Tag: People and Life

  • Usher Speaks For the First Time on Performing at the Apple Music Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show, Getting The Call From Jay-Z, New Album, and More

    Usher Speaks For the First Time on Performing at the Apple Music Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show, Getting The Call From Jay-Z, New Album, and More

    Usher on Why He’s Excited To Perform at the Apple Music Super Bowl LVIII Halftime Show…

    It’s happening. It has happened, ladies and gentlemen!! It’s been a lot like to keep secrets from my own kids at home. Yeah. A very, very close knit group of people knew and were really excited about the entire thing. Obviously a legacy. But more than anything the fact that this is the most grand stage to ever play on, man. Those 13 minutes mean everything. Been on my bucket list for a long time. I’ve been asked many a times “what are the benchmarks or what are the things that matter the most I guess to you?” It’s obviously performing, but being able to perform on stage because so many amazing performers throughout the years have have graced it and did an amazing job. So of course the obsession of that starts. But man, just the excitement in this moment like to really be able to savor this moment. You you remember the first time you ever heard your record play on the radio. You remember the first time you ever heard your voice, you know, on a on a format or radio, Right? This is like that for me. Yes, it’s one of those….I’m very, very happy…

    Usher on Getting The Call From Jay-Z…

    Zane: One of the big questions that everybody would want me to ask is what’s it like getting that call from Jay-Z?

    Usher: Oh, man, I didn’t… Well, I mean, you know, me and the big home, we talk often. But when I got this call… he said, “it’s time, it’s magic time. You know, it’s time for you to have that moment.” I’m like, what are you talking about? He’s like “the Super Bowl.” I’m like, Oh, you ready? Absolutely. But no question. Yeah. And it was like this was destined to happen. I think that everything that led up to that moment, going to Las Vegas for my Vegas residency for the last two years. The legacy, obviously, that is the music, the celebration of entertainment in that place is the City of Lights. You know, it’s always been a place where, you know, entertainers go and find love and passion, connection to their fans. So for the Super Bowl to have made its way to Las Vegas while we were in Vegas, having such an amazing two years…

    Usher on the Unmatched Legacy of the Super Bowl Halftime Show…

    I mean, you think about all the people who have played it and just the idea of how Jay-Z and Roc Nation have really brought a mindfulness to our culture. You know, 30 years of a career deserves this kind of moment. But to have curators like them, like Jay-Z, like Des and like Roc Nation to come in and and manage to make certain that the entire world understands our culture, understands where we come from, understands the feeling and celebrates entertainment in the way that that they do. I mean, it’s just it just feels like it was, you know, I guess if you try to create a playbook in your mind, like 30 years after you start, you potentially play the Super Bowl. Some people wait an entire lifetime, you know what I’m saying? But I don’t feel like this is my lifetime. I feel like I’m only kind of starting to really, really get comfortable.

    READ ALSO: Joby Aviation delivers first electric air taxi to U.S. Air Force

    Usher on Growing Up Watching the Super Bowl Halftime Show, Joining That Legacy, and Why It Will Be a Moment To Remember…

    Zane: You talked about, you know, the Super Bowl and and this new era that the Super Bowl is in of authenticity, of representation of excitement, of music, of energy. And I think about your first experience watching the Super Bowl Halftime show and what it was like as a kid and whether that was the beginning of a manifestation for you?

    Usher: Yeah, I think being able to see performances from artists like Michael, you know, eventually Prince and then even, you know, more modern day artist and, and to be perfectly honest, to see artists that, you know, even started before, you know, started after I did get it, I was like, man, at some point I need to get a call with what’s going on now. But I’m really happy that I’m joining that short list of legacy artists from my genre who deserve this moment. And I’m really happy that Jay-Z and also to Roc Nation, you know, really put thought into making certain that they could bring to the world this kind of experience. It is definitely going to be a moment to remember.

    Usher on His Connection To Super Bowl Host City Las Vegas and How His Vegas Residency Has Re-Energized Him and Allowed Him To Reconnect With His Fans…

    Zane: I wanted to ask you, you know, what you have learned from from doing these residencies in particular, your latest one, My Way out of Las Vegas residency and what is what’s how you’ve grown even as a performer after so many years of performing at the highest level. But from a Vegas point of view.

    Usher: Reconnecting more than anything with my my core fans. You know, there’s a whirlwind, you know, of life experiences that lead you to the songs. And that song or those songs are the soundtrack for a lot of people’s lives. So when I look out in that audience and I see my fans who made a decision to have this be their destination with their loved ones, or either their friends and have an amazing time, it just really minded me, but also to re-energized my passion for what I do. I’ve always loved the live aspect of it more than anything. I enjoy making, you know, incredible records that touch places that I probably never go, but to literally be on the stage and perform every Wednesday, Friday and Saturday during the time that I’m there for an audience that I know came to see me, it really, really feels connected. It felt like, you know, if Vegas had ever become a place where artists came to just preserve their their past legacy, I don’t look at it as that. I’ve always looked at it as an opportunity to open new doors and new opportunities and look what happened that actually became so the idea of manifestation. I went to Las Vegas to just remind myself and remind my fans that I’m here for that I am connected, that I am still, you know, running and gunning. And I’m and I got out and I got a lot more where that came from.

    Usher Previews His Just-Announced New Album ‘Coming Home’…

    Zane: More big news today We’re Not Done is an album that’s just been announced and is up for preorder right now on Apple Music.

    Usher: Yay! Yay, yay. And it’s called Coming Home. It is a powerful statement.

    Zane: I feel like your albums have always said something. You know, your last project was Zeethoven just called. I said a lot about where your head was at and your heart was there. And it was a love letter for you to where you’re from. What does coming home mean to you?

    Usher: So a love letter once again to the legacy of my of my career. You know, I’ve been coming home in a lot of different ways. The choice of music and reconnection to some of the people that I’ve worked with from my past. And I always wanted to work with writers that I’ve actually made hit number one records with. In a sense, I’m coming home because I’m in that comfortable space. When you’re at home, you’re comfortable. When you’re at home, you feel connected, elevate, rise and inspire. To me, L.A. working together once again. The the inspiration that I’m drawn from does come, you know, with a bit of complication, which is in the music that I’m going to speak of. There’s a lot of honesty. Yes. I mean, come on, man. I don’t know. I’m not lying to you. Of course. And while leave it to the people who have to listen. And if any indication of what we’ve done in the past, me in LA is a representation of what you should expect, then there you have it. But what you do know is that we’re coming together. I’m coming home. I’m back home with my team. You know, even when you see the artwork, you will understand it. When you see the peach. You get it. You understand where I’m from and what we’re doing. And also to what this means, the subtlety of that. But more than anything, it’s a celebration of music. Coming home in many other ways as you get more acclimated. When I put out more records and also to put more visuals, actually begin to really understand it. But I think that it is something to be celebrated.

    Usher on Whether Fans Can Expect Special Guests During His Super Bowl Halftime Performance…

    Zane: Everyone’s going to ask the question, so I’m going to be the first one to get it all out on the table. Is it too soon to talk about possible guests on stage? People love the idea of it. Last year, Rihanna didn’t bring any guests in. The show didn’t need it. Sometimes people bring it because they want to embellish and celebrate and collaborate and share a moment. Have you thought about it?

    Usher: Well, one thing I can say is I’ve, you know, collaborated with a lot of incredible artists throughout the years. If anything, I like the socially engaged the world, you know what I’m saying? I like to hear who you think, you know, would would be a great guest, great guest to complement this.

    Zane: You’re not asking me that.

    Usher: You’re absolutely. I will put you on the spot. You going to put me on? I can’t put you on. So we leave that one on the takeover. So, by the way, by the way, there’ll be many more Sundays to talk about this leading up to the Grand Sunday of all. Yeah. And I’m so happy that we were able to, you know, launch it today.

    Usher on the Secrets To His Youth and Longevity…

    Zane: What is the secret to you for longevity? What is that? What is that secret? On the secret to it?

    Usher: I don’t know. I don’t know. I think I’ve just been happy in my worst moments. And I think that I’ve been grateful, you know, to. To be fortunate enough to just stay passionate. You know, I think that’s it. I think if you stay motivated and you stay focused on the work and not the stress when there are stressful moments, don’t completely give all the way into it. Of course, you should be mindful. Of course you should be. You know, you should learn. But I guess it’s staying creative. Something about this journey has been about never arriving. Mm hmm. It’s just really been about the journey. You know, the journey is the destination, so.

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  • 5 Fascinating Facts About Emeka Nwafor: The Okamgba Ndigbo 2023 Champion

    5 Fascinating Facts About Emeka Nwafor: The Okamgba Ndigbo 2023 Champion

    Emeka Nwafor emerged as the champion of Okamgba Ndigbo 2023, a prestigious traditional wrestling contest that celebrated both culture and athleticism. His journey to victory is filled with compelling stories and remarkable achievements. Here are five fascinating facts about Emeka Nwafor, the Okamgba Ndigbo 2023 champion:

    1. A Wrestling Prodigy from Anambra State

    Emeka Nwafor hails from Anambra State, Nigeria, a region known for its rich cultural heritage. It’s no surprise that he excelled in a sport deeply rooted in Igbo culture. Emeka’s journey into traditional wrestling began at a young age, making him a prodigy in the sport.

    2. Dedication and Hard Work

    Winning the Okamgba Ndigbo title wasn’t a stroke of luck for Emeka. He dedicated himself to the sport from the age of 13, and his journey was marked by relentless training, both physically and mentally. Emeka’s discipline and unwavering commitment were key factors in his success.

    3. First Attempt, Glorious Victory

    Akamgba 2023 was Emeka’s first attempt at traditional wrestling on such a grand stage. Despite being a newcomer to the Okamgba contest, he managed to outshine experienced competitors from different states. His remarkable debut speaks volumes about his natural talent and determination.

    4. A Businessman and an Athlete

    Emeka Nwafor isn’t just a wrestling champion; he’s also a businessman in Anambra State. Balancing the demands of entrepreneurship and rigorous wrestling training is a testament to his exceptional work ethic and time management skills. His dedication to both his business and his sport is truly admirable.

    READ ALSO: Igweship tussle: My life under threat, Anambra monarch tells Police, DSS

    5. Motivated to Inspire Others

    Emeka Nwafor sees his victory as an opportunity to inspire other aspiring traditional wrestlers. He believes in the potential of the sport to provide employment opportunities and recognition to talented athletes. Emeka is determined to motivate other wrestlers and push the boundaries of traditional sports in Nigeria.

    Afia TV’s Support: A Key to Emeka’s Journey

    Emeka Nwafor’s journey to becoming the Okamgba Ndigbo 2023 champion was made possible with the support of Afia Television (Afia TV). The channel’s sponsorship played a pivotal role in documenting his achievements and showcasing the vibrant culture of traditional wrestling to a global audience, enabling him to achieve recognition and success on a grand scale.

    Emeka Nwafor’s journey from a young wrestling enthusiast to the Okamgba Ndigbo 2023 champion is an inspiring story of dedication, hard work, and cultural pride. His victory not only represents personal success but also symbolises the growth and recognition of traditional sports in Nigeria, with Afia TV’s support playing a crucial role in this journey. Emeka Nwafor is a shining example of how passion, commitment, and talent can lead to extraordinary achievements.

  • Youths’ Involvement In Politics (By Kolade Afeez Oladigbolu)

    Youths’ Involvement In Politics (By Kolade Afeez Oladigbolu)

    By Kolade Afeez Oladigbolu

    It is very unfortunate, that the youths of today have been given such a bad name when it is only a minority of people who are creating social disruption. Most youthful people are motivated and long to do well in everything they do. Which means they could be a very important aspect of all political activities.

    Nigerian youths have different perspectives and a host of different ideas. Allowing them to express their opinions is not only good for society, but paramount for a society that intends to grow bigger with every ramification.

    The importance of youth participation in formal political processes is not something to overlook at all if truly today’s youths are future leaders.

    For a political system to be representative, all parts of society must be included. When young people are disenfranchised or disengaged from political processes, a significant portion of the population has little or no voice or influence in decisions that affect group members’ lives. A key consequence is undermining the capacity of youths’ involvement in a political system and representation.

    To make a difference in the longer term, it is essential that young people are engaged in formal political processes and have a say in formulating today’s and tomorrow’s politics. Inclusive political participation is not only a fundamental political and democratic right but also is crucial to building stable and peaceful societies and developing policies that respond to the specific needs of younger generations. For young people to be adequately represented in political institutions, processes, decision-making, and in particular, elections, they must know their rights and be given the necessary knowledge and capacity to participate in a meaningful way at all levels.

    When there are obstacles to participating in formal, institutionalized political processes, young people can rapidly feel disempowered. Many tend to believe that their voices are not going to be heard or that they will not be taken seriously even if they are heard. The problem becomes circular as politicians may lose interest in responding to the aspirations of young people if they cannot win their votes. This in turn leads to young people being increasingly excluded from taking part in decision-making, or in debates about key socio-economic and political issues, despite their sensitivity to the demands for social equity and justice, environmental protection and cultural diversity.

    In new and emerging democracies, the inclusion of young people in formal political processes is mandatory.

    Young people’s active contributions can bring democratic values to life, leading to the overturning of authoritarian practices. In countries where young people have led protests that have forced authoritarian regimes out of power, they are likely to feel significant frustration if they are not included in new formal decision-making procedures. This can destabilize democratization and accelerate conflict dynamics.

    Government and other electoral stakeholders have a role to play in promoting young people’s participation in formal decision-making processes. For this role to be effective, it is necessary to understand the interconnected nature of the obstacles to participation.

  • ‘He’s a s***bag coward’ – Tyson Fury claims Anthony Joshua is ducking and suggests fighting two opponents in one night, including Mahmoud Charr

    By Cameron Temple

    Hours after Tyson Fury said he would allow more time for his fight with Anthony Joshua to get made, he has performed yet another U-turn.

    Everything in the Fury vs Joshua negotiations seemed to be going swimmingly earlier this month, with both men agreeing terms and contracts being sent over.

    Fury’s promoter, Frank Warren, then managed to convince ‘The Gypsy King’ to give Joshua a little more time to finalise the deal and he agreed.

    Taking to social media, Fury explained everything had been sorted in terms of date, venue and broadcasters and it was now just down to Joshua to sign the contract.

    Fury finished his message by saying, “Get this contract signed today, you big p****. Let the British fans have what they want. There’s no more umming. You have to fight me, you cannot escape. The Fury is coming… b****!”

    This came as extremely good news for everyone but Charr, who posted an Instagram story calling out Fury for going back on his word.

    “Fury, you are the same s*** as Anthony Joshua,” Charr said.

    “A man is a man, when you say Joshua is out he is out. You tell everyone you want to fight me, now you are like duck, take the fight.”

    A matter of hours later, Fury changed his mind once again, saying he would in fact be fighting Charr and that Joshua was ‘ducking’ him.

    “Manuel Charr,” Fury began. “So it seems now that AJ’s finally out, he’s ducked his way out, he’s a s***bag coward, and you’re the man who wants to fight, so I like that.

    Since then, however, it has descended into chaos as the contracts got held up with Joshua’s lawyers and Fury became impatient, calling off the fight after AJ missed his self-proclaimed deadline of Monday at 5pm.

    As a replacement opponent, Fury named the 37-year-old former WBA ‘regular’ champion, Mahmoud Charr, which was not received well by boxing fans and pundits.

    “I like the fact that you’re very vocal and that you’re calling for a fight like a real man should do.

    “Any man who wants to fight another man should call him out as you’ve been doing to me, so I accept your challenge Manuel Charr, let’s get it on motherf*****.”

    Fury then followed up with another Instagram story, suggesting that he might have two fights in one night on December 3.

    “Just been doing a little bit of brainstorming,” Fury said. “December 3 is coming and Mahmoud Charr has agreed. Why don’t I fight two people in one night, Mahmoud Charr and somebody else.

    “That would be pretty damn awesome. I’d probably be the first WBC heavyweight champion to have two fights in one night and that is a guaranteed fact, what do you think?”

    Charr responded on his own Instagram story and he seemed pleased with the news, describing Fury as a “real man” and he said, “UK, make sure, the diamond boy is coming, King Charr!”

    With that being said, Charr did not appreciate Fury saying he wanted to fight two guys in one night, as he replied, “Listen to me, you want to fight two guys in one night, my friend, I need from you five in one night.

    “When I come I will make sure I put your long legs like a lumberjack and you go down on the floor.”

  • Sum 41’s Deryck Whibley sells publishing and recorded music catalogue to HarbourView

    By Anna Rose

    Sum 41 frontman Deryck Whibley has sold his publishing and recorded music catalogue in a new deal with equity fund, HarbourView Equity Partners.

    Whibley has served as the Canadian pop-punk outfit’s lead singer and primary songwriter since their inception in 1996. Their 2001 breakout album ‘All Killer No Filler’ boasted the hit single ‘Fat Lip’, which landed at Number 66 on the Billboard Hot 100. To date, Sum 41 have released seven studio albums, the latest being 2019’s ‘Order In Decline’.

    Terms of the deal between HarbourView and Whibley have not been disclosed, however the transaction saw the equity fund represented by Fox Rothschild, with Whibley’s legal counsel coming from Jordan Keller and Sarah Smith of Keller Turner Andrews & Ghanem, PLLC.

    Over the course of their 26-year tenure, Sum 41 – who’ve just wrapped up a US tour with Simple Plan and head out together again to the UK and Europe this September – have seen their catalogue garner more than 15 million album consumption units, 5.05 million of which occurred in the U.S alone (per Billboard).

    HarbourView – founded in 2021 by CEO Cherrese Clarke Soares – have also acquired the catalogues of Hollywood Undead, Brad Paisley, Lady A and Luis Fonsi among others.

    Whibley is the latest in a long line of artists who have sold their publishing and recorded music catalogues in recent years.

    Among veteran musicians, Tina Turner sold her back catalogue for $300million (£225m), Sony Music acquired Bob Dylan‘s entire body of work, while ‘Sweet Caroline’ singer Neil Diamond entered into a deal with Universal Music Publishing. Additionally, Paul Simon sold for an undisclosed sum while Mötley Crüe sold their catalogue to BMG for a reported $150million (£112m).

    Bruce Springsteen, ZZ Top and Sting also reported selling their publishing rights for $500million (£377m), an undisclosed fee and over $250 million (£184m) respectively.

    Pink Floyd entered into talks with with several potential buyers earlier this year.

    The estates of the late David Bowie and Leonard Cohen saw their catalogues sold for $250million (£186m) and an undisclosed sum respectively.

    Similarly, Simple Minds sold “key music interests”, Primal Scream members sold 50 per cent of their song rights, Justin Timberlake sold his song catalogue, while John Legend made a deal back in January.

    Earlier this year, Dolly Parton said “never say never” to selling her back catalogue. Madonna, however, who has released 14 studio albums, said earlier this month she would never consider such a deal. “Ownership is everything, isn’t it?” the superstar said at the time.

  • Guns N’ Roses’ Axl Rose shares health update after postponing show

    Guns N’ Roses frontman Axl Rose has shared an update after the band were forced to cancel their recent show in Glasgow due to illness.

    The group pulled out of their scheduled performance at Glasgow Green on Tuesday (July 5) following headline dates in London and Dublin as part of their 2022 UK/Ireland and European tour.

    “We are working on rescheduling options for this show so please hold onto your tickets and wait for a further update,” they wrote in a statement. “We appreciate your understanding and patience.”

    Today (July 7), Rose shared a message on social media to thank fans for their messages of support. “It’s greatly appreciated!” he wrote.

    The singer also confirmed that Guns N’ Roses’ next concert in Munich will go ahead as planned tomorrow night (July 8).

    “We apologize 4 the inconvenience of postponing Glasgow,” Rose said. “I’ve been following Dr’s orders, getting rest w/a vocal coach n’ sorting our r sound issues. Seems good so far. Thanks again 4 everyone’s concern!”

    He continued: “At the end of the day it’s about giving u the fans the best of r selves n’ the best time we can give u n’ that’s all I, the band n’ crew r focused on. See u in Munich!!” See the tweet below.

    According to Setlist.FM, Rose had revealed during the band’s gig at Tottenham Hotspur Stadium in London last Saturday (July 2) that he’d been suffering from vocal issues.

    Guns N’ Roses now have only two shows remaining on their 2022 European tour: Munich tomorrow and Milan on Sunday (July 10). A run of Australian and New Zealand gigs is due to begin in November.

    Last Friday (July 1), many fans took to Twitter to express their anger at the severe delays at the first of two consecutive Guns N’ Roses dates at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium.

     

  • 5 Times Our Hearts Broke In Episodes 7-8 Of “Yumi’s Cells 2”

    In episodes 5 and 6, Babi and Yumi’s relationship was taken to the next level, and they were more in love than ever. It almost seemed too good to be true that everything was so blissfully perfect, but it appears as though episodes 7 and 8 have set the tone for some drastic changes in their relationship, which left things a bit confusing and upsetting. Here are five times our hearts broke in the newest episodes of “Yumi’s Cells 2.”

    Warning: spoilers for episodes 7-8 ahead!

    1. Babi moves away for work

    In the beginning of episode 7, Yumi continues to work hard at trying to become a published author. She has yet again failed to win the competition that she entered for her writing. Although she is upbeat and positive even after failing a couple times, Yumi finds herself feeling down after having failed quite a bit more. If it wasn’t bad enough that she was struggling to make her place in the world as an author, we also find out that Babi has been promoted at work and has relocated to Jeju Island.

    yumis cells 2 | 5 Times Our Hearts Broke In Episodes 7-8 Of “Yumi’s Cells 2” | The Paradise News

    yumis cells 2 1 | 5 Times Our Hearts Broke In Episodes 7-8 Of “Yumi’s Cells 2” | The Paradise News

    As things seemed to have been going really well for Yumi, it was only a matter of time before reality hit. The hard work she is putting into writing and all the sacrifices she has made to become an author are not really paying off, and her self-esteem is drastically dropping. The person that she would be leaning on most for comfort and support is not by her side, which makes it even more painful to see. Yumi is going through a serious slump, and although Babi is trying to be the best boyfriend, there is only so much he can do from a distance. Seeing Yumi going through a long-distance relationship does not seem like the most ideal situation, and it is rather saddening to see her struggle through this by herself.

    2. Yumi almost getting her job back

    Yumi is really starting to regret her decision about quitting her job and trying to become a writer, especially given the fact that she is struggling to make ends meet. She stresses about money and is wondering how she is going to support herself in the upcoming months. Just as she’s about to consider giving up her dreams of becoming a writer, she gets a call from her old boss. He asks to meet with her and surprisingly asks if she wants to have her job back, and Yumi starts to think this is a great idea.

    yumis cells 22 | 5 Times Our Hearts Broke In Episodes 7-8 Of “Yumi’s Cells 2” | The Paradise News yumis cells 222 | 5 Times Our Hearts Broke In Episodes 7-8 Of “Yumi’s Cells 2” | The Paradise News

    But just as Yumi really considers taking up the offer, she gets a call again from her boss, saying to forget coming back to work. He tells her that they have actually hired someone already but he wasn’t told the news yet. Yumi is crushed about this considering she did not have many options in terms of making income.

    It’s a heartbreaking moment and one that many could feel through the screen. Getting her job back seemed like it could be an easy way out, but it was sad to see the door to that opportunity just slammed in her face. It seemed as though her luck was really running out and that her dreams were slowly diminishing. At this point, Yumi really can’t catch a break, and the episode is rather disheartening.

    3. Yoo Da Eun

    shin ye eun | 5 Times Our Hearts Broke In Episodes 7-8 Of “Yumi’s Cells 2” | The Paradise News

    And if matters couldn’t get any worse, in this episode, Yumi finds out that the new intern at Babi’s work, who he had been talking about for the past few months, is actually a girl. There are some quick flashbacks in the episode of Babi talking about a particular new intern, but Yumi does not know who Da Eun (Shin Ye Eun) is, let alone the fact that she is a girl. This obviously sends Yumi for a loop as she can’t help but feel a little bit insecure and jealous.

    Screen Shot 2022 07 04 at 11.18.16 PM | 5 Times Our Hearts Broke In Episodes 7-8 Of “Yumi’s Cells 2” | The Paradise News Screen Shot 2022 07 04 at 11.18.37 PM | 5 Times Our Hearts Broke In Episodes 7-8 Of “Yumi’s Cells 2” | The Paradise News

    It’s bad enough that Yumi and Babi are in a long-distance relationship, but it’s even worse that he is so close to this intern – they even live in the same neighborhood! The whole situation is uncomfortable for Yumi as it is almost the exact same way she and Babi had gotten together in the past. They were once colleagues, and he pursued her after she broke up with her boyfriend. Yumi has every right to feel uncomfortable and upset. Unfortunately, this is the first time viewers start to not only dislike Da Eun but also Babi. Although Da Eun’s emotions can’t be helped, it is heartbreaking to see Babi getting closer to her even though he has a girlfriend. Our poor Yumi!

    4. Ahn Dae Yong’s love

    yumis cells 2 2 | 5 Times Our Hearts Broke In Episodes 7-8 Of “Yumi’s Cells 2” | The Paradise News

    On the bright side, Ahn Dae Yong (Jeon Suk Ho) enters into the picture as the editor-in-chief who has agreed to publish Yumi’s book. Although Yumi had failed to win all of the writing competitions that she put her book through, Ahn Dae Yong takes a strong interest in her work and wants to meet her personally. When the two meet, he realizes that she is the girl he fell in love with back in university. His love cell comes out in full force, recognizing that it is the work of destiny that has brought them together again.

    ahn dae yong yumis cells | 5 Times Our Hearts Broke In Episodes 7-8 Of “Yumi’s Cells 2” | The Paradise News

    But after Dae Yong finds out that Yumi has a boyfriend, his heart is crushed. It is adorable seeing how innocent and pure Dae Yong’s heart is, as he is completely set on loving Yumi and wanting to be with her. It can come across as being a bit creepy or obsessive, but it was entertaining to see his cells try and figure out the best possible way to be with Yumi. It provided the somewhat comic relief in the midst of a rocky storm to come, one that many of us do not want to anticipate.

    yumis cells 2 ahn dae yong1 | 5 Times Our Hearts Broke In Episodes 7-8 Of “Yumi’s Cells 2” | The Paradise News

    5. Babi developing feelings for Da Eun

    As Babi gets closer to Da Eun, she indirectly tells Babi that she likes him. While the two are waiting for the bus to arrive, she tells him that she likes someone but that the person has a girlfriend. She asks if she should confess her feelings. Babi responds that she should keep her feelings to herself. He is quick to catch on that she is referring to him in this situation, and this is the moment when conflicts arise.

    shin ye eun yumis cells 2 | 5 Times Our Hearts Broke In Episodes 7-8 Of “Yumi’s Cells 2” | The Paradise News

    Probably the most heartbreaking part of the series so far is seeing Babi’s wavering feelings for Da Eun. It seems at first that he is not interested at all, but after Da Eun indirectly confesses her feelings to him, his heart starts to waver. And when Da Eun quits her job, Babi really starts to have feelings for her. He does not seem to like the fact that he will no longer be able to see her every day. It’s an earth-shattering moment, especially for us Babi fans, as we were so sure that he was the perfect boyfriend. There is still hope that Babi and Yumi can work it out, but it is still upsetting to anticipate how Yumi will feel about this.

    yumis cells 21 | 5 Times Our Hearts Broke In Episodes 7-8 Of “Yumi’s Cells 2” | The Paradise News

    yumis cells 2 3 | 5 Times Our Hearts Broke In Episodes 7-8 Of “Yumi’s Cells 2” | The Paradise News

  • Who Is Kolade Oladigbolu? Nigerian Businessman With 8 Companies

    Who Is Kolade Oladigbolu? Nigerian Businessman With 8 Companies

    By Frank Ulom

    When a businessman or businesswoman is mentioned, only one or fewer businesses are attributed to his/her name but Kolade Oladigbolu has changed that narrative as he currently owns/runs eight (8) businesses/companies.

    Oladigbolu currently sits as the Chairman, Board of Directors of the following companies:

    1. Royal Colony Ltd (a real estate firm)
    2. Ocean Track Holdings Ltd
    3. Alkhafiz Energy Ltd
    4. Atlantic FM
    5. Atlantic TV
    6. Atlantic Times
    7. Afcom Nigeria Ltd
    8. Captain Black Heavy-duty & Auto Ltd.

    Born Kolade Afeez Siyanbola Oladigbolu, on August 10, 1985, in Oyo State, South-Western Nigeria, to Prince Azeez Siyanbola Kolade Oladigbolu (son of Alaafin Abubakar Oladigbolu 1st) and Alhaja Sidiqot Ejide, Oladigbolu is a businessman, Nigerian Real Estate magnate and a political observer. He is the biological grandson of the 2nd longest-serving Alaafin of Oyo, Alaafin Abubakar Siyanbola Oladigbolu 1st.

    Prince Kolade Oladigbolu attended St. Mary RCM Primary School, Asogo, Oyo and Anglican Methodist High School, Oyo, where he obtained his First School Leaving Certificate.

    He later attended the Federal College of Fisheries and Marine Technology, Victoria Island, Lagos, before heading to the Regional Maritime University in Accra, Ghana. He obtained his Senior School Certificate and Degree from both institutions, respectively.

    Prince Oladigbolu has many businesses but gained wide recognition in the real estate industry where he currently sits as the Chairman and Board of Directors of 8 companies. One of his Real Estate companies, Royal Colony Estate has been named one of the fastest-growing enterprises in Nigeria with its Southern Point Luxury Homes, the most sought out for.

    He is happily married to Bukola Lawal (Mrs). They both have two children; Islamiyah Siyanbola Oladigbolu and Lateef Ademola Adetokunbo Oladigbolu.

  • Are you ‘fully vaccinated’ against COVID-19? Omicron might change that

    For the most up-to-date news and information about the coronavirus pandemic, visit the WHO and CDC websites.

    Nearly 205 million people in the US are now fully vaccinated for COVID-19, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, meaning they’ve received the two shots of the Pfizer or Moderna COVID-19 vaccine or one of the Johnson & Johnson vaccine. However, recent evidence strongly suggests
    booster shots are needed to protect against the new omicron variant.

    As the omicron variant spreads quickly through the US — now accounting for about 73% of new infections — health officials and other organizations are discussing what it means to be “fully vaccinated.”

    “We’re looking into the definition right now,” CDC Director Dr. Rochelle Walensky said Wednesday during a White House briefing about changing how the CDC defines “fully vaccinated.”

    “That evaluation is currently underway,” she said. “But to be very clear, our recommendations are to get boosted.”

    On Tuesday night, Dr. Anthony Fauci, chief medical adviser to President Joe Biden, was asked on MSNBC if the definition of fully vaccinated would be updated to include boosters shots. His answer? “You know, it very well might.”

    The CDC hasn’t budged on officially changing the definition yet. Its COVID-19 booster page currently states, “Everyone is still considered fully vaccinated two weeks after their second dose in a two-shot series, such as the Pfizer-BioNTech or Moderna vaccines, or two weeks after a single-dose vaccine, such as the J&J/Janssen vaccine.” The Wall Street Journal reports that the Biden administration is considering using the phrase “up to date” instead of “fully vaccinated.”

    Some colleges and universities aren’t waiting for public health agencies to decide. On Nov. 23, Wesleyan University in Connecticut became the first college to make boosters mandatory for students, starting in 2022. Other northeastern colleges have followed suit in recent weeks, including Syracuse University, Smith College and New York University. A list of colleges requiring boosters shots can be found at BestColleges.

    Here’s what we know today about why the CDC may change the definition of fully vaccinated from two shots to three. For more, where’s the latest on the Moderna booster shots, what you need to know about the Pfizer antiviral pill and how to pick between the vaccine boosters.

    Can you get COVID if you are fully vaccinated or receive a booster?

    While two doses of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine combined with a booster shot doesn’t provide complete protection from a COVID-19 infection, the vaccines offer a sturdy defense against catching the virus and suffering serious illness. Walensky on Wednesday said an unvaccinated person has a 10 times higher risk of testing positive for COVID-19 and a 20 times greater risk of dying when compared with those who are vaccinated and boosted.

    How many COVID vaccine doses do you need to be considered ‘fully vaccinated’?

    According to the CDC, you’re fully vaccinated two weeks after you receive the second dose of the Moderna or Pfizer vaccine, or two weeks after a single dose of Johnson & Johnson’s vaccine.

    The CDC also considers you fully vaccinated if you received any single-dose vaccine listed for emergency use by the World Health Organization or any combination of the two-dose vaccines approved by the Food and Drug Administration or listed by the WHO for emergency use.

    Why would the definition of ‘fully vaccinated’ change from two doses of the mRNA vaccines to three?

    This month, as preliminary studies showed omicron’s ability to infect those who are considered fully vaccinated, the definition began shifting, if not formally, then practically, from two doses of the Pfizer and Moderna COVID vaccine to three.

    “As far as I’m concerned — I make it very clear — if you want to be optimally protected, get boosted,” Fauci said Sunday on CNN’s State of the Union, when asked if three shots will become the standard.

    Robert Wachter, chair of the University of California at San Francisco’s department of medicine, said he thinks the definition change is coming soon.

    “It’s increasingly clear that if you have three shots, you’re in pretty good shape,” Wachter said during an online discussion about COVID-19 hosted by the San Francisco Chronicle on Dec. 10.

    “I think we will stop calling people with two shots fully vaccinated within a week or two,” he said. “Omicron is going to make that case quite vividly.”

    covid-19-vaccines-regular-endless-booster-shots-syringes-winter-2021-cnet-101

    Will we need an omicron-specific booster to guard against the virus?

    If two doses of the Moderna or Pfizer COVID-19 vaccine are not enough to guard against omicron, would we need a variant-specific booster to restore protection? According to Fauci, no. “At this point, there is no need for a variant-specific booster,” Fauci said on Wednesday.

    But getting from the two-dose definition to three will take work. The CDC says more than 204 million people right now are “fully vaccinated” with the Moderna, Pfizer or Johnson & Johnson vaccines. That’s 61% percent of the total US population. However, 60 million in the US have received a booster — just under 30% percent of the population.

    “That’s why getting more Americans vaccinated and boosted is central to the president’s plan to fight COVID and confront omicron this winter,” Jeff Zients, the White House coronavirus response coordinator, said during Wednesday’s White House briefing.

    What about if you got the Johnson & Johnson vaccine?

    This week, the CDC recommended people get one of the mRNA vaccines — Moderna’s or Pfizer’s COVID-19 vaccine  — instead of Johnson & Johnson’s. The recommendation came a few days after a preliminary study out of South Africa suggested the Johnson & Johnson COVID vaccine may produce “virtually no antibody protection,” against omicron, Bloomberg News reported.

    CNET reached out to Johnson & Johnson for a comment but didn’t immediately get a response.

    What happens next?

    Vaccine makers are already pushing for three doses as the new standard. “Although two doses of the vaccine may still offer protection against severe disease caused by the omicron strain, it’s clear from these preliminary data that protection is improved with a third dose of our vaccine,” Pfizer Chairman Albert Bourla said in a statement on early results about the Pfizer vaccine’s continued effectiveness.

    The next step would be for the CDC to change its definition of what it means to be “fully vaccinated.”

  • 49 Highly Rated Things To Make Adulting A Little Easier In 2022

    Just some things that’ll help you become a more responsible, hygienic, and organized (but still fun!) grown-up.

    1. A popular Levoit air purifier, because now that you’re an adult, you should *probably* start thinking about how to optimize your surroundings a bit more, and what better way to start than with the very air you breathe! Plus, it’s really a twofer, since reviewers also say it’s effective at eliminating bad odors (not that your impeccably clean home has any 😉).
    Reviewer photo of the white air purifier
    Reviewer photo showing a filter filled with debris
    amazon.com, amazon.com
    In addition to a regular filter, this little machine comes with pet-allergy- and toxin-absorbing filters, and can refresh the air five times per hour in rooms spanning up to 219 square feet.

    Promising review: “Bought because of California wildfires. I put it in a room that is roughly 200 square feet that reeked of wildfire smoke. Set it on the highest setting and closed the door/windows. Within an hour the smell was GONE. I am thoroughly amazed. (BTW this was with the filter that came in the box.) The highest setting is kinda loud, but it’s definitely quieter than a normal room fan. Doesn’t bother me as long as it serves the main purpose. Setting two is really quiet; you can sleep through that. Lowest setting is so quiet you can’t even tell it’s on. Highly recommend. Make sure you measure your room for square footage, as that definitely matters.” —Jay777

    Get it from Amazon for $99.99+ (also available in black).

    2. A set of MATCHING towels to replace those raggedy threadbare ones you’ve had since college. This set comes with two pairs of bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths, and will truly make you feel like you have your life together.
    Reviewer photo of the full set of pink towels stacked up
    Close-up of a reviewer’s hand holding the blue towel to show its texture
    amazon.com, amazon.com
    Promising review: “This is my second set of these towels, and I cannot say enough how much I LOVE THESE TOWELS. Seriously, I get compliments from guests at the quality of my ‘everyday’ towels…So much so, I’m thinking of getting some additional sets as ‘Oh, you like them? Here’s a set as a gift!!’ to keep around…They’re a perfect size (big enough to wrap around my…not small body) but, still small enough to actually be foldable to fit in my linen storage area. They wash well, and hold up well to normal washing/drying without beginning to look worn/frayed…I’d give 6 stars if I could!!” —AndrewD

    Get a set of two bath towels, hand towels, and washcloths from Amazon for $33.99 (available in 16 colors).

    3. A handmade macramé toilet paper holder as an upgrade to your current situation…which is just placing a roll on the back of the toilet. 😬 Has it ever crossed your mind that you could get compliments on a TP holder? Because with this you 100% will.
    The macrame toilet paper holder holding a roll of toilet paper
    Sasak Market / Etsy
    Sasak Market is a small business that sells handmade home goods with a focus on sustainability. They ship without plastic, and their items are vegan!

    Promising review: “Such a beautifully made item! It adds extra character to my bathroom and arrived quickly after purchasing!” —Megan

    Get it from Sasak Market on Etsy for $15.22.

    4. An external battery you can charge before your trip to keep your devices powered up on the go (this one has over 50,000 5-star reviews!). No more of this “leaving the house while your battery’s at 27% and hoping for the best” nonsense.
    Reviewer photo of the external battery being used to charge a smartphone
    amazon.com
    BuzzFeed Shopping’s Rachel Dunkel says: “I know external batteries are a snore and it seems like a lot compared to the cheap ‘lipstick’ ones, but I cannot recommend this battery enough. It can charge my phone a full three times, which is crucial for someone like me: a frequent-flying, Twitter-loving, podcast-downloading, battery-draining millennial who feels like they’re drowning if their phone dies for one damn second.”

    Get it from Amazon for $24.99+ (available in four colors).

    5. Some vacuum-seal bags to keep all of the clothes you’ve amassed over the years nice and contained. Now you know why your parents were so obsessed with the concept of “space saving.”
    A BuzzFeeder’s bulky clothes in a sealed bag with text: “Puffy and taking up half my case!”
    The BuzzFeeder’s same clothes now vacuum-sealed with text: “*Poof!* more room for the ~essentials~”
    Jasmin Sandal / BuzzFeed
    BuzzFeed Shopping’s Jasmin Sandal says: “I swear by these bad boys not only for general storage purposes, but also if I know I’m going to be traveling for an extended period of time. As someone who tends to pack for every eventuality (who doesn’t like to be prepared?!), I have learned that it’s better to travel with them than without — especially since it’s more or less a guarantee that my clothes are gonna take up a ~substantial~ amount of room in my suitcase. And if I can use something that’s gonna shrink the size of my bulky hoodies and/or big tees in order for me to create more space, I’m sure as heck gonna do it. Plus, the satisfaction is indeed guaranteed because when you see those chunky layers flatten into a pancake…it’s just *chef’s kiss*.”

    Promising review: “I’ve used these bags before and they are so helpful. Even used the medium one for travel and I have tons of extra suitcase room. The clothes don’t come out wrinkled at all as long as you fold them nicely before placing in the bag, then the air sucks out keeping them safe and sound and very compact. Arrived on time, would use this seller again.” —Susie Kochsmeier

    Get a three-pack from Amazon for $16.99+ (available in four sizes or a variety pack).

    6. And on that note, some under-bed storage containers that’ll make use of the space that would otherwise be used for hiding monsters (just kidding). In all seriousness, storing seasonal clothes and shoes under the bed is one of the easiest ways to save space elsewhere, and these containers come with see-through tops so you won’t forget what you stashed in them.
    Reviewer photo showing the underbed storage container neatly packed with sweaters and sweatshirts
    Reviewer photo showing the underbed storage container under their bed
    amazon.com
    And not only clothes, these storage containers are perfect for bedding, accessories, and basically anything you feel the need to keep around but don’t want on display.

    Promising review: “These storage bags are fantastic. I live in a small apartment where storage space is at a premium. I use these to store my Costco toilet paper and paper towels so I don’t need to make as many trips to the store. It keeps them in pristine condition and out of sight. The handles make them easy to pull in and out, and they fold up nicely when not in use. I’m thinking about getting two more since four will fit under my queen bed.” —Kimberly Dorn

    Get a pack of two from Amazon for $12.97+ (available with soft or firm side walls and in four colors).

    7. A leather passport and vaccination card holder, because gone are the days of getting to the airport and not knowing where any of your travel documents are. With this handy little accessory, you’ll keep all of the important stuff in one place and from getting bent in your wallet/pocket/bag. Even I’m proud of you!
    The black card holder surrounded by other card holders in all 10 colors
    JMT Collections By Mary / Etsy
    It’s made by JMT Collections by Mary, a small biz based in Arizona, and ships for free!

    I recently ordered one of these passport/vaccination card holders for my dad as a gift and was blown away by how quickly it arrived — maaaybe took three days? It was also well packaged, looked just like the photo (I ordered the gold one), and is the perfect accessory for any traveler who’s constantly asking themselves, “Now, WHERE did I put my passport??” in the most frantic of voices (hi, Dad!). Since seeing it in person, I’m convinced I need to order one for myself, since I tend to just haphazardly throw things in my bag — which doesn’t always bode well when it’s travel documents we’re talking about! Very pleased with this purchase and I look forward to ordering again. Now to choose a color…

    Get it from JMZ Collections By Mary on Etsy for $9.99+ (available in 10 colors).

    8. A mini bar cart to impress your friends with all of the natural wines you became an “expert” on after, like, one tasting. At any rate, it’ll keep your bottles looking more organized than they currently do collecting dust in a cabinet.
    Reviewer close-up of the gold bar cart filled with bottles
    Reviewer photo of the gold bar cart filled with serving vessels
    amazon.com, amazon.com
    Reviewers say it’s on the shorter side, so depending on your height, it might be better as a stationary piece rather than something you wheel around.

    Promising review: “Six stars for sturdiness. This cart doesn’t squeak or lean, it’s very high-quality, and something I would expect to find at a Crate & Barrel.” —Jason E Steckey

    Get it from Amazon for $101.95+ (available in six designs).

    9. Along with a sleek wine-chilling bucket for keeping bottles cold for up to two hours! Your guests will think you’re *so* fancy.
    The copper chilling bucket holding a bottle of wine on top of a set table
    Amazon
    It can fit practically any 750-milliliter bottle of wine and should be washed by hand.

    Promising review: “Top marks! This wine/bottle cooler is both an elegant AND practical addition for any occasion where you want cooled wine, champagne, or other beverages close at hand. I used it at Thanksgiving for the first time and my company remarked how nice it looked. I like its ‘clean’ elegant design and it’s more effective than what I’ve used in the past. I also think it would make a lovely hostess or holiday gift!” —Bev

    Get it from Amazon for $29.99+ (available in stainless steel or a copper finish).

    10. And, a wine aerator pourer that’ll infuse your vino with oxygen in mere seconds, which can improve its aroma and flavor (look at you!). Try it out on your next bottle of two-buck Chuck!
    The wine aerator pourer attached to the mouth of a bottle of red wine

    Amazon
    Promising review: “Fantastic product! Makes red wine more enjoyable, as the ‘smoky’ flavors tend to taste soapy to me (I can’t be the only one here…). This was gorgeously packaged and came in two pieces to ‘assemble,’ if you can even call it that. The wine stopper is leak-free and the top keeps it from dripping red wine down the bottle onto your easily stainable white countertops. Wonderful product that I’ll easily be gifting to friends.” —Melissa

    Get it from Amazon for $16.99.

    11. And, most importantly, a red wine stain remover to have at the ready when someone inevitably spills their drink on the white couch you insisted on buying. Adulting is 91% problem solving, after all.
    A reviewer’s stained fabric
    A reviewer’s clean fabric after using the stain remover
    amazon.com
    For best results, absorb the excess liquid, then saturate the spot with the stain remover. Let it sit for one to five minutes, then blot it out. This product can also be used on hard surfaces to remove latex paint and grease.

    Promising review: “When you have anything white in your house and you have a love for red wine THIS PRODUCT IS A MUST! We had a dinner party of about 15 people in our house so I bought five bottles just in case. Someone spilled red wine on our brand-new white couch. I was so mad, but I used this stuff and it was GONE. It didn’t just take most of the red wine out — the red wine was GONE! No trace of it at all! I will buy more!” —Amazon Customer

    Get it from Amazon for $11.43.

    12. An unassuming but incredibly popular mop and bucket set that even professional house cleaners swear by for spotless floors. It might not magically get you to love cleaning, but it’ll probably get you to, you know, ACTUALLY clean.
    Reviewer photo of a dog with the mop and bucket set

    amazon.com, amazon.com
    Reviewers say its hands-free wringing system is a total game changer — all you have to do is press the pedal down with your foot and it’ll spin away excess water (like in the GIF above). Another plus is the mop head, which has a unique triangular shape for getting into hard-to-reach corners and can be cleaned in the washing machine!

    Promising review: “OK I know this is lame, but I am, like, obsessed with this mop. It is just extremely well designed in almost every way. The handle is extendable but collapses pretty small, the mop head is removable and can be put in the wash, the mop head is triangle shaped so it fits in corners, the spin pump is easy to use and gets water out super efficiently. The only small thing is that the mop bucket doesn’t have wheels. But it’s so forgivable given everything else.” —Rexana

    Get it from Amazon for $32.97+ (also available as a set with extra mop heads).

    13. A set of *actual* cloth napkins, because you (and your guests) deserve so much better than a sheet of Brawny next to your plates. Plus, they’ll make you look like a seasoned host even if it’s your first dinner party rodeo.
    Reviewer photo of the dark blue napkin wrapped in a napkin holder at a place setting
    Reviewer photo of a table set with the white cloth napkins
    amazon.com, amazon.com
    Promising review: “After realizing how many paper napkins we went through in a day, I decided to look for cloth ones. Me being me, I did an extensive amount of research and looked at probably 30 different brands. I’m extremely happy with these — they’re soft, durable, and the price is right! I’ve washed them about 10 times now and haven’t noticed any wear. Definitely recommend.” —Batman the Horse

    Get a set of 12 from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in 11 colors).

    14. A fingerprint-recognition lock that’ll just make you feel so…PREPARED, since anyone wanting to steal the contents of your luggage would literally have to cut it open (good luck, buddy). It can be used up to 2,500 times on a full charge, and when it runs out of juice, simply connect it to a USB power supply.
    amazon.com
    Just note that this lock isn’t TSA approved, so if they ever needed to search your bag, they would cut the lock off. That said, it’s perfect for carry-ons and luggage that remain with you at all times!

    Promising review: “This lock comes with excellent directions and it’s very easy to use. At times, I need to wipe the fingerprint sensor for it to read my fingerprint, but not so much where it’s a hassle. My wife and I share this lock between us and we love it. It’s so much easier than remembering a combination or having to have an extra key.” —Ron Andres

    Get it from Amazon for $32.99+ (also available with Bluetooth).

    15. Earbud-cleaning putty, because, as you’ll soon learn, adult life largely revolves around cleaning, and no space is too small to clean these days. The putty sticks to the earbud (or whatever electronic device you’re trying to clean without wetting) and pulls out earwax and other debris that may have found its way into those tiny pockets for better connectivity and sound quality.
    Reviewer photo of the cleaning putty that was used to clean their AirPods, showing the residue they were able to remove
    amazon.com
    Promising review: “After seeing this on BuzzFeed and looking at the reviews along the way, I literally bought this because of another review that said it fixed her muffled iPhone 11. So glad I did!! I had the exact same issue with hearing people on my iPhone 11 and was SO frustrated. But this worked instantly. Stuffed a square of the putty into the very small receiver you hear out of and for the first time in months I can hear people clearly and loudly out of my iPhone without being on speakerphone. I am so happy I don’t have to get a new phone. I used them to clean my AirPods as well; it was good to see all the gunk come out despite not having an issue with sound for them. Definitely a great purchase.” —jtd

    Get a 12-pack on Amazon for $11.99 (also available as a 24-pack).

    16. A Squatty Potty that, despite it sounding like a product for kids, will greatly improve your BM experience (aka something adults actually do care about).
    The white Squatty Potty in front of a toilet
    Amazon
    Promising review: “As a nurse, I can tell you that the logistics behind this is real! The human colon was designed to pass stool through the body in the squatting position rather than the sitting position that you have when sitting on a toilet. When you’re in the squatting position, your colon is not being kinked like it would be if you are in a sitting positions, thus it effectively decreases the need to push as hard and this decreases the risk of hemorrhoids, constipations, and major colon diseases! With all that being said, I have been using this for a few weeks and I love it!” —Jess Sewell

    Learn more about the Squatty Potty in BuzzFeed Shopping editor Kat Angus’ Squatty Potty review.

    Get it from Amazon for $24.99.

    17. Some slip-resistant velvet hangers for a less cluttered closet that might actually bring you joy to look at?! Gone are the days of opening your closet only to see your most delicate dresses and blouses collecting dust on the floor, and since these hangers have an ultra-thin design, you’ll save precious storage space, too.
    Reviewer before and after showing a closet with clothes hanging on bulky plastic hangers, and the same closet looking much neater with the velvet hangers
    amazon.com
    Promising review: “OMG! These hangers are excellent! They are so sturdy and look great! Before, I used the standard plastic hangers, and I had a hard time going through my clothes. They were so cramped! Then I decided to spruce up my closet and buy these bad boys! Not only do they look great, I now have more room to continue to buy more clothes so that they can just hang there with tags and go unworn! I’m so excited!!! I highly recommend purchasing these hangers!!!” —Jess

    Get a pack of 30 from Amazon for $17.84 (also available in packs of 50 and 100).

    18. And, a hanger stacker, because literally no one should ever have to deal with (or look at) a messy pile of tangled hangers EVER. Just seeing that first photo is making me cringe.
    Reviewer’s before picture of a messy pile of hangers
    Same reviewer’s picture of the hangers now neatly piled on the stacker
    amazon.com
    Promising review: “Working in retail for a million years, I know how amazing these can be in keeping your life less chaotic! I put off ordering for months, and I’m mad at myself that I did, because these beat a box of hangers hands down! I ordered two, one for dress/shirt hangers and one for skirt/pant hangers. They arrived today, seem to be made of the same metal that I’ve used in retail stores, appear to be sturdy, and are super easy to assemble! The only thing I had to stop and think about is which side of the base should face up. It comes with all the hardware and tools for assembly. A great buy!” —KatieLee333

    Get it from Amazon for $21.20 (also available in packs of two or three).

    19. A 14-piece Rachael Ray nonstick cookware set that’ll make you legitimately excited about cooking for yourself. With two saucepans, two skillets, a sauté pan, stockpot, cookie sheet, peeler, two spatulas, and lids, you’ll have everything you need to make your culinary visions come to life.
    The light blue cookware set
    Macy’s
    Promising review: “Awesome cookware! Lightweight, easy to clean, and great price, too! Highly recommended.” —Rosemarie

    Get it from Macy’s for $149.99 (originally $299.99; also available in gray).

    20. Or, if you’re short on storage space, Our Place’s Always Pan, which will quickly become your go-to cooking vessel (and is a certified BuzzFeed FAVE). It’s essentially an all-in-one kitchen tool, as it’s designed to braise, sear, steam, strain, sauté, fry, boil, serve, and store. Plus, it comes with a wooden spatula and metal steaming basket! That takeout you used to order every night in your younger days doesn’t seem as enticing now, does it?

    A pan full of a rice and veggie dish
    Our Place, Abby Kass/BuzzFeed
    Here’s what BuzzFeed Shopping writer Taylor Steele has to say about the Always Pan: “As someone who neither enjoys cooking nor is particularly good at it, the Always Pan has made being in the kitchen feel like less of a chore. Having one pan that can do everything means I don’t have to second-guess every cooking decision I make. I can boil and prepare pasta in it. And I can roast Brussels sprouts. And I can make the perfect fried egg. And I can steam dumplings. The best part is that everything slides so seamlessly out of the pan and onto the plate, which also makes clean up super fast and easy. Both the amateur (read: reluctant) cook and the more seasoned chef will enjoy creating fan favorites and new recipes in the Always Pan!”

    Also, BuzzFeeders LOVE this pan: seven of our team members shared their thoughts in our review of the Always Pan, saying they loved everything from its nonstick coating and lightweight feel to its *gorgeous* design.

    Get it from Our Place for $145 (available in six colors).

    21. A four-month supply of retainer- and denture-cleaning tablets, because, real talk: Just rinsing them under the faucet for three seconds isn’t doing the job. Dissolve a tablet in a cup of warm water, add your dental appliance, and let it sit for 15 minutes, or overnight for really caked-on stains.
    Reviewer before photo showing a stained Invisalign retainer
    Reviewer after photo showing the same retainer looking much cleaner
    amazon.com
    Promising review: “Bought this based on the reviews and I gotta say it 100% works. I had my Invisalign retainers for 10 years and was placing them in a cup of water with mouthwash. Over time, the retainers got gunked up and started turning my retainers with a brown tint that couldn’t be removed even with brushing. I was thinking about replacing my retainers until I came across this product and gave it a shot. At first, the first tablet did clean it some and removed a lot of the brown tinting from my retainers. But after a couple of uses, my retainers are crystal clear again. It removed 10 years of filth in a couple of treatments. I highly recommend this product if you want to keep your retainers clean.” —Herman L.

    Get a pack of 120 tablets from Amazon for $13.43.

    22. Some blue light–blocking glasses that’ll help combat the harmful effects of the light emitting from those electronics you stare at 24/7/365. Not only will you feel more *responsible*, you’ll also look pretty stylish, too.
    Reviewer wearing the clear blue light blocking glasses
    Reviewer wearing the tortoise framed glasses
    amazon.com, amazon.com
    Promising review: “These are actually amazing!! I can wear them all day and never notice them on my face due to the lightweight material, and being someone who works on the computer all day I can absolutely notice a difference with eyestrain. In addition, they are so super cute and they come with so many fun little accessories (soft case, lens-cleaning cloth, etc). I absolutely recommend buying these.” —Audrey Brown

    Get a set of two from Amazon for $15.98+ (available in eight color assortments).

    23. And, some soft silicone eyeglass sleeves to keep your frames from digging into the backs of your ears (the worst!) and from slipping down your nose (the other worst!). Yes, glasses are a big thing in Adult Land™️.
    Reviewer photo of a pair of glasses fitted with the eyeglass sleeves

    amazon.com, amazon.com
    Promising review: “Just got them maybe five minutes ago. Put them on my glasses. Instantly 10,000% more comfortable. Didn’t know what to expect as I’ve worn glasses my whole life and never had an issue, but these new glasses were giving me a terrible soreness on just one ear. I put them on both sides just because and such an immediate improvement! I’m hoping to experience less nose slippage, too, but that would just be an added bonus. My ear already feels relief. And so many in the bag! Easy enough to get on over my glasses arm, and I love that there’s so many extra in case mine gets dirty, damaged, etc. Worth every penny!!” —mommabug

    Get a pack of five pairs from Amazon for $6.99 (available in three colors).

    24. Some good old Magic Erasers, because while we’re not telling you to stop eating Cheetos, we are telling you to wipe those orange fingerprint stains off your walls once and for all. Just wet ’em, squeeze ’em, and go to town!
    amazon.com
    Promising review: “Long story short, applying aerosol suntan lotion in your shower, which has hard water, is a horrible idea. The result was a seemingly permanent spotty orange stain all over the tub. Nothing, and I mean nothing, was doing the trick, no matter what we did — every cleaning product, bleach, ammonia, soaking it in dish soap, and even our steam mop, made zero improvement. A little elbow grease, and this magic sponge is the only thing that worked. I honestly don’t understand what makes this sponge so great, but it really is magic.” —Jessi

    Get a pack of nine from Amazon for $6.97.

    25. A set of modern geometric coasters that serve double duty as drink condensation collectors and chic table decor. Yes, adults get excited about coasters, and these are worth the hype.
    Overhead shot of the coaster sets in different colors
    The coasters on a coffee table holding coffee cups and surrounded by a tea kettle record, and muffin
    LineArcDesign / Etsy
    LineArcDesign is a husband-and-wife-owned small biz based in Belmont, California, and their coasters ship for free!

    Promising review: “Incredible coasters. They’re very sturdy, don’t slide around the table or surface, and the grooves keep the cup/bottle on the coaster and help prevent it from falling over. Amazing purchase, I’m recommending these to all my friends and family. So glad I found this shop, will certainly be purchasing more from here.” —Anissa Vitoria

    Get a set of six from LineArcDesign on Etsy for $30 (available in other colors on LineArcDesign’s shop page).

    26. A multiuse wall shelf with hangers for keys and coats and a mail compartment, because slinging your jacket over a chair and flinging your mail onto a random surface in your home is…no longer acceptable.
    The white shelf on a wall holding keys, a succulent, and mail
    Wayfair
    It comes fully assembled and all wall mounting hardware is included.

    Promising review: “Love this!! I have been looking for a way to organize keys and masks and get outgoing mail off my kitchen counter and this is perfect. Solid and well-made pieces. You need to assemble and that’s fairly easy to do.” —Marliese

    Get it from Wayfair for $47.99.

    27. A digital luggage scale so you’ll know just how many souvenirs you can cram into your suitcase without — surprise! — a hefty over-capacity fee. Proactivity at its finest, in my humble opinion. Just hook the scale to your luggage handle, lift up, and the LCD display will show the weight. You can also switch between pound and kilogram measurements.
    Model’s hand holding the digital scale
    Amazon
    Promising review: “This luggage scale does everything that a luggage scale should do. First, and foremost, it is accurate. I tested it against two other scales, and it was spot on. The scale is smallish, which is nice because it is the last thing that I am going to stuff into my luggage after I have finished packing and weighed everything else. Everyone that travels on an airplane should own one of these scales. At a bare minimum, it will save you from having to repack your dirty underwear in front of a gate agent, at the most, it will save you being hit with a $50–$100 extra baggage fee that negates the cost of that cheap ticket that you spent days searching for.” —ManFromDola

    Get it from Amazon for $12.99.

    28. A pair of Shark Tank–endorsed drain protectors for any respectable adult who’s ever had to witness a plumber pull a humiliating amount of hair out of their clogged drain and has vowed to never let that happen again. Just place it in your drain, and replace every few months once it’s nice and hairy.
    Reviewer holding up the drain protector to show how much hair it removed from a shower
    Reviewer close-up of all the hair that was pulled up by the drain protector
    amazon.com, amazon.com
    Promising review: “These things are amazing. I have very long hair that seems to shed ALL the time, no matter what. I started using these when I lived in an apartment so I wouldn’t have to call maintenance once a month to clear my tub clog… They’re SO great. They’re pretty disgusting to change out, but I put on some rubber gloves and hold my breath and it’s easy! It’s incredible how much it catches and it saves me from having to call a plumber all the time since I no longer rent! Highly recommend. Oh, and they’re super cute to see in the shower.” —MrsV

    Get a two-pack from Amazon for $8.71.

    29. Some cute monogrammed stationery, because a thank-you email or text is, shall we say, a little “collegiate.” Jump on the snail mail train and feel a sense of accomplishment! Plus, these are fun enough that you’ll still be honoring your inner kid.
    Two cards monogrammed with SJP in blue and red lettering
    Joy Creative Shop / Etsy
    Based in Dallas, Joy Creative Shop is a small biz that makes colorful, customized paper goods, from notepads and gift tags to recipe cards and address labels.

    Promising review: “So chic! The monogram looks modern yet classic. Printing was really well done, and card stock is high quality. Really happy with my purchase.” —kathleenfairman

    Get it from Joy Creative Shop on Etsy for $23+ (available in sets of 10–100, and in 28 ink colors and 11 envelope colors).

    30. A complete flatware set to ensure you’re not short a fork (the horror!) when you invite your family over to dinner for the first time. Plus, your parents will be amazed by the fact that you have a set of actual serving utensils!
    The forks, spoons, and butter knife on top of a dinner plate
    The five serving pieces
    Amazon
    It includes eight dinner forks, dinner spoons, salad forks, steak knives, butter knives, and tea/dessert spoons, along with a serving spoon, slotted serving spoon, pie server, butter spreader, and ice cream spoon.

    Promising review: “My husband and I wanted a nice silverware set. For the money, this set is great. It’s perfect for us, especially when we have guests. Before, nothing matched, and now it all matches.” —Laura A.

    Get a set of 53 pieces to serve eight people from Amazon for $55.99+ (available in three colors and also in two smaller sets).

    31. Dishwasher-cleaning tablets, because, seriously, how clean can your dishes really be if your dishwasher itself is a mess? Just pop them into the tray where you’d normally put detergent (or on the bottom of your dishwasher if you’re washing dishes at the same time), and run as usual!
    The inside of a reviewer’s dishwasher looking dirty
    The same reviewer’s dishwasher now looking shiny and clean after using the cleaning tablet
    amazon.com
    Use them monthly or as needed — plus, they’re among Amazon’s “Climate Pledge Friendly” products!

    Promising review: “After using this product, I am happy to report that my $5 investment saved me over $500. I was ready to replace my dishwasher due to super-cloudy glasses, residue, and just not getting clean. Then I became aware that the water softener no longer was doing its job, so I had the rental company replace it. Dishwasher performance improved somewhat. I decided to do two more loads before deciding to purchase a new one. Then I saw a product test review for Affresh in a magazine. I was ordering some stuff from Amazon anyway, so I added that to my order. When it came, I tossed one of the tablets into the bottom of the full machine, and ran the regular cycle. I did not expect the results I got! My glassware that I thought was permanently etched and ruined came out like new. Same with cutlery. The difference is unbelievable. I will use this faithfully on a monthly basis, as recommended. I can even put it on my Subscribe & Save order so I will get a new pack every six months. I am amazed!” —Sheila

    Get a pack of six from Amazon for $5.99 (also available in a pack of 12).

    32. And on that note, some super-popular washing machine–cleansing tablets for extra assurance that your linens aren’t mingling with odor-causing residue while they’re being “cleaned.” Simply place one tablet in your empty washing machine and run a normal wash cycle for a cleaner, better-smelling appliance.
    amazon.com
    This cleaner is an Amazon “Climate Pledge Friendly” product.

    Promising review: “I have been using bleach to clean my machine for some time, but decided to give this a try a few months ago. My very first clean with Affresh left me surprised and delighted, for not only did it clean my machine, it eliminated the nasty smell that always transferred to my clothes thanks to a buildup of mold I didn’t even know about. Every month now, I toss a tablet into the drum and let it work its magic. Now my machine is cleaner than ever, and my clothes always smell wonderfully fresh. I highly recommend this to everyone.” —Kelli Crawford

    Get a pack of three tablets from Amazon for $6.99 (also available in packs of five and six).

    33. Shelf dividers that’ll put an end to the disorderly state of your linen closet once and for all. Separate the towels from the washcloths and the sheets from the quilts, and feel a sense of pride when you open the door and know *exactly* where the item you’re looking for is.
    Reviewer photo showing shelf dividers used to separate stacks of towels in their linen closet
    amazon.com
    Promising review: “If you need to Marie Kondo your closet, this is really useful and it looks really nice. Bought two to see how they were. Perfect. Bought six more. Loving it!!! Really recommend this product, ready to install and very sturdy.” —Nicolò R.

    Get a two-pack from Amazon for $10.34.

    34. A cold brew coffee maker so you can enjoy barista-quality beverages in the comfort of your own home without handing over half of your paycheck to Starbucks.
    The white cold brew maker next to a cup of iced cold brew
    Amazon
    This product couldn’t be more foolproof: Just pour any type of ground coffee into the filter, place it into the pitcher with cold water, shake, and refrigerate. It’s BPA free, and can make up to 1 or 2 quarts at a time.

    Promising review: “I love this cold brew system. I did have an expensive Pampered Chef system, but broke the pot. I bought this system as a replacement, and I like it much better. The coffee is great, and I have had zero problems with loose coffee grounds, even when I use bagged ground coffee instead of coarsely ground coffee, as is suggested.” —Erin

    Get it from Amazon for $24.99 (available in two sizes and three colors).

    35. A Chirp back pain relief set to help ease that achy tension you’ve been feeling more and more frequently (we all knew this day was coming 😩). It comes with three wheels for different levels of massage, as well as an upper back posture corrector to help keep things in alignment.
    The Chirp Ultimate Back Pain Bundle including three wheels, an upper back posture corrector, and travel case

    Chirp
    Promising review: “I never realized how much I was limiting my movements due to back and neck soreness. These wheels have been a godsend! I feel like the Tin Man once he got oil!” —Ladonna A.

    Get it from Chirp for $99.99 (originally $205).

    36. An AeroGarden Harvest so you can grow — and pick! — fresh herbs right on your counter, no soil required. Even if you’ve never had a green thumb, these greens are foolproof, and they’ll take your newfound love of cooking to the next level.
    The black AeroGarden on a counter
    Amazon
    It includes basil, curly parsley, dill, thyme, Thai basil, and mint seeds, along with a bottle of all natural plant nutrients.

    Check out BuzzFeed Shopping writer Yi Yang’s AeroGarden review for more info!

    Promising review: “I purchased this as a Christmas gift for my boyfriend’s sister-in-law who lamented not having a green thumb. I was somewhat apprehensive, having read a few reviews that mentioned pods not spouting. However, in the two months that the sis-in-law has had the AeroGarden, the growth has been tremendous. I’m constantly in awe when she sends me pics of the new growth. Only one pod failed to sprout, but she reached out to customer service, and they are sending a replacement for that particular pod. All the others have grown quite large, and last night I received a picture of their dinner using herbs grown with the AeroGarden. Impressive!” —Mary A. Walls

    Get it from Amazon for $79.99+ (available in three colors).

    37. A set of grocery organizers, because throwing out moldy food you forgot about is a sad, sad thing, and a surefire way to avoid it is by using see-through compartments that provide each item with a designated place. Plus, they’ll impress your friends when they go to reach for a snack and see such an orderly fridge!
    Reviewer photo of the organizers being used to hold groceries in a very tidy fridge
    amazon.com
    Promising review: “These are so helpful if your fridge is cluttered. I bought these for my mom, who is an extremely cluttered person. I love her to death, but she is not an organized person. Her fridge used to look wild. There would be food piled on top of food, and small jars and containers EVERYWHERE. I bought her these to help her organize everything. Now she can see what she has and everything has a place. Thank you for making something like this to help those that are so cluttered.” —Amazon Customer

    Get a set of six from Amazon for $25.99.

    38. Along with some food storage containers that belong in every pantry, not only for organization and convenient browsing, but to keep flour mites (yes, that’s a thing) far, far away. This epic set comes with 15 (!) canisters, along with 24 labels, so you’ll never mistake your barley for farro again.
    Reviewer showing their cupboards completely overflowing with boxes and bags of dry goods
    Same reviewer showing their cupboard entirely cleaned up and organized with so much leftover space after using the storage containers
    amazon.com
    Promising review: “Fits and stacks not only on my counter, but in my cabinets, too! Instead of the boxes, I dump it all into the containers and label them. Gives me more space in my cabinet. Great buy!” —Doreem

    Get a set of 15 from Amazon for $36.99+ (available in three colors).

    39. And, a food container lid organizer, because if there’s anything we can all agree on, it’s that lids have a mysterious way of disappearing when they’re just shoved into a drawer. And look at you taking initiative!
    Reviewer photo showing the lid organizer from above
    Reviewer showing the lid organizer from the side
    amazon.com
    Promising review: “This is a great caddy for all of those maverick Tupperware lids that disappear like socks in a laundry room. I was able to fit quite a few into it. It comes with five separators to cordon off different sizes/shapes of lids (see photos) and consolidate two of three previous lids bins into this one. Plus, according to their card insert, the company is a woman-owned small business, which I’m always happy to support.” —Bridget D.

    Get it from Amazon for $17.99+ (available in four sizes).

    40. Some Mrs. Meyer’s Clean Day multi-surface cleaning spray that smells so nice, even the most resistant cleaners will actually look for things to spray it on. Bonus: It’s even safe to use on hardwood floors. See all the fun you were missing out on in your youth?
    A bottle of the lemon verbena multi-surface spray
    Amazon
    It has a refreshing lemon verbena scent, and is cruelty-free! It’s also one of Amazon’s “Climate Pledge Friendly” products.

    Promising review: “I was so pleasantly surprised by this product. I got it on a whim, thinking, ‘What the heck, I’ll try it.’ I literally use this cleaner for EVERYTHING! I mean from my wood furniture, mirrors, granite countertops, even my hardwood floors! The smell is so nice and not overpowering like other cleaners, and I feel safe using it around my kids. I’ll be buying this product as long as it’s made.” —casandra

    Get a pack of three from Amazon for $11.55.

    41. A fruit infuser water bottle to help you get those daily glasses in — if you’re anything like me, having some spa water you can drink on the go is the only way that’s happening.
    The fruit infuser water bottle
    Amazon
    Promising review: “I’ve tried a couple of infuser bottles and this one is by far the best. In fact, I’m buying another one because I lost the original one that I purchased. This bottle has enough room at the bottom to put some ice in when filling it and still be able to put the infuser section in on top of the ice. The top screws on easily and securely, not true with every water bottle.” —BahamaMama

    Get it from Amazon for $19.97.

    42. A robot vacuum cleaner that — if we’re being honest — will likely do a more thorough job of cleaning your kitchen floors than you would on your own. It works on practically any floor type, and is powerful enough to suck up even the thickest pet hair.

    Reviewer photo of pet hair picked up by the robot vacuum
    amazon.com
    Use it with Alexa for voice control, or connect to the iRobot Home app to schedule regular cleanings. It can run for up to 90 minutes before automatically recharging, comes with adaptive navigation to maneuver itself around your home, and can change its height depending on the surface. Just note that while it has cliff detection, it’s wise to place a barrier near areas like stairs just to be safe.

    Promising review: “Much to my chagrin, the cats have been avoiding this like the plague. However, this little robot does its job well. We ignored the comments telling users to sweep/vacuum before the first go-round and let it vacuum up our cat-hair-covered floors as-is. It actually did a really good job!!!! My fiancé and I were both impressed by how it was able to pick up everything visible to the human eye with its seemingly random path around the house. We let it roam around every other day or so, and it keeps our floors looking way cleaner than we thought possible! Almost like someone with pride of ownership lives here. We do have two thick-coated cats, and it has worked wonderfully for us!!! Our lint roller is getting a considerably smaller workout since we set up our new little friend. I am so impressed by this and wish we’d gotten one sooner. For the price, this is such an amazing deal. I’ve already recommended it to all my family and friends!!!!” —nanne

    Get it from Amazon for $177+ (available in three models).

    43. A fume-free oven cleaner so you can finally get around to cleaning your oven after…how many years of avoiding it? This NSF-certified product doesn’t contain lye or harsh fumes, and reviewers say it works like a dream on caked-on messes if left on overnight. Your parents will faint the next time they visit.
    Reviewer photo of a dirty oven
    Reviewer photo of the same oven looking very clean after using the product
    amazon.com
    Promising review: “I don’t normally write reviews, but HOLY MOLY if you’re looking for an oven cleaner, BUY THIS ONE!! I’m fairly sure no one has ever cleaned my oven since the day it was installed in this apartment X years ago, and I’m embarrassed to admit that includes me (seven years living here). I wiped up spills and such after cooking, but never did a deep clean before because I thought it was going to be a gargantuan task. I sprayed on a layer of Easy Off foam, let it sit overnight, and started wiping it off with a wet sponge the next day. Talk about ‘easy to remove’ — this cut through YEARS of baked-on grease splatter like it was nothing. My sponge was black after the first swipe, but I could actually see clean metal! Many rinses/wipes later, I have an oven that looks almost new, save for a few spots on the door and oven top that need another spray/sit/wipe session to get the last of the baked-on splatter. This saved me SO MUCH work, I can’t believe how much better my oven looks now! ‘Easy Off’ definitely lives up to its name. They also advertise ‘Fume Free’ on the can, and I can happily report that’s true as well! This is a fantastic cleaner, well worth the purchase.” —L. Lietzke

    Get it from Amazon for $5.96.

    44. A white noise machine to keep distracting sounds to a minimum and make falling asleep a little easier — even when your neighbors decide to throw a rager on a Tuesday night. 🙃 Welcome to adulthood, where getting enough sleep is now your top (only?) priority.
    The white noise machine
    Amazon
    I use this exact machine every. single. night. It’s honestly been a lifesaver since I moved to a block with neighbors who enjoy speaking in, shall we say, volumes that could cause glass to shatter, and helps silence the sound of traffic that comes with living in a city. It comes with 20 sounds to choose from, and you can set it for an hour or let it go all night. Plus, it’s super compact, so if I ever felt the need to take it on a trip, it wouldn’t take up much room in my suitcase. No notes, 5 stars, love it love it love it!

    Promising review: “By far the BEST purchase I’ve made in the past 12 months. I have been running a fan every night for six years and this little guy has been a game changer. Particularly on those cold New England nights when the last thing you want is air blowing around. I’ve had a hard time with other white noise machines in the past because my brain waits and listens for the sound loop subconsciously when I’m trying to fall asleep. I’ve tried EVERY one of the top 20 phone apps and always hear the loop. I never hear it with this machine. ALSO incredibly easy to travel with. I’ve flown three times domestically with it and it has never been an issue. Cannot speak highly enough of this little beautiful noise box, I recommend it to everyone.” —Ashley

    Get it from Amazon for $44.54 (also available in three other models).

    45. A dishwasher magnet you can flip to say whether the contents inside are clean or dirty — a seemingly small gesture with potentially major peace-keeping results. If you’ve ever experienced the horror of your SO putting dirty dishes into a dishwasher filled with clean ones, I know this is already in your shopping cart.
    The white and black clean/dirty magnet stuck to a dishwasher
    1620 Designs / Etsy
    Based in Plymouth, Massachusetts, 1620 Designs makes assorted laser-cut and engraved items for home and business use.

    Promising review: “Exactly what we needed to signal whether the dishwasher has been run, or not. Magnet is strong. Easily switches from clean to dirty. I like the size and quality of the item. Now, if only my family remembered to switch it from dirty to clean to dirty when appropriate!” —Jacklyn Christensen

    Get it from 1620 Designs on Amazon Handmade for $10.99 or from 1620 Designs on Etsy for $11.25.

    46. A handy little knife sharpener to keep that nice set you finally invested in impeccably pointy. With proper maintenance, even run-of-the-mill knives can last a long time.
    The knife sharpener on a wood cutting board next to a knife and some tomatoes
    Amazon
    It has a coarse setting for sharpening dull and damaged knives and a fine setting for light touch-ups and polishing.

    Promising review: “I travel a lot, for both business and leisure, and I love to cook. One of the most frustrating and potentially even dangerous things I encounter are dull kitchen knives, so I have gotten in the habit of ordering one of these babies out anytime I encounter that. I usually just leave them behind for future guests’ benefit, since they’re so affordable. It’s incomparably easy to use — 10 light strokes on coarse and 10 on fine will bring all but the most neglected knives into useable condition. For really bad situations, more reps usually handle it. Oh, and yes…it’s also my daily solution for my own kitchen.” —Jeff B.

    Get it from Amazon for $5.99+ (available in four colors).

    47. A popular yet affordable instant-read thermometer, so you’ll never have to worry about overcooking that pricey steak you bought from a *real* butcher ever again.
    The instant read thermometer, its packaging, and accessories
    The thermometer taking the temperature of a piece of meat
    Amazon
    Promising review: “I am an avid home cook and never really checked the temperatures of what I was making. After more than a few missteps using old school methods, I decided to order an instant-read thermometer. From heating water for bread making to checking the doneness of a roast or steak, I use this several times a day now and my food has never been better. Even better, it is magnetized and hangs easily in reach on the side of my refrigerator! This is a no-regret purchase.” —Holly Wade

    Get it from Amazon for $22.99 (available in three colors).

    48. Some in-flight earplugs that won’t only drown out the sound of the screaming toddler in back of you, they’ll also help prevent air pressure discomfort and popping. Congrats, you’re now a certified curmudgeon AND someone who cares about ear well-being! 👏
    The box of earplugs
    A reviewer wearing the blue earplugs
    Amazon, www.amazon.com
    Promising review: “Never fly without these! Before I found these, I endured excruciating pain in my ears upon descent and landing. Felt like a hot poker being driven into each ear. My ears would also be plugged up, and it would often take two to three days for them to resume their normal state of being. I insert them about an hour before landing, as the plane is making its slow descent. I’m comfortable, and the most discomfort I experience is a slight ‘adjustment of pressure’ feeling in my sinus. NO PAIN. NO TEARS.” —K. Tombrella

    Get a three-pack from Amazon for $17.95 (also available in 5- and 10-packs).

    49. And, last but not least, a SipCaddy wine and beer holder, because you’re an adult now, which means you can enjoy an adult beverage in the tub when the mood strikes! 🍷🛁
    Model in a bubble bath reaching for the SipCaddy holding a glass filled with red wine
    Amazon
    It’s dishwasher safe!

    Promising review: “Such a simple idea, how is this just coming into my life now? I didn’t think showers could get any better but now I have a brew/wine within reach at all times. Really helps take the edge off after a long day. The thing is way sturdier than you’d expect, I’ve tugged on it and it’s not going anywhere. The slotted design allows you to use stemmed wineglasses, too. A truly perfect product. This piece of plastic is working as hard as my therapist and I stan.” —Steven

    Get it from Amazon for $14.95+ (available in six colors).

    Reviews in this post have been edited for length and clarity.