THURSDAY, JULY 9, 2026

PATIO TRENDS THAT ARE FADING FAST

Thinking about giving your backyard a makeover? Designers say a few patio trends are officially on their way out. The biggest one? Everything being gray. Instead, warmer colors, natural stone, brick, and wood are making outdoor spaces feel more inviting.

Those oversized rattan patio sectionals are also losing popularity, with homeowners choosing higher-quality materials like teak and wrought iron. Perfectly manicured landscaping is giving way to softer, more natural gardens with flowing grasses and colorful flowers. And here's a surprise... High-quality artificial plants are becoming more popular for spaces where keeping real plants alive is difficult.

FIVE AC MISTAKES THAT COST YOU MONEY

With summer heat in full swing...your air conditioner is probably working overtime.

Experts say these common mistakes could be making your electric bill even higher.

First...change your air filter regularly. A dirty filter forces your AC to work much harder.

Keep windows and doors closed whenever the AC is running. Close blinds and curtains during the hottest parts of the day to block the sun. Use ceiling fans to help you feel cooler so you can raise the thermostat a couple of degrees. And one interesting tip...

Pre-cool your home during the cooler morning hours so your AC doesn't have to work as hard once temperatures climb.

THREE OF THE FILTHIEST THINGS YOU TOUCH EVERY DAY

We've all gotten a little less obsessed with hand sanitizer since the pandemic... But there are still some surprisingly dirty things we touch every day. Number one... PIN pads at checkout counters. Hundreds of people touch them every single day, and they're not cleaned nearly as often as you'd hope. Next...grocery cart handles. They're handled by countless shoppers, making them another hotspot for germs. And finally...Your phone.

Think about everywhere it goes...then think about how often you clean it.

Experts say wiping down your phone regularly—and washing your hands more often—can help cut down on the germs you're carrying around.

HOW HOT IS TOO HOT FOR YOUR DOG?

If it's too hot for you...It's probably too hot for your dog, too. Experts say a healthy adult dog is generally okay for a walk when the heat index is 85 degrees or lower. Above that, keep walks shorter, slower, and make sure you bring plenty of water. Dogs with short snouts, thick coats, puppies, senior dogs, and pets with health issues are especially vulnerable to heat. Before heading out, test the pavement with your hand. If it's too hot for you to comfortably touch... It's too hot for your dog's paws.

AMERICANS SPEND 156 HOURS A YEAR WATCHING "ODDLY SATISFYING" VIDEOS

We've all fallen down a social media rabbit hole, and apparently "oddly satisfying" videos are one of America's favorite time-wasters. A new survey finds nearly six in 10 Americans spend about 30 minutes a day watching things like pimple popping, pressure washing, and objects being crushed. That works out to about 156 hours a year. Other oddly satisfying favorites include popping bubble wrap, shredding paper, taking a hot bath, mowing the lawn, keyboard sounds, and even watching mukbang videos.

LOSING JUST AN HOUR OF SLEEP MAY LEAD TO WEIGHT GAIN

If you've been staying up just a little too late, new research says it could be affecting more than your energy levels. Researchers found that people who cut about 80 minutes of sleep each night for six weeks gained an average of a pound. They also became less active, spending about 17 more minutes a day sitting around. Researchers say many people don't think losing an hour of sleep is a big deal, but over time it can affect hormones that control hunger and fullness, making weight gain more likely.

HOW TO KEEP KIDS FROM THE "SUMMER SLIDE"

Summer vacation is great for kids—but experts say taking a complete break from learning can cause what's known as the summer slide. Kids can lose up to 28% of their reading gains and 34% of their math gains over the summer if they don't keep practicing.

The good news is it doesn't have to feel like school. Education experts recommend reading every day, playing board games, visiting the library, taking nature walks, scheduling playdates, and even turning grocery shopping into a fun math lesson.

Giving kids small responsibilities around the house can also help build confidence while keeping their brains engaged.

CDC INVESTIGATING PARASITIC ILLNESS SPREADING ACROSS THE U.S.

The CDC is trying to track down the source of a foodborne parasite that's making hundreds of people sick. The illness, called Cyclosporiasis, can cause severe diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and fatigue, with symptoms usually appearing two to 14 days after eating contaminated food. the CDC had confirmed 145 cases across 17 states as of early July, several states have since reported many more infections. Michigan has recorded more than 700 suspected or confirmed cases, making it one of the hardest-hit states. The outbreak is often linked to fresh produce or prepackaged foods, but investigators still haven't identified the source.

FOREVER STAMPS ARE GOING UP AGAIN

If you've been meaning to buy stamps, you may want to do it before Sunday.

The United States Postal Service is raising the price of a Forever Stamp from 78 cents to 82 cents. Postcard and international mail rates are also increasing. The price hike comes as the Postal Service continues to face financial challenges after reporting a $9 billion loss last year.

WEDNESDAY, JULY 8, 2026

10 COMMON U.S. FOODS THAT SURPRISED WORLD CUP VISITORS

If you've ever thought America was a little over the top...World Cup visitors are confirming it. Fans from around the world have been sharing the American foods and experiences that completely caught them off guard. At the top of the list? Ranch dressing. Europeans apparently can't get enough of it, with some even trying to pack bottles into their carry-on luggage. Visitors also fell in love with Chicago deep-dish pizza, Italian beef sandwiches, and the massive Buc-ee's convenience stores. Other surprises included our obsession with ice, giant Big Gulp drinks from 7-Eleven, Taco Bell, Chipotle, biscuits and gravy, and late-night trips to Waffle House.

AMERICANS EXPECT TO RETIRE WITH ONLY HALF THE MONEY THEY NEED

A new survey finds many Americans are worried retirement may never look the way they imagined. Workers say they expect to retire with about $515,000 in savings. The problem? Financial experts say the average person will likely need closer to one million dollars. Right now, the typical worker has only about $210,000 saved.  More than half worry they'll outlive their savings, and 81 percent fear they won't be able to retire when they want. Perhaps the most concerning number? Nearly one in ten workers don't think they'll ever be able to retire at all.

AMERICANS SAY MOVIES ARE TOO LONG

If you've walked out of a movie lately thinking, "Did that really need to be three hours?"...you're not alone. A new survey says the ideal movie length is just 88 minutes.

That's actually shorter than people said just two years ago. Only ten percent of Americans think a movie should last two hours or longer. Interestingly, younger audiences have the shortest attention spans. Gen Z says the perfect movie is just 82 minutes, while Baby Boomers are okay with about an hour and a half. Unfortunately for moviegoers, Hollywood didn't get the memo. Many of this summer's biggest blockbusters are pushing two-and-a-half hours...and one clocks in at nearly three hours.

HALF OF DOG OWNERS SAY THEIR DOG IS THEIR SOULMATE

Move over, spouses. A new survey finds nearly half of dog owners say their dog—not their romantic partner—is actually their ultimate soulmate. Half say their dog is the very first source of comfort they turn to after a bad day. The survey also found many owners talk to their dogs more than their significant others, and nearly eight in ten regularly make up conversations by giving their dog a voice.

BIGGEST FIRST DATE MISTAKES

Dating experts say most people make the same mistakes on first dates...and they're surprisingly easy to avoid. The biggest one? Talking too much. Experts say nerves often take over, turning dates into one-sided conversations instead of opportunities to actually get to know someone. Another common mistake is becoming emotionally invested way too quickly after just one date. Experts also warn against oversharing deeply personal stories too soon, saying real intimacy should happen naturally over time—not all at once.

WHEN IS IT OKAY TO CANCEL PLANS?

We've all been there. You make plans early in the week...then the day comes, and suddenly your couch sounds a whole lot better. So when is it actually okay to cancel?

Psychologists say the answer depends on why you're doing it. If you're physically sick, burned out, emotionally drained, or grieving, canceling can actually be healthy self-care.

But if you're skipping plans simply because you're anxious or avoiding discomfort, that's a different story. Experts also say to think about the other person. Canceling dinner is one thing. Backing out of a birthday party or a big celebration at the last minute can do real damage to a relationship. If you do need to cancel, try rescheduling. It shows the person you're canceling on that you still value spending time with them.

THE BEST THINGS TO BUY IN JULY

If you've been waiting to make a big purchase...July can actually be a great month to save. Retail experts say this is one of the best times to shop for back-to-school supplies, even if you don't have kids. Office supplies usually go on sale too. You'll also find discounts on patio furniture, grills, and other outdoor items as stores begin clearing out summer inventory. Need new luggage? July is a great month for that as well.

Mattresses continue to be heavily discounted, and summer clothing is already hitting clearance racks while there's still plenty of warm weather left. And if you missed the big June electronics sales...good news. Many TVs, laptops, and smart home devices are still seeing solid discounts this month.

FIVE HABITS FOR A HEALTHIER GUT

When people think about gut health, they usually think about probiotics or yogurt.

But experts say your daily habits matter just as much. First...manage your stress. Chronic stress can throw your digestive system out of balance. Next...get enough sleep. Seven to nine hours helps support a healthy gut microbiome. Exercise also helps keep your digestive system moving—even a daily walk makes a difference. Experts also recommend spending more time with friends and family, since positive social connections can actually benefit your gut. And finally...breathe cleaner air whenever possible. Better ventilation, air purifiers, and simply spending time outdoors may help reduce inflammation.

THE PET HAIR HACK THAT ACTUALLY WORKS

If you have a dog or cat...you know pet hair has a way of sticking to absolutely everything. But Good Housekeeping says there's a surprisingly simple trick.

Before you throw hairy clothes or blankets into the washing machine...Put them in the dryer first. Run them for about ten minutes on the air-fluff, no heat setting with a dryer sheet. The dryer loosens much of the pet hair so it doesn't cling to the fabric during the wash. It won't remove every single hair... But testers say it works surprisingly well.

PATIO TRENDS THAT ARE FADING FAST

Thinking about giving your backyard a makeover? Designers say a few patio trends are officially on their way out. The biggest one? Everything being gray. Instead, warmer colors, natural stone, brick, and wood are making outdoor spaces feel more inviting.

Those oversized rattan patio sectionals are also losing popularity, with homeowners choosing higher-quality materials like teak and wrought iron. Perfectly manicured landscaping is giving way to softer, more natural gardens with flowing grasses and colorful flowers. And here's a surprise... High-quality artificial plants are becoming more popular for spaces where keeping real plants alive is difficult.

FIVE AC MISTAKES THAT COST YOU MONEY

With summer heat in full swing...your air conditioner is probably working overtime.

Experts say these common mistakes could be making your electric bill even higher.

First...change your air filter regularly. A dirty filter forces your AC to work much harder.

Keep windows and doors closed whenever the AC is running. Close blinds and curtains during the hottest parts of the day to block the sun. Use ceiling fans to help you feel cooler so you can raise the thermostat a couple of degrees. And one interesting tip...

Pre-cool your home during the cooler morning hours so your AC doesn't have to work as hard once temperatures climb.

THREE OF THE FILTHIEST THINGS YOU TOUCH EVERY DAY

We've all gotten a little less obsessed with hand sanitizer since the pandemic... But there are still some surprisingly dirty things we touch every day. Number one... PIN pads at checkout counters. Hundreds of people touch them every single day, and they're not cleaned nearly as often as you'd hope. Next...grocery cart handles. They're handled by countless shoppers, making them another hotspot for germs. And finally...Your phone.

Think about everywhere it goes...then think about how often you clean it.

Experts say wiping down your phone regularly—and washing your hands more often—can help cut down on the germs you're carrying around.

HOW HOT IS TOO HOT FOR YOUR DOG?

If it's too hot for you...It's probably too hot for your dog, too. Experts say a healthy adult dog is generally okay for a walk when the heat index is 85 degrees or lower. Above that, keep walks shorter, slower, and make sure you bring plenty of water. Dogs with short snouts, thick coats, puppies, senior dogs, and pets with health issues are especially vulnerable to heat. Before heading out, test the pavement with your hand. If it's too hot for you to comfortably touch... It's too hot for your dog's paws.

TUESDAY, JULY 7, 2026

HARVARD'S "TAYLOR SWIFT PROFESSOR"

If you thought Taylor Swift was already the subject of enough conversations...get ready for this. A Harvard professor who teaches an entire class on Taylor Swift says the singer's recent wedding will probably become part of future lessons. Stephanie Burt teaches students to analyze Swift's songwriting and the stories behind her music—not her celebrity life. But since weddings have been a recurring theme in songs like Love Story and Paper Rings, Burt says she'll look at how this real-life moment may influence Swift's next album. The professor says the focus won't be on the wedding itself...it'll be on whether Taylor turns it into art.

THE MOST AFFORDABLE THEME PARKS THIS SUMMER

If you've priced a trip to Disney lately...you know it can feel like you're buying a second mortgage. The good news? A new study found plenty of theme parks where you can still have a great day without draining your bank account. The most affordable? Quassy Amusement Park in Connecticut, where tickets start at just 33 dollars.

Coming in second is Fun Spot America in Orlando. Admission is actually free—you just pay for the rides you want, or grab an unlimited wristband. Meanwhile...Disneyland and Disney California Adventure tied for the most expensive parks, with one-day tickets reaching nearly 200 dollars.

1. Quassy Amusement Park - Middlebury, Connecticut
2. Fun Spot America Theme Park - Orlando, Florida
3. Castles N’ Coasters - Phoenix, Arizona
4. Wild Adventures - Valdosta, Georgia
5. Six Flags Frontier City - Oklahoma City, Oklahoma
6. Alabama Adventure - Bessemer, Alabama
7. Six Flags New England - Agawam, Massachusetts
8. Adventureland - Altoona, Iowa
9. Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari - Santa Claus, Indiana
10. Tropic Falls at OWA - Foley, Alabama

KEEP YOUR CAR COOL THIS SUMMER

Your house isn't the only thing that needs help staying cool this summer.

If you've ever grabbed a scorching hot steering wheel or burned the back of your legs on a leather seat...here are a few easy tricks. Use a windshield shade whenever you park. Find a shady spot if you can. If it's legal where you live, window tint can make a big difference. And don't forget to cover your steering wheel and seats—or crack your windows just a little to let trapped heat escape. Your hands...and your legs...will thank you.

AMERICA'S FAVORITE FOODS TO GRILL

Summer means one thing... Fire up the grill. A new look at Google search trends shows burgers remain America's favorite thing to throw over the flames. Chicken breasts come in second, followed by ribeye steaks. The biggest surprise? Grilled corn ranks fourth—beating out hot dogs and ribs nationwide. Chicken wings dominate searches across much of the South, while Ohio apparently can't get enough grilled peaches...and Idaho is all about grilled pineapple.

HOW TO SURVIVE THE DAY AFTER A BAD NIGHT'S SLEEP

We've all had those mornings... You barely slept, the alarm goes off, and somehow you're expected to function like a normal human being. Experts say don't immediately reach for another cup of coffee. Instead, get outside and soak up some sunlight. Move your body, even if it's just a short walk. Keep your to-do list simple, take regular breaks, and if possible...avoid making any major decisions. One more tip? Stop telling yourself—and everyone else—how exhausted you are. Experts say focusing on your fatigue can actually make the day feel even worse.

WATCH OUT FOR THIS BOOKING.COM SCAM

If you're planning a vacation...there's a new scam you should know about. Cybersecurity experts say fake Booking.com emails are promising travelers a 500-dollar travel credit.

The messages look convincing, using official logos and even personalized information to make them seem legitimate. The best advice? Don't click the links. Instead, log into your Booking.com account directly and check for offers there. If you weren't expecting the email...there's a good chance it's a scam.

RELATIONSHIP RED FLAGS THAT ARE EASY TO MISS

Some relationship warning signs are obvious. Others...not so much. A psychologist says one of the biggest red flags is feeling like you're constantly walking on eggshells around your partner. Other warning signs include conflict that always ends in contempt, control that's disguised as love, feeling like everything is somehow your fault, and slowly losing your sense of who you are. Experts say no relationship is perfect...but if several of these patterns keep showing up, it's worth paying attention.

THE WORST FINANCIAL ADVICE PEOPLE STILL BELIEVE

Just because someone gives you financial advice...doesn't mean you should take it.

Financial professionals say one of the biggest myths is that carrying a balance on your credit card helps your credit score. It doesn't. Paying your balance off in full every month is almost always the better move. Other bad advice? "Follow your passion and the money will come." Experts say it's usually smarter to build financial stability first...so you can afford your passions later. And one piece of advice nearly everyone agrees on? Don't co-sign a loan unless you're fully prepared to make the payments yourself.

VIRAL HEAT HACKS: FACT OR FICTION?

Social media is full of heat-wave "life hacks." But do they actually work? Experts say sleeping under a damp sheet can help—but only if the air isn't too humid. Putting a bowl of ice in front of a fan? That provides temporary relief, but it's not a replacement for air conditioning. And if you've seen people suggesting you smear yogurt on your windows to keep the heat  out...Don't. Experts say it creates a mess, can attract bugs, and may even grow mold. When it comes to staying cool, cold water, shade, and air conditioning are still your best bets.

MONDAY, JULY 6, 2026

WASH IT

Michigan health officials are urging everyone to wash their fresh produce after an unusual parasite outbreak sickened more than 170 people in just over a week. That's compared to about 50 cases in a typical year. The illness, called cyclospora, is usually linked to contaminated fruits and vegetables and can cause diarrhea, stomach cramps, nausea, and fever. Officials don't yet know the source of the outbreak, but they're reminding everyone to thoroughly rinse fresh produce before eating it.

MORE AMERICANS ARE CUTTING BACK ON ALCOHOL

Looks like a lot of Americans are actually drinking less than they used to.

A new survey finds 36% of adults who drink say they're consuming less alcohol than they were a year ago.

The biggest reason is simple: half say they just don't feel like drinking as much anymore.

Another 35% say they're cutting back for health reasons, while 20% say alcohol has simply gotten too expensive.

DON'T TOUCH MY FRIES

Apparently Americans take their fries very seriously.

A new survey found 60% admit they've ordered an extra order of fries just so they wouldn't have to share.

The survey also found 82% have picked a fast-food restaurant specifically because they were craving its fries, 75% say fries have to be crispy, and 72% believe serving soggy fries should be considered a food crime.

College Students Reading at a 10-Year-Old Level

Researchers found that about 14% of college students in the U.S. are reading at the level of a 10-year-old or younger. Math scores weren't much better either.

Experts say there isn't just one reason. Pandemic learning loss, lower admissions standards at some schools, budget cuts, and even relying too much on AI tools are all being blamed.

There was one bright spot, though. One classroom that banned phones and laptops saw students' confidence in their reading skills jump from 46 percent to 95 percent in just a few months.

What Does Your Dream Job Actually Look Like?

If you could build the perfect job, what would it include?

According to a new survey, people aren't dreaming about fancy offices or unlimited snacks.

The number one thing workers want is flexible hours.

Next comes job security, coworkers they actually like, and a short commute.

People also want good health insurance, retirement contributions, bonuses, opportunities to move up...and yes...a paid day off on their birthday.

Subtle Signs You've Been Hacked

Hackers don't always empty your bank account overnight.

Sometimes they leave little warning signs first.

Things like getting a password reset email you didn't request...or a two-factor authentication code that suddenly shows up.

If your phone starts overheating, the battery drains unusually fast, or apps you don't recognize suddenly appear...those are red flags too.

Another thing to watch for is tiny charges on your credit card. Scammers will often test a card with a charge of just a few cents before making bigger purchases.

If something feels off, change your passwords immediately and enable two-factor authentication if you haven't already.

The Little Things That Destroy Confidence

Everyone has insecurities, but sometimes they're made worse by habits we can actually change.

Experts say things like eating poorly, clutter around the house, comparing yourself to everyone on social media, avoiding difficult conversations, and letting negative people stay in your life can slowly chip away at your confidence.

Even small improvements—cleaning one room, eating a little healthier, updating your wardrobe, or setting better boundaries—can make a noticeable difference.

Confidence usually isn't built overnight.

It's built one good habit at a time.

Moving Back Home Isn't Embarrassing Anymore

Remember when moving back in with your parents felt like admitting defeat?

Apparently, that's changing.

With housing prices and rent continuing to climb, more adults are choosing to move home—not because they have to, but because it actually makes financial sense.

One woman left New York, moved in with her mom in Miami after a breakup, and says she may never leave because it's working so well for both of them.

The stigma is fading.

These days, people are calling it financial savvy instead of failure.

What Should You Buy Right Now?

If you're looking for deals, now is actually a pretty good time to shop.

Retailers are already clearing out summer inventory, so experts say you can find discounts on swimsuits, summer clothing, grills, patio furniture, and other outdoor gear.

Major appliances are also seeing some price cuts.

One thing you should probably wait on?

Tech.

Back-to-school sales are just around the corner, and that's when you'll usually find the best prices on laptops, tablets, and other electronics.

So if it's something for the backyard...buy now.

If it's something with a screen...give it a few more weeks.