Woman's World

Michigan Salon Offers Free Pampering to 8,000+ Cancer Patients

mdillard — Sun, 02 Aug 2026 18:00:33 +0000

Pam Westers turned a salon into a meaningful mission that has provided pampering to more than 8,000 women. Here, she shares her story with Woman’s World.

When Pam Westers took over Profile, the Comstock Park, Michigan, salon where she had worked for 35 years, the salon coordinator approached Pam with an idea.

“I heard about a salon in New York that helps women in cancer treatment feel beautiful,” she explained, and wondered, “Could we do something like that here?”

Pam loved the idea, but she didn’t know if she had the finances to pull it off. Until one day, a salon regular came in and handed Pam a check for $10,000 from her mother’s estate.

“She loved your idea and wanted you to have this,” the woman told Pam.

Inspired, Pam decided to move forward with the plan.

“Beautiful You by Profile,” read the brochures Pam created and set out in local oncology centers, inviting women in treatment to come in for hair styling, manicures and pedicures — all free of charge.

Beautiful You by Profile offers wigs and hairstyling to women going through cancer treatments
Pam Westers

Between the pamphlets and word of mouth, hundreds of women were soon making appointments. The salon staff joined Pam when she closed the shop the second Monday of every month for Beautiful You sessions, and cosmetologists from other local salons began volunteering.

Pam immediately noticed the women would leave their sessions more lighthearted.

Kathryn Youngquist was beginning radiation treatments for breast cancer when she and her husband, Mark, spotted a Beautiful You pamphlet in the doctor’s waiting room. At first, she was reluctant, but one day, Mark said gently, “Maybe we should stop in to look around.”

The instant Kathryn stepped through the door, she felt at home.

“My hair’s gotten so thin, it makes me feel self-conscious,” Kathryn told Pam.

Pam combed and clipped, and with her decades of styling expertise, she shaped a shorter hairstyle that made Kathryn beam with joy.

Kathryn returned every month for a full year of pampering. She beat her cancer, but she wasn’t ready to leave Beautiful You. Instead, she became a volunteer greeter.

Women can also receive special pampering to feel more like themselves again
Pam Westers

Over the past dozen years, Beautiful You by Profile has brightened the lives of more than 8,000 women from as far as 50 miles away. Pam has also established seven branch Beautiful You by Profile salons inside medical centers where women can go for hair and spa treatments before and after chemo or radiation.

“If you feel better about yourself, you’re going to feel stronger in treatment,” Pam says. “We’re so very grateful for the chance to bring joy to these women.”

August 2 August 8 Horoscope Forecast: Your Zodiac Sign's Week

Carissa Mosness — Sun, 02 Aug 2026 14:00:08 +0000

Ready to start your week on a positive note? You’ll need to begin by considering what may lie ahead in the coming days. Horoscopes can help make this easier as they predict future life events big or small. This way, you’re prepared for what each day will bring. Here’s what’s happening for your zodiac sign this week, August 2 August 8, 2026.

Aries: March 21 to April 19

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Life: A fresh idea helps you streamline your budget and feel more in control.

Love: Say yes to a playful plan—your boldness brings you closer.

Wellness: Add a quick strength training routine to boost confidence and stamina.

Your lucky days: August 2, 5, 8

Your lucky numbers: 1, 9, 17

Taurus: April 20 to May 20

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Life: A practical conversation clears the air at home.

Love: Slow down and savor a sweet, sensory date—it rekindles warmth.

Wellness: Prioritize rest and hydration to feel steady.

Your lucky days: August 3, 6, 7

Your lucky numbers: 4, 6, 20

Gemini: May 21 to June 20

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Life: Curiosity opens a door—take a class or pitch a new idea with confidence.

Love: A fun change of scenery makes your connection with someone special feel brand-new.

Wellness: Try a quick breathing exercise or journaling habit to settle your mind.

Your lucky days: August 2, 4, 8

Your lucky numbers: 3, 11, 15

Cancer: June 21 to July 22

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Life: Celebrate a win, then set one clear money goal for what’s next.

Love: A heart-to-heart brings reassurance and sweet renewal in your closest relationship.

Wellness: Gentle movement (walking, stretching, yoga) helps you feel emotionally lighter.

Your lucky days: August 3, 5, 6

Your lucky numbers: 2, 7, 18

Leo: July 23 to August 22

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Life: Share your vision—support arrives when you let others in.

Love: Team up on a shared plan and you’ll feel powerfully aligned.

Wellness: Invite a friend to move with you in your fitness routine; laughter boosts vitality.

Your lucky days: August 2, 6, 7

Your lucky numbers: 1, 8, 19

Virgo: August 23 to September 22

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Life: One smart step—an email, call or plan—sets real progress in motion.

Love: Talking about the future (gently!) deepens trust and tenderness.

Wellness: Unplug for a bit; quiet time restores your sparkle.

Your lucky days: August 4, 6, 8

Your lucky numbers: 1 , 11, 23

Libra: September 23 to October 22

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Life: Collaboration is your secret weapon—reach out and build together.

Love: Confidence makes you magnetic; lean into romance and make memories together.

Wellness: Refresh your routine with something inspiring like music, dance or a new playlist.

Your lucky days: August 2, 5, 7

Your lucky numbers: 2, 6, 16

Scorpio: October 23 to November 21

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Life: You’re ready to lead on new endeavors—trust your instincts and make the decisive move.

Love: Flirtation flows easily, keeping things light and heartwarming.

Wellness: A mindfulness reset helps you feel calm, focused and empowered.

Your lucky days: August 3, 6, 8

Your lucky numbers: 9, 13, 21

Sagittarius: November 22 to December 21

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Life: A surprise twist sparks opportunity—follow what feels exciting and true.

Love: Honest sharing heals; vulnerability brings you closer than ever.

Wellness: Upgrade one habit (sleep, steps, meals) and you’ll feel energized fast.

Your lucky days: August 2, 4, 7

Your lucky numbers: 6, 10, 18

Capricorn: December 22 to January 19

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Life: Your ambition pays off—stay consistent to see results.

Love: Speak your needs clearly; you’ll be met with care.

Wellness: Make self-care playful—small treats and breaks keep you motivated.

Your lucky days: August 3, 5, 6

Your lucky numbers: 3, 8, 14

Aquarius: January 20 to February 18

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Life: A new strategy (or tech tool) helps you work smarter, not harder.

Love: Direct, kind communication clears confusion and restores closeness with someone special.

Wellness: Trust your intuition and experiment with what truly supports your mind-body balance.

Your lucky days: August 4, 7, 8

Your lucky numbers: 9, 11, 22

Pisces: February 19 to March 20

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Life: Share your big-picture idea—others are ready to champion your creativity.

Love: Dream up a mini adventure together to send chemistry soaring.

Wellness: Release one draining habit in your everyday routine; you’ll feel lighter almost immediately.

Your lucky days: August 3, 6, 7

Your lucky numbers: 5, 12, 14

This article originally appeared in the August 3, 2026 print version of Woman’s World.

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Pennsylvania Couple Starts Loving Daniel After Infant Loss

mdillard — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 23:00:09 +0000

After losing their newborn son, a Pennsylvania couple transformed heartbreak into hope, creating a nonprofit that helps mourning families spend extra time with babies they never expected to lose. Here, they share their story with Woman’s World.

“Finally!” Nicole Dice squealed when the pregnancy test came out positive. She and her husband, Bill, had been trying for three years.

But about five months in, an ultrasound showed something that shattered their world. The little one in Nicole’s belly had an often fatal form of dwarfism called thanatophoric dysplasia. The doctors expected that the baby wouldn’t live.

The Uniontown, Pennsylvania, couple cried the whole way home from the doctor’s office. As people of faith, they placed the life of their baby, whom they named Daniel, in God’s hands.

Please, God. We need a miracle for our sweet baby, the couple prayed.

For the duration of the pregnancy, the family prayed for Daniel and talked and sang to him in the womb.

Daniel, who had an enlarged forehead from fluid in his brain, survived to be born, but he only lived for 89 minutes — all of which he spent in his grieving parents’ arms. Then something miraculous happened: Daniel’s body was somehow preserved for three and a half days after death without cooling, allowing his parents to stay in a hospital room with their baby, which gave family and friends a chance to love on him and say their goodbyes. Usually, babies who are stillborn or die soon after birth are quickly taken from their parents.

Knowing that miracles like this are rare, Bill and Nicole looked at each other and said, “How can we help other parents get this precious quality time?”

Daniel lived for only 89 minutes, but his legacy will go on
Nicole Dice

How Cuddle Cots help grieving parents

Right after Daniel passed, Nicole began researching products and services that could help parents in the same situation.

She learned about Cuddle Cots, which are cooling pads that allow parents to spend extra time with their babies who have passed. The price of a Cuddle Cot starts around $3,000, but Nicole knew that they could be a godsend to grief-stricken parents. She did fundraising to purchase a Cuddle Cot for Uniontown Hospital, where Daniel was born, and planned just to gift it to that hospital.

But not long after, they received a generous donation that inspired them to continue expanding the project. In 2016, they made their project an official nonprofit called Loving Daniel.

Turning grief into hope

More than a decade has passed since Daniel was born in November 2015, and the Dices went on to have two healthy children, Manny, 9, and Anna Rose, a toddler.

Since then, Loving Daniel has donated 13 devices to 12 different hospitals in Pennsylvania and West Virginia. Loving Daniel maintains the equipment and donates replacement parts to the hospitals when needed. The Dices personally reach out to parents who have lost babies so that they know they are not alone.

Each Cuddle Cot has a special plaque to give hope to other parents
Nicole Dice

Karen Lessman, the labor and delivery nurse who was there for Daniel’s birth, says that unforgettable day changed her life.

“I’d never seen anything like it before, and I’ve never seen anything like it since,” Karen says.

As for Nicole, she knows every moment parents have with their baby is precious.

“I feel that God gave us that time with Daniel so that we would know the value of it and give it to others,” Nicole says. “We try to turn our grief into something good.”

Meet Lighting Automation: The Beginner-Friendly Fix for Wasting Electricity on Empty Rooms Daily

Lauren Jarvis-Gibson — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 20:07:32 +0000

Homeowners looking to trim electricity bills are turning to lighting automation as a low-effort way to stop wasting energy in empty rooms. Here is what beginners should know about the devices, the rooms that benefit most and the payoff beyond a smaller utility bill.

How does lighting automation save energy in empty rooms?

Lighting automation saves energy by shutting lights off when rooms are unoccupied and by giving homeowners remote and scheduled control over every fixture. That eliminates the everyday problem of lights left burning in closets, basements or hallways for hours.

According to ADT, residential lighting consumed about 129 billion kilowatt hours in 2016, or about 10 percent of the total electricity used in the residential sector. ADT writes that “one of the most cost-effective ways to reduce electricity consumption is to switch to LED light bulbs,” noting that LED bulbs “use up to 80 percent less energy than other bulbs and can last up to 25 times longer.” Pairing efficient bulbs with automation compounds the savings on both fronts.

What smart lighting devices should beginners start with?

Beginners can build a full automation setup from five basic device types. Motion sensors trigger lights when someone enters a room. Occupancy and vacancy sensors handle both on and off automatically or only the off step, depending on the model. Smart bulbs, smart switches and smart plugs for lamps round out the toolkit and each can be added one room at a time without rewiring.

Energy Star notes that “smart lighting can be controlled remotely or on a schedule,” adding that it “can also be controlled to tune light color for optimal circadian rhythm with daylight in the morning and soft warm light at night.” Smart switches, Energy Star says, “are also a great way to control lights remotely to save energy.”

Which rooms should you automate first for the biggest payoff?

The best starting rooms are the ones where lights get left on the longest. That typically means the garage, laundry room, basement, closets, pantry, bathrooms, hallways, kids’ bedrooms and the home office.

These spaces share a common pattern. People walk in, flip a switch and forget to flip it back when they leave. A motion or vacancy sensor removes the human step entirely. Closets and pantries are especially easy wins because the fixtures usually run on a single switch and the room sits empty most of the day. Automating a kids’ bedroom light with a schedule also handles bedtime cues, with Energy Star pointing out that when “your kids lights are red it’s time for bed.”

What are the benefits of smart lighting beyond saving energy?

Smart lighting delivers several benefits beyond a smaller power bill. The main ones are convenience, better home security while you are away, hands-free lighting, nighttime safety, accessibility for anyone who has trouble reaching a switch and circadian lighting schedules that shift color temperature through the day.

Energy Star describes the everyday appeal this way. “It’s nice to not have to get out of bed when you realize you forgot to turn off lights in your house at the end of a long day. It can also come in handy with your voice assistance for a no-hands way to light up a pathway or room, especially when your light switch is not in a convenient location.” Scheduled lighting while traveling can also make a home look occupied.

This Rhode Island Island Paradise Is Calling Your Name This Summer

strotter — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 20:00:16 +0000

Get whisked away to the “Bermuda of the North!” With dramatic cliffs, stunning beaches and a laid-back atmosphere, it’s easy to see why so many adore this hidden gem. Located just a ferry ride away from Rhode Island’s southern coast, Block Island also offers delicious seafood restaurants, wildlife refuges and more.

Savor a seafood meal at Poor People’s Pub

Start your trip by getting to know the island’s past as you visit the Block Island History Society museum. It’s located in the 19th-century Woonsocket House and features fascinating artifacts like stone tools, historic maps and Victorian collectibles. After working up an appetite, sit down for a tasty lunch at Poor People’s Pub, a surf-shack-style eatery serving up menu options like spicy ’nduja pizza and a tuna steak sammy in a relaxed setting.

Catch a spectacular sunset view

At dusk, visit one of the island’s most iconic sites: the Mohegan Bluffs! When you hike to the top of the 150-foot clay cliffs, you’ll be able to admire the colorful sunset over the water.

Embark on a fishing charter to land a great catch

Block Island Tourism Council

Block Island is considered a top-tier sport-fishing destination in New England, making it a perfect spot for those who enjoy the activity. Prime fishing season lasts through November, peaking in the warmer summer months.

Spy great black-backed seagulls

Ray Geiger/Getty

Block Island is home to one of the largest colonies in the Eastern U.S. and the largest in the state. You can usually find the marine birds around the Block Island National Wildlife Refuge.

Bonus: Enjoy Block Island fun at home

Experience the island with a drink inspired by Ballard’s Beach Resort and a thrilling video tour!

Pineapple Mojito

MarynaVoronova/Getty

Ingredients:

1 lemon (quartered)
⅓ cup fresh mint leaves
1/4 cup Limoncello
1 cup pineapple juice
6 Tbs. rum
1/2 cup chilled seltzer

In a small pitcher or cocktail shaker, combine the first three ingredients. Using the handle end of a wooden spoon, muddle the mixture. Add juice and rum; strain into 2 ice-filled glasses. Top with chilled seltzer and mint garnish. Makes 2 servings.

Virtual tour

Imagine taking a 7.5-mile bike ride passing all the must-see sights. Visit BlockIslandInfo.com/plan-your-visit/maps and select “Bike Tour” to explore the island from home.

This story first appeared in the August 10, 2026 issue of Woman’s World magazine.

Sandra Lee Honors 9-Year-Old Pig Showwoman Who Became Wisconsin State Fair CEO: ‘I Have the Best Job’

mdillard — Sat, 01 Aug 2026 00:00:30 +0000

After growing up showing pigs at the Waukesha County Fair and dreaming of being crowned the “Fairest of the Fair,” Shari Black turned her childhood passion into a prolific career — eventually becoming CEO of the Wisconsin State Fair Park and introducing a new generation to family fair joy. Here, she shares her story for Woman’s World’s “Fair’est of Them All” special series with celebrity chef Sandra Lee.

One day, I want to be just like them, Shari Black remembers thinking as she watched the “Fairest of the Fair” ambassadors hand out the blue ribbons at the Waukesha County Fair when she was 9 years old.

Growing up in southeastern Wisconsin, Shari’s family had deep roots in the fair community. Her paternal grandmother started the first 4-H Club in New Berlin and her father participated in the Waukesha County Fair before passing the tradition on to Shari.

For Shari, the fair wasn’t just a summer event — it was where she grew up.

Shari’s first time showing dairy at the fair in 1987 at 9 years old
Shari Black

Each year, she spent countless hours caring for livestock, preparing projects and connecting with fellow exhibitors. Raising pigs taught her lessons that would shape her future in how to run a business. The fair also introduced her to friends from across the state, many of whom remain close to this day.

Then, in 1997, one of Shari’s biggest dreams came true: She was crowned Fairest of the Fair at 19.

Having always admired the young women who served in the role before her, Shari embraced the opportunity to represent the fair she loved. The experience strengthened her public-speaking skills and deepened her passion for agriculture and community. The following year, she was named first runner-up and Miss Congeniality at the statewide Fairest of the Fairs competition.

Without realizing it, Shari was already preparing for a wonderful future she could never have imagined.

Shari (middle) at the 1997 Waukesha Fairest of the Fair
Shari Black

A fair-sized opportunity

Shari Black

At just 23 years old, Shari was offered the position of Executive Director of the Waukesha County Fair.

Many people her age were still figuring out their career paths, but Shari already knew where she belonged.

For the next 15 years, she helped lead the fair that had shaped her life and the role allowed her to balance two of her greatest priorities: family and fair.

Shari became a mother of three and was able to bring her children to work with her during the fair season and work from home during much of the off-season. Before long, a whole new generation of the family was creating fair memories of their own.

One of Shari’s greatest joys was watching her children continue the tradition of showing pigs and participating in livestock auctions. Seeing them succeed in the show ring and enter projects in cultural arts became some of her favorite fair memories.

Now, it warms Shari’s heart to watch her kids show pigs
Shari Black

Carrying the tradition forward

In 2016, a position opened up at the Wisconsin State Fair Park as Director of Event Services, overseeing programs for both the State Fair and year-round events. Although bittersweet, Shari decided to leave the Waukesha County Fair and take the position.

Three years later, she was promoted to Chief Programs Officer, expanding her leadership responsibilities to include agriculture, entertainment, competitive exhibits and vendor programming.

Then, in 2021, she was named Interim CEO and Executive Director of Wisconsin State Fair Park before earning the official title in March 2022.

Today, more than a million guests attend the Wisconsin State Fair to celebrate the state’s rich agricultural heritage while creating lasting memories.

This year marks the fair’s 175th anniversary, running August 6 – August 16. The theme, “Showing Off Wisconsin,” honors the state’s proud heritage and traditions that have connected fairgoers for generations.

Among those traditions is the Wisconsin State Fair’s most famous treat — the Original Cream Puff. First introduced more than a century ago, the dessert will celebrate its 102nd year in 2026 with more than 350,000 cream puffs enjoyed during each fair.

Creating treasured memories

For Shari, the fair’s greatest success isn’t measured by attendance numbers or even by the beloved annual traditions.

It’s measured by the memories each family creates together.

She takes pride in creating opportunities for exhibitors to excel while ensuring fairgoers have a safe place to gather.

Looking back, Shari is grateful for the lessons, friendships and opportunities that began with a young girl showing pigs at her county fair.

Today, Shari remains the first CEO in modern history to have been an exhibitor at the Wisconsin State Fair and now she’s guiding the fair into its next chapter. She’s committed to preserving the traditions that shaped her life. “I have the best job in the world,” Shari says. “Every year, we hope to create a fair experience where people can come and make memories that will last a lifetime.” After all, for Shari, the fair has always been more than a place to visit. It’s home.

Sandra Lee honors Wisconsin State Fair traditions

“The Wisconsin State Fair brings people together through food and tradition. From sharing a famous Cream Puff to meeting the makers who are the heart of this great state, every moment celebrates the very best of America. I’m looking forward to returning and being part of their remarkable 175th anniversary celebration.”

Sandra Lee

Keep an eye out for our “Fair’est of Them All” series! In celebration of America’s 250th birthday, Sandra Lee—chef, creator of Semi-Homemade Cooking and host of Blue Ribbon Bakeoff—is hitting the road with Woman’s World for a special cross-country journey honoring the remarkable women who bring America’s beloved state and county fairs to life. From longtime family traditions to unforgettable fairground innovations, these inspiring stories celebrate the heart, resilience and community spirit woven into fairs across the country. Catch the series in issues on sale July 17, August 4 and August 28, with stories appearing online the following week.

Boomers vs. Millennials: The Caregiving Battle Dividing Families

strotter — Fri, 31 Jul 2026 18:17:01 +0000

The generational divide between Baby Boomers and Millennials seems to be at an all-time high these days. One of the most controversial topics between the groups? Caregiving. A 3-year-old Reddit thread has resurfaced, with Millennials expressing their frustrations about the expectation that they’ll serve as primary caregivers for their aging parents. So what exactly could that mean for families moving forward? Keep reading for a closer look at how both sides feel about caregiving expectations today, plus the financial resources available that can help make a difference.

The caregiving debate: Why Millennials say they can’t help aging parents

In the Reddit thread making the rounds, many Millennials have made bold statements declaring that a potential caregiving “crisis” for the Baby Boomer generation is not only inevitable, but it’s also completely understandable.

The main reason? The financial burden. “Imagine that; so you saddle the younger generation with crushing debt, give them a struggling economy to begin their working life and nuke the housing market and the Boomers are ‘surprised’ that their kids can’t afford to take care of them?” one Reddit user commented.

Though the thread was created three years ago, cost of living concerns remain. Inflation in everything from groceries to housing has taken its toll on many Americans. For Millennials with kids, these costs are even greater as they work to provide security for their families while paying off their own student loan debts and saving for retirement. The idea of adding caregiving costs into the mix without going into debt can seem next to impossible.

Do older generations agree with the Millennial opinions? Views are mixed. Though many aging Americans agree that there’s no obligation for children to become caretakers for parents, some feel there’s a trade-off financially.

“If they don’t, it will be their inheritance keeping me going in assisted living,” a Reddit user shared in a different thread.

The reality of family caregiving: What the numbers reveal

There are frequently heated discussions on the topic of generational caregiving, but not much has changed over the years. A 2020 AARP survey found that 41.8 million adults serve as caregivers for people aged 50 and older.

And here’s where the Millennial concerns come in: that same poll found that family caregiving is leading to significant financial stress. One in five caregivers report high financial strain as a result of caregiving, three in 10 have stopped saving and one in four have taken on more debt.

With statistics like these, it’s clear why younger generations have expressed the need for a reevaluation in how families handle caregiving. But how do those who may soon need care feel about the pushback? Let’s break it down.

What Baby Boomers really think about asking their kids for help

Millennials aren’t the only ones speaking up about the realities of caregiving. Many Boomers have made their stance on caregiving clear, as well. The majority opinion? They no longer plan to rely on their children for help.

“I used to [expect my children to be caregivers] in my fantasy as I was totally devoted to my aging parents who made it to 95 and 96 years old,” shared one Reddit user. “But seeing my daughter-in-law and son’s current overall Millennial-style attitudes, it’s a good thing I have an awesome long-term care policy that is no longer available to newbies these days.”

Others have expressed complete sympathy for younger generations (especially after caring for their own aging parents), but still have a desire to remain close as the years go by.

“I hope they’ll be involved,” one commenter shared. “I just don’t want to be abandoned.”

Some even went so far as to say they would be more than fine helping out their own kids in exchange for support and security.

“I would love to live with one of my children, to help them with childcare, cooking, house projects, etc.,” another added. “I hope to fall over dead before I am unwell enough to need care.”

Smart financial resources that ease the caregiving burden

fortton/Getty

It’s no secret that caregiving can be expensive, whether you’re paying for your own care or you’re serving as a caretaker for a parent or loved one. Luckily, there are several ways you can ease the financial burden.

Covering the cost of your own caretaker

Check your insurance: Some policies will cover home health aides and personal care workers or even reimburse family members serving as your caregiver.

Contact your nearest area agency on aging: These organizations can help with everything from grants and vouchers to matching you with a volunteer caregiver.

Consider Medicaid waivers: Some states offer programs that help eligible older adults pay for in-home care.

Getting financial support as a caregiver

Apply for the Program of Comprehensive Assistance for Family Caregivers: If the parent for whom you are caring is also a veteran, this program can provide a monthly stipend and health coverage for the recipient.
Explore tax credits: According to the National Council on Aging, caregivers may qualify for dependent tax exemptions or credits.

Seek out Medicaid waivers: If you’re a qualifying family member, you could get paid for providing daily care for a parent.

Whether you’re thinking about your options for your parents or planning ahead for your own future, know that there are support groups, tools and resources available to help your situation.

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These Vermont Country Store Christmas Finds Are All Under $40 Right Now

Raquel Lekic — Wed, 29 Jul 2026 00:30:57 +0000

In an era in which online shopping has replaced the ever-so-comforting catalog, there’s something to be said about The Vermont Country Store. The nostalgia of flipping through the pages of their booklet and perusing comfortable clothing, household essentials like bedding and curtains, and sweet goodies is second to none, but one section we’re drawn to each time is their holiday decor. In honor of Christmas in July, there’s no better time to stock up on yuletide goodies and decor, and their holiday assortment is hard to beat! Here, a few of our favorite affordable finds from The Vermont Country Store. It’s never been easier to fill your home with festive cheer, and there’s no harm in starting just a little bit early!

Liliboas/Getty Images

Stunning ceramics

The figurines that lined your grandmother’s shelves and china cabinets might have seemed trivial back when you were a kid, but once you hit adulthood, there’s something about a sweet ceramic set that just speaks to you—especially around the holidays! The Vermont Country Store offers tons of unique ceramics that honor each holiday and season, but their Christmas lineup is hard to beat. The Cordless 5 Inch Mini Ceramic Christmas Tree is currently on clearance for just $14.98, and though short in stature, it adds a perfect touch of holiday glow to any surface it sits upon. “They are wonderful to place around the house to add a pop of color and light since they’re battery operated,” wrote one reviewer.

In 2026, folks love the modern look, but for those of us who are still drawn to classic, vintage styles, The Vermont Country Store is the place to be. The Ceramic Noel Angel Candleholders are sold as a set of four, with each angelic caroler holding up a letter that spells out “Noel.” Inspired by 1950s candleholders, you can snag this set for $34.98. “When I saw these, I just had to buy them. My mother had these angels and it reminded me of Christmas when I was a kid,” wrote another happy customer.

Another vintage looking ceramic addition is the Snowflake Girl Christmas Figurine, also on clearance for $24.98. “Pure nostalgia,” reflected one buyer. “Reminds me of my aunt’s house at Christmas time. It was magical, with lots of figurines like this one. It will take you back in time and fit right in with your Christmas today.”

Tackle your tablescapes for less

Setting the perfect scene for your Christmas celebrations doesn’t have to be difficult when you see all that The Vermont Country Store has to offer. Lay the foundation with the Heavy-Duty Vinyl Christmas Joy Tablecloth, which comes in a variety of sizes and is currently on clearance, costing between $14.99 and $19.99 depending on the size you choose. Add another layer of festive fun with the Christmas Plaid Table Runner, on clearance right now between $9.99 and $34.99 depending on size.

Upgrade your Christmas tree without breaking the bank

Transform your Christmas tree into something out of a New York City window display with a few additions from The Vermont Country Store. The Multicolor Teardrop Christmas Indoor/Outdoor Light String are on sale for just $12.99 and instantly elevate with their retro look. To tap even further into that throwback vibe, snag the Glass Bead Christmas Tree Garland, with six feet costing $29.95. “Beautiful, quality made, adds vintage charm to my tree this year. Love them,” wrote one fan. Lastly, no tree is complete without a fun assortment of ornaments, and the Old-Fashioned Glass Christmas Ornament Collection is sold as a set of 12 for just $38.95.

This holiday season, go back in time to simpler holiday seasons when you fill your home with these vintage inspired Vermont Country Store finds.

Your Social Security Check Could Grow in 2027—Here's the Estimate

Carissa Mosness — Tue, 28 Jul 2026 17:57:22 +0000

For some people, the end of summer means back-to-school shopping and pumpkin spice everything. For seniors on Social Security, it means something else entirely: waiting to find out how much bigger their monthly checks will get next year. So when will that announcement actually happen, and how much of an increase can beneficiaries expect? Here’s everything we know so far.

What we know about the 2027 COLA

In 1975, the SSA created the Cost of Living Adjustment (COLA) to help them keep up with inflation. Over the years, the increase has varied from zero (in 2010, 2011 and 2016) to 14.3 percent in 1980. In 2026, the COLA was 2.8 percent, which added about $56 to Americans’ monthly checks. In 2027, however, that amount could be higher, since the cost of living is expected to be high, due to President Donald Trump’s tariffs, ever-increasing inflation rates and the war in Iran, which is causing energy goods like gas to rise in cost at an aggressive rate.

Mary Johnson, an independent Social Security and Medicare analyst, told CNBC she estimates the 2027 COLA might be around 3.7 percent. The Senior Citizens League, a nonpartisan senior group, has a similar projection, revealing just a few weeks ago that they think the 2027 COLA will be 3.8 percent. They also shared that if their estimated increase is correct, seniors’ benefits could rise an average of $73.62 a month. Even with that increase, experts are concerned it won’t be enough for seniors.

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“We’re seeing inflation on the rise when more than half of seniors already can’t afford basic living standards,” Senior Citizens League executive director Shannon Benton told Fox Business. “We’re talking about food, a roof over their head and transportation. Many seniors already have to skip doctor’s appointments due to costs, which costs all of us more in the long run when we swap preventative care for emergency care.”

When will the 2027 COLA be announced?

Every year the COLA is announced by the SSA Commissioner (a position currently held by Frank J. Bisignano) in October. The 2026 COLA was announced on October 24, 2025, after being delayed from October 15, due to a federal government shutdown.

“Social Security is a promise kept, and the annual cost-of-living adjustment is one way we are working to make sure benefits reflect today’s economic realities and continue to provide a foundation of security,” Social Security Administration Commissioner Frank J. Bisignano said in a statement at the time. “The cost-of-living adjustment is a vital part of how Social Security delivers on its mission.”

As for when to expect the 2027 COLA announcement, the Senior Citizens League has a countdown showing it could happen in 78 days—which would be Wednesday, October 15, 2026. However, this is just an estimate since the SSA hasn’t confirmed the official date yet.

Frank Bisignano in April 2026
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Experts are urging the SSA to announce the increase sooner rather than later to give seniors time to prepare and plan their budgets accordingly.

“Family budgets have been under increasing pressure because of rising prices,” Rich Johnson, vice president for financial security at the AARP Public Policy Institute said in a statement. “The sooner that we can give them reliable information as to how much their benefits might [increase next year], the sooner they can start planning.”

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Inside Nest, Ecobee and Mysa: Here’s How Each Smart Thermostat Stacks Up for Your Home in 2026

Lauren Jarvis-Gibson — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 21:09:10 +0000

Heating and cooling account for the biggest chunk of most home energy bills, which makes the small box on your wall a surprisingly consequential purchase. A smart thermostat promises to trim those bills by learning your habits, dialing back when you leave and letting you change temperatures from your phone. Three brands dominate the shopping list right now. Google Nest, Ecobee and Mysa each pitch a different mix of price, features and privacy, and the right one depends less on specs than on how you actually live in your house.

How a smart thermostat works

A smart thermostat connects to your home Wi-Fi and lets you control heating and cooling through an app, a voice assistant or, in some models, routines it learns on its own. The pricier models layer on motion sensors, air-quality monitors and even Bluetooth speakers. Cheaper models stick to remote adjustments, custom schedules and basic energy reports. All of them aim at the same core promise, which is using automation to stop heating or cooling rooms nobody is in.

Google Nest, the learning option

The Nest Learning Thermostat (4th Gen) costs $279.99, ships with one Nest Temperature Sensor and, true to its name, teaches itself your schedule. It works best inside a Google Home setup. Roy Furchgott, writing for Wirecutter, called it “the smartest thermostat” but noted it “doesn’t have motion or presence detection” and is therefore “less useful than Ecobee’s sensors.” It also skips a built-in smart speaker and microphone, which Furchgott said many buyers may prefer.

The cheaper Nest Thermostat (2020) runs around $130. It skips automatic learning and doesn’t support remote temperature sensors, but you still get manual schedules, Home/Away Assist and Google Home app control. Will Greenwald and John R. Delaney of PC Mag described it as “a top pick for anyone shopping for a smart thermostat on a budget,” especially “if you have a smart home built around Google Assistant.”

Ecobee, the feature-packed choice

Ecobee positions itself as the premium pick. The Smart Thermostat Premium costs $259.99 and adds a SmartSensor, an air-quality monitor and built-in Alexa and Siri support. Reviewer Jon Reed wrote for CNET that his favorite quirk was that “the Ecobee Smart thermostat Premium makes a half-decent Bluetooth speaker.”

Reed argued the value question depends on how you shop. “A smart thermostat, like any technology purchase, is not always a purely money-saving venture. It’s a lifestyle choice,” he wrote, adding that utility rebates and giveaways from local governments can slash the sticker price. He also noted buyers may want to pair a thermostat with Ecobee’s home security devices. Shoppers who don’t need the extras can step down to the Smart Thermostat Enhanced at $199.99, which keeps most smart features but drops the air-quality monitor and speaker.

Mysa, the budget-friendly alternative

Mysa pitches itself as the value pick with a privacy angle. According to the brand’s official website, Mysa “costs $70-120 less than premium competitors while including the same core features” and describes itself as “a privacy-focused Canadian company that never sells your data to Google or Amazon.”

The Mysa Smart Thermostat for Central HVAC runs $129.00 and works with most 24V HVAC systems, including furnaces, heat pumps, central AC, boilers and radiant heating. You get app control, custom schedules and energy reports, but no advanced learning or dedicated room sensors. For homes with electric baseboard heaters, Mysa sells a dedicated $159.99 model that ties into Wi-Fi and works with Alexa, Google Home and Apple HomeKit.

Which smart thermostat saves you the most money

There’s no universal winner. Nest’s learning tech and Google integration fit households already invested in the Google ecosystem. Ecobee’s sensors, air-quality tracking and voice-assistant support suit buyers who want their thermostat to do more than heat and cool. Mysa’s lower price and stance against data collection appeal to shoppers who want the basics without a subscription or a data footprint. Reed’s advice applies to all three brands. Check for utility rebates before you buy, because a Cadillac-priced thermostat can end up costing Chevrolet money if you catch the right promotion.