FRIDAY, MAY 29, 2026

MONEY CAN BUY HAPPINESS… SORT OF

A Harvard happiness expert says money actually can buy happiness, but only up to a point. He says money helps eliminate stress by covering essentials like food, healthcare, and housing, but chasing bigger houses, expensive cars, and more stuff won’t make people happier long term. Instead, he says people get the biggest happiness boost by spending money on experiences with loved ones, buying back their time by paying for chores, saving money to reduce debt stress, and giving to causes or people they care about.

MORE PEOPLE WANT ADULTS-ONLY DINING OPTIONS

A new survey finds three out of four Americans think restaurants should offer some type of adults-only dining experience. Nearly half support kid-free late-night dining hours, while others want adults-only sections or child-free romantic dining spaces. Interestingly, parents were some of the biggest supporters of the idea.

THE “MORNING PAUSE” METHOD COULD REDUCE STRESS

Experts say the first few minutes after waking up can set the tone for your entire day. They call it the “pre-work overwhelms,” and recommend using the P.A.U.S.E. Method instead. That includes putting your phone down, avoiding work emails right away, slowing down your morning routine, simplifying your to-do list, and easing into work mode instead of jumping straight into stress. Experts say even waiting 15 minutes before checking your phone can help lower anxiety levels.

EXERCISE MAY MAKE PEOPLE MORE GENEROUS

A new study out of the U.K. suggests exercise doesn’t just improve your health, it may also make you more generous. Researchers found people who felt energized and happier after a workout were more likely to donate money and make positive financial decisions. Scientists say it’s linked to dopamine, the brain’s “feel good” chemical, which creates a warm glow effect after exercise.

NATIONAL PARKS COULD BE PACKED THIS SUMMER

If you’re planning a national park trip this summer, expect bigger crowds than usual. Yosemite has already seen more than 225-thousand visitors this spring, and this year Yosemite, Glacier, and Arches National Parks are no longer requiring timed-entry reservations. Some park advocates worry that could mean overcrowded roads, overwhelmed staff, and added stress on the parks during peak travel season.

BEST RELATIONSHIP ADVICE FROM COUPLES TOGETHER OVER 10 YEARS

Couples who’ve been together for decades are sharing the secrets to making relationships last, and a lot of the advice comes down to communication and effort. Some say staying in love is a daily choice, while others stress the importance of gratitude, teamwork, and never taking small acts of kindness for granted. One couple married for 41 years says they spend an hour every night with no TV or phones, just talking together. Another reminder from long-term couples — don’t expect your partner to read your mind.

LOW-COST SUMMER ACTIVITIES PEOPLE ARE LOVING

Summer fun doesn’t have to destroy your budget. A new list of affordable summer activities includes things like ice cream walks, bonfires, backyard movie nights, fruit picking, beach days, mini golf, and farmers markets. Experts say simple experiences and nostalgia-driven activities are becoming more popular as people look for ways to enjoy summer without overspending.

Things You Should Unplug Before Vacation
Before heading out on vacation, experts say there are a few household items you should unplug to save energy and reduce fire risk while you’re away. The big ones include battery chargers, space heaters, countertop appliances, entertainment systems and hairstyling tools. Basically, if it heats up, charges something or flashes lights for no reason, maybe unplug it before leaving town.

Morning Habits That Could Be Killing Your Mood
Experts say some common morning habits may quietly sabotage your happiness before the day even starts. Things like scrolling your phone in bed, skipping breakfast, drinking coffee before water, smashing the snooze button repeatedly and diving straight into work can all throw off your mood and energy levels. They also recommend getting sunlight early, moving your body and avoiding starting the day focused entirely on stress. So unfortunately, laying in bed doomscrolling while drinking coffee on an empty stomach may not be the wellness routine we hoped it was.

Sleepy Dog Books Gets $20,000 Grant from American Express

Sleepy Dog Books has been awarded a $20,000 Amex Shop Small Grant through American Express and Main Street America! The locally owned bookstore says the money will help expand operations and boost the work of the Sleepy Dog Books Foundation, which focuses on improving literacy access across Mid-Michigan. The nationwide grant program supports small businesses making a local impact, and Sleepy Dog Books was one of just over 500 recipients selected this year.

THURSDAY, MAY 28, 2026

NASA’s Moon Base Plan Is Officially Taking Off
NASA just announced the first three missions in its massive “Moon Base” program to establish a permanent American presence on the moon before astronauts return in 2028. The missions will send landers, rovers and science equipment to the lunar South Pole starting as early as next year. Altogether, the first phase of the project includes 25 launches, 21 landings and tons of cargo deliveries as the U.S. ramps up plans for long-term life on the moon.

A 2006 Grocery Receipt Is Blowing People’s Minds
A Walmart receipt from 2006 is going viral after people realized just how cheap groceries used to be. The receipt showed 79 items purchased for just $161, and now people online are comparing those same products to today’s prices. A box of cereal that cost under two bucks back then is now pushing five dollars, Capri Suns have doubled or tripled in price, and even basic produce like onions and lettuce cost way more. The post has racked up millions of views

• Post Cereal - $1.86 in 2006, Around $4.97 in 2026
• Capri Sun - $1.70 in 2006, Between $3.47 and $8.47 in 2026
• Lay’s Chips - $2.00 in 2006, Between $2.97 and $5.44 in 2026
• Green Bell Pepper - $0.78 in 2006, Between $1.46 and $1.52 each in 2026
• Red Onion - $0.64 per pound in 2006, Between $1.06 and $1.32 per pound in 2026
• Coke (20 ounce) - $1.18 in 2006, About $2.48 in 2026
• Lettuce (head) - $1.12 in 2006, Between $1.96 and $5.08 in 2026
• Vitamin D Milk (gallon) - $3.05 in 2006, Between $4.27 and $7.87 for organic high end in 2026
• Cupcakes (Hostess) - $2.50 in 2006, Between $3.48 and $5.28 in 2026
• Sweet Peas - $0.33 in 2006, Between $0.76 and $2.14 in 2026
• Pudding - $2.44 in 2006, Around $3.97 (6-pack) in 2026
• 10 lb Russet Potatoes - $3.96 in 2006, Around $4.54 in 2026

Therapists Say These Phone Habits Are Hurting Relationships
Turns out your phone may be acting like a third wheel in your relationship. Research shows couples spend more than a quarter of their time together on their phones, and therapists say certain habits are especially damaging. Things like grabbing your phone immediately after intimacy, scrolling while your partner is talking, secretly checking their phone or spending hours “parallel scrolling” on the couch can slowly chip away at emotional connection. Experts say it’s not usually one big moment that causes problems, it’s the constant feeling that the phone is getting more attention than the relationship.

America Officially Declares Its Love For Cheese
A new survey confirms what we probably already knew — Americans are absolutely obsessed with cheese. More than half of people actually described themselves as “cheese-obsessed,” with many admitting they eat it constantly. Cheese is a favorite food for more than 80% of Americans, and cheddar barely edged out mozzarella as the nation’s top choice. Wisconsin unsurprisingly topped the list as the most cheese-loving state

The Best Dogs For People With Anxiety
Experts say some dog breeds are especially good at helping owners manage anxiety thanks to their calm personalities and strong emotional connection with humans. Newfoundlands, labs, golden retrievers, poodles and even retired racing greyhounds made the list because they tend to be affectionate, emotionally aware and comforting companions. Researchers say interacting with dogs can lower stress and improve mood, and therapists often recommend certain breeds for emotional support. So yes, your dog judging you from across the room may actually be helping your mental health.

Hard Truths Gen X Learned Without Warning
People born in the ‘70s and ‘80s are relating hard to a new list of “life truths” they learned the old-fashioned way — by messing up repeatedly and figuring it out themselves. The list includes lessons like realizing hard work doesn’t always guarantee success, relationships take real effort, closure is something you give yourself and time somehow speeds up as you get older. Many say growing up with less hand-holding taught them resilience and independence, even if it came with a few emotional scars along the way.

Signs Your Skin Is Aging Better Than You Think
Dermatologists say there are actually several signs your skin is aging well, even if you still complain every time you see a new wrinkle. Experts say smooth texture, minimal sun spots, quick healing, full cheeks and good skin tone are all green flags. They also say avoiding smoking and consistently using sunscreen are two of the biggest factors in keeping skin healthy over time. So apparently all those years of hearing “wear sunscreen” were not just your mom being dramatic.

Retirement Mistakes People Make Before They Retire
Financial experts are warning that some of the biggest retirement mistakes happen years before people actually stop working. Common problems include putting current expenses ahead of retirement savings, taking huge investment risks to “catch up,” ignoring catch-up contributions and assuming your income will always keep growing. Experts also say avoiding financial conversations with aging parents can create huge headaches later. The big takeaway? Retirement planning gets a lot easier when you stop treating it like future-you’s problem.

One Tiny Button In Your Car Could Save You Gas
If you’re still recovering financially from Memorial Day travel, here’s a small gas-saving trick that could help. Experts say using your car’s air recirculation button can actually improve fuel efficiency because it keeps reusing cool air already inside the car instead of constantly cooling hot air from outside. Your AC system doesn’t have to work as hard, which means your car burns a little less fuel. It’s not life-changing money, but at these gas prices, people will try basically anything.

The Sunscreen Spot Most People Forget
Doctors say more people are developing skin cancer around the hairline and scalp because it’s one area many people completely forget when applying sunscreen. Dermatologists say sunscreen should be rubbed into the hairline or sprayed across the scalp, especially if you spend a lot of time outside. Apparently we’ve all gotten pretty good at protecting our faces while completely ignoring the patch of skin directly above it.

Things You Should Unplug Before Vacation
Before heading out on vacation, experts say there are a few household items you should unplug to save energy and reduce fire risk while you’re away. The big ones include battery chargers, space heaters, countertop appliances, entertainment systems and hairstyling tools. Basically, if it heats up, charges something or flashes lights for no reason, maybe unplug it before leaving town.

Morning Habits That Could Be Killing Your Mood
Experts say some common morning habits may quietly sabotage your happiness before the day even starts. Things like scrolling your phone in bed, skipping breakfast, drinking coffee before water, smashing the snooze button repeatedly and diving straight into work can all throw off your mood and energy levels. They also recommend getting sunlight early, moving your body and avoiding starting the day focused entirely on stress. So unfortunately, laying in bed doomscrolling while drinking coffee on an empty stomach may not be the wellness routine we hoped it was.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 27, 2026

WHY MORE THAN HALF OF AMERICANS RETIRE EARLIER THAN PLANNED
A new retirement survey shows most Americans are leaving the workforce sooner than expected, and usually not by choice. The average worker plans to retire around 65, but most are actually calling it quits around 62. The biggest reason? Health problems. Other major factors include job dissatisfaction, layoffs and changes in family situations. Researchers say higher-income workers tend to retire early because they hit their savings goals, while lower-income workers are often forced out by health issues or job loss. The good news? Most retirees say they’re still doing okay financially, with only about 1 in 5 saying retirement has been harder than expected.

NEARLY 40% OF AMERICANS HAVE GONE ON A FIRST DATE FOR A FREE MEAL
Dating is getting expensive, and apparently some people are getting creative about it. A new survey found nearly 40% of Americans admit they’ve gone on a first date just for the free food, while another 27% say they’d at least consider it. The average person now spends about 93 bucks on a first date, even though the most popular date ideas are grabbing drinks, playing board games or taking a walk. Money is also causing major dating stress, with most people saying finances have delayed dating, canceled dates or even hurt their confidence when it comes to relationships.

COFFEE MAY ACTUALLY HELP WITH ANXIETY
Coffee lovers just got another reason to pour a cup. Researchers found that both regular and decaf coffee may help improve mood, focus and even reduce anxiety. The study looked at how coffee interacts with the gut-brain connection and found decaf may help with memory and learning, while caffeinated coffee improved focus and lowered stress levels. Experts say the benefits may come more from compounds and antioxidants in coffee rather than caffeine itself.

GEN Z IS TAKING “MINI RETIREMENTS” TO FIGHT BURNOUT
Forget waiting until 65 to retire. Burned-out Gen Z workers are taking what they call “mini retirements” or “adult gap years” to step away from work and reset. One 29-year-old data scientist quit her high-paying tech job with no backup plan because she felt overwhelmed by rapid changes in the industry driven by AI. Financial experts say the trend is becoming more common as younger workers prioritize mental health and work-life balance over traditional career paths. Advisors say anyone considering a mini retirement should build savings first so they can afford to take the leap safely.

THE FIVE BEST SUNSCREENS ACCORDING TO “GOOD HOUSEKEEPING”
If you’re stocking up on sunscreen for summer, “Good Housekeeping” just released its top picks after a decade of testing. Their favorites include Rodan + Fields Essentials Face + Body Sunscreen SPF 50 for best overall body sunscreen, Sun Bum Original SPF 50 Body Spray for the best Memorial Day deal, and Neutrogena Invisible Daily Defense Face Serum SPF 60 as the best face sunscreen. They also highlighted Hawaiian Tropic Skin Nourishing Milk Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 as the best mineral option.

ADULT PLAYTIME CAN HELP REDUCE STRESS
Psychologists say adults need more playtime, too. Therapists say simple playful activities can help calm the nervous system and reduce stress and anxiety. Experts recommend things like taking a walk, doodling, dancing in the kitchen, building Lego sets, doing puzzles or playing card and board games. Therapists say play helps adults shift out of constant stress mode and back into the present moment.

WHAT’S NEW AT MICHIGAN’S ADVENTURE THIS SUMMER
Michigan's Adventure is celebrating its 70th anniversary and kicking off its first season under new ownership with a bunch of new attractions and food options. The park has added new entertainment like a Jet Pack Water Spectacular and live music events throughout the summer. Guests will also find new menu items including Detroit-style pizza and a specialty “Wildcat Dog.” WildWater Adventure opens June 13 and is still included with regular admission. The park is also rolling out retro-inspired anniversary merchandise while honoring all existing season passes during the transition to new ownership under EPR Properties and Enchanted Parks.

ALMA MAN SENTENCED FOR KILLING COUSIN INSIDE NAIL SALON
An Alma man has been sentenced to 20 to 40 years in prison after pleading guilty to second-degree murder in the stabbing death of his cousin inside a local nail salon. Prosecutors say 32-year-old Jack Nguyen stabbed 48-year-old Travis “Steve” Nguyen more than 50 times inside LA Nails in Pine River Township back in March of 2025. After the attack, police say he sat outside and waited for officers to arrive. Steve Nguyen was well known in the community as the owner of California Nails and LA Nails and was remembered as a hardworking businessman devoted to his family and daughters.

TUESDAY, MAY 26, 2026

America’s Highest-Paying Jobs
If you want to make serious money, healthcare is where the big paychecks are. A new ranking using Bureau of Labor Statistics data shows pediatric surgeons are the highest-paid workers in America, bringing in an average of $451-thousand a year. Cardiologists are next at $432-thousand, followed by surgeons, orthopedic surgeons, and radiologists. Most of the jobs on the list require more than a decade of education and training, which helps explain the sky-high salaries and why there are so few specialists nationwide. Outside of healthcare, airline pilots and chief executives were among the only non-medical jobs cracking the top spots.

States With The Worst Road Rage
Think your commute is stressful? A new report from Consumer Affairs says Louisiana has the worst road rage in America, with nearly 60% of fatal crashes tied to aggressive or careless driving. New Mexico ranked second, followed by Colorado, Arkansas, and Montana. Researchers looked at fatal crashes, reckless driving violations, and even traffic incidents involving gun violence to create the rankings. On the flip side, Maine was named the calmest state for drivers, with Iowa and California also landing among the least rage-filled roads in the country.

How Often It’s “Normal” To Wake Up During The Night
If you wake up in the middle of the night, sleep experts say it might be more normal than you think. Doctors who specialize in sleep medicine say young adults typically wake up once or twice a night, middle-aged adults about two to three times, and older adults can wake up as many as five times overnight. The key is being able to fall back asleep within about 30 minutes. Experts say stress, sleep apnea, restless leg syndrome, doomscrolling, hormone changes, and even a bedroom that’s too warm can all make nighttime wakeups worse.

The Most Beloved Landmarks In America
Planning a summer trip? A new ranking of America’s most beloved landmarks says New York dominates the list. Rockefeller Center came in at number one, followed by Niagara Falls and the Brooklyn Bridge. Researchers looked at Google reviews, ratings, and TikTok popularity to determine which landmarks people love most. Other favorites include Yellowstone National Park, the Statue of Liberty, Yosemite, and the Grand Canyon. The report also highlighted some tourist disappointments, with Arizona’s Tombstone Courthouse State Historic Park topping the list of the most complained-about attractions.

Gen Z Women Are Buying More Homes Than Gen Z Men
Gen Z women are buying homes at much higher rates than Gen Z men, according to new data from the National Association of Realtors. Single women made up 35% of Gen Z homebuyers, nearly double the percentage of single Gen Z men, who accounted for just 18%. Experts say young women are prioritizing homeownership as a path to financial independence, even with high home prices and mortgage rates. The survey also found Gen Z buyers only made up about 4% of all homebuyers overall, showing just how difficult the housing market still is for younger Americans.

The Most Useful Life Skills Gen Z Learned From Social Media
Social media may get blamed for plenty of problems, but Gen Z says it’s also teaching them real-life skills. A new list highlights the most useful things younger adults have learned from platforms like TikTok, YouTube, and Instagram, including digital literacy, networking, researching information, using online tools more efficiently, and even talking openly about mental health. Other skills include building a personal brand, finding supportive communities, and learning from other people’s mistakes online. Experts say social media has essentially become an unofficial guide to adulthood for many young people.

Michigan DNR Expanding Digital Tagging System For Deer Hunters-The Michigan Departmentof Natural Resources is expanding its eHarvest digital tagging system to include most species that require akill tag...Beginningthis year,hunters harvesting deer, turkey, bear, bobcat, otter, fisher and marten will havethe option to tag harvested animals digitally through the Michigan DNR Hunt Fish mobile app...Huntersjust need to have themost recent version of the app to take advantage of the new eHarvesttags...Traditional paper tags will continue to be available for hunters who prefer th