Quirky’s Nest Competitor Wants to Be Your Home’s Command Center

With all the smart home devices coming out, it was only a matter of time before a central command hub became necessary. Connecting everything through a phone or tablet can be convenient sometimes, but not always practical. Wink, a smart home subsidiary of Quirky, recently announced their forthcoming touchscreen panel that will bring all those smart home devices together in one hub called Relay.

Relay looks like a big smartphone, costs about $300 and can be installed in place of a wall light switch (that easy!). They seem to have thought of everything when designing it. It communicates with multiple smart devices, includes its own set of sensors and a built-in microphone and speaker so that you can leave messages for your housemates. (Perhaps Her-like voice recognition in the future?!) “Done right, the smart home connects you to what you want, when you need it… bringing conveniences of safety, security and automation. That doesn’t mean you should have to see your work email when you lock your door,” says Brett Worthington, VP/GM of Wink. “Relay allows you to have control of your home without having to look at your phone.”

Users will find all the connected devices in one spot on the LCD screen dashboard, with easy access as they walk in the door. “It’s a natural extension,” Worthington says in an interview with Fast Company. “Putting [Relay] where a light switch goes makes complete sense, versus something clunky that goes on a table.” Or is lost in your purse or upstairs under a pile of dirty laundry, for that matter.

Wink’s biggest competitor is clearly Nest, which was purchased by Google earlier this year for $3.2 billion. It’s almost a smart home arms race at this point, and it’ll be interesting to see how that healthy competition might revolutionize the way we interact with our homes.

Do you use any smart home devices right now? Let us know your favorites in the comments!

Oscar-winner, Michelle Yeoh just opened up to BBC Radio about her struggles with infertility amid her decades-long career. Fertility and motherhood are obviously complex, emotional topics — we've seen plenty of discourse play out in this space the last few months alone — so when Michelle described her inability to conceive as "a failure," our collective hearts broke for her.

Here's what the Wicked star had to say about why she felt like "a failure" — and the unexpected relationship that "blessed" her.

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On BBC Radio's Woman's Hourpodcast, Michelle shared her story of infertility — both how it hurt her, but also how she was able to come to terms with it over time. In discussing what she calls a "shattered mirror moment," Michelle explained that her lack of children wasn't for "lack of trying." She said that she loves children, babies, and even has six godchildren, but she simply wasn't able to bear a biological child.

"I believe that it's a woman's choice — it's your choice whether you want to have children, and shouldn't be imposed on you. Just because you're a woman, you should have a child — that should not be the case," she said. "But as a very personal thing, I wanted — I always wanted to have children."

She elaborated that in her first marriage with Sir Dickson Poon, it was a "very clear path about having children." When she couldn't conceive, she went to get fertility treatment "to aid in the process" — and she made it clear that the process was a very painful one for her. When describing her attempts at conception, she said, "And I think the worst moment to go through is every month you feel like such a failure."

"And then you go, why? And I think at some point you stop blaming yourself. I go, there are certain things in your body that doesn't function in a certain way. That's how it is," she continued. "You just have to let go and move on. And I think you come to a point where you have to stop blaming you."

While she may have practically moved on from her dream of carrying biological children — of that, she said, "I'm 62. Of course I'm not going to have a baby right now," — Michelle can't seem to help thinking of it still. She said, "Sometimes, honestly, I still think about it."

Getting to this place of peace and understanding for her fertility scenario came with a series of heartbreaks, though, as Michelle explained this likely ended her first marriage. Although she believed they loved each other, she knew in the next decade of the relationship, she ultimately couldn't give her ex-husband the family that he wanted. Now, she feels like it was "very brave" for the former couple "to admit" that they shouldn't "drag this out."

Thankfully, the end of her marriage didn't mar the love shared there — Michelle said she's actually godmother to Sir Dickson Poon's eldest child. And she even got remarried! Though her new husband, Jean Todt, proposed the very first month they were together, Michelle waited to marry until about 20 years later.

As mentioned before, Michelle is surrounded by plenty of beautiful children in her life — one of which is her granddaughter via her stepson, Nicholas Todt. In regards to that, Michelle noted, "Then you feel you're still very, very blessed because you do have a baby in your life.”

And as for having a little one in her life outside of children? Let's just say she has a golden boy of her own — and yes, I'm referring to the Oscar she won in 2023 for Everything Everywhere All at Once. Needless to say, Michelle is definitely not a failure. 🙌

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Color lovers are in for a treat this season as the best trending home decor hues lean heavily into moody jewel tones and nature-inspired hues. Espresso and burgundy and hints of gold – with a few earthy pastels in the mix – are brightening our neutral spaces and giving us a reason to love color again this season. Here are six moody, modern, and monochrome color trends to embrace this season and decorate your happy home.

Future Dusk

With warm colors dominating in recent years, dark moodier blues are creeping back in for us blue lovers. Trend forecaster WGSN's Color of the Year,Future Dusk, is moody with sense of mystery and escapism. It's like your dependable midnight blue, it manages to feel both familiar and futuristic, earthy and actually celestial, beautifully shown in this CB2 Cantar Blue Velvet Upholstered Queen Bed.

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Winton Dining Table

Lemieux et Cie

Roanne Renee Rug

Anthropologie

Liv Wood Lamp Base

Golden Yellow

Lemieux Et Cie

Darker shades like deep gold are adding drama and sophistication to interiors. Whether you opt for subtle buttery yellows (also on trend) or go bold with gold, yellow tones can brighten and elevate your space. Find this rich hue on accent walls, furniture, or accessories.

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West Elm

Cotton Velvet Blackout Curtain

Burgundy

Meredith Kleinman Design

Deep, rich reds are classic for the season and gracing our living spaces with stunning color. Use this color on kitchen cabinets (try Benjamin Moore Classic Burgundy) or your favorite furniture and decor.

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Interior Define

Maxwell Fabric Sofa By Apartment Therapy

Lulu and Georgia

Carmine Velvet Pillow

Earthy Greens

Gavin Cater

Married couple and design duo behind the Los Angeles design firm Bungalowe, Karan and Sapna Aggarwal, recently renovated their home in the Highland Park neighborhood of LA with this earthy green zellige tile as the accent color in an otherwise neutral home. (Check out their gorgeous home for rustic decor inspiration). Moss, olive, and deep greens like this one are making their way into homes that want to bring in some striking color.

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Ruggable

Taylor Washable Wool Rug

Espresso And Mocha

Nils Timm

These yummy colors are on the rise as a modern neutral. Amanda Leigh and Taylor Hahn of celeb-loved L.A. design firm House of Rolison were tasked with reimagining this 1950s Beverly Hills home in the coveted neighborhood for a modern era and chose chocolate and dark woody accents throughout. UK-based Graham & Brown announced its Color of the Year 2025: Elderton, a neutral toned brown inspired by nature. These versatile hues add a sense of warmth and earthiness, perfect for creating cozy, inviting spaces.

Shop Espresso And Mocha Home Decor

Ferm Living

Mara Knotted Rug

Pottery Barn

Ozark Swivel Chair

Urban Outfitters

Sienna Checkered Stool

Earthy Pinks

Desenio

Earthy pinks like toffee, clay and mauve are softening up the rich jewel tone vibe in spaces like this Whimsical Wonderland Gallery Wall. Mixed with more saturated pinks it creates a stunning contrast for all your demure dreams.

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Lulu and Georgia

Kimber Linen Pillow

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Add a refreshing change to your holiday decor with these Amazon decor pieces that will take your festive home to a whole new level. This season's trends are rooted in nature-inspired aesthetics and sustainable choices, adding a timeless look to your space. Whether you're looking for a touch of greenery or a farmhouse chic look, these 36 Amazon must-haves will make it easy to embrace the season of giving.

Thanks for reading about our favorite finds from across the internet! FYI: We participate in affiliate programs and may get a share of the revenue from your purchase.

This Wreath With Artificial Eucalyptus Leaves

Amazon

Create your dream holiday setup with this wreath, designed to mimic the fresh vibrancy of real eucalyptus leaves. The large design can fit on your front doors, windows, or walls, creating a farmhouse-inspired look that will complement any decor style.

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These Berry Stems for a Pop of Color

Amazon

Add a touch of holiday magic to your home decor with these berry stems that come in a pack of six. These berries are decorated with deep burgundy tones and lifelike texture, making them a staple for all of your DIY projects.

See it on Amazon

These Ornaments With a Touch of Sparkle

Amazon

These ornaments come in a set of three and add a nature-inspired twist to your traditional tree. The mushroom design adds a unique look, while the intricate details will stand out from the rest of your holiday decor.

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These Pine Cones With a Wintery Twist

Amazon

The secret to natural-looking holiday decor starts with these pine cones that are dusted with a snowflake finish. The pre-attached strings make it easy to hang these pine cones from your tree or garland, adding an earthy touch to your space.

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These Ornaments Come in a Pack of 10

Amazon

Each of these ornaments has a carved design, allowing you to see the natural grain and warm tones of the wood. The eco-friendly design adds a timeless touch to your space, while the pack of 10 ensures you have enough to decorate the whole tree.

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This Cutting Board With Handles for Transportation

Amazon

Feel like the host with the most when you invest in this cutting board that is in the shape of a Christmas tree. The wood design offers a durable finish, while the large shape leaves plenty of room to display your charcuterie or appetizers.

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These Placemats With a Woven Design

Amazon

With a handwoven design, these placemats serve as a sustainable and chic touch for your dining room table. The natural rattan features intricate weaving patterns and the earthy brown wash blends in seamlessly with the rest of your home decor.

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These Hanging Bells With a Rustic Design

Amazon

The brass finish and iron design make these hanging bells a rustic decor option for the winter season. The bells are displayed on a sturdy rope, each producing a gentle sound that will remind you of all of your favorite holiday traditions.

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This Stem Set Comes in a Bundle

Amazon

Complete with realistic pinecones, this stem set is designed to replicate the lush texture and deep green hue of real pine branches. The realistic appearance makes them a go-to for adding to vases or wreathes, adding volume to your favorite decor.

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These Ornaments With Hidden Berries

Amazon

These ornaments feature a set of six sprays, each covered with pinecone, poinsettia leaves, and shimmering berries. They can elevate your floral arrangements or wreaths, adding a nature-inspired look to your space.

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This Wool Tree With a Soft Design

Amazon

This eco-friendly, needle-felted wool tree is a go-to for sustainable holiday decor pieces. Perfect for homes, offices, or party decor, its soft texture and charming design make it a cozy option for any type of home style.

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These Tree Lights With a Wooden Finish

Amazon

The sweetest decor starts with lights, and these tree lights are an essential part of every home's holiday decor. These tabletop decor pieces have a triangular shape with lighting that creates a cozy ambiance.

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These Pillow Covers With Mini Trees

Amazon

Boho holiday decor never goes out of style and these pillow covers are an affordable and adorable way to achieve the look. The plush material creates a cozy space, while the charming tree design adds a festive twist.

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These Wooden Ornaments Are Easy to Display

Amazon

Combine rustic vibes with your festive decor with these wooden ornaments that come in a set of six. These ornaments have a natural wood finish that brings authenticity to your holiday setup. Plus, the lightweight design makes them easy to hang and reuse.

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This Berry Garland for Indoor or Outdoor Use

Amazon

You can always count on this berry garland to add a pop of festive color to your space. The lifelike holly berries and the durable vine can be reused for seasons to come, whether it's displayed indoors on your mantel or outdoors on your patio.

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This Wrapping Paper Set With 6 Rolls

Amazon

Add an eco-friendly touch to your gift-giving with this wrapping paper set, which comes with six rolls. The rustic base is not only stylish but also recyclable, making it an environmentally conscious choice this holiday season.

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These Candle Holders In the Shape of Reindeers

Amazon

Light up the holiday dinner table with these candle holders that come in a set of six. These candle holders have a reindeer design, covered in intricate details that will add a festive touch to any living space.

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These Lanterns Double as Ornaments

Amazon

Designed with a wood grain pattern, these lanterns are perfect for a rustic look while also doubling as lights for your Christmas tree. Lightweight yet durable, they fold flat for easy storage and reuse.

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These Christmas Trees With a Natural Wooden Design

Amazon

These Christmas trees are the perfect accessory for your mantel or dinner table. Their wooden design adds a chic touch to any modern or rustic home decor, while their lightweight finish makes them easy to move around throughout the season.

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These Mini Trees With a Touch of Snow

Amazon

These mini trees can be styled around your home in a variety of different ways. Each tree appears to have snow-kissed branches, adding a touch of winter magic to your home. They are durable, reusable, and a must-have for a festive space.

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This Tree Collar Box Creates a Sleek Look

Amazon

With a weathered wood finish and six-piece construction, this tree collar box is a go-to for easy assembly. Not only does it conceal unsightly tree stands, but it also adds a polished, cohesive look to your holiday decor.

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This Door Wreath Topped With a Hat

Amazon

Add a quirky twist to your holiday decor with this door wreath topped with a Santa hat and covered in artificial greenery. This gnome wreath also has festive accents and twinkling lights, perfect for the cheerful season.

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These Willow Brances With LED Lights

Amazon

Covered in 100 LED lights, these willow branches create a magic touch that is essential for your holiday decor. The built-in timer allows you to customize the look indoors or outdoors, while the flexible design allows you to move it in different directions.

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This Tablerunner for a Charming Touch

Amazon

If you prefer farmhouse decor, this tablerunner is for you. The miniature trees add a festive yet chic touch to the table, while the lightweight design allows you to fold it up and move it throughout the season.

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These Cedar Trees for Your Entryway

Amazon

Standing at four feet tall, these cedar trees feature realistic branches and a sturdy base for easy display. They are a go-to decor piece for your doorway or porch, requiring no maintenance and can be reusable for multiple seasons.

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These String Lights With Snowflakes

Amazon

Battery-operated and waterproof, these string lights offer 40 delicate snowflake-shaped LED lights that everyone loves. They can be used to wrap around the trees or staircase, elevating your home's interior in one simple step.

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This Doormat With Flower Accents

Amazon

Welcome your guests in style with this doormat covered in stunning poinsettias. The vibrant red poinsettias and holly berry accents add a festive touch to your entryway, while the sturdy construction ensures it stays put in all weather conditions.

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This Artificial Tree With Pre-Lit White Lights

Amazon

Skip the real tree that makes a mess and invest in this artificial tree that's over seven feet tall. This tree mimics the look and texture of a live tree while being completely reusable. Pre-lit with white lights, it provides a warm, festive glow.

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These Wooden Ornaments Come With Different Shapes

Amazon

Create a personalized and eco-friendly holiday tree with this assortment of wooden ornaments in a pack of 100. These ornaments feature a variety of classic shapes, including stars and bells, all crafted from lightweight wood.

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These Trees With a Sturdy Base

Amazon

Create a rustic charm in your space with these trees that come in a set of two. Each tree stands on a base, creating a stable display that can be moved around and styled throughout the winter season.

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These Tree Pillows for a Modern Look

Amazon

These tree pillows have become a trendy pick across social media. The soft fabric and plump design make them a statement piece for your living room or bedroom, while the tree shape adds a festive twist that everyone will love.

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These Stockings With Neutral Tones

Amazon

Whether you use these stockings for your gifts or just as a decor display, they will add an eco-friendly, chic touch to your holiday setup. The neutral tones complement any holiday decor, while the intricate knit design adds a ton of texture.

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These Wooden House Pieces Are a Sustainable Option

Amazon

Set up the holiday village with these wooden house pieces that come in a set of seven. The natural wood features a clean design that can be displayed on your empty shelves or windowsills. The mix of shapes and sizes creates a unique look that all of your guests will love.

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These Acorns With a Rustic Twist

Amazon

Each of these acorns is designed with a natural birch, making them the perfect size for displaying on your dining room table or mantel. The rustic design will blend in seamlessly with your greenery, adding a natural touch to your space.

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These Kitchen Towels Are the Perfect Gift

Amazon

Bring the festive vibes into the kitchen with these kitchen towels that feature a black Christmas tree design. The towels are both decorative and functional, making them perfect for holiday baking, entertaining, or gifting.

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These Pine Sprigs for a DIY Project

Amazon

These pine sprigs come in a pack of 40 and offer an eco-friendly addition to your holiday decorating. Each pine sprig features realistic pine needles with a vibrant green hue, adding a fresh and festive look to any project.

See it on Amazon