FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 6

Google, Meta and TikTok Sue California Over Social Media Restrictions

Google, Meta and TikTok are suing California over a new law designed to protect kids under 16 from addictive social media features. Starting January 1st, the law would ban things like endless scrolling, addictive feeds and automatically playing videos for younger users. The companies say the restrictions violate free speech rights, while California says it's prepared to defend its efforts to protect children online.

Norton Warns About Holiday Shopping Scams

Before you jump on that incredible holiday deal, you might want to make sure it's actually real. Nearly one in six Americans have been scammed while holiday shopping online, and more than a third admit they've bought from sellers they suspected were fraudulent because the deal was too good to pass up. Social media is a major trouble spot, too. Norton's advice? Be suspicious of unbelievable bargains, check unfamiliar retailers and avoid clicking on questionable social media ads. Remember, if you're thinking, "This might be a scam, but..." it's probably a scam.

Why So Many Couples Break Up Around Thanksgiving

There's a name for the relationship breakup that happens right before Thanksgiving: the "Turkey Drop." Experts say holiday pressure, family questions and conversations about the future can make people rethink their relationships. So if your significant other suddenly seems distant heading into Thanksgiving, you might be getting turkey dropped!

McDonald's Tests New Cheaper Meal Deals

McDonald's is trying to get customers back by making the menu a little easier on the wallet. The chain is testing mix-and-match meal deals at 1,900 locations, with combinations featuring items like McDoubles, McChickens, six-piece McNuggets and fries for around $3.50 to $4. The eight-week test will help determine which combinations customers like best before a possible nationwide rollout early next year. No word yet on which locations are participating.

Burger King Brings Back Its Advent Calendar

Burger King is bringing back its miniature restaurant advent calendar after last year's version reportedly sold out in less than five minutes. The $19.54 calendar features 12 doors, each revealing a tiny piece of a Burger King restaurant, including miniature Whoppers, fries, nuggets, an ice cream cone and even a little soda machine. It'll be available exclusively at BKAdventCalendar.com starting November 16th.

Gas Prices Continue to Fall

We've got a little more good news at the gas pump. The national average for regular gasoline has dropped to $4.10 a gallon, according to AAA. That's down 12 cents in the past week and 26 cents over the past month, putting us within striking distance of getting below $4. Diesel is still considerably more expensive, averaging $6.25 a gallon. Prices typically fall in the autumn as refineries switch to cheaper winter fuel blends, although global tensions are keeping prices higher than they might otherwise be.

Smart Home Technology Is Becoming the Norm

How many smart devices do you have around your house? A new survey finds seven in ten homeowners have up to 10 smart gadgets, including TVs, doorbells, security cameras and thermostats. More people are also interested in technology that can monitor aging family members, detect falls and alert them to emergencies. But there's still some hesitation. Only about a quarter of homeowners say they completely trust these devices when it comes to their privacy.

Amazon Prime Members Get Free Uber Eats Delivery

Amazon Prime members are getting another perk, and this one could save you some money on dinner. Amazon is teaming up with Uber Eats to offer free delivery on qualifying orders over $25 through Amazon's website or app. To kick things off, members can also get $20 off each of their first two qualifying orders during the first two weeks. The deal replaces Amazon's existing partnership with Grubhub.

Libraries Are Making a Comeback

Apparently, one of the hottest entertainment destinations right now is your local library. With people looking to save money, more are rediscovering the fact that library cards are free and you can check out books, movies, video games and plenty of other entertainment without spending a dime.

Things to Purge Ahead of the Holidays

Before the holiday gatherings begin, experts say it's a good time to clear out some clutter around the house. Start with extra serving dishes, unused linens and coats nobody wears anymore. Don't forget the clutter in your car, expired food in the pantry, gifts you've never used and holiday decorations that have been sitting untouched for years. The idea is to make room for the things you'll actually need when company arrives.

The Best Things to Buy in November

November is one of the biggest bargain-shopping months of the year, and you don't necessarily have to wait until Black Friday to find deals. Some of the best things to shop for include Apple products, clothing, wireless headphones, Bluetooth speakers, laptops, televisions, toys and vacuums. Discounts can be especially good on older electronics and winter clothing, while toys and popular gifts are worth buying early before they sell out. Just remember to compare prices because some Black Friday deals aren't necessarily the bargains they appear to be.

The Secret to Being Happier When You're Older

What's the secret to happiness when you reach your 80s, 90s or even 100? According to a group of older adults, it's actually to stop chasing happiness. Experts say people often become more positive as they get older because they realize life is short and start focusing on what really matters. The happiest older adults stay busy, remain curious and find ways to feel useful. The advice? Create a life that gives you opportunities to be happy instead of constantly trying to make yourself happy.

Should You Rake Your Leaves or Mow Them?

It's the annual fall debate: should you rake those leaves or just run them over with the lawn mower? Experts say mowing leaves into smaller pieces can actually benefit your lawn by adding nutrients and supporting healthy soil. But raking still has its place. You can move leaves into garden beds, under trees or into a compost pile. Leaving some leaves intact also gives butterflies and other beneficial insects a place to shelter during the winter. So the best answer might be a little bit of both.

Apple's New iPhone Duo Is Already Hard to Find

If you're hoping to get your hands on Apple's new foldable iPhone Duo, you might have to be patient. Apple says shortages of the device aren't expected to disappear anytime soon. During an earnings call, the company's COO admitted it's difficult to predict when supply will catch up with demand. And the iPhone Duo isn't Apple's only problem, as the company is also dealing with an ongoing shortage of memory chips.

It's Time to Start Planning Thanksgiving Dinner

If you're hosting Thanksgiving this year, the experts say it's time to get organized. With about two weeks to go, start by figuring out your guest list and whether anyone has dietary restrictions. Plan your entire menu, decide what size turkey you'll need and how you're going to cook it. You should also assign guests a few jobs, settle on a dinner time and make sure you've got enough food storage containers for all that prep work and those leftovers.

How Much Water Do You Really Need?

We've all heard that we're supposed to drink eight glasses of water a day, but it turns out that rule isn't necessarily right for everyone. Men generally need about 125 ounces of total water daily, while women need around 91 ounces. But that includes water from food and other beverages, not just what comes out of your water bottle. Your activity level, age, medications, and even the weather can affect how much you need. And foods like watermelon, cucumbers, grapes, and tomatoes can help keep you hydrated. So while drinking water is important, there's no single magic number that works for everybody.

Home Upgrades Worth Spending More Money On

Sometimes spending a little more money upfront can actually save you money or headaches down the road. Home experts say there are several upgrades worth the extra investment. Smart thermostats can help lower energy bills, while video doorbells and smart lighting can add convenience and security. A professional home energy audit can uncover problems that are quietly driving up your utility costs. Other worthwhile investments include a quality mattress, durable kitchen appliances, and induction cooktops. And if you're thinking long-term, a walk-in shower can make your bathroom safer and more accessible as you get older.

Try the 30-Day Decluttering Challenge

If clutter is taking over your house, there's a simple challenge that might help you get things under control. It's called the 30-Day Minimalism Challenge, and the idea is pretty straightforward. On day one, get rid of one item. On day two, get rid of two. Keep adding another item each day, and by the end of the month, you'll have cleared out 465 things. Of course, that assumes you can actually find 465 things you're willing to part with. And the real challenge might be making it through the following month without buying 465 new things to replace them.

Forget Doomscrolling — Try Bloomscrolling

We've all heard of doomscrolling, where you spend way too much time looking at negative news and depressing social media posts. Well, now there's a new trend called "bloomscrolling," and it's basically the opposite. The idea is to fill your social media feeds with positive, uplifting, and educational content instead of all the negativity. That could mean following accounts that share good news, inspiring stories, cute animals, or things that actually make you feel better. It's becoming popular with younger social media users who want to be more intentional about what they consume online.

Is Frozen Fruit as Healthy as Fresh Fruit?

If you've been avoiding frozen fruit because you think fresh is healthier, here's some good news. Nutrition experts say frozen fruit is generally just as nutritious as fresh, and in some cases, it may actually retain more of certain vitamins. That's because frozen produce is typically preserved soon after harvesting, while fresh fruit can lose some nutrients during shipping and storage. Frozen fruit is often cheaper, lasts much longer, and means you don't have to worry about those expensive berries turning fuzzy in the refrigerator after three days.

THURSDAY, NOVEMBER 5TH

DoorDash Reveals What Americans Cooked, Forgot and Ordered for Thanksgiving

Thanksgiving Eve was DoorDash’s busiest grocery day of the year in 2025, and the company has released a look at what people were buying. Mashed potatoes were the most popular side, followed by corn and sweet potatoes. Surprisingly, chocolate cake beat out every pie as the most-ordered dessert. Pizza was the top dinner choice the night before Thanksgiving, and on Turkey Day, grocery orders peaked around 11 a.m. Apparently, plenty of people were still scrambling for last-minute supplies

The Biggest Financial Secrets Americans Keep Hidden

A new survey finds that money is one thing many Americans aren't completely honest about with their partners. The most common financial secrets include having a bad credit score, carrying significant credit card debt and hiding a gambling habit. Researchers also found that financial stability matters when it comes to dating, and nearly half say someone's debt or spending habits could make them think twice about a relationship.

The Eight Types of Texters in Every Group Chat

Every group chat has its own cast of characters, and a new survey has identified eight types. There's The Organizer who actually makes plans, The "I'm Easy" Friend who refuses to pick anything, and The Ghoster who reads everything but never responds. Then there's The Last-Minute Responder, The Meme Machine, The Flake who always cancels, The Yapper who sends novels instead of texts, and The Instigator who suggests plans but leaves everyone else to organize them.

Apple Starts Testing Its "Always Listening" AI Feature

Apple is reportedly testing new AI features for the Apple Watch that could keep tabs on conversations happening nearby. One feature, called Live Rewind, would let users press the Digital Crown to get a transcript of the previous 15 seconds of conversation. Another, called Siri Recap, would listen throughout the day and create summaries for users. Privacy watchdogs are already raising concerns about recording people without their knowledge or permission, and there could be legal issues in some states.

Amazon Unveils Its $25 Thanksgiving Meal Deal

Amazon is trying to make Thanksgiving dinner a little easier on the wallet with a $25 meal deal available through November 26th, while supplies last. The package includes an eight-pound Butterball turkey, cranberry sauce, gravy mix, Kraft Mac and Cheese, Stove Top stuffing, cream of mushroom soup, crispy fried onions and evaporated milk. The deal is available in more than 2,300 U.S. cities and towns with Amazon same-day grocery delivery.

Things to Purge Ahead of the Holidays

Before the holiday gatherings begin, experts say it's a good time to clear out some clutter around the house. Start with extra serving dishes, unused linens and coats nobody wears anymore. Don't forget the clutter in your car, expired food in the pantry, gifts you've never used and holiday decorations that have been sitting untouched for years. The idea is to make room for the things you'll actually need when company arrives.

New Jersey Player Wins $847 Million Powerball Jackpot

Someone in New Jersey is waking up a whole lot richer after Wednesday night's Powerball drawing. One lucky ticket matched all five white balls and the Powerball to win an $847 million jackpot, making it the ninth-largest prize in Powerball history. The winner can take the full amount through an annuity paid over 29 years or choose a lump-sum payment worth $363.1 million before taxes. Saturday night's jackpot resets to $20 million.

McDonald's Facing Bizarre Lawsuit Over the McRib

McDonald's is facing a class-action lawsuit over one of its most popular seasonal sandwiches. The lawsuit claims the McRib is misleading customers because, despite its name, it doesn't actually contain rib meat. A federal judge in Chicago has ruled that the case can move forward. The sandwich recently returned to select McDonald's locations, so apparently the debate over what's really inside a McRib is heating up right along with barbecue sauce.

The Best Things to Buy in November

November is one of the biggest bargain-shopping months of the year, and you don't necessarily have to wait until Black Friday to find deals. Some of the best things to shop for include Apple products, clothing, wireless headphones, Bluetooth speakers, laptops, televisions, toys and vacuums. Discounts can be especially good on older electronics and winter clothing, while toys and popular gifts are worth buying early before they sell out. Just remember to compare prices because some Black Friday deals aren't necessarily the bargains they appear to be.

The Secret to Being Happier When You're Older

What's the secret to happiness when you reach your 80s, 90s or even 100? According to a group of older adults, it's actually to stop chasing happiness. Experts say people often become more positive as they get older because they realize life is short and start focusing on what really matters. The happiest older adults stay busy, remain curious and find ways to feel useful. The advice? Create a life that gives you opportunities to be happy instead of constantly trying to make yourself happy.

Should You Rake Your Leaves or Mow Them?

It's the annual fall debate: should you rake those leaves or just run them over with the lawn mower? Experts say mowing leaves into smaller pieces can actually benefit your lawn by adding nutrients and supporting healthy soil. But raking still has its place. You can move leaves into garden beds, under trees or into a compost pile. Leaving some leaves intact also gives butterflies and other beneficial insects a place to shelter during the winter. So the best answer might be a little bit of both.

Apple's New iPhone Duo Is Already Hard to Find

If you're hoping to get your hands on Apple's new foldable iPhone Duo, you might have to be patient. Apple says shortages of the device aren't expected to disappear anytime soon. During an earnings call, the company's COO admitted it's difficult to predict when supply will catch up with demand. And the iPhone Duo isn't Apple's only problem, as the company is also dealing with an ongoing shortage of memory chips.

It's Time to Start Planning Thanksgiving Dinner

If you're hosting Thanksgiving this year, the experts say it's time to get organized. With about two weeks to go, start by figuring out your guest list and whether anyone has dietary restrictions. Plan your entire menu, decide what size turkey you'll need and how you're going to cook it. You should also assign guests a few jobs, settle on a dinner time and make sure you've got enough food storage containers for all that prep work and those leftovers.

How Much Water Do You Really Need?

We've all heard that we're supposed to drink eight glasses of water a day, but it turns out that rule isn't necessarily right for everyone. Men generally need about 125 ounces of total water daily, while women need around 91 ounces. But that includes water from food and other beverages, not just what comes out of your water bottle. Your activity level, age, medications, and even the weather can affect how much you need. And foods like watermelon, cucumbers, grapes, and tomatoes can help keep you hydrated. So while drinking water is important, there's no single magic number that works for everybody.

Home Upgrades Worth Spending More Money On

Sometimes spending a little more money upfront can actually save you money or headaches down the road. Home experts say there are several upgrades worth the extra investment. Smart thermostats can help lower energy bills, while video doorbells and smart lighting can add convenience and security. A professional home energy audit can uncover problems that are quietly driving up your utility costs. Other worthwhile investments include a quality mattress, durable kitchen appliances, and induction cooktops. And if you're thinking long-term, a walk-in shower can make your bathroom safer and more accessible as you get older.

Try the 30-Day Decluttering Challenge

If clutter is taking over your house, there's a simple challenge that might help you get things under control. It's called the 30-Day Minimalism Challenge, and the idea is pretty straightforward. On day one, get rid of one item. On day two, get rid of two. Keep adding another item each day, and by the end of the month, you'll have cleared out 465 things. Of course, that assumes you can actually find 465 things you're willing to part with. And the real challenge might be making it through the following month without buying 465 new things to replace them.

Forget Doomscrolling — Try Bloomscrolling

We've all heard of doomscrolling, where you spend way too much time looking at negative news and depressing social media posts. Well, now there's a new trend called "bloomscrolling," and it's basically the opposite. The idea is to fill your social media feeds with positive, uplifting, and educational content instead of all the negativity. That could mean following accounts that share good news, inspiring stories, cute animals, or things that actually make you feel better. It's becoming popular with younger social media users who want to be more intentional about what they consume online.

Is Frozen Fruit as Healthy as Fresh Fruit?

If you've been avoiding frozen fruit because you think fresh is healthier, here's some good news. Nutrition experts say frozen fruit is generally just as nutritious as fresh, and in some cases, it may actually retain more of certain vitamins. That's because frozen produce is typically preserved soon after harvesting, while fresh fruit can lose some nutrients during shipping and storage. Frozen fruit is often cheaper, lasts much longer, and means you don't have to worry about those expensive berries turning fuzzy in the refrigerator after three days.

WEDNESDAY, NOVEMBER 4

Democrats Score Major Election Night Victories

Democrats are celebrating a big night after flipping dozens of seats in the 2026 midterm elections and taking control of both the House and Senate. Democrats had picked up at least 20 House seats by midnight, while Republicans hadn't flipped any. Senate Minority Leader Chuck Schumer called it a message of relief for voters. President Trump, who spent much of the campaign urging people to treat the election as a referendum on him, says he'll accept the results and work with Democrats.

U.S. Senate - Abdul El-Sayed defeats Mike Rogers

Governor - Jocelyn Benson beat John James

Attorney General - Eli Savit wins

Secretary of State - Garlin Gilchrist II

U.S. House - Jack Bergman defeats Callie Barr

U.S. House - John Moolenaar wins.

Living Near Too Much Noise Could Be Bad for Your Health

If you live near a busy highway, railroad or airport, all that noise could be doing more than driving you crazy. A new study found that long-term exposure to transportation noise is linked to a higher risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol, heart attacks and strokes. Researchers suggest using thicker windows, planting trees, moving bedrooms away from the noise or even wearing earplugs at night.

MyMichigan Health is warning the community about a phone scam.

The health system says scammers are calling patients and pretending to be MyMichigan representatives in an attempt to get private health and personal information. MyMichigan says it will never ask you to disclose private health information during an unsolicited appointment reminder or general inquiry call. They're reminding everyone not to trust caller ID alone, since phone numbers can be faked. If you get one of these calls, hang up and contact MyMichigan directly using a verified phone number.

These Phrases Could Hurt Your Performance Review

If you've got a performance review coming up, you might want to stop downplaying your accomplishments. Phrases like "It was a team effort," "Everyone pitched in," or "I only played a small part" might sound humble, but they can also make it seem like you didn't contribute much. Experts say give your coworkers credit, but make sure you highlight your own decisions, show how your skills have improved and point to specific things you've accomplished.

Low-Effort Beauty Hacks Busy Women Swear By

Busy women are sharing some of their favorite beauty shortcuts, and a few of these are pretty clever. One woman uses self-tanner to contour her face so she doesn't need makeup every day. Another hangs her laundry in complete outfits to save time getting dressed. Other tricks include keeping lipstick by the front door, using stretchy magnetic shoelaces, spraying your hair roots with water for a quick refresh and throwing on a blazer to make almost any outfit look more put together. One woman even recommends putting dry shampoo on clean hair instead of waiting until it gets greasy.

Antistimulation Rooms Are the Latest Home Trend

We're surrounded by phones, screens, notifications and noise, so a new home trend is all about creating a space where none of that exists. They're called antistimulation rooms, and you don't need an entire room to try it. Even a quiet corner with comfortable seating, soft lighting, muted colors and cozy blankets can work. The idea is to ditch the TV and phone, reduce distractions and give yourself a place to read, relax or just sit quietly without something demanding your attention.

Thanksgiving Decorations That Won't Cost You Anything

Halloween decorations are coming down, but it's still a little early for Christmas, so why not give your home a Thanksgiving makeover without spending anything? You can head outside and collect colorful leaves, pinecones and branches to create centerpieces, wreaths and garlands. Use empty jars as decorations, turn leaves into place cards, or surround candles with acorns and dried flowers. You can even dress up your table using blankets, scarves and table linens you already have around the house.

The Best Things to Buy in November

November is one of the biggest bargain-shopping months of the year, and you don't necessarily have to wait until Black Friday to find deals. Some of the best things to shop for include Apple products, clothing, wireless headphones, Bluetooth speakers, laptops, televisions, toys and vacuums. Discounts can be especially good on older electronics and winter clothing, while toys and popular gifts are worth buying early before they sell out. Just remember to compare prices because some Black Friday deals aren't necessarily the bargains they appear to be.

The Secret to Being Happier When You're Older

What's the secret to happiness when you reach your 80s, 90s or even 100? According to a group of older adults, it's actually to stop chasing happiness. Experts say people often become more positive as they get older because they realize life is short and start focusing on what really matters. The happiest older adults stay busy, remain curious and find ways to feel useful. The advice? Create a life that gives you opportunities to be happy instead of constantly trying to make yourself happy.

Should You Rake Your Leaves or Mow Them?

It's the annual fall debate: should you rake those leaves or just run them over with the lawn mower? Experts say mowing leaves into smaller pieces can actually benefit your lawn by adding nutrients and supporting healthy soil. But raking still has its place. You can move leaves into garden beds, under trees or into a compost pile. Leaving some leaves intact also gives butterflies and other beneficial insects a place to shelter during the winter. So the best answer might be a little bit of both.

Apple's New iPhone Duo Is Already Hard to Find

If you're hoping to get your hands on Apple's new foldable iPhone Duo, you might have to be patient. Apple says shortages of the device aren't expected to disappear anytime soon. During an earnings call, the company's COO admitted it's difficult to predict when supply will catch up with demand. And the iPhone Duo isn't Apple's only problem, as the company is also dealing with an ongoing shortage of memory chips.

It's Time to Start Planning Thanksgiving Dinner

If you're hosting Thanksgiving this year, the experts say it's time to get organized. With about two weeks to go, start by figuring out your guest list and whether anyone has dietary restrictions. Plan your entire menu, decide what size turkey you'll need and how you're going to cook it. You should also assign guests a few jobs, settle on a dinner time and make sure you've got enough food storage containers for all that prep work and those leftovers.

How Much Water Do You Really Need?

We've all heard that we're supposed to drink eight glasses of water a day, but it turns out that rule isn't necessarily right for everyone. Men generally need about 125 ounces of total water daily, while women need around 91 ounces. But that includes water from food and other beverages, not just what comes out of your water bottle. Your activity level, age, medications, and even the weather can affect how much you need. And foods like watermelon, cucumbers, grapes, and tomatoes can help keep you hydrated. So while drinking water is important, there's no single magic number that works for everybody.

Home Upgrades Worth Spending More Money On

Sometimes spending a little more money upfront can actually save you money or headaches down the road. Home experts say there are several upgrades worth the extra investment. Smart thermostats can help lower energy bills, while video doorbells and smart lighting can add convenience and security. A professional home energy audit can uncover problems that are quietly driving up your utility costs. Other worthwhile investments include a quality mattress, durable kitchen appliances, and induction cooktops. And if you're thinking long-term, a walk-in shower can make your bathroom safer and more accessible as you get older.

Try the 30-Day Decluttering Challenge

If clutter is taking over your house, there's a simple challenge that might help you get things under control. It's called the 30-Day Minimalism Challenge, and the idea is pretty straightforward. On day one, get rid of one item. On day two, get rid of two. Keep adding another item each day, and by the end of the month, you'll have cleared out 465 things. Of course, that assumes you can actually find 465 things you're willing to part with. And the real challenge might be making it through the following month without buying 465 new things to replace them.

Forget Doomscrolling — Try Bloomscrolling

We've all heard of doomscrolling, where you spend way too much time looking at negative news and depressing social media posts. Well, now there's a new trend called "bloomscrolling," and it's basically the opposite. The idea is to fill your social media feeds with positive, uplifting, and educational content instead of all the negativity. That could mean following accounts that share good news, inspiring stories, cute animals, or things that actually make you feel better. It's becoming popular with younger social media users who want to be more intentional about what they consume online.

Is Frozen Fruit as Healthy as Fresh Fruit?

If you've been avoiding frozen fruit because you think fresh is healthier, here's some good news. Nutrition experts say frozen fruit is generally just as nutritious as fresh, and in some cases, it may actually retain more of certain vitamins. That's because frozen produce is typically preserved soon after harvesting, while fresh fruit can lose some nutrients during shipping and storage. Frozen fruit is often cheaper, lasts much longer, and means you don't have to worry about those expensive berries turning fuzzy in the refrigerator after three days.

TUESDAY, OCTOBER 3, 2026

MORE THAN 2.3 MILLION MICHIGAN VOTERS HAVE ALREADY CAST THEIR BALLOTS

It’s Election Day, but more than 2.3 million Michigan voters have already made their voices heard. State election officials say that's about 31% of the state's active registered voters. Nearly 1.5 million people returned absentee ballots, while another 743-thousand voted at early voting locations. If you haven't voted yet, polls are open today from 7 a.m. until 8 p.m. And if you're still holding onto an absentee ballot, don't put it in the mail. You'll need to drop it off at an official ballot drop box, take it to your local clerk's office or bring it with you to your polling place by 8 p.m.

HOW TO HANDLE THE POST-HALLOWEEN BLUES

Halloween is over, the decorations are coming down, and some people are already feeling a little depressed. It's called the post-Halloween blues, and apparently it's a real thing. Psychologists say it's common for people who love Halloween because they go from weeks of excitement, costumes, parties and nostalgia right back to their everyday routines. So, how do you shake it? Experts recommend finding a creative outlet, making plans with friends, getting plenty of rest and, if those feelings stick around or get worse, talking to a mental health professional.

NEARLY HALF OF AMERICANS ARE BORED WITH HOW THEY CELEBRATE HOLIDAYS

A new survey finds 44% of Americans say their usual holiday traditions are getting a little stale and this year a majority are planning some kind of secret twist this year. That could mean changing up the traditional holiday menu, decorating differently or even celebrating somewhere new. And if you're hosting, you might want to get the house ready. Nearly two-thirds say they want their home to be THE place to gather this holiday season.

USEFUL THINGS TO DO WITH YOUR PUMPKINS NOW THAT HALLOWEEN IS OVER

Before you toss that jack-o'-lantern in the trash, there are a few ways to give it a second life. You can break it up and toss it in the compost pile, or check with a local farm, animal sanctuary or zoo to see if they'll accept fresh pumpkins for the animals. You can even turn a freshly carved pumpkin into a temporary flower vase by removing the candle and putting a glass container inside. And if you never carved your pumpkin, there's no reason to get rid of it yet. Leave it out as fall decoration and it could last until Thanksgiving.

HAPPINESS RESEARCHER SHARES WHAT HE'S LEARNED ABOUT BEING HAPPY

What's the secret to being happy? A Harvard researcher who has spent decades studying happiness says it might be simpler than we think. For starters, happy people don't spend their lives constantly evaluating whether they're happy. They stay involved in hobbies, maintain friendships, get out of the house and keep trying new things. The trick is to create the conditions for happiness and then get on with living your life.

What to Ask Your Doctor After 40

If you're over 40, your annual physical should probably involve more than checking your blood pressure and heading out the door. Doctors say this is a good time to start asking questions about your long-term health. That includes your risk for heart disease, which blood tests you should be getting, and when to begin screenings for certain cancers. It's also worth discussing bone health, vaccinations, exercise, and changes that come with aging. Routine colon cancer screenings generally begin at 45 for most adults, while women are typically advised to begin mammograms around 40.

Questions That Actually Get Your Kids Talking

If you've ever asked your kid how school was and gotten a one-word answer like "fine," child psychologists say you might be asking the wrong question. Apparently, "How was your day?" is just too broad for some kids to answer. Instead, experts recommend getting more specific, especially around the dinner table. Try asking what made them laugh today, what surprised them, or whether something happened that was difficult. You could also ask who did something kind or what they're looking forward to this week. The idea is to make conversations feel less like an interrogation and more like an opportunity to connect.

How Much Water Do You Really Need?

We've all heard that we're supposed to drink eight glasses of water a day, but it turns out that rule isn't necessarily right for everyone. Men generally need about 125 ounces of total water daily, while women need around 91 ounces. But that includes water from food and other beverages, not just what comes out of your water bottle. Your activity level, age, medications, and even the weather can affect how much you need. And foods like watermelon, cucumbers, grapes, and tomatoes can help keep you hydrated. So while drinking water is important, there's no single magic number that works for everybody.

Home Upgrades Worth Spending More Money On

Sometimes spending a little more money upfront can actually save you money or headaches down the road. Home experts say there are several upgrades worth the extra investment. Smart thermostats can help lower energy bills, while video doorbells and smart lighting can add convenience and security. A professional home energy audit can uncover problems that are quietly driving up your utility costs. Other worthwhile investments include a quality mattress, durable kitchen appliances, and induction cooktops. And if you're thinking long-term, a walk-in shower can make your bathroom safer and more accessible as you get older.

Try the 30-Day Decluttering Challenge

If clutter is taking over your house, there's a simple challenge that might help you get things under control. It's called the 30-Day Minimalism Challenge, and the idea is pretty straightforward. On day one, get rid of one item. On day two, get rid of two. Keep adding another item each day, and by the end of the month, you'll have cleared out 465 things. Of course, that assumes you can actually find 465 things you're willing to part with. And the real challenge might be making it through the following month without buying 465 new things to replace them.

Forget Doomscrolling — Try Bloomscrolling

We've all heard of doomscrolling, where you spend way too much time looking at negative news and depressing social media posts. Well, now there's a new trend called "bloomscrolling," and it's basically the opposite. The idea is to fill your social media feeds with positive, uplifting, and educational content instead of all the negativity. That could mean following accounts that share good news, inspiring stories, cute animals, or things that actually make you feel better. It's becoming popular with younger social media users who want to be more intentional about what they consume online.

Is Frozen Fruit as Healthy as Fresh Fruit?

If you've been avoiding frozen fruit because you think fresh is healthier, here's some good news. Nutrition experts say frozen fruit is generally just as nutritious as fresh, and in some cases, it may actually retain more of certain vitamins. That's because frozen produce is typically preserved soon after harvesting, while fresh fruit can lose some nutrients during shipping and storage. Frozen fruit is often cheaper, lasts much longer, and means you don't have to worry about those expensive berries turning fuzzy in the refrigerator after three days.