year," a Page Six source says, while another source tells the publication a post-vacation outing “went unnoticed.”

“They weren’t photographed or anything,” the second source continues. Way to fly under the radar! But one thing that didn't fly under our radar? Travis and Taylor saying "I love you" on live TV after the AFC championship game.

After the Chiefs won the game, and Travis gave a very passionate speech about how he's "never satisfied" when it comes to football, Taylor and Travis embraced and shared a kiss.

Travis appears to say, "I love you so much," and Taylor seems to reply with, "I love you. I'm so proud of you" (which you can see in this video, and per People's report.) I just love love!

Read up on why Taylor Swift Brings Out The "Best Version" Of Travis Kelce for more news on this celeb couple.

I never shut up about Marvel, and I will continue to talk about it because my girl Sadie Sink is joining Spider-Man 4! Sources tell Deadline that the Stranger Things actress (who's starring in Broadway's John Proctor Is The Villain this spring) is set to join Tom Holland in his new superhero movie. Here's everything we know — from an absolute fangirl you can trust.

Sadie Sink is joining Tom Holland's Spider-Man 4, set to start filming this summer.

Sadie Sink will have a "significant" role in 'Spider-Man 4.'

Tom Holland confirmed that Spider-Man 4 is set to start filming in the summer of 2025, and Deadline reports that Sadie's role is "significant." Brit + Co reached out to Sony and Sadie Sink's reps for comment.

While we don't have any official news on the specifics of Sadie's character, considering the movie comes a couple of months after 2026's Avengers: Doomsday, I think there are a few characters Sadie would knock out of the park.

Is Sadie Sink playing Jean Grey?


With Sadie Sink's red hair, she would make a perfect variant for Zendaya's MJ (who is, herself, a version of Mary Jane from the comics). But with her sunny disposition and confidence, I could totally see her as Gwen Stacy too. My lead theory surrounding Avengers: Doomsday is that the characters we know so well will wind up in another universe — and could finally bring the X-Men into the MCU.

Even before Sadie's casting was confirmed, the leading rumor was that she'd join the MCU as Jean Grey/Phoenix, a role held by Famke Janssen and Sophie Turner in previous X-Men adaptations. And this is the role I hope we see her in!

Spider-Man fans will remember that No Way Home ended by erasing Peter Parker's existence from the world...but if Peter meets characters from another world (ahem, Jean), or if all our favorite heroes wind up in another world, the spell shouldn't affect them. And fighting to get back home is exactly the kind of theme I'd love to see in Spider-Man 4.

Check out the 5 New Marvel Movies Worth Watching for more!

Love can often feel like an emotional rollercoaster, and whether we like to admit it or not, our own habits and tendencies can have serious impacts on our relationships.

Astrology offers some insight into our personalities and suggests that certain zodiac signs are more likely to break hearts than others.

Here are eight zodiac signs that can leave even the most level-headed person wondering where it all went wrong.

Scroll to find out which zodiac signs are most-likely to break hearts...

1. Gemini

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Geminis can be hard to pin down. Their affection may seem like a flickering light that's constantly on and off. One day, they're seemingly all over you, but then, 24 hours later, they're distant and cold.

To steer clear of heartbreak, be on the lookout for early warning signs. Geminis can be fun and exciting, but their tendency to change their mind or pull away at random means they're not always the best choice for someone who wants emotional consistency. Keep your emotional guard up, listen to your gut, and be wary if they show indicators of detachment.

2. Aquarius

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Aquarians can be some of the most confusing people to love. They may make you feel like you're the center of their world until they start blatantly flirting with other people right in front of you.

True emotional commitment can be difficult for this sign, and when an Aquarian does decide to end things, it's sometimes in a condescending way.

So, they may not be the best choice if you're looking for a grounded, emotionally available partner. Watch out for signs that they're prioritizing their independence over your relationship, and protect yourself by keeping things light in the early stages.

3. Sagittarius

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Independent, adventurous, and driven: that's the Sagittarian reputation. While these are admirable traits in some scenarios, they can also make this sign feel selfish in relationships.

Their desire for personal freedom often comes first, and if your needs don't align with their plans, they probably won't stick around. That's why they're not ideal partners for people who value emotional commitment.

Be cautious if you're seeing a Sagittarian who is more focused on their personal endeavors than building a real partnership. And if you notice they're dismissive of your needs, it may be time to take a step back.

4. Capricorn

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Somewhat similar to Sagittarius, Capricorns are all about self-preservation and their own success. They don't appreciate anything that stands in the way of their goals, and if your vision of a relationship doesn't match theirs, they won't hesitate to walk away without a second thought.

Keep an eye out for Capricorns' rigid expectations. If they're unwilling to compromise on issues or are quick to end things at the first sign of conflict, take it as a red flag.

5. Aries

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Aries have fiery passion and an impulsive nature. They can fall head over heels quickly, but they also fall out of love just as fast.

Once they decide they're done with your relationship, it can feel like the rug has been pulled out from under you. They won't waste time explaining their decision, leaving you confused.

Emotional inconsistency and impulsivity are two big warning signs for relationships. Trust your intuition because you don't want to invest too much into a relationship that could end just as suddenly as it started.

6. Pisces

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When a Pisces is into you, they can be super loving and charming. But, at the drop of a hat, their behavior can take a sharp turn.

Their biggest issue is that they tend to avoid taking accountability and may play the victim when things go wrong. That can cause you to second-guess yourself and wonder if you were really at fault.

Pay attention to any signs of emotional manipulation, gaslighting, or self-pity when conflicts arise. If this sign refuses to apologize or tries to make you feel guilty for their actions, it's a no-go.

7. Leo

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Leos love being the center of attention, and when they're interested in you, they'll bring you into the spotlight with them. Yet, once their attention shifts elsewhere, you may be kicked to the curb.

This sign's need for admiration and dominance can lead them to disregard your needs after they've lost interest. Talk about taking a self-esteem hit!

If you realize that you're constantly vying for this sign's validation or feel as though you're being overshadowed by their ego, it's a cue they might not be able to give you the emotional support you need.

8. Taurus

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Finally, while Tauruses can be incredibly loving, they may turn ruthless and cold when they decide they're finished with you. This sign is also known for being stubborn, so once they've made up their mind, it can be nearly impossible to change.

So, they aren't great at compromising or seeing things from others' perspectives. Red flags to watch out for include Tauruses holding grudges and becoming overly defensive. And if they're not open to working through issues, it might be time to move on.

Looking for more astrology advice? Be sure to sign up for our newsletter!

Trader Joe’s carries much more than groceries – from skincare goodies to alcohol, you can find some pretty neat stuff between their aisles. You’re going to want to make a beeline to their home goods section ASAP though, because TJ’s just dropped a delightful $4 tomato-scented candle that’s being compared to bougie brands like Loewe and Maison Margiela!

Scroll on to discover more about Trader Joe’s new Tomato Leaf candle.

@traderjoesobsessed

On shelves now, Trader Joe’s Tomato Leaf candle smells like – you guessed it – fragrant tomato leaves. Some shoppers have said it comes across as “verdant and fresh” while others say it’s “slightly sweeter.” So far, the aroma has been divisive among TJ’s fans, but smelling it myself, I think it smells exactly like tomato leaves with a hint of refreshing sweetness – making it a perfect scent to ease you into springtime!

Julia Nagy / PEXELS

This iteration of the Trader Joe’s Tomato Leaf candle is technically a remake of the same scent they released several years ago, but stopped stocking because the glass jars it was cased in posed a safety hazard (ahem, exploding). But fret not – this new container is made of metal, so you shouldn’t expect any glass malfunctions. Plus, it boasts the same precise scent – nothing’s changed in that department!

Reddit

Trader Joe’s fan account @traderjoesobsessed shared the new find with their Instagram followers, and plenty of customers sounded off with excitement.

“Omg yes this is the best one!!!!” one person said.

“This is their greatest candle to date imo,” another person wrote.

“I was actually talking about this a couple days ago with my boyfriend and then magically it appeared!!” someone else commented. “Glad it’s in a tin option even though the glass was beautiful!”

Agence Mald / PEXELS

The Trader Joe’s Reddit page also had some thoughts about the new scent:

“I love this friggin candle,” one person said. “It really took me by surprise.”

“I’m so excited!!” another rejoiced. “This is my all time favorite candle scent of any line ever!”

While some Trader Joe’s shoppers praised it, others had some strong opinions.

“Soapy with a hint of tomato,” someone else noted. “I personally really like it, but I like green, fresher-smelling candles. I hate bakery or sweet candle scents.”

“I love this candle and everyone I know hates it and I’m not allowed to light it when I have my friends over 😆😆,” another said. “It’s SO divisive!!”

Maison Margiela

Across both Instagram and Reddit, several shoppers compared the new Trader Joe’s Tomato Leaf candle to brands that are so bougie. Some comparisons that were made include the Loewe Tomato Leaves candle, Maison Margiela's From The Garden perfume, and the Roma Heirloom Tomato Candle from Flamingo Estate. The Trader Joe’s Tomato Leaf candle costs just $4 for 5.3 ounces worth of candle, so you could absolutely get a similar luxe effect for way less.

Flamingo Estate

The Trader Joe’s Tomato Leaf candle is crafted from a blend of soy wax, coconut oil, and beeswax. It also comes complete with a lead-free cotton wick to ensure a clean burn. Totally fresh and definitely unique, I’d say it’s worth the money – especially for a fresh feel during spring!

Subscribe to our newsletter to discover more Trader Joe's hidden gems!

Brit + Co may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

Ben Affleck and Jennifer Garner keep making headlines — and apparently Jen's boyfriend, John Miller, may not be too happy about it. A source spoke to Page Sixabout John's reaction to everything, and all signs point to potential trouble in paradise. After giving her an ultimatum, could this be the end of our recent Jen and Ben sightings? Here's what we know.

Scroll to find out what's going on with Ben Affleck, Jennifer Garner, and John Miller...

A source recent spoke to Page Six, giving everyone a behind-the-scenes look at on what's really going on between Ben Affleck, Jennifer Garner, and John Miller right now. While this trio isn't exactly in a love triangle, there are some complicated emotions flying at the moment.

The source explained that John "has always been supportive of Ben and Jen’s co-parenting relationship, but feels Ben crossed the line." This comes after the recent — and very cozy — paintball pictures of the ex-spouses.

“John knows there’s nothing going on between Jen and Ben," the source continued. "But he doesn’t think those photos are a good look and feels it’s disrespectful to their relationship.”

Apparently, John “gave Jen an ultimatum” recently, explaining that “he doesn’t want to see anything like that again or he has no choice but to walk away.” Yikes!

According to PEOPLE, Jennifer Garner and John Miller have been linked together since 2018 — with a brief break apart around 2021. However, a source told PEOPLE that Jen was "very happy" with John back in December, and that she "sees him almost every day," intimating that things were just fine between the couple.

Do you think these two will make it? Or will Ben actually find his way back in (another) Jen's good graces? Only time will tell I guess!

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