So long, 2015. Bring on 2016 — and a batch of New Year’s resolutions that you can actually stick to. No matter the planning or pep talking, we all know that’s easier said than done, even when you set the smallest of goals. Something just inevitably gets in the way of waking up five minutes earlier, biking to work or hitting up that kickboxing class every Tuesday — you slam the snooze button, give in to the comfort of your car and pass up that sweat sesh for catch-up at the new hot cocktail bar. That’s why we’ve come up with the simplest new year’s resolutions ever, ones that would be difficult to break even for the lazy girls among us. Follow these eight near-effortless life hacks to totally streamline your day and, fingers crossed, your year.
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The running joke the editorial team and I have is that millennials are tired of living during unprecedented times. From the pandemic to all the other massive moments the last few decades, I've felt like I've been living in a weird vortex for the...majority of my life.
Despite — and maybe sometimes because of — it all, it wasn't until my recent birthday that I realized I've grown a lot. I thought the things I learned in my 20s were clues I'd 'arrived' as a 30-something-year-old, but it turns out I still hadn't fully accepted that learning hard truths isn't always bad in the long run.
I do this weird thing where I tend to focus on things I feel have to be done instead of focusing on how far I've come, but that changed when I turned 33. For the first time, I didn't have a huge celebration that ended in anxiety on my birthday. I relaxed at home with a ton of comfort food, scary movies, and a list of 33 things I have to be grateful for. So, how did I get here?
Let's go back to the beginning of the year, shall we?
I Intentionally Dubbed 2024 My Personal Victory Year
Viridiana Rivera
I, like so many others, woke up on January 1st and decided it would be my year. I set intentional resolutions, goals, and even made sure to be specific about them. Similar to how I write in-depth articles, I broke them into the following sections:
- Motherhood
- Relationships
- Career
- Wellbeing
- Spiritual
It's the first year I decided to listen to my heart's desires in order to capture a screenshot of the life I want to live. I even prayed over my resolutions and goals, asking to be guided as I accomplished things or were led to them. As February rolled around, I didn't really think twice about the impact of what I'd done because life started to fall into a familiar hum that becomes mundane after a while.
I guess I needed to be reminded of the intentional goals I'd written down because things got painfully interesting after this.
My First Adult Car Was Totaled
Gustavo Fring
Car accidents are never fun as I've been on the receiving end of one before, but this wasn't like before. This time I was emotionally hurt to learn the first car I'd assumed total responsibility for was no longer going to be mine. Though I knew I was lucky no one was seriously harmed, all I could think about is the morning I paid it off. I had every reason to spend the nice bonus I received from my last job, but I decided paying off my car mattered more in that moment.
This is the car that took me from my parents' home to living on my own, trips out of town, and days spent buckling a newborn into his carseat. For 8 years, this car and I were locked in like besties. It truly felt like we'd grown up together so to have it ripped away so suddenly was heartbreaking.
Even though the SUV I got was aligned with everything my fiancé and I were talking about, I couldn't appreciate it for a while because I all could see what was what I had.
I Took A Chance On A Full-Time Creative Career
George Milton
Once I started making peace with having a new vehicle, I started feeling the urge to leave my first adult job behind. I'd spent 10 years there, but it was becoming obvious that it was time to leave the nest. Similar to my first car, my co-workers watched me go from a wide-eyed college student to a confident adult. Though I learned so much there, I knew it wasn't where I wanted to be forever.
Deciding to leave what felt familiar was one of the scariest things I'd ever done and I spent days wondering if I'd made the right choice. It's not that writing wasn't lucrative, but I had to learn how to navigate a remote job that's been unlike any role I've had before. My imposter syndrome was in overdrive because I was waiting for the shoe to drop off my other foot.
Thoughts like "What if I'm not good enough" or "What if my co-workers hate me," plagued my mind because I couldn't believe I'd taken a chance on myself that seemed like it was working in my favor. That only happens in movies, right? In this case, wrong.
The same month I truly decided to focus on my writing career is when I interviewed Whoopi Goldberg. Since then, I've gone on to talk to different authors and even moderated my first book event in Atlanta. But, it still took a while for me to truly be grateful for the amazing things that's happened this year.
The Day I Turned 33 Put Everything Into Perspective
KoolShooters
PMS plagued me for the better part of last week, so I decided to listen to my body and not do anything for my birthday. I kept waiting for myself to feel disappointed for not getting dressed up, but the feeling never came. The sad part is I almost wanted it to because who doesn't want to celebrate their birthday?
It turns out that I did celebrate, even if it wasn't in the typical 'party and dinner' way.
Deciding to focus on feeling peaceful in my new space, I opened my journal and started writing 33 things I'm grateful for. I didn't think I could find that many things, but it got easier to start being appreciative of life instead of focusing on everything I'd even thought went wrong.
In between bites of pizza and cheesy bread, I dropped all expectations and started writing. The more I wrote, the happier I felt which makes me wonder why I didn't do this before. So, without further ado, here is everything I realized during my gratitude practice this year!
The Things I'm Most Grateful For Right Now:
Brit + Co
"I'm grateful for quiet moments where I can hit the reset button when I need to."
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"I’m grateful for moments I’ve accepted accountability for my actions."
Brit + Co
"I’m grateful for having a supportive family and fiancé."
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"I'm grateful for forgiveness and chances to start over."
Brit + Co
"I’m grateful for the beauty and joy of reading."
- I'm grateful for home-cooked meals.
- I'm grateful for praying grandmothers.
- I'm grateful for older siblings I get along with.
- I'm grateful for reminders I'm not alone.
- I'm grateful for the gift of writing.
- I'm grateful for time spent in nature.
- I'm grateful for having friends in my life who feel like family.
- I'm grateful for my mom introducing me to therapy before my 20s.
- I'm grateful for every day I wake up with air in my lungs.
- I'm grateful for moments that cause me to slow down and think before acting.
- I'm grateful for multiple seasons of growth.
- I'm grateful for my first full-time writing job.
- I'm grateful I work with one of the best teams ever.
- I'm grateful for having access to food, shelter, and a transportation.
- I'm grateful for having an active imagination.
- I'm grateful for being able to watch my son grow.
- I'm grateful for learning about the ins and outs of postpartum so I can help other new moms!
- I'm grateful for having a new place to live that's cozy.
- I'm grateful for watching the seasons change.
- I'm grateful I get to learn what it means to have a healthy romantic relationship.
- I'm grateful for boundaries.
- I'm grateful for understanding my parents betters.
- I'm grateful I'm still in tune with my inner kid.
- I'm grateful for book clubs.
- I'm grateful for the amazing authors I've come across.
- I'm grateful for funny memes on social media.
- I'm grateful for hot chocolate — yes, I'm serious.
- I'm grateful for LIFE itself.
Ironically, some of the things I'm grateful for can serve as inspirational fall quotes — which is perfect since my birthday is days after the Autumn Equinox! Aside from that realization, I can genuinely say writing down what I'm grateful for made my birthday better than it's been in years.
I've been focusing on everything that can go right instead of comparing my life to other people and it's a welcomed change. Maybe this is just one of the perks of getting older. If so, sign me up for more birthdays like this!
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It’s no secret that Trader Joe’s absolutely kills it in the dessert department. I’m a massive fan of their Dark Chocolate Peanut Butter Cupsand Chocolatey Coated Chocolate Chip Cookie Dunkers, but taking a gander down the frozendesserts aisle is an entirely different ballgame. From fruit-flavored mochi to decadent chocolate layered ice cream sammies, there’s something at Trader Joe’s for every kind of sweet tooth. Perfect for mid-day and midnight snacks alike, these are the 8 best Trader Joe’s frozen desserts that are worth every bite.
Scroll on for the 8 Trader Joe’s frozen desserts that belong in your next grocery haul!
Trader Joe's
1. Coffee Bean Hold the Cone! Mini Ice Cream Cones
These coffee-flavored, chocolate-covered, mini-sized ice cream cones are a total hoot. Their small size makes 'em unbelievably easy to snack on, though, so it may take some restraint to not eat the whole box in a single sitting (speaking from experience). You get a little bit of creaminess and crunch with each piece, which is insanely satisfying – and something you don't get too much of – from a frozen treat!
2. Blood Orange Mochi Ice Cream
These addicting little pockets of blood orange-flavored ice cream wrapped in sweet mochi dough are super nostalgic, especially for someone like me who practically grew up on Flintstone's Push-Ups! They're the ideal finger food, and though you might assume eating each piece is messy, the snackin' experience is anything but. With just enough zing from the blood orange and plenty of sugary goodness, you're definitely going to want to buy at least three boxes at a time during your TJ's runs.
Trader Joe's
3. Sublime Ice Cream Sandwiches
These ice cream sammies are simply a modern take on a beloved classic. They're just like those popular treats you can pick up at the gas station, but with tons more chocolate chips. TJ's says they've perfected the best "crunchy-chewy ratio" possible for the duo of chocolate chip cookies involved, both of which hug a thick dollop of vanilla ice cream for a sweet summertime – or anytime, really – refreshment.
4. Macaron Chocolate Ice Cream Sandwiches
This brand-new Trader Joe's frozen dessert already has fans going crazy, and I get it – it's basically two of the best desserts in one! Surrounded by a pair of "delicate" macaron shells, these chocolate ice cream sandwiches are totally chocolated out. I'm certain any fan of chocolate will adore them.
A TJ's fan on Reddit noted that the macaron component of this treat is "perfectly cooked, sweet and chewy," while the ice cream "tastes premium... and has a lot of chocolate flavor."
"It’s like they made these just for me," someone else chimed in on the thread. Same here!
Trader Joe's
5. Chocolate Croissants
If you didn't know Trader Joe's carries frozen croissants by now, you've truly been missing out. No more paying $5 per pastry at your local cafe! These bake-and-eat goodies are crafted with high-quality butter and semisweet Belgian chocolate for a deliciously sweet balance – all without having to laminate the dough yourself (amen)! I love treating myself to this box to enjoy on a lazy Sunday morning alongside some fresh coffee.
Trader Joe's
6. Lemon Bars
As fun as they are to make yourself, these frozen, ready-to-eat lemon bars erase the need for you to drag out all of your bakeware! Also – oven, who?! After thawing out at room temp a bit, these truly taste just as fresh as they would if you DIY'ed them. These are my go-to Trader Joe's frozen dessert if I'm attending a party and need to bring something to share... but don't necessarily have all the time in the world to whip something up.
Trader Joe's
7. Speculoos Cookie Butter Ice Cream
Die-hard TJ's fanatics might already know the pure magic that is their Speculoos Cookie Butter, but not many know that the grocer's incorporated it into a deliciously creamy pint of ice cream! This frozen find is swirled with the famous butter and packed with pieces of cookie for extra Speculoos oomph. I like to add some chocolate chips to mine (like a total chocolate fiend), but I also think TJ's Teensy Candy Bars or crushed Chocolate Vanilla Creme Joe-Joe's would work wonderfully as toppings.
Trader Joe's
8. Brownie Crisp Coffee Ice Cream Sandwiches
Chocolate and coffee is a top-tier food combo, and it's downright irresistible if it comes in a frozen form like this. While traditional ice cream sandwiches typically come with cookies as the top and bottom layers, this TJ's dessert comes complete with a duo of brownie crisps to provide a unique bite. Eat them on their own, or dare to go bold and try one affogato-style!
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Between work commitments, grocery runs, and coffee dates, it feels like we barely have time to even make it to the gym. So when we do actually get our gear and go amid all these responsibilities (hello, 2024 New Year’s resolution), who can blame us for simply wanting to skip straight to cardio, burn as many calories as we can in 30 minutes, and then bounce? Unfortunately, this is a super ill-advised way to exercise, because it means you’re skimping on an essential part of the workout routine: stretching. Although adding a warmupmight mean tacking an extra 20 minutes onto your workout (you can do it!), the numerous benefits should make integrating stretching into your gym time a no-brainer. Nichole Tipps — lead trainer for V Shred, a virtual fitness training program — offers us some insight about the importance of stretching.
Everything You Need To Know About Stretching During A Workout
1. Why to Stretch: It’s not just for gym rats. According to Tipps, all of us, no matter how athletically inclined, should be incorporating stretching into our schedules.
“Many people ignore stretching when working out or just as a daily routine,” she says. “Stretching has an array of health benefits that serve as building blocks for longevity and physical well-being.”
Stretching increases flexibility, which improves range of motion in addition to improving workouts, and it delays the effects of atrophy later in life. It also aids posture and relieves stress. In terms of exercising, stretching has advantages both pre- and post-workout.
“Stretching increases blood flow to the muscles and improves your circulation,” explains Tipps. Because of this, failing to stretch beforehand can result in injury, and neglecting to do it afterward can lead to enhanced soreness and a longer recovery period. You’re also making yourself more susceptible to pain, inflammation, and tension in general, Tipps warns.
2. When to Stretch: Most people are at least vaguely aware of the benefits of stretching, but a lot of confusion surrounds when to actually do it during a workout. Contrary to popular belief, the heavy-duty stretching should be reserved for when you’ve finished exercising.
“After your workout is a better time to stretch with more dedication,” Tipps confirms. “Your muscles are tense, and they are tired and stressed in a good way. So stretching can help relieve that tension and reduce the soreness that results from working a muscle.”
Allot 10-15 minutes for these post-sweat stretches. Before your workout, simply stretch lightly, keeping the time to less than 10 minutes.
“Ease your muscles into the idea that you will be challenging them to perform,” Tipps instructs.
3. What to Stretch: Both of these stretch seshes should always address your arms, legs, and back, regardless of what areas that workout focuses on.
“There are different parts to each of these areas, so concentrate on those that your workout calls for that day, but don’t neglect everything else altogether either,” advises Tipps. “Remember, a lot of workout routines include compound exercises, which are multi-joint movements that work several muscles at one time.”
Although stretching might initially seem like yet another chore to add to your to-do list, its benefits are invaluable enough to no longer ignore. As Tipps encourages, “Stretch regularly, and over time you will reap the benefits and maintain your mobility.”
How do you stretch when working out?
There are quite a few stretches you can do when working out depending on what your body needs. No matter what you end up going with, remember not to force it — stretching should, well, stretch your muscles, but it shouldn't be painful! Check out these Pro Tips To Reach Your 2024 Fitness Goals, The Best At-Home Workouts, and 9 Easy Stretches You Can Do To Exercise At Your Desk for more ideas!
Is it better to stretch during or after a workout?
Nichole Tipps recommends saving your more intense stretches for after a workout. But don't be afraid to do a few easy stretches beforehand!
What’s your favorite stretch during a workout? Let us know on social media!
This article has been updated.
All images via Brit + Co
One of the first (and most meaningful) decisions you'll make as a parent is selecting your little one's name. If you're drawn to rich cultural heritage, Italian baby names serve as stellar options that offer a blend of tradition, charm, and history.
So, whether you're of Italian descent or simply appreciate the beauty of the language, here are some Italian baby names that you can't go wrong with.
Scroll to see all the classic Italian baby names we can't get enough of in 2025!
1. Bianca
Bianca is a beautiful moniker for girls that means "white" or "pure." It's simple yet elegant, signifying innocence, freshness, and grace.
While it originated in Italy, this name has since become popular in numerous countries, including Brazil, Germany, and Romania. It also carries literary charm since it's linked to the character Bianca in Shakespeare's Taming of the Shrew.
2. Carlo
With both Italian and German roots, Carlo is a distinguished name that actually means "free man." It has traveled across Europe due to its popularity, showing up everywhere, from the streets of Naples to the mountains of Bavaria.
It has a regal sound that carries a sense of freedom and strength. That's why Carlo is a great choice for parents seeking a name that embodies heritage and an adventurous spirit.
3. Isabella
With roots in the Hebrew name Elisheva and the English variation Elizabeth, Isabella carries a sense of grace and reverence. It means "devoted to God" and has remained popular for centuries as a favorite among royals and celebrities.
Plus, its connection to the Italian word "bella" makes it an even more fitting and timeless pick for a beautiful little girl.
4. Alessio
This strong yet graceful Italian name means "defender" and encourages little boys to stand up for what they believe in. As a shorter form of Alessandro, it also has a melodic flow and a distinct, stylish sound.
Alessio's Italian roots make it a wonderful option for those who want to honor their heritage with a classic name that stands the test of time.
5. Francesca
Francesca has both German and Italian roots. It's likely derived from the Old Germanic word "franko," which means "Frenchman," but it also connects to the Italian name Francis and translates to "free."
This gives Francesca a sense of independence and individuality, encouraging self-expression and freedom. Moreover, it's associated with St. Francis of Assisi and the Franciscans who embraced humility and love for all living things.
6. Lorenzo
With origins in Latin, Italian, and Spanish, this name means "from Laurentum" or "from the town of bay trees." Lorenzo has a connection to nature that's elegant and rich in historical significance.
As a variant of Laurence, it has been a beloved name in Southern Europe for centuries. Lorenzo's lasting appeal is partly thanks to its association with influential figures, such as Lorenzo de' Medici, the Florentine Renaissance prince, and the name's appearances in Shakespearean plays.
7. Luciana
Luciana is a feminine name with Italian roots that means "light." It's derived from the Latin word "lux," which signifies brightness.
Naming your daughter Luciana is the perfect way to honor her as a shining presence in your life. This pick symbolizes warmth, joy, and hope while delivering a soft sound.
8. Matteo
Lastly, Matteo is a charming and masculine name with origins in both Italian and Hebrew, meaning "gift of God." As the Italian version of the classic Matthew, it carries a more romantic flair.
This name also has a lively, energetic vibe and offers the cute nickname option Teo. It's a timeless choice with meaningful symbolism that doesn't sacrifice modern style.
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Nothing screams springquite like pastel hues, but right now, butter yellow is hot. This season’s crop of dresses is definitely embracing the shade in the best way possible! From breezy sundresses to flirty slips, these butter yellow beauties are simply perfect for donning spring’s “it” color. If you're looking to refresh your wardrobe with a color that feels effortlessly chic, these 12 picks are a must-see!
Scroll on for our 12 favorite stylish butter yellow dresses you can shop now!
J.Crew
J.Crew Cotton Poplin Zip-Up Shirtdress
This shirtdress has the perfect laid-back vibe for your spring weekend 'fits, though it's still polished enough that you could turn it more formal with heels and a sophisticated jewelry stack.
Target
Wild Fable Drop Waist Mini Sundress
This Target dress has our full attention! The drop waist is undeniably flattering on all body types, plus the butter yellow shade is right on point. All for $30?! We're here for it.
Abercrombie & Fitch
Abercrombie & Fitch Premium Linen Drop-Waist Belted Maxi Dress
This strapless maxi is ideal for this year's Easter plans, as a wedding guest dress, or as a getup for a garden party! The attached belt pulls the look together perfectly.
Urban Outfitters
Amy Lynn Puffball Midi Dress
Along with butter yellow being a huge trend in today's fashion, bubble hems are equally as cool. Combine the two with this adorable tie-strap dress that supplies a super femme feel.
Nordstrom
Petal & Pup Aliyah Cotton Eyelet Maxi Dress
The breezy cotton material this dress is made of makes it so comfy to wear all day long. What's more is it boasts an adorable eyelet pattern for added spring flair! The square neckline is also extremely flattering and will draw all eyes toward you.
Banana Republic
Banana Republic Knit Midi Dress
Inspired by ballet fashion, this "subtly stretchy" midi dress pulls you together without being overly restrictive. The sheer skirt is luckily lined with a mini-length slip that ensures coverage as you move!
Anthropologie
Anthropologie The Tilda Slip Dress
For a fuss-free slip dress, this silky pick from Anthro is the way to go. It's super sleek and chic, so you can dress it up or down with ease. From comfy sneakers to elevated heels, you'll be lookin' oh-so fab!
Free People
Free-est Taking Sides Maxi
The tiered design on this maxi moment is downright whimsical. We'd wear it to a springtime picnic or happy hour to feel like instant royalty! Plus, it's made of cotton, so you won't have to worry about losing that easy, breezy fit you love.
Urban Outfitters
AFRM Vienna Asymmetric Ruffle Maxi Dress
Hello, ruffles! This butter yellow dress is practically covered in 'em, perfect for formal occasions and dinner dates.
Target
Wild Fable Flutter Short Sleeve Maxi A-Line Dress
How dreamy! This maxi that's fitted with flutter sleeves has such a playful and femme effect, which is heightened by the cutie bows atop the shoulders. This pick is another excellent choice for an Easter dress, but it's easily timeless enough to don all spring and summer long!
Nordstrom
WAYF Cara Floral Cap Sleeve Linen Blend Midi Dress
If solids aren't quite your style, this midi is covered in floral motifs to help you embrace the blooms of spring even further. The lace linings around the hem and neckline are irresistibly cute, too!
Free People
Free-est Onda Drop-Waist Long-Sleeve Mini
The combo of the drop waist and three-quarter-length sleeves on this marvelous mini dress lend it such a romantic feel, which is ideal for date nights and cocktails with the gals. We'd let the squared neckline shine by wearing this with our hair up and some kitten heels for added cuteness!
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