MONDAY, SEPTEMBER 28

HOLIDAY MAIL DEADLINES ARE HERE: USPS SAYS DON’T WAIT UNTIL THE lAST MINUTE

USPS has released its recommended mailing deadlines to make sure gifts and cards arrive before Christmas. For most of the country, the suggested send-by date for regular Ground Advantage and First-Class Mail is December 17th, with Priority Mail on December 18th and Priority Mail Express on December 19th. And remember, Hanukkah arrives earlier than usual this year, running December 4th through the 12th, so those gifts may need to hit the mailbox sooner.

NEW HALLOWEEN CANDY HITS: THE TREATS TAKING OVER THE CANDY AISLE

If you’re tired of handing out the same old candy every Halloween, there are plenty of new options hitting store shelves this year. Some of the treats getting attention include Skittles Creepy Crunch Pop’d Freeze-Dried Candy, Jolly Rancher Gummies Trickies Minis, KitKat Ghost Toast, and Reese’s Sweet and Salty Mix. Classic favorites are also getting spooky makeovers, with Snickers Pumpkins, Twix Candy Skulls, and other seasonal flavors joining the lineup.

WANT TO LIVE LONGER? EXPERT SAYS THE ANSWER MAY BE WAITING AT THE END OF A LEASH

A dog could be more than just a furry friend — it could be a boost for your health. One longevity expert says owning a dog may help people live longer because pets encourage daily activity, reduce loneliness, and provide companionship. Research has linked dog ownership with a lower risk of early death, including benefits for people recovering from major heart events. Experts say the combination of more movement, less stress, and stronger social connections may explain why dogs can have such a positive impact.

SKIP SPRING CLEANING: FALL IS THE NEW TIME TO GET YOUR HOUSE IN ORDER

Spring cleaning gets all the attention, but fall may actually be the perfect time to tackle those forgotten chores. As we start spending more time indoors, experts recommend clearing clutter, deep cleaning kitchens and bathrooms, refreshing carpets and furniture, checking fireplaces and heating systems, cleaning gutters, and getting guest rooms ready before the holidays arrive. A little work now could make those cold-weather months a lot more comfortable.

INSTAGRAM’S NEW RELATIONSHIP TREND: HIDING YOUR LOVE LIFE IN PLAIN SIGHT

Instagram is adding a new twist to the “soft launch” relationship trend. A new AI-powered feature lets users blur or pixelate someone’s face in a photo, making it easier to hint at a new romance without fully revealing who the person is. Supporters say it helps couples keep things private, while critics wonder if hiding someone completely takes the trend a little too far.

TOXIC COWORKER? THESE PHRASES CAN HELP YOU TAKE BACK CONTROL

Dealing with a difficult coworker can be frustrating, but experts say the right words can help you set boundaries without creating more drama. Instead of firing back emotionally, try phrases like “Your last-minute planning is not my emergency,” “I’m here voluntarily, but I am not a volunteer,” or “Let’s shift toward finding a constructive solution.” The goal is to stand up for yourself while keeping the workplace professional.

BAD NEWS FOR COFFEE LOVERS? EVEN ONE CUP MAY AFFECT YOUR SLEEP

That morning cup of coffee might be doing more than waking you up. A study found caffeine can affect sleep quality by reducing slow brain wave activity and keeping the brain more alert. Researchers say the impact varies from person to person, so the key may be paying attention to how your caffeine habits affect your energy and rest.

Want A Cleaner Kitchen? Minimalists Say Get These Things Off Your Counter

Your kitchen counter may be one of the most cluttered places in your home, but organization experts say it should be treated as a workspace — not storage. Minimalists recommend removing things like rarely used appliances, bulky knife blocks, utensil holders, extra decorations, produce bowls, and random everyday clutter. The goal isn’t an empty kitchen with no personality, but creating a space that feels easier to use, easier to clean, and less overwhelming.

Retro Is Back: The Backyard Trends Making A Comeback

The backyard styles of the 1960s and 1970s are making a return, and homeowners are embracing outdoor spaces with more personality. Instead of perfectly polished patios, people are bringing back features like gravel courtyards, outdoor conversation pits, wicker furniture, classic brick details, mix-and-match seating, and traditional European-inspired gardens. The appeal isn’t just nostalgia — many of these designs are practical, affordable, and create a more comfortable place to gather.