Norway Redesigned Their Money and the Results Are Stunning

If we’re honest with ourselves, currency design has never been our country’s strong suit. Our presidential dollar bills are just starting to veer from shades of green, while banknotes around the world have long since been a vision of color and modern design. (Which is probably why we still refer to any currency other than our own as Monopoly money.) And out of all the pretty bills floating around the world, Norway’s new abstract money might be our favorite.

Norges Bank of Norway invited eight creative teams to submit new designs for the Norwegian kroner under the theme “the sea.” The submissions were all so great that they ended up picking two sets of designs: one for the fronts of the bills and one for the backs. The winning teams were an architecture firm, Snøhetta, and a graphic design company called The Metric System. Snøhetta created abstract images of the sea from mere pixels, somehow making a tranquil landscape only out of squares and rectangles. As the banknotes’ denominations increase, the pixels get fewer and fewer, making the image more and more abstract.

The team at The Metric System opted for more traditional ocean scenes with intricate line work and precise proportions. To merge the glory of these two vastly different styles, Norges is using the elaborate illustrations for the fronts and the pixelated seascapes for the backs. The new kroner designs are set to go into circulation as early as 2017.

No offense to 280-year-old President George Washington, but we think it’s high time our money looked as pretty as this. In fact, it might make it easier for us to save up. Right? RIGHT?

Do you have a favorite currency design? Let us know in the comments!

As I grow older, I’ve come to appreciate the finer things in life. I’m no longer investing in things that don’t truly serve me, especially items that simply won’t last long-term. I’m certainly more particular about the clothes I buy (and even more so the materials they’re made of), and I often have to think twice or thrice before adding some silly little home decor to my cart. These days, I’m more likely to save my hard-earned money for life experiences like vacations and concerts, maintenance items like my car and bike, and a damn good night of dining out.

Past these, there are a handful of comfort purchases that are totally worth the money, according to a select group of millennial Redditors under r/Millennials. From luxury skincare products and high-end kitchenware to travel and sleep necessities, I’m truly amused by (and learning a lot from!) their responses to the question: As you’ve aged, what comfort/luxury items have you decided are worth the money?


Here are the little luxuries they buy every time.

What do millennials spend the most on?

Thirdman

Before digging into the little luxuries of it all, let's see what millennial spending habits look like in general! According to Investopedia, millennials are actually more "value-oriented" when they spend money — likely inspired by the 2008 financial crash and other unprecedented, major societal events. Since values are pretty subjective, that spending can translate in myriad of ways...including "doom spending" — or mindlessly shopping "to self-soothe because they feel pessimistic about the economy and their future" — according to CNBC.

The New York Times reported, "Millennials and Gen Z are more likely than older generations to make spending on a hobby or nonessential purchases a priority." This furthers the fact that instead of always spending towards a goal or an inherent need, millennials are looking for something more with their purchasing power. Opinions on these habits may vary, but one thing remains true: millennials want to use the money they do have to make their lives better.

Arthur Shuraev / PEXELS

1. Nonstop flights.

A few millennials agreed that spending the extra money for nonstop flights is very worth not having any kind of layover that could extend already-long travel days.

“Especially if traveling with children,” one person wrote. “Let The Journey end as quickly as possible.”

Bosch

2. Higher-end appliances.

Higher-end appliances seem popular among this millennial crowd because they have a slimmer chance of going kaput after a few years.

“I don’t want fancy bells and whistles,” one Redditor said. “I want the item to do [its] job and not crap out after 5-6 years.”

“It's the "smart" appliances that crap out quickly,” another person weighed in. “The more unnecessary buttons, the more unnecessary electronics, the more likely there is to be an issue.”

Some responders really love their Bosch appliances, like dishwashers, ovens, and more: “Bosch appliances for life. No frills but will run forever.”

Cottonbro Studio / PEXELS

3. Professional movers.

This one is quite self-explanatory: “Just save yourself the time and pain.” Amen!

Naturepedic

Naturepedic EOS Trilux Organic Latex Mattress

4. A really great mattress and pillows.

Several millennials noted that you’re likely to pay for back pain and other health issues down the line if you don’t invest in a good sleep set-up now. Many users responded that high-quality mattresses and pillows are their #1 ‘worth-it’ splurge.

“You spend 1/3rd of your life in that bed,” one person posted. “And if it's a shit one, it can and will slowly ruin your back and health.”

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5. Skincare.

Many skincare-focused users said that investing in skincare products that have a positive track record on their skin is also well worth it. Several users’ responses kickstarted a conversation about the best skincare ingredients to look into, especially with aging on the brain: SPF, tretinoin, vitamin C, retinol, and even Botox were mentioned.

A few more products were suggested in the thread were:

Amazon

Victorinox Grand Maitre Chef's Knife

6. Expensive (and sharp) kitchen knives.

A few Redditors said they’ve never once regretted their investment in luxe kitchen knives.

“I have a Victorinox chef’s knife that is my go-to and it was maybe $50 on Amazon. I’ve had it for years,” someone wrote. “Learning to sharpen knives properly is the key.”

“Also, [realizing] you don't need to buy a full knife block,” another person said. “Curating your knives based on the ones you actually [use] in your kitchen.”

Xtrema

Xtrema Versa Pan

7. High-end pots and pans.

Now this is some good advice!

“I find that more money spent on restaurant-quality cookware is worth it because I’m going on 25 years with the same sauce pans, stock pot, and skillets,” one user noted. “Non-stick sucks for everything but eggs and fish, but my cast iron works well enough for that as long as I can pay attention to what I’m doing. Don’t buy sets if you can afford good individual pieces.”

Pok Rie / PEXELS

8. Vacations.

Not only is a vacation one of the most popular comfort purchases among this particular group of millennials, making a vacation last at least one day longer seems to be the move, as it allows ample time for rest and recovery. Sometimes you just really need that extra day to get your mindset straight.

“An extra day off after I get home from my vacation,” someone wrote. “For some reason I need to have a vacation from my vacation before I go back to work.”

Brit + Co

9. A "bougie" gym

Going to the gym is usually a trying experience — you're exerting yourself physically, so why exert yourself mentally too? Instead of opting for the cheaper gyms that don't have as much to offer, some commenters note that the frills make their workout experience all the more worth it. One commenter straight up answered, “Paying for the bougie gym that’s got a sauna, cold plunge, and a good yoga instructor.”

Vlada Karpovich / PEXELS

10. Toilet paper.

It may seem subtle, but paying for higher-quality toilet paper can be a good boost to your everyday routine, according to some Reddit users.

A few commenters also praised the magic of having a bidet: “Best $150 I have ever spent is to [buy a] bidet attachment for my toilet.”

New Balance

New Balance Fresh Foam X 1080v14

11. Shoes with good support.

“Cheap out on shoes? Pay for foot problems and back problems,” one Redditor wrote. And they’re not wrong!

I grew up with parents that wouldn’t pay for cheap shoes in hopes the more expensive ones would last much longer, and I’m glad I did. It’s a mindset I’ve adopted as I grow further into adulthood, buying shoes that aren’t only made of durable materials, but provide ample support for my arches.

Brit + Co

12. “Anything that makes my body hurt less.”

This is pretty self-explanatory, but let's be real: our bodies just hurt as we age. It's an annoying fact of life, but it doesn't have to be a permanent feeling. This commenter likes to buy whatever makes their "body hurt less," and I'd like to think that looks like a lot of things. It could be the comfy shoes we've mentioned, the high-end mattresses, and the likes of all that! It could be an epsom salt that just always relaxes their muscles. It could be really anything, really! But the priority is clear: comfort is seriously key, and spending money on that is certainly not a waste.

Sebastian Ervi / PEXELS

13. Sitting closer at concerts.

Standing for hours in the GA section is so exhausting, and I’m tired of pretending it’s not! A few users agreed splurging on the more-expensive sitting arrangements is way better than waking up with foot and back pain. Plus, the view can often be a lot more enjoyable!

“I'm always trying to get to the front for general admission shows, but when seating is involved, I'm committed to paying more to be closer,” one user posted.

Amazon

14. Non-toxic cleaning products.

One user said non-toxic cleaning products are their go-to comfort purchase worth spending regularly on.

“The toxic overload we experience is causing all kinds of endocrine disorders and cancer,” they wrote. “I make a lot of my own, but if I buy:"

Brit + Co

15. Coffee, chocolate, and cheese.

Knowing what you like — and what's important to you — can really help when you're prioritizing what to spend on. This millennial commented, “I never cheap out on coffee, chocolate or cheese. I’m not buying luxury items, but I will get the highest grade I can get in my regular grocery stores. The cheapest stuff just isn’t worth it.” Amen!

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No matter whether you're a dedicated BookTok fan or you only read the classics, one thing's for sure: the summer of 2024 — and the It Ends With Us press junket — will be something we remember for a very long time. And amid rumors that the It Ends With Us cast was split over beef between Blake Lively and Justin Baldoni, it seemed like the internet couldn't stop talking about Blake's outfit choices. The actress (who famously doesn't use a stylist) was mixing patterns and colors for a bright, floral fashion experience that I, personally, loved. Fashion is all about expression and I had a good time seeing Blake have such a good time!

Well, this fall officially ushers us into a new fashion era because florals are out and Blake's classic art-deco style is so back.

What is Blake Lively's fashion style?

Monica Schipper/Getty Images

Blake Lively usually opts for a balance of sophisticated and fun in her outfits, like wearing structured suits with feminine details during press for A Simple Favor, or the art deco copper Met Gala dress that transformed into the ceiling of Grand Central Station.

Most recently, Blake looked AMAZING at the 2024 LACMA Art+Film Gala on November 2. The actress wore a chainmail mini dress from Tamara Ralph with rose gold, pink, and topaz crystals along with a topaz silk taffeta cape like the princess she is. She accessorized with Lorraine Scwartz jewelry and strappy Louboutins.

This year's gala honored Simone Leigh and Baz Luhrmann, and Blake took to Instagram to express just how much Baz's art has impacted her life.

"@bazluhrmann was the first & only signed poster I was ever lucky enough to have on my wall when I was a teenager. It’s still on my wall today," she says in the post. "To know him will always be surreal. He’s even more mischievous and magical in real life. He’ll grab your hand and run away from the gala with you to do an impromptu photoshoot because he’s inspired by everything, your cape and a palm tree is all he needs to see thrill. He’ll enthusiastically play along when you ask to put your cape on him so you can take pictures of him in a pose that he has subliminally trademarked in every girl who grew up in the 90s mind."

"Baz™️ serves as not only your inspiration, your creativity, your possibility, and your unfiltered joy, but he’s the match & the lighter fluid to it," she continues. "He’s happiest when you’re happiest. That applies to strangers, friends, colleagues. You can see it in his work, because it’s WHO HE IS."

But Blake didn't stop there, and praised Simone too! "An artist who moves with more intention than anyone I’ve ever witnessed," she says. "Her work is striking, varied, grand, contained, unrestrained, full of both discipline and abandon. It’s deeply emotional and carries momentous meaning and gravity. She is stunning in every way a person can be. What a night to be in the room with such talent, grace and art. 🙏♥️🙏 I will truly never forget it."

Dimitrios Kambouris/Getty Images

Meanwhile, at the CFDA Awards on October 28, Blake Lively wiped the slate clean with an all-white look comprised of a sculptural white dress featuring a slit in the skirt, a white blazer, and glittery silver heels Cinderella would totally approve of. She also swapped her iconic beachy waves for a sleek blowout that I'm obsessed with.

Has Blake Lively ever had a stylist?

No, Blake Lively doesn't use a stylist. (Although, an assistant helps her source pieces, and she has plenty of relationships with amazing brands.)

In 2018, the actress told WWD she took on the stylist role "because I have control issues and a big ego – that’s probably the honest answer."

“I love design and I love fashion and it’s a way to be creative. In my job I get to be creative, but it’s over a period of time and so many other people are involved, whereas this is a beginning, middle and end, and I get to be creative and there’s an end date in the near future," she continues. "It’s the same reason why I like doing my friends’ hair and makeup or cooking – you get to be creative and finish it. Whereas with my job you do it and then two years later it’s finished. It probably goes back to the control issues; it’s like, ‘Ok I did it, I completed it, it’s done!’”

What do you think of Blake Lively being her own stylist? Scroll through her It Ends With Us press looks and tell us your favorite! Mine will always be the Tamara Ralph Couture gown she wore to the London premiere.

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

I used to watch my family play crossword puzzles growing up, so it's no surprise I'm always on the hunt for a free word game to fill my time. There's just something incredible satisfying about finding the exact right word, or unscrambling letters to make meaning out of nothing. Feel the same way? I rounded up 10 addicting — and FREE — word games you can play right now! Check 'em out.

Brit + Co

Daily Cryptic Crossword

Put down your phone during your lunch break to play this Daily Cryptic Crossword. Designed to be accessible, it'll test your knowledge with bonuses that refresh everyday.

Brit + Co

Arkadium's Codeword

Before Arkadium's Codeword beings, a pop-up screen asks if you'd like to play a practice game which should tell you the challenges you could potentially face. Unlike the other games we've shared, you don't get many clues. A set of highlighted letters will be on the right for you to type into the missing spaces to complete a word.

The more letters you type into the blank cells, the more words begin to flesh out so it's easier for you to solve each code.

Brit + Co

Word Wipe

This isn't your average crossword puzzle! You'll be racing against the clock to make as many words as you can. The more you find, the more rows you'll complete. Be careful though — this game is trickier than it seems.

Brit + Co

PennyDell Fab FILL-INS

This seems like an easy game because you'll receive all the words you need, but the twist is that you have to make sure you place them in the proper place! You'll need to use a ton of critical thinking skills to make sure the words coincide with each other. Good luck!

Brit + Co

Syllacrostic

If you guessed this game has something to do with syllables, you're right! You'll put them together to solve each short phrase on the right, so give it a spin. It may remind you of the worksheets your high school English teacher used to make you complete.

Brit + Co

Outspell

Can you beat AI in this Scrabble-inspired game? If you're apprehensive, you can always choose the easy level so you can build your wordplay confidence!

Brit + Co

Today's Hurdle

Today's Hurdle amplifies the pressure with it's twists and turns. You'll be faced with a new puzzle everyday that requires you to not only find words, but place letters in their correct spot. We've yet to truly beat all five Hurdles so don't be upset if you don't get it on your first try. If you do, teach us your ways!

Brit + Co

Word Scramble

Think you've got what it takes to unscramble a set of chosen letters to make multiple words? Word Scramble will test your smarts to see if you're up for the challenge or not.

Brit + Co

Word Hunt

Love solving word puzzles as long as they have a pretty background? Word Hunt is the free online game you need because you'll see new scenery as you level up and you'll receive bonuses that help reveal hidden letters if you need extra help.

Brit + Co

Wander Words

Instead of trying to find a word or phrase before the timer ends, you get to take your time while playing Wander Words. But, this doesn't mean things will be easier. You'll have to find the name of an item, TV show, profession, and more in this game using all the letters.

Visit Brit + Co's Game Center for more exciting puzzles and arcade favorites!

If you grew up during the 90s, chances are you're very familiar with Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze, Jr. Besides David and Victoria Beckham, this couple is the reason most millennials believe that love really can last 'forever.' They're both well-respected actors who've starred in cult favorites like I Know What You Did Last Summer and She's All That, plus Sarah starred in the cult-classic show Buffy, The Vampire Slayer. Knowing they've cracked the relationship longevity code brings a smile to this millennial's face.

Can't help but fangirl over Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze, Jr. either? Let's take a trip down memory lane to revisit their relationship timeline!

Kevin Winters/Getty Images

1997: Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze, Jr.'s First Introduction

Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze, Jr. officially met while they were working on the set of I Know What You Did Last Summer, as reported by People. That's something I never really considered back then so this news makes my heart sing! I can't even begin to tell you how much I love watching it even though it's a killer flick.

1999: Sarah Makes a Quick Appearance in She's All That

It's not 100% clear if they were romantically interested in each other a couple of years later, but Sarah did make an appearance in She's All That. The film's director, Robert Iscove, opened up to Cosmopolitan about how her cameo happened in 2015. "She was there visiting Freddie and we asked her if she would come and do it, and she said she would come and do it, but she wouldn't speak. She wouldn't say any lines."

Claire Greeneway/Getty Images

January 2000: Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze, Jr.'s First Date

The funny thing about their first date is that they weren't actually planning on going on one. They were just friends at the time and a last-minute cancellation turned into something more. Sarah told People Now, " "We were friends for a very long time. We'd had many dinners before. And we were supposed to go with someone else, and the third person didn't make it out and we decided to still go," she recalled.

April 2001: Their Accidental First Date Leads to an Engagement

Fate must've known something Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze, Jr. didn't because they ended up getting engaged during the spring of 2001. ABC News shared that they announced the news during Gellar's birthday party.

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September 2002: Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze, Jr. Make It Official

The beautiful couple said "I Do" during a lovely ceremony in Mexico, according to People. Their friend Cathy Waterman — designer of their wedding bands — said, "They're on the same channel" and "This is one in which you go, 'This is going to last.'"

I'm sure she's glad to know her prediction has been proven many times over!

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April 2009 — September 2009: Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr. Enter Parenthood

In 2009 Sarah Michelle and Freddie Prinze Jr. not only announced they were preparing to welcome their first child, but they later did just that. Their daughter Charlotte Grace Prinze was born right before summer ended and we can only imagine how overjoyed the couple was.

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April 2012: Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr. Announce Their Second Pregnancy

Three years after announcing they were expecting their first child, People found out the couple were ready to expand with the announcement of their second pregnancy. A source reportedly said, "They love their little girl more than anything in the world and know that love will only multiply."

September 2012: Sarah Michelle Gellar Gives Birth To a Son

Similar to their daughter's arrival, the couple's son — Rocky James Prinze — was born in September 2012. To celebrate his bday a few years ago, Sarah shared two adorable pics of him on Instagram when he was just a baby. "Rocky, on the day you were born, I swear my heart tripled in size," she partially wrote in the caption.

Chris Weeks:Liason

September 2017: The Couple Celebrates 15 Years of Marriage

Time flies when you're having fun love each other which brings a smile to my face when thinking about Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze, Jr.

Sarah actually shared a touching video on Instagram that perfectly captured the happy couple throughout the years. Each photo in the video includes the year it was taken which really puts their relationship into perspective.

Michael Kovac/Getty Images for GILT

November 2019: Freddie Prinze, Jr. Opens Up About His Love For Cooking

It's long been rumored that women are the only ones who enjoy cooking, but that's not the case for Sarah Michelle Gellar. Freddie Prinze, Jr. told People in 2019 that he's the one who throws down in the kitchen. "It's never a hassle for me to cook dinner because I like it," he freely admitted.

This is so similar to my household because I know how to cook enough to survive, but I prefer to let my S.O. plan our meals. Sorry, not sorry!

Paul Hiffmeyer/Getty Images for Disney Enterprises, Inc.

October 2022: Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze, Jr. Are All About Their Kids Enjoying Their Youth

If you think this couple wants their children actively on social media, think again. She opened up about one of the rules she and Freddie have in place that seem worlds away from what's considered the 'norm.' "Our rules are probably stricter than most. Our kids don't have social media," she told So Mini Ways, Yahoo's Parenting series.

I know some people feel that kids should have access to things, but I'm on the fence about it now that I have a toddler. I remember what it's like having unlimited and unchecked access to the internet so I'm not sure if I'd want my kids to come across some of the things I did.

It may be controversial, but I applaud Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze, Jr. for making this decision.

Jesse Grant/Getty Images for Paramount+

January 2023: Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze Jr. Hit the Red Carpet for Wolf Pack

Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze, Jr. looked amazing while posing for pictures on Wolf Pack's red carpet. Her floral mini dress by Oscar de la Renta made me want to buy something similar even if I knew I probably wouldn't find it.

Jerod Harris/Getty Images for Knott's Scary Farm

September 2023: Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze, Jr. Celebrate 21 Years of Married Life

I can't believe I'm typing this, but Sarah Michelle Gellar and Freddie Prinze, Jr. celebrated 21 years of marriage last year. That means this couple has been going strong for two decades!

Sarah took to Instagram again to celebrate their love with a throwback picture from their wedding day on Instagram and my jaw is still on the floor.

If you need more proof that the couple are still very much in love, here's a more recent pic that Sarah shared on Instagram from earlier in the year. She's "Still celebrating and spoiling" Freddie years later, and I think it goes without saying that he loves it there.

Sigh the bar has been set HIGH, and I can't wait to see how they continue to grow with time.

November 2024: Freddie Prinze, Jr. Reveals The One Celebrity Experience They're "Good At Avoiding"

Despite the fact that paparazzi love to see (and often follow) celebrity couples, Freddie just revealed how he and Sarah have been able to keep things low-key. When Oldish's podcast co-host Randy Spelling asked how they stay out of the public — and how intentional they have to be to keep a low profile — Freddie said it's "by choice," and that "you can control it to a certain degree."

"I don't know how deliberate [others] are in trying to avoid that BS," he said on the podcast. "I know how easy it's been for us because I don't go anywhere. I don't go to parties. People don't see Sarah and I out and about at the popular places. We have our restaurants that we like, and they're not super trendy in places where paparazzi hang out. So we're good at avoiding it."

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Lead image via Claire Greeneway/Getty Images