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Clumsy Icon Jennifer Lawrence Laughed Off An Awkward (But Harmless) Wardrobe Malfunction At A Fancy Fashion Event

Jennifer Lawrence
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It’s nice to know that with everything going on in Hollywood, we can always trust Jennifer Lawrence to be her usual clumsy self. We’ve seen her fall down some stairs, sell her toilet, and have awkward encounters with other celebs, and it’s nice to know that she’s still being her authentic self and messing things up, as evident at a recent Dior holiday party.

Lawrence, who has been working with Dior for over a decade, was speaking at an event at Saks Fifth Ave when the sound of the microphone startled her, which then caused her belt to have a mind of its own. “I’m so sorry that was so loud and my belt popped off,” she explained with her face covered. It seems like this is a common occurrence for both Lawrence and Dior.

The actress was celebrating the official holiday kick-off at Saks Fifth Ave, the best place to go if you want to see nothing but tourists this holiday season. “I’ve had the honor of being a part of the Dior family for quite some time now. Looking around, this feels like the perfect place to celebrate the holidays,” she said, probably referring to the freezing temperature and expensive merchandise. It really is the holiday season now!

Lawrence has been laying low after her raunchy hit No Hard Feelings recently debuted on Netflix, so maybe we can let this one slide. She’s done enough embarrassing things in her life.

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Adam Sandler’s Daughter Wasn’t Cool With Him Kissing Co-Stars, But His Wife Was: ‘Let Daddy Kiss’

Adam Sandler doesn’t make what anyone would call risqué movies, but he’s still had his share of big time romantic co-stars: Drew Barrymore, Jennifer Aniston, Salma Hayek, Oscar-nominee Emily Watson, Oscar-winner Patricia Arquette, Julia Fox, et al. Nothing serious happens — maybe a chaste kiss, maybe. But even those have been too much for one of his kids.

Per The Hollywood Reporter, Sandler, who’s promoting his new animated lizard movie Leo, went on The Jennifer Hudson Show. As it happens the two played lovers in his 2017 Netflix comedy Sandy Wexler, prompting Hudson to remember that her son, then 6, was a little confused why mommy was kissing someone who’s not his dad. As it happens, Sandler has had similar issues with his his daughters, Sadie, now 17, and Sunny, 15.

“When I have to kiss anybody, they’re not thrilled about that,” Sandler said about his daughters,” Sandler explained. “My wife is always telling them, ‘It’s OK. It’s part of the job. Let daddy kiss.’”

But one of his two daughters takes it worse than the other. “Sadie was always fine with it,” he said. “Sunny would always be going over to my wife, saying, ‘You have to watch them. That’s not good. I don’t like that.’”

Sandler, though, says he’s always conscious not to get too hot and heavy on-set. When he act-kisses, he says, he’s “a little tight-mouth,” adding, “I don’t open up too wide.”

Hudson had his back, saying her movie kisses with Sandler were “very movie-appropriate.”

Sandler’s Leo press tour is happening as the holiday season kicks off, so he’s opened up about some of his old festive SNL tunes, including “The Chanukah Song.” In fact, he says, he almost wasn’t the one who first performed that one on-air.

Leo now streams on Netflix. You can watch part of Sandler’s Jennifer Hudson Show stint below.

(Via THR)

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The Best Scotch Whiskies Under $50 For Thanksgiving Dinner, Ranked

Thanksgiving Scotch Under $50
Shutterstock/UPROXX

It’s a great week to find a new Scotch whisky. With all the flavors that come with Thanksgiving week, the meal, the desserts, and the fall vibes outside, Scotch flavor profiles are just about bang on. The thing is, there are just so many Scotch whiskies on the shelf at any semi-decent liquor store these days — making the right pick can feel daunting.

Well… we’ve got your back!

Below, I’m calling out 25 Scotch whiskies that are perfect for this week’s festivities. The Scotch whisky that I’ve listed below covers everything from peated malts to classic blended Scotch whiskies to subtle sherry-finished single malts. There’s something for everyone is what I’m getting at.

The best part is that these whiskies should be fairly easy to find at any good liquor store with a solid Scotch aisle. Not every whisky on this list is going to show up everywhere but you have a pretty good chance of sourcing most of these pretty easily. If not, hit those price links to see if you can get that bottle delivered ASAP. Let’s dive in!

Also Read: The Top 5 UPROXX Scotch Whisky Posts of The Last Six Months

25. Copper Dog Speyside Blended Malt Scotch Whisky

Diageo

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $25

The Whisky:

This is a release from Diageo that utilizes a lot of Speyside whiskies. Eight single malts are chosen for this blend to highlight the small region within the Scottish Highlands specifically.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: This is classic Speyside from nose to finish with apple and honey dominating the whole way through.

Palate: The palate adds a warm oaty malt and spice next to a very slight nuttiness and maybe a touch of orange marmalade. Imagine an oatmeal-walnut scone with a dollop of that jam on top and you’ll be there.

Finish: The end is short, spicy warm, and slightly honeyed.

Bottom Line:

This is a good place to start. This is a standard blended Scotch whisky that delivers. This is the perfect Scotch whisky to make highballs with or even cook with.

24. The Famous Grouse Blended Scotch Whisky

Famous Grouse

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $21

The Whisky:

The Famous Grouse is an old-school blend that got its start in a Scottish grocery store where grocers often blended their own whiskies to sell. The whisky is now a mix of single malts and single grains with a focus on parent company partners Highland Park and The Macallan.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: There’s a Christmas cake nose that’s spicy, fruity, and malty and supported by a note of citrus.

Palate: The palate keeps those nose notes rolling with an additional whisper of oak and a hint of malted cookies dipped in lightly smoked honey.

Finish: The end is short and creamy with a distant wisp of campfire smoke far off in the distance.

Bottom Line:

This is a nice and very even-keeled whisky with a hint of smoke. Think of sipping this over a lot of ice next to a fire in the backyard before or after a big meal.

23. Dewar’s Aged 12 Years Blended Scotch Whisky

Bacardi

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $28

The Whisky:

Dewar’s blends malt and grain whiskies from over 40 distilleries with the famed Aberfeldy at its core. The whisky is blended and then aged for an additional six months in oak to marry all the flavors before proofing and bottling.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: There’s a matrix of vanilla, oak, and caramel up top that leads towards malts and Christmas spices with an emphasis on nutmeg.

Palate: That vanilla gets very creamy and a sweet, almost peanut brittle edge arrives with a little dried fruit.

Finish: The mid-palate holds onto that sweetness as the maltiness and warmth come back for a fairly quick fade toward the finish.

Bottom Line:

There are a lot of classic “on the rocks” Scotch whiskies on this list and this is perhaps one of the more iconic ones. You know what to do.

22. Buchanan’s DeLuxe Blended Scotch Whisky Aged 12 Years

Diageo

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $33

The Whisky:

Buchanan’s is making a big comeback. Part of that is due to this expression snagging a Double Gold from the San Francisco World Spirit Competition in 2020; another part is the quality Diageo whiskies in the blend.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The whiskey opens with a real sense of dark chocolate married to bright orange zest.

Palate: The palate builds on that adding hints of vanilla pudding and dark spices next to a cedar woodiness and a little bit of spicy/ chewy tobacco.

Finish: A whisper of peat arrives late and far in the background as the chocolate orange throughline lasts the longest on the fade.

Bottom Line:

This has very old-school scotch vibes, especially over some rocks. It also works as a simple cocktail base for pretty much any application.

21. Old Parr Blended Scotch Whiskey Aged 12 Years

Diageo

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $33

The Whisky:

This old-school blend is built around Cragganmore and Glendullan single malts. The whiskies mellow for 12 years before they’re vatted and proofed for this bottling.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: There are cinnamon apple cookies on the nose with a touch of honey, nuts, and dry malt.

Palate: The taste is very malty with a touch of cedar, tobacco spice, and more honey/apple/cinnamon.

Finish: The end is warm, malty, and slightly sweet thanks to the honey.

Bottom Line:

This is, again, very old-school. Serve it over some rocks or in a cocktail and you’ll be all set with deep fall-adjacent flavors.

20. Ardbeg Wee Beastie Islay Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Ardbeg
Louis Vuitton Moet Hennessy

ABV: 47.4%

Average Price: $45

The Whisky:

This expression from Ardbeg was first released back in 2020 and instantly became a mainstay of the line (especially for bartenders). The hot juice is aged for only five years in both ex-bourbon and ex-oloroso sherry casks before marrying for the final product. The idea is to give a sense of the quality of the peaty whisky from Port Ellen’s malting house without too much wood influence.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: This is a little abrasive on the nose with alcohol soaking through dried berries and raisins next to a hint of pear candy, woody vanilla, and dried dirt.

Palate: The palate has a hint of smoked plums that leads directly into pear candy with a touch of smoked pork belly buried in BBQ ash.

Finish: The finish is a mix of hot asphalt and soft pear tobacco with a thin layer of salt water calming everything down.

Bottom Line:

This is going to be a polarizing pour of peated Islay malt. The whisky is boldly peated and ashen with a nice bourbon creaminess under it all. This is the whisky for the peat heads at your Thanksgiving shindig.

19. X by Glenmorangie Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Glenmorangie X
Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $29

The Whisky:

This single malt from the famed Highland distillery, Glenmorangie, is built to be the ultimate single malt mixing whisky. They don’t release much else about the blend besides being a mix of their iconic single malts “made for mixers.”

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The nose is full of grapefruit pith next to ripe pears and vanilla pods, all in equal measure, next to a hint of orange oils and maybe a little wildflower.

Palate: The palate builds on that orange towards a bright orange sherbert, a vanilla pudding creaminess, burnt sugars, light and sweet marzipan, and a touch of dark chocolate infused with red chili flakes.

Finish: The finish really leans into the spicy chocolate and gets slightly bitter as the spice mellows towards mulled wine spices and a touch more sweetness.

Bottom Line:

This is the whisky you want to get for cocktails. Use it to batch an old fashioned or stir up some nice Rob Roys as the turkey rests between the oven and carving.

18. Johnnie Walker Double Black Blended Scotch Whisky

Diageo

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $40

The Whisky:

This is Johnnie Walker Black that’s been re-casked in deeply charred oak barrels for a final maturation, making this a classic double-cask whisky. The idea is to maximize that peat and amp up the Islay and Island whiskies’ smokiness.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Clove-forward spice and billows of softwood smoke — think cherry and apple trees — greet you on the nose.

Palate: The palate has a vanilla creaminess that’s punctuated by bright apples, dried fruit, and more peat that leans more towards an old beach campfire than a chimney stack.

Finish: The spice kicks back in late, warming things up as the smoke carries through the end with a nice dose of oakiness, fruitiness, and sweet vanilla creaminess.

Bottom Line:

This is quintessential on-the-rocks scotch that hits you with just the right amount of sweet and fruity smoke.

17. Glencadam Reserva Andalucía Oloroso Sherry Cask Finish Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Glencadam Reserva Andalucía
Angus Dundee

ABV: 46%

Average Price: $43

The Whisky:

This bespoke whisky is made from special Andalucia sherry casks that are blended with malt aged in ex-bourbon casks. The final product is then finished in fresh Olorosso sherry casks before proofing and bottling.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Sharp marmalade over scones with a hint of cream drives the nose toward ginger candy and soft vanilla.

Palate: That orange bitters toward chili pepper spice in the creamy malts with a hint of salted caramel and floral honey.

Finish: The sharp spice gets a little woody at the end with a hint more of vanilla and orange rounding things out.

Bottom Line:

This is a nice bridge between subtle scotch and bourbon with a holiday vibe throughout. Pour it over rocks or into cocktails and you’ll be set all Thanksgiving break.

16. Loch Lomond Original Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Loch Lomond
Loch Lomond

ABV: 46%

Average Price: $38

The Whisky:

This lightly peated single malt from the Highlands is a classic. The juice is a no-age-statement whisky that’s meant as an entry point to the wider brand. The malt is just kissed with peat while malting. The single malt blend is a mix of those barrels with an eye on highlighting the subtler aspects of the whisky. Once vatted, the whisky is proofed and bottled.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The nose opens with a nice dose of honey wafer biscuits wrapped in an old leather sheet with a hint of dried grass, soft raisin, and mildly spicy malts.

Palate: The palate leans into those malts with a hint of malted vanilla next to oatmeal cookies with cinnamon, raisins, and walnuts next to a glass of heavy cream for dipping.

Finish: The end kicks in with a sharp orange/cinnamon before descending toward soft oak and more of that leather and honey wafer.

Bottom Line:

This is a beautifully subtle malt that has whispers of smoke, creating a wonderful accent to the softer fruits and creaminess. That makes this a great candidate for pairing with your Thanksgiving feast.

15. Chivas Regal Mizunara Blended Scotch Whisky

Pernod Ricard

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $43

The Whisky:

Chivas is renowned for its iconic blended whisky. This expression — created for the Japanese market and released in the U.S. in 2019 — adds a unique dimension to the classic blend. A portion of the whisky is finished in Japanese Mizunara casks, adding a layer of nuanced flavors to the standard Chivas.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Caramel and dark dried fruits mingle with tasty pears, soft orange zest, a touch of leather, fresh and floral honey, and maybe some old oak staves on the nose.

Palate: The palate has a dash or two of winter spice next to walnuts and honey-soaked raisins with a hint of sunburnt heather and wildflowers.

Finish: The finish lets the spiciness warm the palate as pear and leather fade through the end.

Bottom Line:

Chivas is the most iconic “on the rocks” scotch there is. You know what to do.

14. Speyburn Arranta Casks Single Malt Scotch Whisky

Speyburn Arranta
Inver House Distillers

ABV: 46%

Average Price: $45

The Whisky:

Arranta translates to “bold” and this whisky leans into that. The hot juice is aged for an undisclosed amount of time in first-fill ex-bourbon casks (that means this whisky was the first thing to go into those casks after they were emptied of bourbon). Those barrels were then vatted, proofed, and bottled without filtration.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: Pear candy and honey lead the way on the nose toward woody spices, light leather, and a hint of sour apple skins and stems.

Palate: The palate is sweet and malty with a drive from pear flesh to pit, skin, and tree with floral honey and wet coconut leading to a hint of creamy vanilla sauce dusted with cinnamon, nutmeg, and allspice.

Finish: The end leans into pears soaked in honey and nutmeg with a hint of old porch wicker and worn leather gloves on the finish.

Bottom Line:

This feels like a fruit-forward dessert in a glass. Pair this with the cheese or pie course after the big meal on Thursday.

13. Johnnie Walker High Rye Blended Scotch Whisky

Johnnie Walker High Rye
Diageo

ABV: 45%

Average Price: $37

The Whisky:

The blend of this new-ish Walker blend is 40% single malts from Diageo’s stable of distilleries — particularly Cardhu, Glenkinchie, and Caol Ila — and 60% Scottish rye whisky aged in American oak. Those whiskies are vatted, proofed down, and bottled with a look toward the American whiskey palate.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The nose feels like the best of both worlds as a twinge of rye spiciness mingles with sweet smoky notes cut with orchard fruit and a hint of vanilla.

Palate: The fruit drives the palate with tart apples spiked with clove and anise as a buttery caramel sweetens the sip.

Finish: The finish moves on from that sweet note towards a dry sense of woody spices and a touch of dried and smoked apple slices.

Bottom Line:

This is the hype beast Scotch whisky to get for you hyped-up whisky fans around the Thanksgiving table. It’s much lighter than any American rye but that’s kind of the point. Use this one for simple cocktails and it’ll shine.

12. Glenfiddich Single Malt Scotch Whisky Aged 12 Years

William Grant & Sons

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $45

The Whisky:

This is an entry whisky to Speyside and single malts in general. The juice is aged in a combination of used American and European oak before it’s married, rested, proofed with Speyside’s iconic water, and bottled.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: This dram is creamy like a vanilla pudding with a bright pear orchard vibe, some mild toffee, and hints of sweetgrass next to mild oak.

Palate: That leads towards a very easy and soft woodiness with a touch of candied pear and more vanilla cream before hints of soft cinnamon spice poke up in the background with those soft malts.

Finish: By the end, it’s clear how light and approachable this whisky is as that pear, vanilla cream, and mild spice slowly fade away, leaving you with a silken mouthfeel and just enough malts and toffee.

Bottom Line:

This is one of the purist classic unpeated malts on the list. It’s so clean yet nuanced. That makes this the perfect “whisky for everyone” pour to have on hand during any Thanksgiving gathering.

Also, this is a good whisky to bake desserts with.

11. Kingsbarns Lowland Single Malt Scotch Whisky Doocot

Kingsbarns Doocot
Kingsbarns

ABV: 46%

Average Price: $44

The Whisky:

This whisky is from a new(ish) Lowland distillery in Scotland. The whisky in the bottle is a single malt that was aged in ex-bourbon and ex-red wine barriques (a slightly bigger barrel by a few gallons). Those barrels were vatted and proofed with Lowland water before bottling.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The light nose opens with a sense of banana bread, pineapple skins, and floral honey with a moment of wet brown sugar and pancake batter.

Palate: That pineapple gets sweet on the palate with a sense of winter spice and dark red berries dipped in vanilla chocolate sauce.

Finish: The fruitiness builds at the end toward more pineapple, mango skins, and kiwi while the spice leans into some soft wood.

Bottom Line:

This is the whisky you grab when you want to have something new and fresh around that also delivers. I’d use this for fruit-forward cocktails and easy-sipping pours over plenty of ice.

10. Compass Box Glasgow Blend Scotch Whisky

Compass Box

ABV: 43%

Average Price: $40

The Whisky:

This expression is a marrying of whiskies from all over Scotland. 65% of the blend comes from single malts from a “distillery near the town of Aberlour,” Laphroaig, and Clynelish. The rest is part Highland malt blend (from the Glen Moray, Tomatin, and Balmenach distilleries) and a grain whisky from Cameronbridge distillery. Those whiskies were barreled in sherry and bourbon casks with a French oak barrel thrown in too.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The nose draws you in with this subtle peaty malt that feels more kissed by a hint of smoke than drowned in it in a malting room with a hint of stewed stone fruit.

Palate: The first sip is “malty scotch!” That then leads to dry straw, very mild plum, the memory of opening up a bag of charcoal, and almond shells.

Finish: You’re left with a slightly sweet straw and a buzzing maltiness that is more reminiscent of a cleaned-out fireplace than “smoke.”

Bottom Line:

This is another great version of peated scotch for folks who don’t want to go full-on with the peatiness. It’s subtle but definitely there. That makes this a good sipper or mixer for the peat curious around the table.

9. Glengoyne Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky 10 Years

Glengoyne
Ian Macleod Distillers Ltd.

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $49

The Whisky:

Glengoyne uses unpeated Highland barley that they airdry themselves before fermentation. The uniqueness of this whisky doesn’t end there. They also season their own American and European oak barrels with sherry for six years before filling them with their juice. After ten years of maturation, those barrels are vatted, proofed, and bottled for this expression.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: This starts off fairly familiar for a sweet Highland malt with notes of apple candies, butter toffee, and a few chocolate-covered almonds.

Palate: The taste leans back into the apple but it’s more tart and juicy now as minor notes of anise and wet cedar bark lead to a little bit of warm cream sitting on top of a shot of espresso and a hint more of those almonds.

Finish: The finish lets the malts sweeten with a hint of orange marmalade on toast rounding things out.

Bottom Line:

This is another great bourbon-adjacent Scotch whisky. The notes are subtle but there and will entice hardcore American whiskey fans to the Scotch side of things this Thanksgiving.

8. The Singleton Single Malt Scotch Whisky 12 Years Old

Diageo

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $45

The Whisky:

This single malt from Diageo is a great gateway to good single malt. The juice is aged for 12 years — mostly in ex-bourbon barrels and a few ex-sherry cask-matured whiskies — before it’s cut with that iconic Speyside water and bottled.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: This is a delicate sip of whisky that leans into notes of dried florals and sweet fruits counterpointed by spicy oak and worn leather.

Palate: The palate lets the spice amp up a bit while the fruit touches on both orange oils and orange blossoms with whispers of bourbon vanilla, dried fruits, and fresh honey.

Finish: The end really holds onto that lightness while fading fairly quickly, leaving you with a cedary leather, more of that sweet fruit, and almost creamy vanilla.

Bottom Line:

Subtly is the name of the game with this unpeated pour. This is creamy and lush, making it an easy pairing whisky or dessert pour. That said, this shines the brightest in a cocktail.

7. Highland Park Single Malt Scotch Whisky 12 Years Old

Erdington Group

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $49

The Whisky:

This is a pretty unique whisky. The distillery is located in Scotland’s far north Orkney Islands. The whisky in the bottle is a classic peaty single malt that spends 12 years maturing in European and American oak, both of which were seasoned with sherry. The whiskies are then married and proofed down to a very accessible 40%.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: There’s a real sense of rich and almost rummy holiday cake full of dark spices, dried fruits, candied citrus, and nuts with a hint of smoke.

Palate: A touch of fragrant honey arrives to smooth out the texture while adding sweetness.

Finish: That smoke pops back in on the finish but it’s more like a chimney smoke from a house a few doors down on a snowy day than a funky peaty smoke from a bog.

Bottom Line:

Ever wondered what a bourbon-forward whisky would taste like with a creamy layer of smoke folded in? This is it. Make your favorite whisky-forward cocktails with this one to get that subtle smoke note into them this Thursday.

6. Naked Malt Blended Malt Scotch Whisky

Naked Malt
Edrington Group

ABV: 43%

Average Price: $29

The Whisky:

The whisky in the bottle is a blend of sherry-cask-finished whiskies from The Macallan, The Glenrothes, and Highland Park. The whisky is then cut down to a very accessible 80-proof and then bottled in a nicely understated bottle.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: There’s a sweet malt buried under a buttery scone dripping with raspberry jam with a touch of light spice lurking in the background.

Palate: The sherry really kicks in on the palate with big notes of dates soaked in black tea next to creamy caramel, vanilla cake, and a touch of dry raisins.

Finish: The end doesn’t overstay its welcome and leaves you with a lovely note of chocolate-covered cherries with a sweet/dry vibe.

Bottom Line:

This is a nice and easy-sipping blended malt that sings over some rocks or in a cocktail.

5. Monkey Shoulder Blended Scotch Whisky

William Grant & Sons

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $32

The Whisky:

This Speyside blend is crafted as a workhorse whisky. The juice is drawn from the William Grant & Sons stable of distilleries. The juice is then rested for up to six months after blending to let it mellow even more before proofing and bottling.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: There’s a nice welcoming note of creamy vanilla that almost becomes cream soda, next to hints of zesty orange marmalade, malts, and dark spices.

Palate: The taste delivers on those notes by amping the spices up to Christmas cake territory with a slight tart berry edge next to that cream soda sweetness.

Finish: The end is short and sweet with a nice lightness that really makes this very drinkable.

Bottom Line:

This is designed for making highballs and cocktails. Use it accordingly with Thanksgiving flavors in those drinks.

4. Compass Box Artist Blend Scotch Whisky

Compass Box

ABV: 43%

Average Price: $35

The Whiskey:

The lion’s share of this blend — 45% — comes from a single-grain whisky aged in ex-bourbon from Cameronbridge Distillery. 22% is a single malt aged in ex-bourbon that comes from Linkwood Distillery. The rest is a mix of French oak and ex-bourbon single malts and blended malts from the Highlands, Clyneilish, Linkwood, and Balmenach. Those whiskies are vatted and then proofed down before bottling.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: This opens with a very clear and concise note of apple candy with a hint of salted caramel ice cream cut with a touch of eggnog spices.

Palate: There’s a nice maltiness that leans into a creamy vanilla, soft holiday spice mix, butter toffee, and a hint of milk chocolate near the end.

Finish: The finish is warming with a whisper of tobacco next to a woody apple, spice candies (maybe ginger), and a final hint of cocoa and caramel.

Bottom Line:

If you’re leaning into rich fruit-forward desserts this Thanksgiving, this is the scotch for you. It works however you want to drink it.

3. Aberfeldy Single Malt Scotch Whisky 12 Years Old

Bacardi

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $39

The Whisky:

This Highland malt is the cornerstone of the much-beloved Dewar’s Blended Scotch. This whisky is a very accessible single malt that spends 12 years resting in various casks before it’s married and proofed down and bottled.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The heart of the nose is in the mingling of pear and honey with a hint of Christmas spice, especially nutmeg.

Palate: The palate expands on that with a lush maltiness, creamy vanilla, mild spice, and more of that honey and orchard fruit.

Finish: The end gets slightly nutty and bitter with a little water as the honey, fruit, and spice linger on the senses.

Bottom Line:

This is a great scotch to get you into full-on holiday mode, making it the perfect pour for anyone going into Christmas decorating over Thanksgiving weekend.

2. Old Pulteney Single Malt Scotch Whisky Aged 12 Years

InterBev

ABV: 40%

Average Price: $39

The Whisky:

Old Pulteney is all about sea vibes. Their entry-point spirit is aged for 12 years in second-fill bourbon casks before it’s batched, proofed, and bottled.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: There’s a clear sense of creamed honey with a touch of sea spray on the nose.

Palate: The taste really holds onto that creamy honey while notes of wildflowers and oaky spice mingle with malts.

Finish: The end is fairly short and leaves you with a sense of that creamed honey and a touch of spicy warmth.

Bottom Line:

This is just good whisky. Drink it however and whenever you like this weekend.

1. Glenmorangie Quinta Ruban Highland Single Malt Scotch Whisky Aged 14 Years

Glenmorangie 14
Louis Vuitton Moët Hennessy

ABV: 46%

Average Price: $46

The Whisky:

Glenmorangie’s 14-year expression spends 10 years resting in used American oak casks. Those barrels are vatted and the whisky is re-barreled into Quinta Ruban port wine casks from Portugal for another four years of mellowing before batching, proofing, and bottling as-is.

Tasting Notes:

Nose: The nose draws you in with a sense of burnt orange layered into dark chocolate and then melted over a singed marshmallow with a hint of malted vanilla cookie tying it all together.

Palate: That dark chocolate drives the palate with a hint of waxiness and woody winter spice next to whole black peppercorns, fresh tangerine, and a whisper of mint chocolate chip ice cream.

Finish: The dark chocolate, woody spice, bright orange, and sharp spearmint all collide on the finish with a sense of soft malted sweetness and faint old oak staves.

Bottom Line:

This is the mountaintop. I’d argue that this is one of the best unpeated single malts that money can buy at this price point. Moreover, it’s the perfect holiday-vibe whisky to have on hand from Thanksgiving to Christmas and all the way through New Year’s Eve.

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Costco’s Entire Food Court Menu, Re-Tested And Ranked For 2023

Costco Food Court Ranked
Shutterstock/Costco/UPROXX

The Costco Food Court is low-key one of the most popular fast food joints in America. They sell well over 150 million hot dogs every year — that’s nearly one hot dog for every two people living in America. Costco sells so much pizza that it’s one of the biggest pizza chains in the country. And here’s a free hack — while you need a membership to actually shop at Costco, you can hit up the food court without a membership card. But even outside the store, the prices stay right.

Costco‘s famed hot dog is $1.50 with a fountain drink. The pizza is $9.95 for a very large pie.

But the Costco food court is more than just dirty water dogs and sloppy pizza pie. There are often a good dozen other options on the menu on any given day (depending on your location). Which begs the question: What’s the best item on the Costco food court menu?

To find out, I re-tested everything at my local Costco. One key point we have to keep in mind for this ranking is that the menu isn’t exactly the same coast-to-coast. There are also seasonal variants of some dishes (like the soft serve ice cream). And there’s a massive difference between U.S. Costco menus and menu items abroad. In Canada, you can get poutine. Japan has sushi. In England, you might see chicken strips and fries. This ranking is solely about the standard menu items that you can get in the U.S.

Then there are the food court menu items we’ve lost over the years. Some of them were beloved while others … not so much. Let’s take a look at what’s no longer on the menus. Cue up the Sarah McLachlan!

  • Double Cheeseburger
  • Costco Fries (Yes, this was a thing for a minute)
  • Turkey Melt Sandwich
  • Acai Frozen Yogurt Bowls
  • Gelato
  • BBQ Beef Brisket Sandwich
  • Cobb Salad
  • Al Pastor Salad
  • Mango Smoothie
  • Spicy Chicken Sandwich
  • Costco Chili Bowl!
  • The Combo Pizza!!
  • And … The Polish Sausage Hot Dog!!!

The loss of the Combo pizza was a big one. The slice (and whole pie) had pepperoni, sausage, black olives, red onion, bell pepper, and mushroom. It was glorious. And the Polish Sausage hot dog had a garlic-onion vibe that was second to none. But alas, they’re gone.

The rest of us must carry on. Below, I’m ranking the current menu at Costco’s food court (this does not include Costco-branded hot food that you can get in the actual store). If your local Costco has a slightly different menu… I won’t have those items on this ranking. Apologies in advance, now let’s dive in!

Check Out These Other Food Articles From UPROXX:

14. 20 oz. Soda

Price: $0.69

The Item:

Costco’s soda fountain is cheap and … that’s about it. The mix of syrup to fizzy water is very light, making for a weak AF fountain pour of soda pop. Moreover, they’re Pepsi products only with a very narrow window of options. Pepsi, Diet Pepsi, Mountain Dew, Starry, and maybe lemonade are usually the only options. There used to be a root beer fountain but those days seem to have passed.

Bottom Line:

The soda fountain is too water-heavy, even at 69 cents (nice) a cup.

Buy or Skip?

Get some water.

13. Roast Beef Sandwich

Price: $9.99

The Item:

This new item is a baffling one. First, it’s not cheap. $10 for a sandwich is a lot, especially for Costco where you can get an entire pizza for the same price. Second, it’s not great. The sandwich is “ciabatta” bread with mayo and mustard, some lettuce, stewed tomatoes, and onion relish with sliced beef.

Bottom Line:

The sliced beef is a little gummy and feels processed (it is). The bread is always dry and cold (a terrible combination). The sauces are fine but don’t do enough to make up for the lackluster beef and cold/dry bread.

Buy or Skip?

Hard pass.

12. Cold Brew Mocha Freeze

Price: $2.99

The Item:

This is Costco’s Cold Brew Freeze with chocolate syrup added. It’s not bad. There’s a decent caffeine kick and the price feels right.

Bottom Line:

Costco’s chocolate syrup is so sickly sweet that it makes this a hard drink to get down with, especially since the Cold Brew Freeze is already sweet AF.

Buy or Skip?

Buy it if you need a blast of cocaine-like energy for the next hour.

11. Cold Brew Freeze

Price: $2.99

The Item:

This is a standard frozen coffee with a decent layer of coffee notes and chocolate-y sweetness. It’s very cold so sip it slowly or fall victim to an ice cream headache with every slurp from the straw.

Bottom Line:

This is fine. It’s not Starbucks but it gets the job done.

Buy or Skip?

If you need a sweet caffeine kick, go for it.

10. Twisted Churro

Price: $1.49

The Item:

These “twisted” churros braid chocolate and cinnamon dough together before frying. The stick is then dusted in a sugar-heavy cinnamon sugar.

Bottom Line:

This is fried dough with sugar all over it (with a hint of cinnamon). It’s fine but this is by no means a good churro.

Buy or Skip?

If you want something sweet that’s not going to give you an ice cream headache, then get this, I guess.

9. Cheese Pizza

Price: $1.99

The Item:

This is Costco’s signature pizza. There’s a lot of cheese and even more red sauce (that’s very sweet) over a pressed crust. The crust is pretty nice but gets very sloppy at the point of the pizza.

Bottom Line:

This is so sloppy that you’ll need like five napkins to clean yourself up after noshing on a slice of this pie.

Buy or Skip?

This is pure comfort food. It’s plasticky and over-sauced with sugary tomato sauce. As with all pizza though, even the mediocre pies are still pizza. I’d buy if there was no other hot food option at the food court counter.

8. Rotisserie Chicken Ceasar Salad

Price: $6.99

The Item:

This is a big box of romaine lettuce, industrial shredded “parmesan” cheese, croutons, and shredded chicken from leftover rotisserie chicken meat from the back of the store. There’s a small cup of Caesar dressing on the side.

Bottom Line:

This is an exhausting salad to eat. There’s just so much of it — you can easily split these between two people. That said, you’ll need at least two more dressing cups to get a good Caesar salad vibe.

Buy or Skip?

I’d say skip unless you’re really in need of a massive salad in a pinch. The chicken isn’t bad and provides a good dose of protein so that’s a win. Just ask for an extra dressing cup.

7. Fruit Smoothie

Price: $2.99

The Item:

This is a classic berry smoothie. It’s icy, sweet, and full of dark berry vibes.

Bottom Line:

This is a standard and sweet berry smoothie. There’s a nice layer of real berry flavor amongst all the sweetness. Again, pace your sips as the cold smoothie will give you an ice cream headache if you dive in too fast.

Buy or Skip?

Buy. It’s fine and scratches and itch for something berry-forward and sweet in a smoothie format.

6. Ice Cream Cup

Price: $1.99

The Item:

This is a standard cup of vanilla soft serve. That’s it.

Bottom Line:

Costco’s soft serve is pretty decent but not great. You do get a creamy (almost buttery) sense of ice cream with a good layer of vanilla. It is on the lighter end of the spectrum flavor-wise while still feeling heavy in the “cream” sense.

Buy or Skip?

This is a nice but very plain treat for a hot day. Buy it if you need that cool down in the heat.

5. Chocolate Ice Cream Sundae

Price: $2.49

The Item:

This is Costco’s vanilla soft serve with a big dollop of their chocolate sauce. The sauce’s sweetness works here since the soft serve isn’t overly sweet to begin with.

Bottom Line:

This is nice enough and provides a classic counterbalance of vanilla ice cream and chocolate sauce from your childhood. Just to be clear though, there are no frills here. It’s just soft serve and chocolate sauce.

Buy or Skip?

Again, if it’s a hot day and you need a sugar rush, go nuts.

4. Strawberry Ice Cream Sundae

Price: $2.49

The Item:

86 the overly sweet chocolate sauce and replace it with a jammy strawberry sauce (with actual chunks of real strawberries).

Bottom Line:

The real strawberry sauce takes this to the next level. This is a good dessert treat whether it’s hot outside or not. Again, the soft serve isn’t the best in the world but it works well with this strawberry sauce since there’s plenty of it.

Buy or Skip?

This is probably the first 100% buy. Give it a try, it’s a nice sweet dessert with zero frills.

3. Pepperoni Pizza

Price: $1.99

The Item:

This is the same sloppy pizza as the cheese pie above. But something happens with the pepperoni. For one, it adds a massive amount of flavor. Second, the pepperoni holds the whole thing together better, making it a much less sloppy eating experience.

Bottom Line:

This is the pizza you want to eat at Costco. It’s also a good take-home version since it’s only $9.95 for a whole massive pie.

Buy or Skip?

Buy if you’re in the mood for a sloppy sweet/spicy and very cheesy pizza experience.

2. Hot Dog and 20 oz. Soda

Price: $1.50

The Item:

This is the gold standard of the Costco food court menu — an all-beef hot dog in a big bun that you can dress yourself, paired with a soda. This is the epitome of KISS — keep it simple, stupid.

Bottom Line:

This is a good hot dog. I’m willing to die on that hill. The beef frank is well seasoned and has a good meatiness. Make sure to get a little cup of freshly diced white onion to add to the relish, deli mustard, and ketchup from the bins by the fountain drinks.

Buy or Skip?

100% buy. This is a big dog and it will fill you up.

1. Chicken Bake

Price: $3.99

The Item:

The Chicken Bake is Costco’s signature dish and sort of a giant hot pocket. The “bake” is filled with tender white chicken meat, a cheesy sauce that’s reminiscent of a Caesar salad dressing, and plenty of onion and garlic with a hint of bacon. The bread is then bespeckled with more cheese that melts into the crust and creates a textural crunch.

Bottom Line:

This is a flavor bomb. If you’re looking for a massive and unique hot pocket with a cheesy, oniony, and warm creamy chicken vibe, this is it.

Buy or Skip?

Buy it. It’ll fill you up better than any other item on the menu. Plus, it’s a specialty item that stands the test of time and remains a cornerstone of the Costco food court menu.

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Kristen Stewart Crashed Robert Pattinson’s 37th Birthday Party, Which Is… Pretty Cool

kristen stewart
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Original Twilight director Catherine Hardwick recently stopped by the Happy Sad Confused podcast, where she opened up about her experience directing the first installment in the young adult film franchise that sparked an entire slate of imitators who just couldn’t match the vampire romance between Robert Pattinson and Kristen Stewart.

Of course, it didn’t hurt that the couple had a real-life romance that whipped up a tabloid frenzy. However, like the films themselves, the relationship came to an end, but the friendship still endured. Hardwick revealed that Pattinson recently celebrated his 37th birthday party, which she crashed after tagging along with Toni Collete. Except Hardwick soon learned she wasn’t the only one who crashed the festivities.

Via Entertainment Weekly:

“I went to Rob’s birthday party recently. I kind of crashed with my friend Toni Collette, who had just done a movie with him,” Hardwicke said. “We had a fun thing, and then Kristen crashed it too. That was just a few months ago, and it was just like, ‘Oh my God!’ We all hugged each other, like, this is so crazy and cool.”

Hardwicke said that they not only surprised Pattinson but also each other. “When Kristen walked into Rob’s birthday, she’s like, ‘Catherine? Rob’s birthday? What’s going on?’ I go, ‘I kind of crashed it with Toni.’ And she goes, ‘Well, I crashed it too.’”

On top of revealing that the KStew and RPattz friendship is still going strong, Hardwick also shared a surprising bit of trivia about casting Pattinson: The studio didn’t think he was hot enough to play Edward Cullen. Of course, it didn’t help that Pattinson showed up in a stained T-shirt, but judging by the fan frenzy over his performance, the studio was obviously wrong.

(Via Entertainment Weekly)

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Transforming Spaces: Expand Furniture’s space-saving wonders are redefining living areas

In today’s world, where urban dwellings are increasingly compact, maximizing limited living space has never been more pressing. Enter Expand Furniture, a trailblazer transforming tight quarters into versatile, stylish living areas.

This company is not just about furniture; it’s about reinventing your home’s potential, regardless of size. In this feature, we’re diving into a trio of their ingenious creations – each designed to unfold new possibilities in your living space.

From multifunctional tables to sofas that do more than just sit there, prepare to be amazed by solutions that are as smart and adaptable as your lifestyle demands. Let’s unfold how Expand Furniture turns the concept of ‘less is more’ into a living reality.

The Junior Giant Table

Imagine a sleek console table, quietly sitting in your cozy studio apartment, that magically transforms into a grand dining table fit for a family feast. This isn’t a scene from a futuristic movie—it’s the Junior Giant Table from Expand Furniture.

At first glance, it’s a compact, stylish console, but with a few simple adjustments, it becomes a spacious table that can comfortably seat up to 12 people. Perfect for those impromptu dinner parties or family gatherings in small spaces.

The genius of the Junior Giant lies in its five extension leaves, each seamlessly connecting with built-in magnets, expanding your dining space without the hassle. Whether you’re hosting a romantic dinner for two or a lively gathering, this table adapts to your needs, proving that your living space’s size doesn’t limit your hospitality.

This table isn’t just about saving space; it’s about expanding possibilities, turning every meal into an event and every home into a haven of functionality and style.

MurphySofa Migliore: 2 Seat Sofa in Fabric

Nestled comfortably in the corner of your urban oasis is the MurphySofa Migliore, a two-seater that’s more than just a cozy spot to unwind. It’s a masterclass in design, blending functionality with a flair for the modern. With its sleek lines and plush fabric, this sofa is a statement piece that doesn’t scream for attention but effortlessly commands it.

But here’s the real magic: the MurphySofa Migliore is a perfect companion to Murphy beds, making it a space-saving superhero. Imagine transforming your living room into a bedroom without the usual furniture shuffle. This sofa gracefully slides or folds away, harmonizing with the Murphy bed to optimize your space without compromising style or comfort.

And comfort? It’s in every stitch and cushion. Whether you’re lounging with a good book or entertaining friends, the Migliore offers a luxurious seating experience. It’s not just a sofa; it’s a haven in your home.

In a world where every square inch counts, the MurphySofa Migliore isn’t just furniture—it’s a lifestyle upgrade.

Compatto – Wall Bed Revolving Bookcase Table

Step into a world where a bookcase spins into a bed, and a table emerges like a scene from a modern-day fairy tale. This isn’t just clever design; it’s the Compatto – Wall Bed Revolving Bookcase Table from Expand Furniture, a triumph of multifunctionality in interior design.

The Compatto is an alchemist in the furniture world, seamlessly transitioning from a chic bookcase to a cozy bed to a functional table. This ingenious piece doesn’t just save space; it redefines it. Your books and cherished keepsakes have a stylish home on their shelves, and when the night falls, a comfortable bed folds down, welcoming a restful sleep. In the morning, it transforms again, offering a table space for your coffee or laptop.

What truly sets the Compatto apart is its ease of transformation. With a simple turn or pull, your living area becomes a bedroom or a study without the clutter or cramp. It’s not just furniture; it’s a space revolution.

In the heart of our urban jungles, the Compatto isn’t just a piece of furniture; it’s a beacon of intelligent living, proving that there’s enormous potential for beauty and functionality in small spaces.

Learn More

Expand Furniture’s innovative designs are more than just furniture; they’re a lifestyle revolution for the space-savvy. The Junior Giant Table, MurphySofa Migliore, and Compatto Wall Bed perfectly blend functionality, style, and smart space management. Imagine your home’s possibilities: spaces that adapt, furniture that transforms, and rooms that invite both comfort and versatility. Ready to redefine your living space? Visit Expand Furniture’s website to explore these wonders and more and take the first step towards a home that’s as dynamic as your life.

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NSYNC’s Joey Fatone advocates for men being candid about cosmetic changes

While many people (especially those of younger generations) have no issue being candid about their cosmetic work, that transparency, generally speaking, seems to come mostly from women.

And that’s not because there’s no demand. Whether for career prospects or a more fruitful dating life or simply to get rid of pesky annoyances, procedures for men are on the rise. Primarily eyelid rejuvenation, neck lifts, rhinoplasty (nose jobs), chin augmentation, liposuction, breast reduction and a general assortment of botox and fillers, according to the North Shore Plastic Surgeon blog.

And yet, you’d be hard pressed to find many men talking about these procedures. Perhaps because whatever stigma surrounding plastic surgery that remains—associating it with superficiality, vanity, low self esteem—also touches on the stigma still surrounding masculinity.


On that point, perhaps some still fear that it isn’t “manly” to give that much energy, time or money towards something like enhancing one’s appearance. Or maybe being open about getting work done equals admitting weakness. There are probably multiple factors involved.

Recently, NSYNC singer Joey Fatone got candid about his own body modifications in an attempt to encourage men to not be ashamed of getting their own enhancements.

“Many guys get work done,” he said in an exclusive interview with People, “They don’t broadcast it because a lot of men are very shy or embarrassed about it, but there’s nothing to be embarrassed about!”

Fatone, who removed fat from his chin and stomach using Airsculpt and got hair plugs, attested that he wasn’t attempting to turn back the clock or dramatically alter his look, but just feel a bit more comfortable.

“I’m not trying to change who I am. I’m just trying to just edit it a little bit!” he said, telling People that he grew tired of wearing a spray to fill in his thinning hairline for television appearances, and that he had some stubborn fat despite diet and exercise.

“I’ve had some people say ‘You can’t get a certain job if you’re not a certain weight.’ But I’ll find a way to get those jobs. There’s plenty of room for everybody in every field,” he continued. “Plus, aging just happens. We all age in some shape or form!” Ultimately, his outlook seems pretty even keeled.

While speaking to Us Weekly, Fatone shared his hope that men will one day be as open about their treatments as women are.

“So many women are very vocal about their procedures and things that they do. Why not men? What is the big deal?” he asked.

While it may be true that women are more vocal about their procedures than men are, stigma for both sexes remains. From consistent tabloids “exposing” celebrity enhancements to articles touting the superiority of aging naturally, cosmetic alterations still seem to be perceived as a moral failing, rather than a personal choice.

And yet, multiple studies show how plastic surgery really can dramatically help a person’s mental health, not just their appearance. New York City plastic surgeon Dr. Adam Kolker notes the evidence reveals that, contrary to popular opinion, “these procedures are proven to have a very, very deep impact on the individual’s life,” resulting in “a dramatic increase in self-perception, self-confidence, and sexual wellbeing.”

plastic surgery, cosmetic procedure, plastic surgery for men, botox, fillers

As more people openly share their experience, perhaps we will get a more well-rounded viewpoint on the subject. After all—multiple truths can exist at once. A person can have a healthy outlook towards themselves and towards growing older, but still would feel better altering how they look. We can have unrealistic beauty standards, and still acknowledging that it’s completely natural for both men and women to go towards things that might make them feel better.

By opening up the discussion for nuance, people are ultimately able to make more thoughtful choices. And sometimes having all the information is the only difference between a right choice and a wrong one.

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Psychologist explains why everyone feels exhausted right now and it makes so much sense

We’re about to wrap up year three of the COVID-19 pandemic, and it’s been a weird ride, to say the least. These years have been hard, frustrating, confusing and tragic, and yet we keep on keeping on.

Except the keeping on part isn’t quite as simple as it sounds. Despite the fact that COVID-19 is still wreaking havoc, we’ve sort of collectively decided to move on, come what may. This year has been an experiment in normalcy, but one without a testable hypothesis or clear design. And it’s taken a toll. So many people are feeling tired, exhausted, worn thin (“like butter scraped over too much bread,” as Bilbo Baggins put it) these days.

But why?


Psychologist and speaker Naomi Holdt beautifully explained what’s behind the overarching exhaustion people are feeling as we close out 2022, and it makes perfect sense.

In a post on Facebook, she wrote:

“A gentle reminder about why you are utterly exhausted…

No one I know began this year on a full tank. Given the vicious onslaught of the previous two years (let’s just call it what it was) most of us dragged ourselves across the finish line of 2021… frazzled, spent, running on aged adrenaline fumes…

We crawled into 2022 still carrying shock, trauma, grief, heaviness, disbelief… The memories of a surreal existence…

And then it began… The fastest hurricane year we could ever have imagined. Whether we have consciously processed it or not, this has been a year of more pressure, more stress, and a race to ‘catch up’ in all departments… Every. Single. One. Work, school, sports, relationships, life…

Though not intentionally aware, perhaps hopeful that the busier we are, the more readily we will forget… the more easily we will undo the emotional tangle… the more permanently we will wipe away the scarring wounds…

We can’t.

And attempts to re-create some semblance of ‘normal’ on steroids while disregarding that for almost two years our sympathetic nervous systems were on full alert, has left our collective mental health in tatters. Our children and teens are not exempt. The natural byproduct of fighting a hurricane is complete and utter exhaustion…

So before you begin questioning the absolutely depleted and wrung-dry state you are in- Pause. Breathe. Remind yourself of who you are and what you have endured. And then remind yourself of what you have overcome.

Despite it all, you’re still going. (Even on the days you stumble and find yourself face down in a pile of dirt).

Understanding brings compassion… Most of the world’s citizens are in need of a little extra TLC at the moment. Most are donning invisible ‘Handle with care’ posters around their necks and ‘Fragile’ tattoos on their bodies…

Instead of racing to the finish line of this year, tread gently.

Go slowly. Amidst the chaos, find small pockets of silence. Find compassion. Allow the healing. And most of all… Be kind. There’s no human being on earth who couldn’t use just a little bit more of the healing salve of kindness.”

Putting it like that, of course we’re exhausted. We’re like a person who thinks they’re feeling better at the end of an illness so they dive fully back into life, only to crash mid-day because their body didn’t actually have as much energy as their brain thought it did. We tried to fling ourselves into life, desperate to feel normal and make up for lost time, without taking the time to fully acknowledge the impact of the past two years or to fully recover and heal from it.

Of course, life can’t just stop, but we do need to allow some time for our bodies, minds and spirits to heal from what they’ve been through. The uncertainty, the precariousness of “normal,” the after-effects of everything that upended life as we knew it are real. The grief and trauma of those who have experienced the worst of the pandemic are real. The overwhelm of our brains and hearts as we try to process it all is real.

So let’s be gentle with one another and ourselves as we roll our harried selves into another new year. We could all use that little extra measure of grace as we strive to figure out what a true and healthy “normal” feels like.

You can follow Naomi Holdt on Facebook.

This article originally appeared on 12.23.22

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An old male bald eagle who adopted a rock as an egg has just been given a real foster baby

On March 8, 2023, a keeper at World Bird Sanctuary in St. Louis County, Missouri, noticed something odd. A male bald eagle named Murphy was guarding what appeared to be a large depression in the ground.

“The spot was sparsely but carefully decorated with leaves and branches, and featured a simple rock right in the center,” the nature preserve shared on its Facebook page.

Murphy began sitting on the rock, nudging it and becoming fiercely protective of it, as it if were an egg. People visiting the sanctuary would inquire about the bald eagle just sitting there, wondering if he was okay. The keepers finally put up a sign that read:


“If you see an eagle lying down in the back left corner under a perch, that’s Murphy! Murphy is not hurt, sick, or otherwise in distress. He has built a nest on the ground, and is very carefully incubating a rock! We wish him the best of luck!”

In case you’re wondering if this is unusual behavior for a 31-year-old male bald eagle, the answer is “not really, but….” Male bald eagles do share equally in nesting and baby-raising, so the paternal instinct part is normal. Murphy’s channeling of that instinct onto a rock…maybe not so much. And at 31, he’s more like a great-granddad than dad, as bald eagles usually live 20 to 30 years in the wild (though they do live longer in captivity).

Murphy takes fatherhood seriously, though. Soon he began screaming and charging at the four other eagles in the aviary if they came anywhere near RockBaby. (That’s the official name the keepers gave Murphy’s…well, rock baby.) Naturally, the screaming and charging caused a fair amount of stress for all involved, so Murphy and RockBaby were moved to their own enclosure for everyone’s protection.

People who saw this unfold started suggesting sanctuary staff replace Murphy’s rock with a real egg or get him a mate, but 1) Eagle eggs aren’t just lying around waiting to be given to wanna-be dads, 2) hatching a different kind of bird’s egg would be potentially dangerous for it, and 3) Murphy had two females right there in the aviary, and none of them were interested in each other. Alas, the heart cannot be forced.

However, a different opportunity presented itself in late March when an aerie with two chicks in it was blown down by high winds. One chick didn’t survive the fall, but the other was brought to World Bird Sanctuary’s Wildlife Hospital.

A bit bruised, but otherwise healthy, the chick was given a good prognosis. Staff began feeding it while wearing a camouflage suit and holding an eagle stuffy to prevent the eaglet from imprinting on humans. What the baby really needed was a foster parent—an adult eagle who would feed and care for it.

“Murphy’s dad instincts were already in high gear,” the sanctuary wrote on April 11, “but at 31 years old, he had never raised a chick before. It’s definitely a gamble, but also the chick’s best chance.”

Introducing an eaglet to an adult eagle isn’t as simple as dropping it in the enclosure. First, the eaglet is put into what the sanctuary refers to as a “baby jail,” which is a heated, comfy cage made of wood and wire that protects the eaglet but still allows some interaction between the birds so they can get used to one another. Once the desired bonding behavior is observed, then they try out some direct one-on-one interaction without the cage.

On April 12, World Bird Sanctuary announced, “IT’S HAPPENING!!!!”

The eaglet (referred to as Bald Eaglet 23-126—they don’t name foster babies at the sanctuary for superstitious reasons) was released from baby jail, and after an hour or so Murphy approached it with curiosity. Was he wondering if his RockBaby had hatched? Maybe. Would he be the nurturing dad everyone hoped he would be? It appears so.

As the sanctuary shared:

“This morning, Murphy got his chance to be a full parent as 23-126 left the nest to go be closer to Murphy. The food is being dropped through a blind drop tube into the nest and baby appears unable to be able to get over the lip to get back into the nest to get the chopped food. When we checked back, we found that baby was still out of the nest and all the chopped food was still in the nest. However, Murphy’s whole fish had been removed from the nest and baby had a full crop. 23-126 is not yet old enough to tear food which means MURPHY FED THE BABY!!!!”

The comments on the update, of course, are pure gold as people have become fully invested in this story:

“I can’t believe I’m crying over eagles!”

“Murphy’s going to be giving a TedTalk: Manifest The Eaglet You Need In Your Life.”

“So happy for Murphy & eaglet Dwayne (the rock Johnson).”

“‘Rock, I am your Father.'”

“Omg I’m crying! Murphy never gave up on his rock and now has a baby of his very own ❤️ The wonders of nature never cease. Ty, WBS, for making this possible. These two are saving each other ❤️🦅❤️🦅🪨🐣.”

Many people have lamented that there is not a live cam so we can all watch this pair as their relationship develops, but staff reminded everyone that the sanctuary is out in the middle of the woods and they don’t have a strong enough signal for a live stream.

But WBS staff has been posting updates on social media and will share the story as it continues to unfold. Follow World Bird Sanctuary on Facebook here. And if you feel compelled to donate to help feed little Dwayne or 23-126 or whatever you’d like to call Murphy’s new baby—who apparently eats a ridiculous amount—you can donate here or check out their Amazon baby registry (yes, seriously!) here.

Congratulations, Papa Murphy!

This article originally appeared on 4.14.23

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11-year-olds mowed 50 lawns for free so ‘The Lawnmower Man’ gave them new gear to start a business

Rodney Smith Jr., of Huntsville, Alabama, was recently profiled by KMBC for his generous donation to two 11-year-olds who fulfilled his 50 Yard Challenge in Gadsden, Alabama. Ja’Torrian Taylor and Tevin Rice, founders of TJ & JT Mowing Service, completed Smith’s challenge to mow 50 yards for the elderly, veterans, and people unable to care for their lawns for free.

“I’m heading down to Gadsden right now. These are good, hard-working kids that deserve some gratitude,” Smith, known as “The Lawnmower Man,” told KMBC. Smith had been told that Taylor and Rice were sharing an old lawnmower that a neighbor had donated to them.

When he arrived, he gave both teens a mower, a blower and a trimmer for their hard work, hoping they’ll use their new equipment to expand their business. “Giving these boys lawn equipment is teaching them discipline,” Smith said. “If they tell someone they are going to mow a lawn, they need to mow the lawn.”

“Remember, this is not the end; it’s just the beginning,” Smith added. “This could be the beginning of a successful lawn service.”

Smith’s commitment to taking care of people’s lawns started in 2015, and the following year he went viral for helping a 93-year-old woman who could no longer mow hers. The photo of Smith and the woman received over 1 million likes.

Five years ago, Upworthy profiled Smith for setting a bold goal of mowing lawns for free in all 50 states. His goal was to promote his initiative that “provides free lawn care to our elders, those who are disabled, single mothers, and our veterans, who do not have the time, resources, and/or money to manicure their yards.”

As part of this goal, he created the 50 Yard Challenge, which has been a smashing success.

As of May 2023, 4,588 pre-teens and teens are participating in this challenge across the United States. If everyone completes the challenge, that will bring the total number of lawns mowed for free by Smith’s Raising Men & Women Lawn Care Service to 229,400.

Kids and teens can take part in the challenge by sending them a photo holding up a sign that says, “I accept the 50 Yard Challenge,” and in return, they’ll receive a white Raising Men/Women shirt along with shades and ear protection to get started. For every 10 lawns cut, they will get a new color shirt.

• 10 lawns earn an orange shirt

• 20 lawns earn a green shirt

• 30 lawns earn a blue shirt

• 40 lawns earn a red shirt

• 50 lawns earn a black shirt

After completing the challenge, the child or teen will receive a mower, a blower, and a trimmer, just like Ja’Torrian Taylor and Tevin Rice from Alabama.

Smith’s story is an incredible example of how one good deed from a kind-hearted person can lead to an outpouring of kindness across the country. It also teaches young people the values of giving back and self-discipline as well as the entrepreneurial spirit.

Learn more about Smith’s nonprofit and donate at Weareraisingmen.com.

This article originally appeared on 6.23.23