5 Things Your Commute Needs: Music from Empire, Twitter Poems + More!

February has arrived and we can feel the love in the air. That may just be because of all our 3D Printed Roses, though… While you’re busy thinking up date ideas for Valentine’s Day during your commute, kick up the journey to work a little more with five of our go-tos to get you through this week.

1. Music from FOX’s Empire: The FOX hit on everyone’s lips has been releasing tunes every week (those Glee songs were getting a little old, now that you mention it). Download or stream the tracks on Spotify and you’ll be feeling just as fierce as Cookie as you stroll into the office. (Photo via Michael Lavine/FOX)

2. Poetweet: Always thought your tweets spoke to your followers? Now make those 140 character social media shares even deeper (or confusing?) with this poem web generator. Who knows, your poetic tweets could turn you into a modern day Maya Angelou.

3. Shondaland Revealed Podcast: Our TGIT withdrawal finally ended last week with the return of Grey’s Anatomy, Scandaland How to Get Away With Murder. While it may not be acceptable to bring a glass of wine and a bowl of popcorn on your commute, it is perfectly fine to indulge in some more Shondaland action. Get juicy behind-the-scenes stories on all three of Shonda Rhimes’ shows from this podcast hosted by executive producer Betsy Beers.

4. Little Short Stories: This Instagram feed is filled with heart wrenching short stories that will have you laughing and crying. Try not to make those tears too obvious though — you don’t need people asking questions when you arrive to the office.

5. Coffee Around the World: Do you have an undying wanderlust and thirst for coffee? Travel around the world in this video while learning how to prep cups of joe from a handful of countries. Then try and recreate them in the office kitchen ;)

What will be your go to for this week’s commute? Let us know in the comments.

And just like that, Bridgerton Season 3 has officially been released, and if you ask me, it's for all of us who have wanted the wallflower to finally get the respect (and love) she deserves. I'm still not over the way Colin and Penelope's story developed, or how she took the first step to show women they're able to be more than what society says. Dare I say Mrs. Bridgerton has joined the ranks of women who are all about empowerment in the series?

It seems like other people feel the same way I do about this epic season — and thatending — so I put together a list of the best Twitter reactions!

Violet Bridgerton is the ultimate mama bear who wants her kids to experience a full love like she did.

But, I have to admit I'm here for seeing Violet Bridgerton begin a new chapter in her life with Lady Danbury's brother (hopefully)!

The scream I screamed!

Eloise Bridgerton was so conflicted because she truly still cared for Penelope underneath her hurt masked as anger. And thankfully Kate was there to swoop in with her wisdom.

The music and silent confirmation from Colin that these two have always been destined for each other sent me over the edge. So many happy tears were shed during this scene!

This tweet was too good to ignore! Cressida was like, "I'm leaving here with something," and it doesn't include being married to an older man who wants to dim her light.

IYKYK 👀

It was nice to see a nod to the friendship Penelope and Lady Danbury had in the Bridgerton books this season.

Kilmartin may be introverted, but his charisma is off the charts when he decides to let it show.

Bridgerton Season 4 better give Benedict his flowers.

This is yet another scene that broke me and stitched me together at the same time.

I don't think we're okay after this season 😭.

No, someone should really check on us.

I thought Bridgerton Season 2 was the best one, but it seems like the series keeps getting better. I guess that's the point.

What was YOUR reaction to Bridgerton season 3? Let us know on X!

Lead image via Liam Daniel/Netflix

Going meatless on Mondays doesn’t mean you have to settle for the same boring salads or bland pastas. With the right recipes, you can enjoy hearty, flavor-packed meals that are just as satisfying as your favorite meat-based options! Whether you’re craving something cheesy, crispy, or full of bold spices, these meatless Monday recipes will keep you coming back for more.

Scroll on for 15 easy Meatless Monday recipes that’ll keep you full and satisfied!

Brittany Griffin

Big-Batch Pressure-Cooked Vegan Chili

This vegan chili is super hearty since it's loaded up with quinoa and three kinds of beans. Don't fret about the flavor, either – it gets its semi-spicy effect from chilis, chili powder, onion, cayenne, and salt! (via Anna Monette Roberts for Brit + Co)

Sarah Anderson

Carrot Hot Dogs

We bet you've never had hot dogs like this before! Crafted using carrots that are sautéed in maple syrup, coconut aminos, and water then briefly grilled for texture, they turn tender and oh-so flavorful. From there, you can top 'em with just about anything you want! (via Sarah Anderson for Brit + Co)

Sarah Bond

10-Minute Chickpea Salad

This quick chickpea salad would make a great lunch for your meatless Mondays. It requires zero cooking, yet still fills you up with protein from the chickpeas and zesty Greek yogurt dressing! (via Sarah Bond of Live Eat Learn for Brit + Co)

The Edgy Veg

Tater Totchos

You've heard of nachos, but what about totchos?! These loaded tater tots are both vegan- and vegetarian-friendly, but thankfully, they've still got plenty of cheese – vegan cheese, that is! (via The Edgy Veg)

Feel Good Foodie

Vegetarian Burrito Bowl

This veggie burrito bowl is basically the epitome of 'we have Chipotle at home.' It only takes 40 minutes to make, and you're sure to have plenty of leftovers if you're eating for one! (via Feel Good Foodie)

Vikalinka

Creamy Tomato & Spinach Tortelloni

For a cozy dinner at home, this creamy tortelloni will cure every single one of your cravings. It's veggie-packed, with tons of tomato and spinach to boot. (via Vikalinka)

Completely Delicious

Roasted Brussel Sprout & Gruyere Quiche

You can never go wrong with a simple quiche, especially when you toss in some seasonal veggies. This recipe works great for breakfast and dinner alike! (via Completely Delicious)

Kathryn's Kitchen

Jalapeño Popper Pizza

With the spicy notes of jalapeño poppers, this pizza also supplies lots of cheese for you to indulge in on meatless Mondays. (via Kathryn's Kitchen)

Munching with Mariyah

Vegan Sheet-Pan Fajitas

These vegan fajitas are perfect for your meatless Monday plans because they’re loaded with bold, smoky flavors, packed with nutritious veggies, and they come together effortlessly on one pan for easy clean-up! (via Munching with Mariyah)

The Real Food Dietitians

Greek Portobello Mushroom Vegetarian Gyros

Rivaling your favorite Greek takeout spot, these veggie-packed gyros still come complete with all the best toppings, including a super fresh tzatziki sauce! (via The Real Food Dietitians)

Averie Cooks

Chickpea & Kale Thai Coconut Curry

Hearty, packed with plant-based protein, and bursting with rich, comforting flavors, this Thai-inspired curry is ideal for chilly nights. Plus, it's made all in a one-pot! (via Averie Cooks)

The Girl on Bloor

Veggie Tofu Scramble

For breakfast, you've gotta give tofu scramble a try. It's just as protein-rich as scrambled eggs, but you can also load it up with veggies like red pepper, red onion, spinach, and mushrooms for added nutrients! (via The Girl on Bloor)

Takes Two Eggs

Gochujang Brussels Sprouts

This vegetarian side dish would work wonderfully with an Asian-inspired meal, whether it's a meatless Monday or not. Spicy, umami, and salty flavors take the forefront to make every bite so heavenly. (via Takes Two Eggs)

Vanilla and Bean

Cheesy Vegetarian Tofu Enchiladas

These baked-to-perfection tofu enchiladas will keep your Tex Mex cravings at bay with tons of spicy, smoky flavors and plenty of plant-based protein. (via Vanilla and Bean)

Cozy Cravings

Zucchini Lemon Risotto

This lemon risotto with zucchini is a dream. It's light yet creamy, plus, it's fairly simple to make if you're in a pinch for lunch or dinner. (via Cozy Cravings)

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Moms don’t always get a chance to curl up with their favorite book club reads, but that’s about to change thanks to these amazing Spotify audiobooks I came across. This special roundup is geared towards celebrating Mother’s Day, from memoirs to fictionalized versions of motherhood, with all the options aim to talk about the nuances of raising humans and how moms see themselves. So save some paper this year and skip the card because these Spotify audiobooks give moms something different to listen to. Happy reading — er...listening!

The Best Spotify Audiobooks For Moms

Choosing Family: A Memoir of Queer Motherhood and Black Resistance by Francesca T. Royster

Francesca T. Royster details her experience being a Black, Queer mom in Choosing Family: A Memoir of Queer Motherhood and Black Resistance in a riveting way. Along with her wife Annie, Francesca adopts a little Black girl and they begin navigating what it means to choose your family. From detailing the long adoption process to understanding what it means to be a mother, Francesca examines how her experiences have allowed her to be open to something other than the traditional nuclear family.

Narrated by Sarah Palmero.

Chouette by Claire Oshetsky

Tiny knew from the moment she was pregnant with Chouette that she'd be different. She felt it throughout her pregnancy and stands correct in her assumptions when her daughter is born. She works overtime to make sure Chouette wants for nothing, but it seems like her efforts are in vain.

Convinced that she'd rather learn how to care for a child whose nature is to be free and wild, Tiny doubles down on her stance to love her unconditionally. Confronted by the knowledge her husband is trying to find a way to make Chouette as normal as possible, Tiny's love and devotion to her daughter are relentlessly tested.

Narrated by Julia Whelan.

More: Life on the Edge of Adventure and Motherhoodby Majka Burhardt

Majka Burhardt was known for going on rock and ice climbing expeditions with her husband, but her pregnancy caused her to slow down in ways she was unwilling to. Knowing that things will be different from here on out, Majka starts the process of grieving the life she had before entering motherhood.

Although she eventually goes back to work, she constantly feels torn between being there for her twins and what she used to choose without a second thought. Also, she and her husband Peter struggle to find a sense of balance with the addition of children.

It's an honest and raw look at one mother's journey as she works to understand how to navigate being a wife, mom, and working woman. Narrated by Majka Burhardt.

Honey, Baby, Mine by Laura Dern, Diane Lad and Reese Witherspoon

Laura Dern and her mother Diane Ladd peel back the layers of life, love, and more in Honey, Baby, Mine by having honest conversations. Stemming from an illness that plagued Diane's lungs, their conversations were born on the long walks that were meant to help her focus on other things. Daring to approach their conversations with open hearts and cover things that most mothers and daughters stray away from. The more Laura and her mother Diana share, the more their already close bond strengthens.

Honey, Baby, Mine is a recollection of those conversations and memories. Narrated by Laura Dern and Diane Ladd.

Interesting Facts About Space by Emily Austin

Although Interesting Facts About Space isn't completely about motherhood, it's an excellent listen for moms who want a break from things that talk about everything that comes with it.

Enid has an obsession with anything related to space and can share many facts about it. It's part of what moves her and keeps her going. Unfortunately, other areas of her life are all over the place. She spends most of her time listening to true crime podcasts and swiping right on dating apps that end in fruitless relationships.

Her relationship with her family is shaky at best, but she decides to be more intentional about her interactions with her half-sisters after their dad dies. It's around this time she unintentionally begins an affair and becomes paranoid that someone with violent motives is following her.

She eventually beings to realize that she has to deal with the one person she hasn't been honest with — herself.

Narrated by Natalie Naudus.

Down Came The Rain by Brooke Shields

Down Came The Rain is Brooke Shields' recollection of her postpartum experience and the depression that followed. She didn't expect to feel pure love and intense sadness after having her daughter, but those feelings came anyway. What makes this audiobook special is that Brooke speaks with clarity about how postpartum can be overlooked and implies that she hopes her story will make other moms feel less alone if they're struggling.

Narrated by Brooke Shields.

The Manicurist's Daughter by Susan Lieu

Susan Lieu takes listeners behind the scenes as she works to understand her family and how her future fits into the bigger picture. She talks about their escape from the ongoing Vietnam war in the 1980s and the way her own mother helped them transition successfully in California. Things were going well until Susan's mom unexpectedly died during a cosmetic procedure and the family forbid conversations about her.

It leads Susan down a long path of discovering how far people will go to change themselves and how no justice was brought against the surgeon who had a negative reputation with Vietnamese immigrants. Determined to find answers to her burning questions, Susan does everything she can to uncover secrets about the past. What she finds is unlike anythign she was prepared to discover.

Narrated by Susan Lieu.

Little Fires Everywhere by Celeste Ng

Little Fires Everywhere is a chilling look at two mothers who have made choices that directly affect themselves and their children. One one side of the coin, Elena Richardson lives in the picturesque Shaker Heights with her devoted husband and their three children. She's as "by the book" as anyone can be and she relishes in the life it's afforded her.

Then there's the free-spirited Mia Warren who strikes up an uneasy friendship with Elena and even becomes her tenant along with her daughter Pearl. Somehow, Elena's children are charmed by Mia and Pearl, wanting to spend as much time with them in their own ways. It sounds perfect until it's revealed that Mia has a complicated and elusive past that even Pearl isn't 100% aware of.

Things reach a head when Mia learns that Elena's friends are trying to adopt her co-workers daughter that she felt she was unable to care for. This custody battle forces those in close proximity to deal with their internal biases about race and socioeconomic status. As Elena works to bring Mia down, her own carefully coordinated life begins to unravel and it affects her family in irreversible ways.

Narrated by Jennifer Lim.

Bringing Up Bébé: One American Mother Discovers the Wisdom of French Parenting by Pamela Druckerman

Journalist Pamela Druckerman gives birth in Paris and secret wonders how French parents are able to get their children to behave so well. She can't help but notice the glaring difference between children in France compared to the children in America as if someone has drawn an invisible line that separates the two. What she learns over time surprises her like the fact no one tells French mothers who they're supposed to model their lives after in order to be 'successful mothers.'

She learns that the French actually let their children exist as if instead of expecting them to hit every single benchmark that's expected of American children. Coupled with her notebook and curiosity, Pamela begins to investigate what helps French parents rear their children the way they do. She eventually comes to term with her own feelings about raising her child and relinquishes the idea that being a mom or child are supposed to be perfect.

Narrated by Abby Craden.

Looking for more reading recs? Be sure to check out our storefront for all our fave books!

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

Lead images via Spotify

For over three decades and more than 1,000 episodes, Law & Order has been bringing gritty crime drama to viewers everywhere. Each version of the franchise, like the no-nonsense Law & Order, the sharper Law & Order: Criminal Intent, and the intense Law & Order: Special Victims Unit, offers its own unique style and energy.

With that came a range of memorable guest stars, too. From future A-listers early in their careers to established actors in surprising roles, Law & Order has a solid reputation for delivering unexpected celebrity cameos.

Let's look back at some of the most iconic Law & Order celeb appearances that you might've forgotten about over the years.

Scroll to see the Law & Ordercelebrity cameos you definitely forgot about...

Youtube/LawAndOrderNBC

1. William H. Macy

You may best know William H. Macy as drunken patriarch Frank Gallagher on Shameless or as the surprising voice of the narrator in Curious George. These two wildly different roles just go to show how diverse his talent is.

Still, you might not remember how William even made an early appearance on Law & Order in the very first episode of the series, playing Assistant US Attorney John McCormack in the pilot.

While this debut wasn't particularly memorable, he did get a second shot at redemption in Season 2. That time around, he played Jack Powell, the director of a teen shelter suspected of abuse.

Youtube/MsMojo

2. Amanda Seyfried

Everyone knows Amanda Seyfried for her breakout role as ditzy Karen Smith in Mean Girls. More recently, you might've seen her viral rendition of "California" by Joni Mitchell on The Tonight Show going viral across social media platforms.

However, she also appeared in a Law & Order: Special Victims Unit episode and played Tandi McCain, a teen girl who was found beaten and duct-taped under a bench in a new dormitory. This impactful performance couldn't have been a wider divergence from her Mean Girls character.

NBCUniversal

3. Stephen Colbert

Before Stephen Colbert became known for his sharp political commentary (and endless impersonations of Donald Trump), he also started off as an actor just trying to make it in Hollywood. One of his early TV roles came in 2004 when he appeared on Law & Order: Criminal Intent.

Stephen portrayed James Bennett, a counterfeiter whose actions threaten to ruin a Catholic charity. This role was far removed from his typical comedic persona and offered a rare glimpse at Stephen's darker acting abilities.

Youtube/LawAndOrderNBC

4. Bradley Cooper

Prior to becoming the heartthrob we all know and love today, Bradley Cooper was already proving he had the chops to play some seriously twisted characters. During a Law & Order appearance, he portrayed Jason Whitaker, a psychotic lawyer whose dark past catches up with him.

What makes Bradley's guest spot even more interesting is that it was part of a crossover event between Law & Order: Special Victims Unit and the spin-off Law & Order: Trial By Jury. His storyline begins on SVU and continues in the latter.

Youtube/MsMojo

5. John Krasinski

Before John Krasinski became a household name for his role as Jim Halpert on The Office, he showcased his darker side on Law & Order: Criminal Intent. He played Jace Gleesing, a troubled high school basketball player suspected of murdering a private investigator.

Viewers got to see John act as a wildly different character than the lovable and quirky paper salesman he's most known for today.

Youtube/LawAndOrderNBC

6. Robin Williams

Robin Williams is remembered for his iconic roles in both comedy and drama and his performance in Law & Order: Special Victims Unit is no exception.

In the Season 9 episode "Authority," he portrayed Merritt Rook, a sound engineer turned anti-authoritarian criminal mastermind. Merritt is pushed to the edge after the tragic loss of his wife and unborn child, setting him on a path of revenge, and Robin's captivating performance even earned him an Emmy nomination.

Youtube/LawAndOrderNBC

7. Julia Roberts

During the ninth season of Law & Order, Julia Roberts also made a memorable guest appearance. When a millionaire investor died shortly after backing a new sports stadium, the investigation hones in on a construction entrepreneur as the prime suspect.

Julia plays Katrina Ludlow, a professional fundraiser who claims to have uncovered evidence implicating the killer. There's just one catch: she insists on delivering the evidence to Detective Rey Curtis under a set of complicated circumstances.

The star earned an Emmy for this performance, adding another achievement to her impressive resume.

Youtube/LawAndOrderNBC

8. Samuel L. Jackson

Finally, Samuel L. Jackson made an early appearance on Law & Order during its very first season. He played lawyer Louis Taggert in the episode "The Violence of Summer," which aired before his famous role as Ray Arnold in Jurassic Park.

Samuel flexed his acting muscles with some classic scenes in the interrogation room, adding even more intensity to an already dramatic show.

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Mountain homes naturally have a cozy charm thanks to the landscape and serene surroundings, but with the right design approach, you can elevate the look beyond "log cabin chic" toward a dreamy, sophisticated sanctuary. Designer Sierra Fox of Studio Mountain is known for blending rustic warmth with modern elegance and her latest project is all of the above and more. Nestled in the breathtaking landscape of Sun Valley, Idaho, this five-bedroom, five-and-a-half-bathroom retreat is surrounded by sweeping mountain views and stunning natural beauty, both of which influenced Sierra’s design. Now on the market and listed by her sister, Delaney, this home is full of inspiring details. "Delaney and I work together to design each home to have a unique and custom feeling, from the decision about the property location all the way down to fabrics on the furniture," says Sierra. "It can be really fun to get to work with family and it helps us spend more time together than we would otherwise."

Here are 10 home decor ideas I can't get enough of in this cozy renovation.

Aimee Mazzenga

1. Warm, Organic Elements

Inspired by the snowy mountain landscape, Sierra filled the home with warm, organic elements that strike the perfect balance between sophistication and comfort. Linen slipcovered chairs from Jenni Kayne, reclaimed oak dining table from RH, paper lantern lighting, and rich oak flooring create a sense of cozy elegance, while a flood of natural light makes the home feel so inviting.

Aimee Mazzenga

2. Marble For Dramatic Impact

Sierra prioritized timeless materials, clean lines, and a fluid indoor-outdoor connection. The kitchen features Italian Calacatta Viola marble (a popular kitchen trend), adding a bit of drama to the quiet luxury aesthetic.

Aimee Mazzenga

3. Custom Cabinetry

Custom white oak millwork and floors frame the snowy outdoors, making the inside feel warm and beautiful.

Aimee Mazzenga

4. This Dining Nook

I'm obsessed with this breakfast nook with custom banquette, CB2 oak dining table, and a bunch of throw pillows from places like Jenni Kayne and custom from Sierra's Studio Mtn Shop. It's a showstopper and a place to get cozy and gather, day or night.

Aimee Mazzenga

5. Investment Appliances

A 55” Lacanche range and Fisher & Paykel appliances balance high-quality functionality with elevated aesthetics.

Aimee Mazzenga

6. Open Shelving

Open shelving, to me, is the perfect way to add personality to your kitchen. I adore beautiful glassware and pottery, and it's the ideal space to showcase your favorite collections.

Aimee Mazzenga

7. Organization & Symmetry

One of the greatest challenges of the project was maintaining a sense of warmth and intimacy within the home’s expansive, modern layout. Sierra achieved this by layering lighting, incorporating rich material contrasts like oak and marble and being thoughtful about spatial planning.

Sierra's tip for making a space feel cohesive?

"Don't be afraid to start from scratch on a blank canvas, focusing on just a few key feelings you want to evoke from your space (serenity, energy, coziness, etc)," she says. "If you can pare down to the core feelings you want from the space, it helps to make all decisions after that from inspiration images all the way down to your silverware easier to make. When you have a cohesive idea of what you want to feel, it helps define and focus the end result."

Aimee Mazzenga

By using the same cabinetry throughout the home, Sierra creates a sense of cohesion and balance. This design choice enhances the home's flow, making each space feel thoughtfully connected. And this bedroom moment — framing the breathtaking mountain landscape — is simply lovely.

Aimee Mazzenga

Who's ready for the most luxurious bath? The symmetry here with the matching Jenni Kayne sheepskin rugs is making me swoon. I also love the use of actual drapes in the bathroom, perfect for this large window. "Incorporating shapes and texture into a design is the best way to make sure that neutrals stay interesting and elevated," says Sierra.

Aimee Mazzenga

8. Mixed Materials

When you're designing a neutral home, experimenting with unique textures is key to making it not boring. Pairing tactile elements like woven accents, natural stone, and soft textiles can bring warmth and interest to otherwise simple spaces.

"For the bedrooms, we wanted the bedrooms to feel serene and neutral while still cozy and warm," says Sierra. "We drew from our California vernacular in terms of color pallete, but blended with more mountain forward textures like shearling and antique rugs for a refined but rustic feel."

Aimee Mazzenga

A simple marble end table paired with a upholstered reading chair is the perfect balance of hard and soft.

Aimee Mazzenga

9. Tadelakt Finishes

Tadelakt, a traditional Moroccan lime plaster, adds an artistic and organic element to the space. Paired with this stone sink, it's the ultimate in earthy decor.

Aimee Mazzenga

10. Elegant Storage

Everything in the home has a purpose, and the thoughtful storage solutions, like the Annora Bookcase from AllModern, keep the space clean and minimal, allowing the luxe furnishings and breathtaking views to take center stage.

Aimee Mazzenga

Custom cabinetry, built-in consoles, and sleek bookshelves contribute to an organized aesthetic, making the entire home feel curated and intentionally designed. The result is a home that feels luxurious, deeply connected to its natural surroundings, and designed for both comfort and timeless beauty.

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