With warmer weather heading our way, showing off more skin is inevitable. And what better way to make your spring debut than with a stylish new ankle tattoo? Be it a dot-work sun, shaded waves, or even a simple smiley face, ahead you’ll find 7 tiny tattoo ideas to consider for your next ink sesh.
Image via Anna Tarazevich/Pexels
Single Star Tattoo
Solidify your spot as the star in your life by getting a star tattooed on one of your ankles. Just think — you can debut it while wearing one of your new going out tops this spring!
Image via Anna Keibalo/Unsplash
Bunny Tattoo
Getting a bunny tattoo during spring somehow feels seasonally appropriate. It doesn't matter that Easter is gone either. All you need to convince you that your dainty ankle tattoo is the thought that you're happily hopping from one chapter of your life to the next.
Image via Elif Dörtdoğan/Pexels
A Nod to Youth
Get this cute nostalgic tattoo to remind you to enjoy your life in the midst of crushing your goals! No seriously — get out and enjoy the sun!
Image via nappy/Pexels
What's My Age Again?
Blink-182 made the most nostalgic song in the early 2000s that works well for an ankle tattoo that displays the year you were born. If you're super committed to being a millennial or a part of Gen Z, this idea is perfect for you.
Image via Jessica Alves/Unsplash
Shine a Spotlight On Playing
Can you tell we're encouraging you to spend more time playing again? It may be fun to make money from your side hustle, but we dare you to fall in love with playing just because it's fun.
Image via Brit + Co
Karmic Cycles
Need a reminder that "what goes around, comes around?" Look no further than a small ankle tattoo that hints at karmic cycles.
Image via Nathan J Hilton/Pexels
Light as a Feather
Lastly, make it a point to be light as feather! We're not talking about how you walk either.
It's time to start breaking up with the way you let stress overwhelm you this spring.
RELATED: How to Find the Best Small Tattoo for You
This post has been updated.
Lead image via Jessica Alves/Unsplash
Just how expensive is it to have a baby in 2024? One woman sharing her experience on social media has sparked a much-needed conversation about financial transparency when it comes to starting (or growing) a family.
Josephine Anderson, who posted a video on her Instagram @fosterthevalley, outlined the costs of her uncomplicated vaginal birth, and TBH, it was shocking.
The financial breakdown of her experience (with Cigna for insurance):
- Routine office visits (including 2 ultrasounds): $1,266
- Labs: $3,440.81
- NIPT genetic testing: $15,319.36
- Anatomy scan: $1,270
- RhoGam: $360
- Hospital for mom: $23,722.10
- Hospital for baby: $7,402.80
- OBGYN for delivery: $5,000
- Epidural: $5,720
- Breastfeeding support: $2,589.78
- Pediatrician: $209
That all racks up to a whopping total of $66,299.85. After insurance was factored in (her deductible was $3,000 while her max out-of-pocket for in-network expenses was $11,000), the total cost for her uncomplicated vaginal birth was $4,788.98. Forbes Advisor reports the average cost of having a baby in 2024 is $2,854.
Josephine’s video warranted thousands of comments, most of which were appalled by the costs of her experience:
“This needs to be shared in SexEd classes,” one commenter wrote.
“The US medical system is BROKEN,” another said.
“And people are still confused why more women are choosing to remain child free… we literally can’t afford it,” another user commented.
Mart Production / PEXELS
Brit + Co spoke with Wendy Colson RN, IBCLC and CEO/Founder of BOOBIE Superfoods to gauge if Josephine’s costs were typical for the care she received. Colson has significant insight into how insurance works not only from an employer’s perspective, but from personal experience as a patient with breast cancer.
“The $4,788.98 net amount she mentions is realistic given that her deductible was $3,000. If she had chosen a plan with a $1,000 deductible – which is a common ceiling for good coverage – the same scenario would have cost her around $2,789,” Colson said. “The video highlights the importance of understanding what you're getting with an insurance plan, especially when you anticipate major life events like childbirth.”
Sarah Chai / PEXELS
Colson primarily attributes unanticipated costs for medical care (like in Josephine’s case) to patients that choose their insurance plans with, well, no real plan.
“Many [people] opt for the [plan] with the lowest paycheck deductions without fully evaluating the benefits,” Colson said.
There’s often a tradeoff between paying less per paycheck and receiving your desired benefits: for example, if you elect to contribute less money towards your insurance per paycheck, you may end up paying more out of pocket for things like doctor’s office visits and prescriptions.
“Making an informed choice is key to saving money in the long run,” Colson continued. “In short, it's crucial to consider both the immediate costs (like paycheck deductions) and the potential future costs (like deductibles and copays) when choosing an insurance plan.”
Anna Shvets / PEXELS
Another major cost Josephine mentions in her video was 12 weeks of unpaid maternity leave, which cost her a total of $18,000 (in lost income).
Per the passing of the Family and Medical Leave Act (FMLA) in 1993, moms have a legal right to up to 12 weeks of unpaid maternity leave. The U.S. Department of Labor notes that the act was designed to help employees balance their work and family responsibilities, accommodate the legitimate interests of employers, and promote equal employment opportunity for men and women.
Matilda Wormwood / PEXELS
It all sounds great until you realize the time off is indeed unpaid, which doesn't really aid in the amount of money parents end up owing after all is said and done in the pregnancy and childbirth processes.
Only 13 states plus the District of Columbia offer paid maternity leave. When you compare the United States’ laws to that of other industrialized nations, they don’t exactly measure up.
Colson says Sweden’s maternity leave policy is “one of the most generous,” offering 390 days of paid parental leave (shared between parents) and 80% of wages covered for a significant portion of the leave. In Germany, mothers are entitled to 14 weeks of maternity leave plus a tax-free, income-based allowance straight from their insurance provider.
Jonathan Borba / PEXELS
Though it’s likely that US laws will never be that generous in terms of paid maternity leave, there are a few things you can do to make the blow of medical costs hurt a little less, says Colson.
“My advice is to be your own advocate,” she says. “If you’re planning to have a baby, start by understanding what your state provides in terms of paid leave to avoid surprises after delivery.”
To keep the cost of having your baby (if you’re planning to have one) transparent and free of surprises, Colson recommends:
- Asking your physician’s office for a detailed breakdown of insurance billing codes, including:
- Office visits
- Lab work
- Epidural (and the anesthesiologist’s separate fee)
- Hospital admissions
- Specialist consultations during admission
- Optional procedures like circumcision, if desired
- Email the insurance billing codes to your insurance provider, who can help calculate your out-of-pocket costs and deductible
“Having a baby is priceless,” Colson says. “By planning ahead – understanding your insurance options, healthcare costs, and available benefits – you can ensure peace of mind and focus on what truly matters: your growing family.”
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There’s a lot of conflicting information about tattoo aftercare and healing out there. Considering there are only seven states in which artists are required by law to provide aftercare instructions, it’s easy to get overwhelmed or left in the dark about what exactly to do after your appointment. The tattoo healing process depends on how big the piece is, how intricate it is, and your body’s response to the ink – but all complications can be avoided with proper aftercare procedures to reduce the risk of infection, scarring, fading, or drying out.
The first step to tattoo aftercare actually comes before the needle even touches your skin – picking a reputable, professional tattoo artist ensures you’re getting the very best care and advice, so you can be on your way to rockin’ some cool body art.
Disclaimer: I am by no means a professional, so approach aftercare at your own discretion, taking this information (as well as your tattoo artist’s) with a grain of salt.
1. Keep the second-skin (medical-grade adhesive) on for several days, or however long your artist recommends.
Your artist will likely place a second-skin material over your tattoo after it’s finished. It works as a barrier to keep bacteria out while the tattoo is in its freshest stage, only meant to stay on a few days.
When it’s time to take it off, be patient and go slow to avoid damage to the skin. Before doing this, make sure to wash your hands thoroughly and dry them with a paper towel to avoid additional germs and bacteria that could harvest in a normal hand towel.
Blood and plasma fluid coming out from the second-skin is normal, but if you notice any out-of-the-ordinary excretions or sensations, contact your tattoo artist ASAP.
2. Wash your tattoo with warm water and fragrance-free, unscented, antimicrobial soap.
Photo by Mikhail Nilov / PEXELS
After removing the second skin, the next step in aftercare is to wash off the tatted area. Using a gentle soap ensures that your tattoo doesn’t get any further irritation that could cause unfavorable healing.
When it’s time to wash, move gently, as the area can be tender. You’ll want to start with clean hands and wash with lukewarm water as well, to avoid burning the exposed skin. These are the soaps most commonly used for tattoo aftercare:
3. Moisturize after pat-drying your skin with a paper towel.
Image via People Of Substance
Though petroleum jellies (like Vaseline) can be moisturizing on the lips, it’s no longer widely recommended for tattoo aftercare. Too much of it can create a thick, non-breathable layer on top of your tattoo – less air-flow means slower healing and the potential for ink bleeding. Look to opt for light ointments and balms. Here are a few widely-loved ones:
- Aquaphor Healing Ointment ($16)
- People Of Substance All-Natural Tattoo Balm Stick ($15)
- Hustle Butter Deluxe Luxury Tattoo Care & Maintenance Cream ($22)
- Lubriderm Daily Moisture Hydrating Unscented Body Lotion ($11, was $13)
- Mad Rabbit Tattoo Balm Stick ($12)
Bandages or other tight skin coverings are not necessary once you’ve washed off your tattoo. A seal created by these barriers could restrict air-flow, too.
After a week or so, it’s safe to move away from ointments and balms, and onto gentle lotions like the Eucerin Unscented Advanced Repair Body LotionAdvanced Repair Body Lotion ($11, was $13).
4. Avoid *too* hot of showers + no physical activity for at least 48 hours after your appointment.
Heat caused by external factors (weather, hot water, etc) and sweating can increase the risk for the ink on your tattoo to bleed. Plus, moving around too suddenly (like how you would during a workout) causes your skin to stretch, potentially altering your tat’s shape. Not to mention, there’s a very real risk of infection from that grimy gym equipment!
5. Stay out of direct sun for at least 2 weeks.
Photo by Angela Roma / PEXELS
Sun can further damage your ink, so it’s not a good thing for tattoo aftercare. If you have to be out, your first line of defense should be a physical barrier like some loose clothing, then a light layer of mineral zinc oxide-based sunscreen to protect your tat.
6. No underwater activity for at least 2 weeks.
The risk for bacterial infection from the water in pools, hot tubs, lakes, and the ocean is high. That’s why people prefer to get tatted in the winter, where they won’t have to actively avoid swimming and the subsequent FOMO of not diving in.
7. Stay hydrated!
Photo by Anastasia Shuraeva / PEXELS
Hydrating your body hydrates your skin – and having hydrated skin means your tattoo is ready to heal as best as it can. Drinking water throughout the day (don’t go too crazy) certifies that your body can handle the ink. You also might want to avoid alcohol for a bit. It can cause bouts of dehydration and thin your blood, causing excess bleeding from the tattoo’s wound.
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Lead photo by Polina Tankilevitch / PEXELS
Don’t tell the fam, but Friendsgiving may have topped Thanksgiving as your favorite holiday. There’s no feeling like you have to one-up your cousin, you can have that extra glass of affordable fall wine without judgment, and you get to eat food that you *actually* like (sorry, stuffing). Easy Friendsgiving recipes are easy to come by, so when you’re assigned the appetizer, there’s no excuse not to rock it.
Get the table set and throw your apron on, because these easy and elegant appetizers will be the talk of your squad until Friendsgiving 2025.
Brit + Co
Cantaloupe, Prosciutto and Rosemary on Triscuits
The combo of smooth fruit, salty prosciutto, and fresh herbs (plus the crunch of your favorite cracker) is literally mouth-watering. (via Brit + Co)
Brit + Co
Crescent Roll Cornucopia
This isn't your average cheese-board. The DIY cornucopia is easier than it looks and it's both delicious and Instagram-able. (via Brit + Co)
Ron Lach / PEXELS
The Easiest Baked Brie
Brie is a great app because it goes so well with so many other things: veggies, meat, fruit, crackers. You name it, this melty cheese will pair perfectly. (via Brit + Co)
Half Baked Harvest
Baked Gruyère in Pastry with Rosemary and Garlic
Store-bought puff pastry makes this recipe a cinch, and there's nothing better than when it's wrapped around melted gruyere with honey, rosemary, and garlic and baked. (via Half Baked Harvest)
Feed Me Phoebe
Warm Butternut Squash Dip with Gruyère and Pistachios
Does anything sound more autumnal than butternut squash dip? Negative. Make it cheesy with gruyère and add a salty crunch with pistachios. (via Feed Me Phoebe)
Creme de la Crumb
Apple Cranberry Walnut Salad
Salad is a necessity for your Friendsgiving meal, and this one makes a great first course. Good luck trying to keep everyone from filling up before dinner. (via Creme de la Crumb)
Reluctant Entertainer
Apricot Ricotta Honey Basil Bites
If you have other dishes to prepare, no-cook appetizers are a great way to keep your guests satisfied without having to make more room in the oven. These ripe apricots are stuffed with honey-sweetened ricotta and topped with basil and tangy balsamic. (via Reluctant Entertainer)
Fit Foodie Finds
Bacon-Wrapped Brussels Sprouts
Brussels sprouts are definitely a love-it-or-hate-it veggie. Pro tip: if you wrap it in bacon, people will be a lot more likely to love them. (via Fit Foodie Finds)
The Mediterranean Dish
French Baked Brie Recipe with Figs, Walnuts and Pistachios
When you’re planning out your perfect Friendsgiving menu, remember that you can’t go wrong with warmed brie. Serve with your favorite multigrain crackers and watch it disappear before your eyes. (via The Mediterranean Dish)
Happy Kitchen Rocks
Baked Figs with Goat Cheese
In just 15 minutes you could be serving your friends this luxurious hors d’oeuvre. Switch things up and stuff with your choice of blue cheese, goat cheese or ricotta. (via Happy Kitchen Rocks)
Macheesmo
Bite-Sized Blooming Onions
Cipollini onions make the perfect miniature alternative to a big ol’ blooming onion. This way, everyone can have as many as they want without having to share. (via Macheesmo)
Snixy Kitchen
Butternut Squash Deviled Eggs with Bacon
Give your traditional deviled eggs a fall twist by adding butternut squash to your filling. Top with crispy bacon to balance the sweetness and add a smokey quality. (via Snixy Kitchen)
Chef in Training
Cranberry Orange Cheese Ball
This is *not* your grandma’s cheese ball. Cranberry and orange give it a seasonal flavor and sweetness that’ll rival the meal’s desserts. (via Chef in Training)
Reluctant Entertainer
Honey Crisp and Goat Cheese Ladyfinger Crostini Appetizer
Did you think ladyfingers were only for tiramisu? Think again! Switch from your usual baguette crostini and top the cookies with apples and goat cheese. (via Reluctant Entertainer)
The Pioneer Woman
Perfect Fall Cheese Board
Fruit, olives and gouda — oh my! Building the perfect cheese board is an art you can master. Hint: layering different textures and heights is key. (via The Pioneer Woman)
Parsnips and Pastries
Roasted Grape Crostini With Lemon Ricotta and Honey
Don’t underestimate the power of a honeyed crostini. When that warm grape pops in your mouth… pure bliss. (via Parsnips and Pastries)
Real Simple Good
Mashed Sweet Potato Bacon Cups
If you can boil potatoes, you can make these cups. They require only six ingredients, and your squad is sure to fall in love with them. Winning! (via Real Simple Good)
Neighbor Food
Parmesan Asparagus Tart
You *finally* have a reason to use that puff pastry in the freezer. Between the flaky crust and creamy Parmesan-ricotta topping, this may just be your new favorite starter. (via Neighbor Food)
Gimme Some Oven
Baked Samosas
Traditionally, samosas are made with sheet phyllo dough and folded into triangles. Opt for that if you have more time, or try a quick version using pre-made phyllo cups. (via Gimme Some Oven)
Nutmeg Nanny
Sausage, Spinach and Mushroom Phyllo Cups
These bite-size treats are as easy as sautéing the filling ingredients together and popping the filled cups in the oven to melt the cheese. They’re quick, foolproof and, most importantly, delicious. (via Nutmeg Nanny)
As Easy As Apple Pie
Savory Pumpkin Hummus
Okay, you’re most likely going to have pumpkin pie for dessert, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have pumpkin in your appetizer too. This hummus is ultra savory, so even if you don’t like pie, you’ll love this. (via As Easy As Apple Pie)
Mom on Timeout
Easy Slow Cooker Apple Cider Maple Meatballs
Using frozen meatballs and a slow cooker saves you a ton of time come party day. Don’t be afraid of them turning out bland, though. Apples, apple cider and maple syrup make that impossible. (via Mom on Timeout)
The View from Great Island
Cheesy Spinach Artichoke Bread
You can’t go wrong with a classic flavor combination like spinach and artichoke. Stuff in a hollowed loaf of Italian bread and slice to serve. (via The View from Great Island)
Follow us on Pinterest for more easy Friendsgiving appetizer recipe ideas.
This post has been updated.
Someone alert the Night’s Watch because a Game of Thrones movie is officially coming to the big screen! Yes, you read that right. It’s been five years since the controversial series finale aired on television. And now, fans have a chance to return to the fantasy world created by George R.R Martin. So, when is the movie set to premiere? Are there any former Game of Thrones cast members set to return for the film adaptation?
Here’s everything we know about the Game of Thrones movie, including plot, cast members, release date, and more.
Is there a movie for Game of Thrones?
Game of Thrones Movie News
Why yes, there is! The Hollywood Reporterconfirmed last week that the Game of Thrones movie is in the early stages of production. According to Entertainment Weekly, HBO and Max CEO Casey Bloys first announced that a GOT film was in the works at Warner Bros. during a 2025 preview event, where he told reporters, “When we announce at HBO we're developing this story or that story, keep in mind it's developing.”
Bloys continued, “We’ve got two shows at the moment, including Game of Thrones [prequel House of the Dragon]. I think the movie is the same idea. They’ll develop an idea, we'll see if it's good. We'll read the scripts along with them. I think it could be fun and interesting. That’s the point of development: you see, is there a story that's worthy of being in theaters and a big spectacle? I think it would be fun.” We are sooo excited!
What is the Game of Thrones movie about?
Helen Sloane/HBO
Game of Thrones Movie Plot
As of right now, we know little to nothing about the plot for the upcoming Game of Thrones movie. But according to The Hollywood Reporter, Warner Bros is “keen on exploring the idea of Westeros invading cinemas.” So, back to the continents of Westeros and Essos we go!
Who’s in the cast for the Game of Thrones Movie?
Game of Thrones Movie Cast
Currently, there is no director, writer or cast members attached to the project. It's also too early to report whether or not any former cast members from the original Game of Thrones series (or any of its spinoffs) will make a cameo in the new film. But until then, we’ll be keeping our fingers crossed for an Emilia Clarke, Kit Harington, or Maisie Williams appearance in the new film.
When is the Game of Thrones movie coming out?
Game of Thrones Movie Release Date
Unfortunately, there is no release date for the Game of Thrones movie...yet. But when we find out, you’ll be the first to know!
Well, is there a trailer?
Game of Thrones Movie Trailer
Nope, no trailer at the moment. But, we’ll report back as soon as it drops :)
Stay tuned for more updates about the Game of Thrones movie and other upcoming films currently in the works — & follow us on Facebook and Instagram!